David Gergen, a prominent American political commentator and former advisor to four U.S. presidents, has passed away at 83 after a prolonged illness. Gergen served Presidents Nixon, Ford, Reagan, and Clinton in various roles, including speechwriter and communications director. Remembered for his bipartisanship and dedication to public service, Gergen also founded the Center for Public Leadership at Harvard Kennedy School.
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Former police IG Chowdhury Abdullah al-Mamun, an accused in "crimes against humanity" cases alongside ex-PM Sheikh Hasina and ex-home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, will be pardoned by Bangladesh's ICT. Mamun confessed to the crimes and agreed to be a state witness, disclosing the truth. Hasina and Kamal are being tried in absentia for alleged atrocities during last year's protests.
Abu Dhabi’s new real estate law allows developers to cancel off-plan property contracts without going to court, but only under strict conditions. Buyers in default are given clear notice, time to fix the issue, and a chance to settle. The law aims to protect both developers and buyers, ensure fair process, and keep property projects on track.
Gulzar Dost, a social activist, was arrested in Turbat during a CTD raid, sparking outrage from the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, which alleges false charges and political motivation. The arrest is part of a broader crackdown on dissent in Balochistan, following recent reports of forced disappearances and the killing of activist Zeeshan Ahmed, further inflaming tensions in the region.
Democrat Rep. Ro Khanna plans to introduce an amendment to the GENIUS Act, compelling Attorney General Pam Bondi to release Jeffrey Epstein's client list. This move comes amid growing pressure on the Trump administration regarding the Epstein case. Rep. Mark Veasey is also introducing a resolution demanding the files' release, hinting at a potential cover-up.
Mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani stood firm on his progressive policies, including raising taxes on the wealthy, during a meeting with New York City's business leaders. Despite facing tough questions on his past remarks and policy stances, Mamdani remained composed and avoided major missteps. He aims to build partnerships as he pivots towards the general election.
Akashkumar Narendrakumar Khant, an Indian engineer in Canada, received a conditional discharge after admitting to attempting to buy sex from a 15-year-old girl. The Ontario judge cited potential immigration consequences, such as delaying citizenship and separating him from his wife, as reasons for the lenient sentence. The judge also noted the high IQ of the accused. This decision has sparked significant public outrage.
Iran's foreign minister stated the U.S. is attempting to restart nuclear talks, but Iran is in no hurry and considering its options for negotiations. This follows a previous collapse of talks after an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear sites. Despite signals from the U.S., including Trump's openness to lifting sanctions, Iran seeks guarantees against future attacks if talks fail.
Newly unsealed documents reveal a controversial practice. The Trump administration used a pro-Israel website, Canary Mission. This website helped identify pro-Palestinian academics. The goal was potential deportation. Homeland Security formed a team. They compiled data on foreign students and scholars. Canary Mission flagged over 75 individuals. A Trump aide, Stephen Miller, was heavily involved.
At the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged to procure US-made Patriot missile systems for Ukraine, amidst ongoing Russian aerial attacks. He urged the US to increase Patriot deliveries, emphasizing unwavering support for Ukraine. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced over €10 billion in pledges for Ukraine's economic recovery.
Linda Yaccarino has stepped down as CEO of X, formerly Twitter, after two years. She reaffirmed her commitment to free speech, resharing a supportive post. Hired by Elon Musk in May 2023, Yaccarino was tasked with business operations amid Musk's continued influence. Her tenure faced challenges, including advertising revenue decline and concerns over content moderation, particularly hate speech.