SC to rule on Waqf Monday
The SC will deliver interim orders on September 15 regarding three key issues related to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. These include the power to denotify properties declared as waqf, the composition of State waqf boards and the Central Waqf Council, and the treatment of waqf properties under Government land inquiries. The Centre defended the Act as constitutional and secular, while petitioners argued it departs from legal principles and facilitates non-judicial capture of waqf properties. The Act was passed by Parliament with significant support and received presidential assent in April 2025.
Israel blasts Pakistan at UN
At a UN Security Council meeting, Israel criticised Pakistan for “double standards” regarding terrorism, highlighting that Al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden was sheltered and killed in Pakistan without global condemnation. Israel’s envoy Danny Danon argued there was no immunity for bin Laden, and similarly, none should be given to Hamas. Pakistan’s ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad condemned Israel’s “illegal aggression” in Gaza and other regional strikes, accusing it of violating international law. The tense exchange underscored contrasting narratives on terrorism, accountability and ongoing regional conflicts, with Israel calling out perceived hypocrisy in the Council’s handling of terrorist-related issues.
Netanyahu’s Qatar Gamble Backfires
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s attempted assassination of senior Hamas leaders in Qatar has backfired. The strike, which killed five low-level Hamas members and a Qatari guard, failed to eliminate top leaders, according to Hamas. The move has enraged Qatar — a key U.S. ally and mediator — straining Israel’s relations with Washington and derailing sensitive ceasefire talks. While Netanyahu aimed to demonstrate "total victory" over Hamas and appease hardliners in his coalition, the failed mission has damaged his international standing and credibility. It also jeopardized the safe return of 20 remaining hostages believed to be in Gaza. Qatar now signals that ongoing ceasefire negotiations may be invalid.
Indian Women in Asia Cup final
The Indian women’s hockey team qualified for the Asia Cup final after a 1-1 draw with defending champions Japan. Beauty Dung Dung gave India an early lead with a field goal in the seventh minute, but Japan’s Shiho Kobayakawa equalised near the end of the match. India’s spot in the final was confirmed after hosts China beat Korea 1-0, preventing Korea from advancing. China topped the Super 4s table with nine points, while India finished second with four points. In the final, India will face China, with the winner securing a place in next year’s World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. The match showcased strong defense, tactical play, and intense competition from both sides, with India pressing hard in the dying moments for a winner. The team’s resilience and teamwork were praised by coach Harendra Singh.