How Instagram star helped rescue dozens from Afghanistan
The Hindu
More than 1,21,000 people donated to the campaign after Mr. Marcus made an appeal to his 8,32,000 followers, making it one of the largest humanitarian fundraisers in GoFundMe's history.
Dozens of desperate Afghans who had been trying to flee the Taliban before the August 31 deadline for the U.S. withdrawal from Kabul made it to safety with help from an unexpected place — Instagram influencer Quentin Quarantino. Quarantino is the alter ego of 25-year-old Tommy Marcus of New York City, previously best-known for his liberal memes and his jokes about opponents of COVID-19 vaccinations. Along with his followers, Mr. Marcus raised $7 million within days on GoFundMe to launch rescue missions into Afghanistan to evacuate as many people as possible, many of whom said they had been threatened by the Taliban.
Hundreds of Israelis gather in Tel Aviv to watch Hamas release three Israeli hostages from Gaza.
U.N. chief demands respect for DRC's territorial integrity to avoid regional war at African Union summit.
Zelenskyy calls for European armed forces; Scholz defends democracy; Vance warns of free speech retreat; Trump-Putin peace talks.
First bus of freed Palestinian prisoners leaves Israeli jail Ofer, as 369 detainees set for release after hostage exchange.
Lebanon's President condemns attack on UN convoy in Beirut, vows to maintain security; protesters block roads in capital.
President Donald Trump seeks to reverse environmental standards for household appliances, yearning for old-school gas stoves and light bulbs.
Syrian forces uncover defunct drug factory in former Hezbollah stronghold near Lebanese border, cracking down on smugglers.
Cook Islands signs strategic partnership with China, raising concerns in New Zealand over growing Chinese presence in the Pacific.
Trump and Musk fire thousands of federal workers, sparking legal challenges and criticism over government downsizing efforts.
NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy discusses incomplete radio transmissions and altimeter issues in Black Hawk helicopter crash investigation.
Missouri judge blocks abortion restrictions, Planned Parenthood prepares to resume services, citing politically motivated barriers to care.
The Hindu Morning Digest gives a select list of stories to start the day. Read the top news today on February 15, 2025
Federal judges grant temporary restraining orders against Trump administration's executive order halting gender-affirming care for transgender youth.