A wildfire near Mesilat Zion in central Israel prompted evacuations, including women with children. Over 3,500 people were moved from nearby communities as high winds and dry conditions fueled the blaze. Firefighters are working to contain the fire, with no major injuries reported.

A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck western Turkey, causing panic but no significant structural damage. More than 230 people were injured, primarily from jumping out of buildings in Istanbul. While the quake caused minor damage in several provinces, no major infrastructure was affected. Authorities remain cautious, as the region is vulnerable to larger seismic events.

U.S. President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky clashed over Ukraine's refusal to recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea. Trump criticized Zelensky’s stance, while Zelensky accused Trump of backing Russian disinformation. The disagreement escalated, highlighting tensions over peace talks in the ongoing Ukraine war.

India has downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan following a deadly attack on tourists in Kashmir. Measures include suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, closing a key border crossing, and canceling visa exemptions for Pakistani officials. India condemned the attack and vowed to pursue the perpetrators, while Pakistan denied involvement.

A wildfire in New Jersey's Pinelands has burned 12,500 acres and could become the largest in the state in nearly two decades. The fire, 40% contained, is impacting nearby beach towns, and evacuation orders have been lifted. Authorities stress that rain is needed to fully control the blaze.

President Trump confirmed the U.S. is actively negotiating with China on trade, aiming for a "fair deal." Reports suggest the White House is considering lowering tariffs on Chinese imports. While specifics remain unclear, any changes are expected to come after further talks later in 2025.

U.S. congressional leaders have moved to subpoena China’s top telecom companies—China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom—to investigate their alleged ties to the Chinese government and military. The companies have until May 7 to comply, or face potential contempt charges.

The U.S. dollar paused after a strong rebound, following President Trump’s move to ease tensions by backing off threats to fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell and signaling a softer approach on China tariffs. Markets welcomed the shift, though uncertainty remains.

Oil prices edged up Thursday after a sharp drop, as investors balanced a possible OPEC+ output hike against mixed U.S. tariff signals and ongoing nuclear talks with Iran. Market volatility continues amid global supply and policy shifts.

India summoned Pakistan’s top diplomat in New Delhi following a deadly militant attack in Kashmir that killed 26 tourists. The move comes as India downgraded diplomatic ties, accusing Pakistan of links to the attack—an allegation Islamabad denies. Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors continue to escalate.