Global Weekly News Recap: Politics, War, Economy & More

Last week, the world witnessed a mix of political upheaval, economic tremors, and pressing human rights concerns. These events not only captured international headlines but also signaled deeper shifts across nations—from South Asia’s changing leadership to Eastern Europe’s ongoing conflict and global market volatility. Each news story holds individual weight and reflects the interconnected dynamics shaping our world today.

Intensifying Heatwave in India and Pakistan

• An early and severe heatwave has gripped parts of India and Pakistan, with temperatures soaring above 46°C (114.8°F) in regions like Barmer, Rajasthan. This extreme heat, arriving earlier than the typical May–June season, has strained public health systems and disrupted agriculture. In Bihar, severe thunderstorms linked to the heatwave resulted in at least 19 fatalities. Climate experts warn that such events may become more frequent due to global warming.

Devastating Tornadoes and Floods in the U.S.

• Between April 2 and 7, a slow-moving weather system caused a series of tornadoes and flash floods across the Southern and Midwestern United States. Over 150 tornadoes were confirmed, including EF3 tornadoes in Missouri, Arkansas, and Mississippi, resulting in at least 24 deaths and widespread property damage. States like Kentucky experienced catastrophic flooding, with rainfall totals exceeding 15 inches in some areas. The disaster led to over 318,000 power outages and prompted emergency declarations in multiple states.

Progress in U.S.–Iran Nuclear Negotiations

• On April 19, the United States and Iran agreed to commence expert-level discussions to design a framework for a potential nuclear deal. This decision follows a second round of indirect talks mediated by Oman in Rome between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. The initiative aims to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons while lifting international sanctions. Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes but is open to discussing limited restrictions. A third round of indirect negotiations is scheduled for the following Saturday.

WHO Member States Reach Pandemic Preparedness Agreement

• After over three years of negotiations, World Health Organization (WHO) member states have reached a legally binding agreement to bolster global preparedness for future pandemics. The pact includes measures to improve international coordination, diversify research capabilities, and strengthen health systems. Despite the United States withdrawing from the WHO and exiting negotiations earlier this year, the agreement is seen as a significant victory for multilateral cooperation. The final proposal will be discussed at the World Health Assembly in May.

IMF Warns of Slowing Global Economic Growth

• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced plans to downgrade its global growth forecasts for 2025, citing the impact of U.S. tariffs. Protectionist trade measures have led to increased inflation and financial market instability. A survey by Bank of America indicates that 82% of global fund managers anticipate a weakening global economy, the highest level of pessimism in three decades.

Escalating Gang Violence in Haiti

• Haiti continues to grapple with escalating gang violence, leading to mass protests and significant casualties. More than 5,600 people were killed in gang violence in 2024, and over one million people have been displaced, with more than half being children. Gangs now control approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince, leading to the collapse of health services and triggering food insecurity. The Haitian government has responded with drone strikes targeting gang strongholds.

Nationwide Protests in the U.S. Against Government Policies

• On April 19, over 700 protests and community events occurred across all 50 U.S. states as part of "A National Day of Action," organized by the decentralized 50501 movement. These demonstrations aimed to challenge President Donald Trump's administration, focusing on issues like dismantling federal programs and defiance of court rulings. The protests featured diverse activities, emphasizing community building and sustained activism.

Bangladesh Forms Interim Government Led by Muhammad Yunus

• Following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid widespread protests and political unrest, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus was sworn in as the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh's interim government. Yunus, renowned for his work in microfinance, has assembled a cabinet primarily composed of civil society members, including environmental lawyer Syeda Rizwana Hasan and student leaders Nahid Islam and Asif Mahmud. The interim administration aims to stabilize the nation and prepare for democratic elections. However, tensions persist as an arrest warrant was issued for British MP Tulip Siddiq, Hasina's niece, over alleged corruption charges, which her legal team has denounced as politically motivated.

Ukraine Conducts Cross-Border Offensive into Russia's Kursk Oblast

• Ukrainian forces launched a significant cross-border operation into Russia's Kursk Oblast, targeting military assets and resulting in the reported destruction of Russian equipment. The offensive included rocket and drone attacks near Rylsk and led to the capture of numerous Russian soldiers. In response, Russian authorities detained former Kursk Governor Alexei Smirnov on charges of embezzling funds intended for border defenses during his tenure, highlighting internal challenges within Russia's military infrastructure.

UK Faces Far-Right Riots Amid Rising Anti-Migrant Sentiment

• The United Kingdom experienced violent far-right riots, particularly in Birmingham and parts of Wales. These events, characterized by attacks on vehicles and public establishments, have prompted increased police presence and discussions on addressing rising anti-migrant sentiments.

Severe Thunderstorms Cause Flooding in New York City

• New York City was hit by severe thunderstorms, leading to significant flooding in various areas. The heavy rainfall disrupted transportation and raised concerns about the city's infrastructure resilience to extreme weather events.

Waqf (Amendment) Bill Introduced in Indian Parliament

• The Indian government introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha, aiming to amend the Waqf Act of 1995. The bill proposes significant changes, including the verification of Waqf properties and the inclusion of non-Muslims in the Central Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards. Opposition parties have criticized the bill, calling it an attack on constitutional rights and religious freedoms. The bill has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for further examination.

Pianist and War Critic Pavel Kushnir Dies in Russian Detention

• Russian pianist Pavel Kushnir, known for his opposition to the war in Ukraine, died while in pretrial detention. His death has raised concerns about the treatment of political prisoners and freedom of expression in Russia.

Bumble's Stock Plummets Amid Revenue Forecast Cut

• Dating app Bumble's shares dropped by 40% after the company reduced its 2024 revenue growth forecast. The downturn is attributed to disappointing user engagement and monetization results from a recent app relaunch.

Eli Lilly's Shares Surge Following Strong Q2 Results

• Pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly saw a 10% increase in its share price after reporting strong second-quarter results. The growth is driven by robust sales of its weight-loss drugs, leading to an optimistic outlook for the remainder of 2024.

From political transitions to military escalations and economic upheavals, last week was anything but quiet. These stories go beyond headlines—they highlight societal tensions, evolving power dynamics, and the enduring challenges nations face in pursuit of peace, growth, and justice. As the world continues to change at a rapid pace, staying informed is no longer optional—it's essential.

Fuel our creativity with a cup of coffee! ☕️❤️❤️❤️