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Pope Francis arrives in Indonesia to begin ambitious Asia-Pacific tour

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Jakarta, Indonesia (Reuters) – Dozens of excited Indonesians waved on Tuesday as a motorcade carried Pope Francis through the capital as he began the first leg of an ambitious Asia-Pacific tour expected to urge global action on climate change as part of his longest trip yet.


The 87-year-old pontiff, who will also visit East Timor, Singapore and Papua New Guinea over the next 10 days, was seated in a wheelchair as a lift disembarked him from a chartered aircraft at Jakarta airport.


READ MORE : Pope Francis meets at Vatican with relatives of Israeli hostages and Palestinians living in Gaza

Two children in traditional clothes presented a bouquet of local produce before the pope was greeted by Indonesia’s religious affairs minister, its Vatican envoy and several of its bishops on a red carpet flanked by honour guards.
Francis then drove off in a waiting car, waving and smiling. As his motorcade passed through Jakarta towards the Vatican embassy, where he is staying, small crowds of people were seen waving excitedly.

“I’m so happy, I feel so blessed,” said Enny Rahail, 52, who travelled 3,000 km (1,860 miles) to Jakarta from her home in southeast Maluku before standing for two hours in mid-day heat to wave to the pope outside the embassy.
“As Indonesians we are happy because the Catholic leader comes to our country,” said Enny, who called Francis an “advocate for peace” and said she cried as the pope arrived.
The ageing pope was not set to attend any public events on Tuesday, to allow him time for rest after the 13-hour overnight flight from Rome.

Pope Francis waves at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport during his apostolic visit to Asia, in Tangerang near Jakarta, Indonesia, September 3, 2024. REUTERS/Willy Kurniawa

But shortly after arriving at the embassy, Francis held an informal meeting with a group of refugees living in Indonesia.
The Vatican gave few details, but said the group included persons from Somalia, Sri Lanka and members of the persecuted Rohingya minority from Myanmar.
The pontiff is set to travel nearly 33,000 km (21,000 miles)on the 12 days of the Asia-Pacific tour, before he arrives back in Rome late in the evening of Sept. 13.
At the beginning of his flight to Jakarta, Francis spent roughly half an hour individually greeting the accompanying journalists, leaning on a cane as he walked slowly around the back of the aircraft, chatting and shaking hands.

He offered only a few words about the trip, saying the coming days would represent his longest voyage abroad.

DIVINE BLESSINGS

Francis, who is not only the leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics but also the Vatican’s head of state, wired customary greetings to every country he crossed on the way to Indonesia, including Iran, India, Pakistan and Turkey.
He offered prayers of peace, hopes for prosperity, or divine blessings, in messages varying with each country.
An address to Indonesia’s political leaders on Wednesday will be the pope’s first official event. The following day, he will participate in an inter-religious meeting at Southeast Asia’s largest mosque, the Istiqlal Mosque.
Francis, who pushed for the 2015 Paris climate pact, is expected to continue voicing appeals to confront the dangers of a warming globe.
Jakarta, the Indonesian capital home to at least 10 million people, is vulnerable to climate change, as it tackles chronic flooding and sinking land. The government is building a new capital, Nusantara, on the island of Borneo.
Just 3% of a population of about 280 million is Catholic in Indonesia, which is the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation.
“This is a very historic visit,” Indonesian President Joko Widodo told reporters before the pope’s arrival, offering Francis a warm welcome on a long-planned visit that had been delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Indonesia and the Vatican have a similar commitment to cultivate peace and brotherhood as well as ensure prosperity for the people.”
(This story has been refiled to add the dropped word ‘who’ in paragraph 5)


Reporting by Joshua McElwee and Stanley Widianto; Additional reporting by Willy Kurniawan, Ananda Teresia and Gayatri Suroyo; Editing by Martin Petty and Clarence Fernandez FOR Reuters

Pahalgam Terror Attack: 24 Killed, Over 20 Injured as TRF Targets Tourists in J&K

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PM Modi to shorten Saudi Arabia visit following Jammu and Kashmir terror attack: Government sources

PAHALGAM, J&K, India — A brutal terrorist attack shattered the calm of Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Tuesday, killing at least 24 people and injuring more than 20. Victims included tourists from Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, as well as foreign nationals from Italy and Israel. The Resistance Front (TRF), an affiliate of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility, marking this as one of the deadliest attacks in the region since Pulwama in 2019.

The assault began around 2:30 PM when two to three gunmen dressed in military-style uniforms opened fire on tourists riding horses in the scenic valley, often called “Mini Switzerland.” Around 50 shots were fired, sparking panic as people fled for their lives. One survivor told PTI, “My husband was shot in the head, and seven others were hit.” Eyewitnesses suggested the attackers may have targeted victims based on religion, though authorities have not confirmed this.

Among the dead was 47-year-old Manjunath Rao, a businessman from Karnataka. At least five people are in critical condition, while 12 others are being treated at Pahalgam Hospital and GMC Anantnag. One critically injured victim was flown to SKIMS Hospital in Srinagar for advanced care.

Swift Response and Nationwide Condemnation

Security forces responded immediately. The Indian Army’s Victor Force, J&K Police’s Special Operations Group, and CRPF launched a joint anti-terror operation, deploying Para Commandos and aerial surveillance to locate the attackers. Union Home Minister Amit Shah landed in Srinagar on Tuesday evening following an emergency meeting in Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the “cowardly” attack, vowing that those responsible “will not be spared.” President Droupadi Murmu described the assault as “dastardly and inhuman.” J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured full medical support for the injured and pledged justice. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has sent teams to coordinate relief efforts, while BJP leaders like JP Nadda and Rajnath Singh also strongly condemned the violence.

Targeting Tourism and Stability

The TRF, led by wanted terrorist Sheikh Sajjad Gul, is believed to be targeting the region’s growing tourism industry. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, tourist arrivals have surged in Kashmir. Intelligence reports had previously warned of a possible LeT-backed strike in Baisaran Valley, possibly linked to high-profile visits like that of U.S. Vice President JD Vance. With the Amarnath Yatra approaching, the attack raises alarms over further threats.

Emergency Measures in Place

The Anantnag Police have set up a 24-hour helpline (+91-9596777669, +91-01932225870, WhatsApp: +91-9419051940) to assist affected tourists. Panic has gripped the area, with videos circulating online showing tourists fleeing en masse. Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar called the attack “horrific,” while social media posts speculated on Pakistani involvement—though no official confirmation has been made.

Persistent Threat

The TRF has a history of deadly strikes, including the 2024 Ganderbal attack that left seven dead. In 2022, 108 out of 172 terrorists killed in J&K were affiliated with the TRF, indicating the group’s significant presence. Former CM Omar Abdullah described Tuesday’s massacre as “the most serious civilian-targeted attack in recent memory.”

As investigations continue and security operations intensify, authorities fear the death toll may rise. The attack has once again highlighted the fragile peace in Jammu and Kashmir—and the continued threat to civilians and visitors alike.

Global Leaders Condemn Pahalgam Terror Attack

World leaders have voiced strong condemnation of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with India.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump called the incident “deeply disturbing” and reaffirmed America’s steadfast support for India in its fight against terrorism. He offered heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced the attack as a “brutal crime” with no justification. He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families and conveyed best wishes for the recovery of the injured.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) also condemned the act of terror, reiterating its firm stance against all forms of violence and extremism. The UAE expressed sincere condolences and wished the injured a swift recovery.

International Solidarity poured in from leaders of France, Italy, Israel, Denmark, and others, who joined in condemning the attack and stressed the urgent need for united global action against terrorism.

This wave of global condemnation reflects the international community’s shared resolve to stand with India and confront the scourge of terrorism together.


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Dr. Javed Farooqui and Additional DCP Vishnu Kumar, IAS officer Avitek Srivastava Visit Nizamuddin Dargah

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New Delhi, India Malviya Nagar’s renowned social worker and General Secretary of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Dr. Javed Farooqui, who had been battling illness since December and spent three months hospitalized, is now showing signs of steady improvement.

On Sunday, April 20, 2025, a special prayer ceremony was organized at the historic Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah to invoke blessings for his full recovery. The gathering was led by Dargah head Syed Kashif Nizami, who honored each guest by tying a traditional turban on their head.

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Among those who paid their respects and participated in the prayers were Dr. Farooqui’s close friend, Rohini district’s Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (IPS) Vishnu Kumar, and 2019 batch IAS officer Avitek Srivastava. Both dignitaries offered their heartfelt wishes and praised Dr. Farooqui’s dedication to social causes in New Delhi and beyond.

Speaking at the event, Syed Kashif Nizami commended the community’s outpouring of support and expressed hope that Dr. Farooqui’s resilience would inspire others facing health challenges. “We come together not only in prayer but in solidarity,” he said, as attendees bowed their heads in silent invocation.

Dr. Farooqui’s wife, Mrs. Nusrat Farooqui, thanked the Dargah authorities and participants for their prayers and said her husband’s spirits remain high. “He sends his gratitude to everyone who has stood by him through this difficult period,” she remarked.

With his health on the mend, Dr. Farooqui is expected to resume light duties for the Lok Janshakti Party in the coming weeks, as he continues his lifelong commitment to serving underprivileged communities.


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NCP Ajit Pawar Faction Stages Protest in Delhi Over Law and Order Breakdown in West Bengal

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New Delhi, India – The NCP Youth Wing held a powerful protest in the national capital on Saturday, condemning the deteriorating law and order situation in West Bengal under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s leadership.

The demonstration was led by National General Secretary and National Spokesperson Dr. Vimal Sharma, along with National Secretary and Delhi State In-charge Shri Yuvraj Singh. The protest was organized under the chairmanship of Harsh Madhavi, Executive President of Delhi State. Key office bearers including National General Secretary (Legal Cell In-charge) Anil Verma, Delhi Secretary Kumar Vishal, Joint Secretary Deepak, Amit Goyal, Subhash Chandra Gupta, Shivam, and several other party members were present in solidarity.

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The protesters voiced strong opposition to what they described as the “misrule” and “chaotic atmosphere” prevailing in West Bengal. Citing widespread violence, corruption, atrocities against women, and rising crime rates, the party alleged that the state government has completely failed to maintain law and order.

“The common citizens of West Bengal are living in fear. Political murders and daily violence have become the norm. Mamata Banerjee’s politics of appeasement and administrative negligence have plunged the state into complete anarchy,” said Dr. Vimal Sharma during the protest.

The Nationalist Youth Congress called on Mamata Banerjee to take responsibility for the current situation and demanded her immediate resignation as Chief Minister.


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Thousands Flock to Khambra Church, Jalandhar for Ankur Narula Ministries’ Grand Easter Celebration

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Jalandhar, India — In a breathtaking display of devotion, Ankur Narula Ministries hosted its annual Easter celebration at the Khambra Church complex in Khambra on April 21, 2025. Nearly 70,000 worshippers gathered beneath a massive steel-roof pavilion to honor the resurrection of Jesus Christ, uniting in a powerful testament to His enduring love and transformative power.

RELATED NEWS : Good Friday Observed Across Asia with Solemn Prayers, Processions, and Calls for Peace

The “East Sabha” opened with vibrant worship, as the congregation danced and sang uplifting Christian hymns, filling the air with joy. A screening of the Live Christ movie followed, vividly depicting Jesus’ ministry of healing, deliverance, and sacrifice. Its closing message resonated deeply: “Jesus was whipped for you so that you can be healed” (Isaiah 53:5).

When Pastor Ankur Narula come the pulpit, the crowd erupted in chants of “Hallelujah!” Drawing from Scripture, he proclaimed, “Jesus came not to change anyone’s religion but to save souls. He rose from the dead so that our dead lives, dead finances, and dead relationships may also live” (John 10:10). His message of resurrection hope stirred hearts, reminding all of Christ’s promise to renew and restore.

The gathering of the Lord’s people is a thrilling one, women section. Photo : ANM

A moving testimony session followed, with believers sharing stories of God’s miraculous healing in their bodies and lives, echoing Psalm 30:2: “Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.” The service then transitioned to the Lord’s Supper, a sacred moment of unity as the congregation remembered Christ’s sacrifice (1 Corinthians 11:24-25).

The day culminated in fellowship, with volunteers serving hearty meals and festive sweets, embodying Christ’s call to feed the hungry (Matthew 25:35). Pastor Narula closed with a benediction, distributing sweets to each family as symbols of purity and new life. “Our theme, ‘Vision of Hope,’ has been fulfilled today,” he declared. “May we rise above challenges and walk in the light of His love” (1 John 1:7).

The gathering of the Lord’s people is a thrilling one, Men section. Photo : ANM

This extraordinary gathering not only celebrated the risen Savior but also showcased the living hope He brings, inspiring all to embrace His promise of abundant life.

The Church of Signs and Wonders, located on Nakodar Road in Khambra Village, has become a beacon of spiritual unity. With nearly three lakh members and branches across Punjab, as well as in the US, Canada, and Germany, the ministry has extended its outreach significantly.

Apostle Ankur Yoseph Narula, Senior Pastor and Overseer of The Church of Signs and Wonders, one of Punjab’s largest and fastest-growing ministries. 


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Putin Declares 30-Hour Easter Ceasefire in Ukraine Amid Rising Global Pressure

Moscow, Russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a surprise unilateral Easter ceasefire in Ukraine, ordering a temporary 30-hour halt to military operations, the Kremlin confirmed Saturday.

The truce, set to begin at 4 p.m. Saturday and last until 10 p.m. on Easter Sunday (UK time), was declared “guided by humanitarian considerations,” according to Putin, who made the announcement during a meeting with Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. The Kremlin later shared his remarks on its official Telegram channel.

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“I order that all military actions be stopped for this period,” said Putin, referencing the religious significance of Easter and expressing hope that Ukraine would observe the ceasefire. Despite the gesture, he instructed Russian forces to remain on high alert for any violations.

“Our troops must be prepared to react to possible violations of the ceasefire and provocations by the adversary, to any aggressive actions,” he warned.

Putin accused Ukraine of repeatedly violating a previous 30-day “energy truce,” which began March 18 and was later joined by Kyiv under U.S. mediation, claiming over 100 breaches.

The ceasefire announcement comes amid growing pressure from international powers. Just hours earlier, reports surfaced that former U.S. President Donald Trump had issued a warning that Washington could withdraw from peace efforts unless Russia and Ukraine show progress in ending the conflict.

Putin reiterated Moscow’s openness to peace talks and praised efforts from Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and BRICS nations for advocating a “peaceful and fair resolution to the Ukrainian crisis.”

However, the Russian president has consistently pushed back on calls for broader or prolonged ceasefires, arguing they would give Ukrainian forces time to regroup and receive more weapons from the West.

“This Easter truce will be a litmus test of the Kyiv regime’s sincerity, its commitment to agreements, and its real desire for peace,” Putin said.

Putin, a devout Orthodox Christian, is expected to attend the Easter vigil at Moscow’s Christ the Savior Cathedral on Saturday night.


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Delhi Brahmin Mahasabha Youth Wing Demands Action Against Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap

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New Delhi, India – Manoj Pandit, the Delhi State President of the Akhil Bhartiya Brahmin Mahasabha Youth Wing, has submitted a memorandum to the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister of Delhi, demanding strict legal action against filmmaker Anurag Kashyap.

In the memorandum, Pandit accused Kashyap of making statements that have deeply hurt the sentiments of the Brahmin community. He alleged that such remarks are made to gain cheap publicity for his films, adding that the Brahmin society is a significant and respected part of Indian culture and history.

“Our community has made invaluable contributions to the nation’s development and social progress,” said Pandit. “Yet, we have been witnessing a rise in objectionable and baseless comments targeting our society. Such remarks are sparking resentment among Brahmins.”

He emphasized that while the Brahmin community has always been tolerant and law-abiding, it will not accept continuous disrespect. He urged the authorities to consider the community’s growing anger over Kashyap’s recent comments—particularly those referencing “Awadh”—and take immediate legal steps to prevent such statements in the future.

Manoj Pandit also reiterated that the Akhil Bharatvarsiya Brahmin Mahasabha respects all communities, but would not tolerate any attempt to hurt Brahmin sentiments. He warned that failure to act may lead the Mahasabha to launch an agitation.

“This is not just about one individual’s remark,” he added. “It’s about maintaining harmony and respect among all communities. Spreading hatred and misinformation through such statements cannot be allowed.”

The Youth Wing has called on the Delhi government to intervene promptly to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents going forward.


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Slovenian President and Moroccan FM Discuss Economic Cooperation, Global Crises, and Western Sahara

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Ljubljana, Slovenia — Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar hosted Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, on Friday for high-level discussions centered on expanding bilateral economic cooperation and addressing major international challenges, including the situations in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Western Sahara.

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The meeting emphasized the shared ambition to strengthen economic integration between Slovenia and Morocco, particularly in key sectors such as renewable energy, logistics, and technology. Both countries affirmed their commitment to advancing trade and investment opportunities as part of a broader strategic partnership.

Alongside economic matters, the talks also delved into the evolving global landscape. The leaders exchanged views on Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, reaffirming the importance of multilateral diplomacy in resolving such conflicts.

Slovenian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tanja Fajon and Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, join hands during a meeting in Ljubljana on April 18, 2025. Photo : via MEA

A major highlight of the day came during a joint press conference held in Ljubljana, where Slovenian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tanja Fajon reiterated her country’s support for Morocco’s 2007 autonomy initiative for Western Sahara. She described the plan as a “good basis for a final solution” to the regional conflict and praised Morocco’s “serious and credible efforts” to resolve the issue.

“Speaking at a press conference following a meeting in the Slovenian capital with Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, Fajon also praised Morocco’s serious and credible efforts to settle the Moroccan Sahara issue,” the Slovenian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Fajon reaffirmed Slovenia’s position as expressed in the Joint Declaration adopted during her official visit to Rabat on June 11, 2024. That declaration, both ministers agreed, serves as the benchmark for the renewed momentum in bilateral relations and formalizes Slovenia’s stance on the Moroccan Sahara.

In a statement following the talks, Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the declaration “serves as a reference point for the new momentum in bilateral relations and reflects Slovenia’s stance on the regional conflict concerning the Moroccan Sahara.”

The two foreign ministers also underlined the central role of the United Nations in resolving the Western Sahara issue. They reaffirmed their support for the exclusivity of the UN-led political process and expressed their backing for relevant UN Security Council resolutions, including the latest, Resolution 2756 (2024).

Fajon further reiterated Slovenia’s long-standing commitment to a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution based on compromise, in accordance with UN-led efforts.

The day’s meetings marked a significant step forward in Moroccan-Slovenian ties, not only economically but also diplomatically, as both countries strengthen their coordination on pressing global issues and regional stability.


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Deadliest U.S. Strike in Yemen Kills 74 at Red Sea Fuel Terminal, Houthis Say

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ADEN/WASHINGTON — At least 74 people were killed and 171 others injured after U.S. airstrikes targeted Yemen’s Ras Isa fuel terminal on the Red Sea coast, in what Houthi officials described as the deadliest attack since Washington began its military campaign against the group last year.

The strike, carried out Thursday, hit a key fuel facility used by the Iran-aligned Houthis and came amid a broader escalation ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump last month — the largest U.S. military operation in the Middle East since he took office in January.

According to Yemen’s Houthi-run Health Ministry, rescue operations are ongoing as emergency crews continue to search for victims in the rubble. The U.S. military has confirmed the strike but has not commented on the reported death toll.

“The objective of these strikes was to degrade the economic source of power of the Houthis, who continue to exploit and bring great pain upon their fellow countrymen,” U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement posted on X.

The Ras Isa terminal, located around 55 kilometers north of the port city of Hodeidah, has a fuel storage capacity of 3 million barrels and plays a critical role in Yemen’s fuel imports and distribution. Yemeni sources said the port also houses a significant military presence and has been previously used for launching drone and missile attacks on Red Sea shipping.

Among the dead were employees of the Safer Oil Company and the Yemen Petroleum Company, which manage operations and oversee the distribution of fuel in the region.

The U.S. has accused the Houthis of using Yemen’s ports — including Ras Isa, Hodeidah, and Salif — to funnel illicit fuel trade and finance militant operations. CENTCOM stated the strikes were intended to dismantle these financial networks and diminish the Houthis’ military capabilities in the Red Sea.

While the U.N. estimates these ports handle 70% of Yemen’s imports and 80% of its humanitarian aid, the U.S. and its allies argue that the Houthis’ control over them has enabled the group to smuggle Iranian weapons and fund terrorism.

Red Crescent personnel move the body of a victim following, what Al Masirah TV said, was a U.S. strike on the Ras Isa fuel port, Yemen, in this screengrab from a handout video released on April 18, 2025. Al-Masirah TV /Handout via REUTERS

In a statement, the Houthis condemned the attack as a “flagrant violation” of Yemen’s sovereignty and international law. “This was a civilian installation vital to the Yemeni people,” a Houthi spokesperson said, accusing Washington of retaliating against Yemen’s support for Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza war.

Yemen’s internationally recognized government, however, blamed the Houthis for militarizing the port, accusing the group of enriching themselves through illegal trade while ordinary citizens suffer.

“The militia has exploited the port for illicit trade and to enrich themselves while ordinary Yemenis have seen no benefit,” said Information Minister Muammar al-Eryani.

Thursday’s strike follows weeks of intensified U.S. operations in response to repeated Houthi drone and missile attacks on commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea. Though the Houthis paused their attacks during a recent ceasefire in Gaza, they vowed to resume operations after Israeli forces renewed their offensive in the enclave.

According to Houthi officials, nearly 100 civilians have died in U.S. bombings over the past month alone. Yemen’s Red Crescent has confirmed the latest death toll and said teams are still working to extinguish fires and recover bodies from the heavily damaged terminal.

CENTCOM reiterated that all operations are conducted with the intent to avoid civilian harm, asserting that Thursday’s strike specifically targeted infrastructure supporting Houthi military activity.

As tensions escalate in the region, analysts warn that the growing U.S. military footprint and deepening humanitarian crisis in Yemen risk further destabilizing the fragile Red Sea corridor — a vital artery for global trade.


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Good Friday Observed Across Asia with Solemn Prayers, Processions, and Calls for Peace

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New Delhi, India – Across Asia, Christian communities marked Good Friday with solemn rituals, processions, and prayers, reflecting on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the message of sacrifice, redemption, and hope.

From the bustling cities of the Philippines to the quiet churches of South Korea and India, believers gathered in large numbers to commemorate one of the most sacred days on the Christian calendar.

In India, Jalandhar’s Christian Communities Unite in Reverent Good Friday Observance on April 18, 2025

On April 18, 2025, the Christian communities of Jalandhar, Punjab, came together in deep reverence to observe the solemn occasion of Good Friday, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The day was marked by heartfelt prayers, services, and processions, reflecting the central Christian values of love, sacrifice, and redemption.

A significant highlight of the observance was the grand Good Friday event organized by the Ankur Narula Ministry in Khambra Village. Thousands of devotees gathered for the occasion, led by Apostle Ankur Yoseph Narula, Senior Pastor and Overseer of The Church of Signs and Wonders, one of Punjab’s largest and fastest-growing ministries. The gathering saw participants from diverse backgrounds come together in worship, honoring Jesus Christ’s selfless sacrifice. Apostle Narula emphasized that Christ came for the salvation of all people—beyond any nation or community, and not just for Christians alone.

Thousands of devotees gathered at the Church of Signs and Wonders in Khambra Village to worship Jesus Christ on Good Friday, 18 April, 2025. Photo: Video Screenshot from ANM

The Church of Signs and Wonders, located on Nakodar Road in Khambra Village, has become a beacon of spiritual unity. With nearly three lakh members and branches across Punjab, as well as in the US, Canada, and Germany, the ministry has extended its outreach significantly. The Good Friday service, which ran from 6 PM to 11 PM, was filled with worship, prayer, and expressions of gratitude. Apostle Narula, described as anointed and Spirit-filled, led the congregation in glorifying the name of Jesus Christ.

The observance highlighted the vibrant presence of Christian ministries in Punjab, with the Church of Signs and Wonders standing out for its outreach and spiritual healing services. This Good Friday, the faithful in Jalandhar came together, demonstrating that the message of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice resonates universally and unites people from all walks of life in a shared expression of faith and hope.

In the Philippines, Asia’s largest Catholic nation, thousands of faithful joined reenactments of the Passion of Christ in provinces such as Pampanga and Bulacan. Some devotees engaged in acts of penance, including self-flagellation and crucifixion reenactments—an intense form of devotion that draws international attention each year.

In Sri Lanka, which has seen growing interfaith efforts in recent years, Good Friday was observed peacefully, with joint interfaith messages from Christian and Buddhist leaders calling for compassion, justice, and reconciliation.

Meanwhile, Christians in Pakistan gathered in cathedrals and small chapels alike, lighting candles and praying under tight security. In Lahore, Archbishop Sebastian Shaw called for national harmony and encouraged believers to “be instruments of peace and forgiveness, following the example of Christ.”

In South Korea, where Christianity is a major religion, churches held quiet vigils and solemn services. The Yoido Full Gospel Church and Myeongdong Cathedral in Seoul hosted thousands of attendees, many of whom reflected on the significance of the day amid growing concerns over regional security.

Across Indonesia, home to a significant Christian minority, Good Friday services were held with a strong message of interreligious respect. President Joko Widodo extended greetings to Christian citizens, reaffirming the country’s commitment to religious tolerance.

In Malaysia, Good Friday is officially observed as a public holiday in the states of Sabah and Sarawak, where the day is marked by church services and community-led gatherings reflecting on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim extended his warm greetings to Christians in Malaysia in honor of Good Friday and Easter Sunday, urging all Malaysians to embrace the values of love, unity, and mutual respect.

This year, the Easter Vigil was especially significant, with more than 2,000 individuals across the country preparing for baptism. Of these, 1,047 were newly baptized in Peninsular Malaysia, with a comparable number receiving the sacrament in Malaysian Borneo.

Some worshippers wear face masks while attending an Easter march on Good Friday at Tin Shui Wai. Photo: Yik Yeung-man/SCMP

Good Friday is recognized as a public holiday in Hong Kong, with schools and most businesses closed, allowing the faithful to participate in religious services and processions. ​
Time and Date

Churches across the city held special services, including the Stations of the Cross and Passion narratives, reflecting the solemnity of the day. In areas like North Point, congregations gathered for live services, fostering a sense of community and reflection.

This year’s observances were particularly poignant as they come during a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and humanitarian crises in various parts of the world. Clergy across the continent urged believers to reflect on the meaning of sacrifice and extend compassion to those suffering from war, displacement, and poverty.

As Asia’s diverse Christian communities marked this sacred day, the unifying message of Good Friday—of love, sacrifice, and the hope of renewal—resonated across churches, homes, and hearts.


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JD Vance, Meloni Deepen Trade Talks in Rome, VP Attend Vatican Service Amid Papal Speculation

Rome, Italy — U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni in Rome on Friday for a second round of high-stakes talks on tariffs, just a day after their Oval Office meeting with former President Donald Trump. The two leaders later attended Good Friday services at the Vatican, fueling speculation of a potential meeting between Vance and Pope Francis over the weekend.

Greeting Vance at the Chigi Palace, Meloni joked, “I’ve been missing you,” referencing their back-to-back meetings. Their discussions centered on transatlantic trade tensions and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Vance stating that negotiations with the European Union remain a priority.

The White House and Meloni’s office issued a joint statement confirming that Trump would visit Italy “in the very near future,” adding that a broader U.S.-EU meeting is also under consideration.

“This visit is another great opportunity to strengthen our bilateral cooperation,” Meloni said, emphasizing Italy’s vital role as a U.S. partner in Europe and the Mediterranean.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance, and his wife Usha Vance, with their daughter Mirabel, back to camera, and sons Vivek and Ewan, left, attend a Good Friday service inside St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, Friday, April 18, 2025. Photo: AP/Alessandra Tarantino

Vance, a Catholic convert, later attended the solemn Good Friday service at St. Peter’s Basilica alongside his wife and children. Though Pope Francis was absent due to health concerns, Vance is scheduled to meet with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin on Saturday. While no official meeting with the Pope has been announced, Vatican insiders have not ruled out the possibility.

The potential audience with Francis comes against the backdrop of past tensions. Vance has previously criticized the Pope’s stance on migration, clashing with the pontiff’s emphasis on humanitarian care. Francis, in turn, appeared to rebut Vance’s theological justifications for U.S. immigration policies in a February letter to American bishops, urging a more inclusive interpretation of Christian doctrine.

As the Easter weekend unfolds, all eyes remain on Rome, where diplomacy, religion, and politics continue to intersect in complex and symbolic ways.


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