Meet Saikat Chakrabarti: AOC’s ex-aide running for Congress from Pelosi’s backyard

Former AOC chief of staff Saikat Chakrabarti is launching a congressional bid in San Francisco, aiming to represent California’s 11th District. The Indian-origin Democrat, a former Silicon Valley engineer, is positioning himself as a reform-driven challenger in a district long shaped by Nancy Pelosi, testing the future of Democratic leadership.

‘Two extraordinary leaders’: Meloni shares Ghibli-style anime with Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi; internet reacts

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared a Ghibli-style anime artwork alongside a selfie with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on X. The post, celebrating cooperation between the two nations, quickly garnered attention online. Users praised the “extraordinary leaders” and the blend of diplomacy with pop culture.

Mossad chief in Washington; Netanyahu urged Donald Trump to wait — is Israel behind US–Iran mediation?

Mossad chief David Barnea visited the US for talks on Iran, following a call between Trump and Netanyahu. Israel requested a delay on military action, citing concerns about retaliation and the effectiveness of proposed strikes. Meanwhile, US military assets are being deployed to the region as diplomatic channels remain open.

‘Extremely tense’: Putin speaks to Netanyahu, Pezeshkian to discuss Iran crisis; urges diplomatic solution

Amidst escalating West Asian tensions and fears of a US strike on Tehran, Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in separate calls with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Putin reiterated Russia’s commitment to de-escalation and strengthening its strategic partnership with Iran, while both leaders stressed political and diplomatic solutions to regional issues.