UK defends delay in adding India to red list travel ban as COVID-19’s B1.617.2 variant spreads rapidly
The Hindu
A decision on the June 21 complete lockdown easing timeline will be taken on June 14.
The UK government came under strong criticism on Sunday for not adding India to the “red list” travel ban at the same time as Pakistan and Bangladesh in early April, which is feared as a major factor behind a rapid spike in cases of COVID-19’s first identified in India. Downing Street said it had taken a “precautionary action” to ban travel from India on April 23, six days before the B1.617 variant was put under investigation and two weeks before its highly transmissible subtype, B1.617.2, was labelled a Variant of Concern (VOC).
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.