Kiryat Shmona's mayor called on Israel's government to eliminate the Hezbollah threat as residents remain in shelters. He warned that locals do not want to become 'victims of peace' and said many young families are considering leaving the city.

Mortgage deals are vanishing within eight days as lenders rapidly raise rates and withdraw products. First-time buyers are being hit hardest amid growing market uncertainty and rising borrowing costs.

Nir Zuk plans to acquire California's Liberty Bank and convert it into a fully artificial intelligence driven bank. The deal could establish his first direct banking infrastructure presence in the United States.

Germany views the announced United States blockade as a pressure tactic rather than the end of negotiations. Officials say diplomatic efforts are still underway.

Lebanon's foreign minister said direct talks with Israel highlight that the country's ceasefire efforts are separate from negotiations between the United States and Iran. He emphasized that only the Lebanese state has the authority to negotiate on Lebanon's behalf.

Pakistan's inflation is expected to climb to a 21-month high in April, driven by soaring fuel prices amid Middle East tensions. Rising energy costs are likely to outweigh relief from lower wheat and fruit prices.

Readers’ questions on voting, oil exports, deportations and factory jobs drew answers from Times reporters. The newsletter also covered Hungary’s election upset and rising Middle East tensions affecting global oil markets.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain will not join President Donald Trump’s proposed blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed the need to keep the waterway open while balancing resistance to military escalation with maintaining close ties to Washington.

Lieutenant General Susan Coyle will become the first woman to command the Australian Army in its 125-year history. Her appointment is being hailed as a landmark moment as the military modernizes and works to increase female representation.

Turkiye's foreign minister accused Israel of trying to label Turkiye as its 'new enemy' amid rising regional tensions. He said the shift reflects a broader strategy within Israel following the Gaza war and disputes involving Iran.

Escalating Middle East tensions have lifted oil prices and triggered sharp declines in global and Indian markets. Experts urge investors to stay cautious, avoid timing the market, and focus on disciplined long term investing.

Rabbi David Leibel urged the haredi community to take part in Holocaust Remembrance Day. He said the day’s focus has shifted to collective mourning and called for forms of participation that align with Jewish law while expressing national solidarity.