Rafah assault 'could lead to a bloodbath': WHO chief

    Rafah assault 'could lead to a bloodbath': WHO chief

    The World Health Organization (WHO) warned of a potential "bloodbath" if Israel launches a military incursion into Gaza's southern city of Rafah. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep concern for the 1.2 million people seeking refuge in Rafah, stating that the already strained health system could not cope with a surge in casualties. The WHO announced contingency plans to address potential casualties, but emphasized that these measures would not prevent substantial additional mortality and morbidity resulting from a military operation.

    Defence chiefs from US, Australia, Japan and Philippines vow to deepen cooperation

    Defence chiefs from US, Australia, Japan and Philippines vow to deepen cooperation

    Top defense officials from the US, Australia, Japan, and the Philippines gathered in Hawaii, vowing to strengthen cooperation amid concerns over China's actions in the South China Sea. This meeting follows their joint naval exercises in the region last month. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin highlighted the drills' importance in enhancing collaboration and upholding international law. The officials discussed increasing the frequency of defense exercises, emphasizing their commitment to a rules-based order. The US has longstanding defense treaties with all three nations, aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the region.

    National

    More From National
    Indian Navy begins trials in Rs 60,000 crore tender for 6 advanced submarines:Image

    Indian Navy begins trials in Rs 60,000 crore tender for 6 advanced submarines

    Indian Navy's trials of advanced submarines in a Rs 60,000 crore tender involve partnerships with foreign vendors, emphasizing indigenous content and AIP systems for more capable and larger vessels.

    India lodges protest with China over its infra development in Shaksgam valley:Image

    India lodges protest with China over its infra development in Shaksgam valley

    India has strongly protested against China's construction activities in the Shaksgam valley, which India considers a part of its territory. The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated that India has never accepted the 1963 China-Pakistan boundary pact that attempted to cede the area to Beijing. India has registered its protest with China and reserved the right to take necessary measures to safeguard its interests. The Shaksgam valley is strategically important and is currently part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

    International

    More From International
    Rafah assault 'could lead to a bloodbath': WHO chief:Image

    Rafah assault 'could lead to a bloodbath': WHO chief

    The World Health Organization (WHO) warned of a potential "bloodbath" if Israel launches a military incursion into Gaza's southern city of Rafah. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep concern for the 1.2 million people seeking refuge in Rafah, stating that the already strained health system could not cope with a surge in casualties. The WHO announced contingency plans to address potential casualties, but emphasized that these measures would not prevent substantial additional mortality and morbidity resulting from a military operation.

    Industry

    More From Industry
    Missile defence successes in Gulf, Ukraine fuel global urgency to acquire systems:Image

    Missile defence successes in Gulf, Ukraine fuel global urgency to acquire systems

    Experts predict that the successful use of ballistic missile defenses in recent high-stakes combat scenarios in Israel, the Red Sea, and Ukraine will lead to increased global investment in these systems. The U.S. SM-3 and Israeli Arrow interceptors, as well as the MIM-104 Patriot batteries, have demonstrated effectiveness against missile attacks, encouraging more countries to invest in similar defense systems. This trend is expected to intensify missile arms races, particularly in regions like Asia, where countries are already heavily investing in missile technology.

    India fourth-largest military spender, overall global spending accelerates: SIPRI report:Image

    India fourth-largest military spender, overall global spending accelerates: SIPRI report

    In 2023, India ranked as the world's fourth-largest military spender, with a total expenditure of $83.6 billion, marking a 4.2% increase from the previous year. This data comes from a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), which also revealed a global rise in military spending, reaching $2,443 billion, a 7% increase from 2022. The top 10 spenders, including the United States, China, and Russia, all boosted their military expenditures.

    More From DEFENCE

    Eastern Army Commander visits forward areas in Sikkim

    Eastern Army Commander visits forward areas in Sikkim

    Lt. Gen. R C Tiwari, Eastern Army Commander, visited border areas in Sikkim, reviewing operational preparedness and infrastructure development. Accompanied by Lt. Gen. VPS Kaushik, GOC Trishakti Corps, he commended troops for their professionalism and dedication. Tiwari also met with Sikkim Governor Lakshman Acharya, discussing security and connectivity initiatives. Trishakti Corps executed 67 projects worth over Rs 5 crore last year and plans projects exceeding Rs 15 crore this year, highlighting the Indian Army's commitment to border area development and civil assistance.

    Top News from ET

    The Economic Times