September 10, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: International

Widespread Boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan Travel Impacts Tourism Industry

A concerted online campaign urging Indians to cancel travel plans to Turkey and Azerbaijan has gained significant traction since May 11, leading to thousands of cancelled bookings and prompting ticketing platforms and tour operators to halt further reservations to both countries. Social media saw three hashtags—#BoycottTurkey, #BoycottAzerbaijan, and #BoycottTurkeyAzerbaijan—trending across India, as users touted alternative destinations like Greece and Armenia. Reports emerged of families, including one in Mumbai, scrapping their Turkey vacations after a child questioned why they would visit a nation perceived as aligned with “India’s enemy.” The backlash extended to aviation, with IndiGo criticized for maintaining its codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines. In response, the Turkish Department of Tourism issued a statement assuring Indian visitors of a warm welcome and emphasizing that local Turks are largely unaware of geopolitical tensions, a message that nevertheless drew hostile reactions online. Tourism stakeholders in India have largely backed the boycott. Jyoti Mahal, Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council, told The New Indian Express that tour operators and industry professionals are advising against travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan. She cited reports — including claims (potentially inflated) of an 800-person group from Gujarat cancelling their trips — as evidence of the movement’s impact. Azerbaijan, in particular, stands to lose heavily: in 2024, it recorded a record 243,589 Indian tourists—a 108% year-on-year increase from 2023 and a dramatic rise from just 4,853 arrivals in 2014. The sudden drop in bookings threatens to stall this decade-long tourism boom along the Caspian coast.

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Editor02 mins

India Firmly Rejects Nuclear Blackmail, Puts Indus Waters Treaty in Abeyance Amidst Escalation with Pakistan: MEA

In a resolute stance, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday reiterated that India will not succumb to nuclear blackmail or tolerate cross-border terrorism. Speaking at a media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India’s recent military actions were confined strictly to the conventional domain, refuting any suggestions of a nuclear dimension in the recent tensions with Pakistan. Jaiswal addressed speculation surrounding a reported meeting of Pakistan’s National Command Authority on May 10, clarifying that the meeting was later denied by Pakistani authorities, including their Foreign Minister who has “on record” dismissed any nuclear aspect. “India has a firm stance that it will not give into nuclear blackmail or allow cross-border terrorism into invoking it,” Jaiswal stressed, underscoring India’s commitment to maintaining peace and security without compromising its sovereignty. Providing details on the recent ceasefire agreement, Jaiswal confirmed that the understanding was finalized directly between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations. The agreement followed a formal request from Pakistan’s High Commission, with a phone call eventually taking place at 15:35 hrs on May 10 after initial technical delays. He credited India’s assertive military posture for compelling Pakistan to stop hostilities, declaring, “Our message was clear and consistent.” Jaiswal issued a stern warning to Pakistan, stating, “That a nation which has nurtured terrorism on an industrial scale should think that it can escape the consequences is fooling itself.” He reiterated that the terrorist infrastructure targeted by Indian forces was not only responsible for the deaths of Indian citizens but also for numerous innocent lives across the globe. “There is now a new normal. The sooner Pakistan gets it, the better it is,” he said. In a major policy decision, the MEA also confirmed that India has placed the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance, following a directive from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). “The IWT was concluded in the spirit of goodwill and friendship. However, Pakistan has violated these principles by promoting cross-border terrorism for decades,” said Jaiswal. The treaty will remain suspended until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably renounces terrorism.

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Editor03 mins

Cannes 2025 Shakes Up Red Carpet Fashion: Bans Nudity and Voluminous Gowns

In a significant move that could redefine red carpet aesthetics, the 78th Cannes Film Festival has banned nudity and excessive gown volume, aiming to shift the tone of fashion at one of the world’s most prestigious cinematic events. The announcement came via an official document, just 24 hours before the festival’s opening on May 13, 2025. 🔒 No More “Naked Dresses” The new dress code specifically targets the widely popular “naked dress” trend — garments made with sheer fabrics like mesh, lace, and chiffon that create an illusion of nudity. This bold look has been a celebrity staple in recent years, with stars using see-through materials and strategic layering to make daring statements on the red carpet. According to the official Cannes 2025 guideline: “For decency reasons, nudity is prohibited on the Red Carpet, as well as in any other area of the Festival.” This rule doesn’t just apply to completely nude ensembles but also appears to cover partially sheer dresses that give the appearance of nudity. 🚫 Voluminous Gowns Also Under Fire Interestingly, Cannes has also discouraged voluminous gowns, which are typically worn for dramatic flair and photo opportunities. While not explicitly banned, the organizers reportedly requested that attendees avoid large outfits that obstruct pathways or other guests — a subtle push toward more streamlined silhouettes and elegant restraint. 👗 What to Expect on the 2025 Red Carpet With both risqué styles and oversized couture off-limits, this year’s fashion is expected to veer toward refined elegance, modest tailoring, and classic glamour. Think: Designers will now need to reimagine red carpet impact without baring skin or ballooning skirts — a potential renaissance for understated fashion. 🎥 Why the Change Now? The Cannes Film Festival has long been a stage for both cinematic and sartorial drama. But in recent years, there’s been growing criticism about increasingly provocative fashion overshadowing the art of film. This new dress code signals a desire to refocus attention on cinema, while also promoting a more globally palatable standard of decorum amid rising cultural sensitivity. Whether the move is applauded for bringing back grace or criticized for restricting personal expression, Cannes 2025 is sure to spark a fashion conversation like never before.

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Editor04 mins

Barcelona Poised for La Liga Glory After Another Thrilling Comeback Win

Barcelona are on the brink of being crowned La Liga champions, and while the title isn’t mathematically secured yet, the Spanish press and football world are already celebrating their near-certain triumph. With three games left and a seven-point lead over arch-rivals Real Madrid, the Catalans’ resurgence this season is impossible to ignore. Front pages across Spain were jubilant: The Road to the Top Since December—when Real Madrid led the league by two points—Barcelona have put together an incredible 16-match unbeaten run, including five consecutive victories. They’ve amassed 44 points from a possible 48, while Madrid, despite Kylian Mbappe’s heroics, managed just 35 in the same period. Sunday’s Statement Win The latest and most emphatic step toward the title came in a 4-3 win over Real Madrid, in which: The defeat leaves Real Madrid on the verge of a trophyless season, made worse by the fact that Barcelona have already beaten them in both the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup finals, sealing a probable domestic treble. A Season of Comebacks and Character Barcelona’s attacking flair and resolve have been their hallmarks this season, regularly coming from behind to win: Though manager Hansi Flick has voiced concern over defensive lapses, the attacking transformation has been undeniable, driven by Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Ferran Torres, Dani Olmo, and Lewandowski. Last season, Barcelona struggled against Real Madrid. This season, they’ve flipped the script with four straight wins in El Clasico: 4-0, 4-3, 5-0, and 3-2. Real Madrid: A Season of Regret Injuries played a part in Madrid’s collapse—Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, and Mendy all missed Sunday’s clash. But their defensive depth was brutally exposed again. Makeshift full-back Lucas Vazquez was left trailing as Raphinha danced through to seal the game. What’s Next? For Barcelona, the title is now a formality. For Real Madrid, it’s time for reflection, rebuilding, and preparing for a summer that could shape their next era. The writing is on the wall—La Liga belongs to Barcelona once again.

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Editor05 mins

Asian Markets Rally as US-China Trade Truce Spurs Global Optimism

Markets across Asia surged on Tuesday, buoyed by a strong rally in U.S. equities and renewed optimism surrounding the easing of trade tensions between the United States and China. A gauge of U.S.-listed Chinese stocks soared 5.4% on Monday, marking its best session in over two months, as investor sentiment improved on signs of a major de-escalation in the prolonged tariff conflict. Japan’s Topix index extended gains for a 13th straight session, setting it on course for its longest winning streak in 16 years. Shares in Australia and Japan also opened significantly higher, tracking the S&P 500’s 3% surge from the previous U.S. session. The sharp rebound in risk appetite followed a joint announcement by U.S. and Chinese trade negotiators, confirming a temporary tariff truce. The United States agreed to slash duties on Chinese goods from 145% to 30% for a 90-day period, while China reduced its tariffs on most U.S. imports to 10%. The coordinated move was widely interpreted as a meaningful step toward broader economic normalization between the world’s two largest economies. Despite the euphoria in equities, the U.S. dollar remained relatively flat during Asian trading hours, following a jump on Monday. The rally has come as a double-edged sword for some investors. Those who hedged against further market instability during April’s turmoil—through strategies like shorting the dollar, betting on increased stock volatility, or positioning for aggressive Fed rate cuts—now face painful unwinds. These reversals may also be contributing to the sudden momentum in global stock markets. As attention turns to central bank policy signals and upcoming economic data, markets are likely to remain sensitive to any shifts in trade negotiations or monetary expectations. For now, however, the de-escalation has brought a welcome sense of relief to global investors.

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Editor03 mins

Trump Calls for “Total Reset” in US-China Trade Relations After Geneva Talks

Former US President Donald Trump on Sunday called for a “total reset” in his country’s strained trade ties with China, following high-level discussions between US and Chinese officials in Geneva aimed at de-escalating tensions stemming from a recent tariff standoff. Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump stated: “A very good meeting today with China, in Switzerland. Many things discussed, much agreed to. A total reset negotiated in a friendly, but constructive, manner. We want to see, for the good of both China and the U.S., an opening up of China to American business. GREAT PROGRESS MADE.” Trump emphasized the need for greater access to Chinese markets for American companies, signaling his intent to reshape the trade dynamics between the two global giants. The Geneva meetings marked the first formal negotiations since Trump imposed steep new tariffs on Chinese imports last month, triggering a new wave in the ongoing US-China trade war. The talks, held behind closed doors at the Swiss ambassador’s residence near Lake Geneva, involved US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng. According to a commentary by China’s state-run Xinhua news agency, the meetings were described as an “important step” toward resolving trade tensions. Discussions are expected to continue through the weekend. The trade dispute has led to the US imposing tariffs totaling 145 percent on Chinese goods, with some specific items taxed as high as 245 percent. China retaliated with 125 percent tariffs on American products. Trump, however, suggested he may be open to adjustments, remarking on social media that “80 percent levies on China seem right”, hinting at a potential softening. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick echoed this sentiment on Fox News, saying the administration was interested in de-escalating tensions. However, Trump’s press secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that any tariff rollback would not be unilateral, emphasizing that China must first offer concrete concessions. The Geneva summit has opened a potential path forward, but the road to a comprehensive trade agreement remains fraught with economic and geopolitical challenges.

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Editor03 mins

Kosmos 482 Reenters Earth After 53 Years, Ending a Chapter in Soviet Space History

A historic relic of the Soviet Union’s ambitious Venera program met its final fate on May 10, 2025, as the Kosmos 482 Venus lander reentered Earth’s atmosphere after 53 years in orbit. The spacecraft, which had been stranded in an elliptical Earth orbit since its failed launch to Venus in 1972, made its fiery descent at 2:24 a.m. ET (0624 GMT/9:24 a.m. Moscow time) and splashed down in the Indian Ocean, west of Jakarta, according to Roscosmos. A Glitch That Froze a Dream Originally designed as part of the USSR’s Venera series to explore Venus, Kosmos 482 encountered a malfunction during launch due to a timer error, causing an early engine shutdown. This error prevented the craft from escaping Earth’s gravity and left it trapped in a decaying orbit—where it remained for over five decades. A Long Goodbye In the final days before its reentry, the spacecraft completed one last pass over Earth. Italian astronomer Gianluca Masi captured its fleeting silhouette on May 10, showing the vessel as a dashed line against the stars near Rome, thanks to a long-exposure image. Meanwhile, Dutch satellite observer Ralf Vandebergh reportedly captured images that may show the parachute intended for its Venus descent, possibly deployed during reentry—though whether it functioned remains unknown. Disputed Splashdown and Global Tracking Efforts While Roscosmos placed the impact zone in the Indian Ocean, other international trackers gave varying predictions, ranging from the South Asian mainland to the Pacific Ocean. This wide range reflects the complexity and uncertainty involved in tracking aging space debris, particularly one built to withstand the harsh Venusian environment. A Reminder of the Space Junk Crisis Weighing about 495 kg (1,190 lbs) and roughly 1 meter (3.3 feet) in diameter, Kosmos 482’s descent at ~240 km/h (150 mph) carried the destructive potential of a small meteorite. However, its splashdown in the ocean likely prevented any damage on land. Its survival through atmospheric reentry is attributed to its robust design, meant to endure Venus’s high-pressure, corrosive atmosphere. The incident underscores the growing danger of space debris. With more than 14,000 satellites currently orbiting Earth—7,200 from Starlink alone—the risk of collision, uncontrolled reentry, and atmospheric clutter is mounting. On average, three major debris objects enter Earth’s atmosphere daily, a number expected to rise. Kosmos 482’s demise is not only a spectacle of history and engineering but also a warning for the future of orbital sustainability. As Earth’s low orbit becomes increasingly crowded, the legacy of stranded missions like this must shape how humanity plans for the long-term stewardship of space.

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Editor04 mins

IMF’s approval of a $1 billion loan to Pakistan amidst an active military escalation with India

The IMF’s approval of a $1 billion loan to Pakistan amidst an active military escalation with India has triggered a wave of sharp criticism and diplomatic concern, particularly from Indian political and strategic circles. Omar Abdullah Leads Political Outcry Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah strongly criticized the move, saying on X (formerly Twitter): “I’m not sure how the ‘International Community’ thinks the current tension in the subcontinent will be de-escalated when the IMF essentially reimburses Pakistan for all the ordnance it is using to devastate Poonch, Rajouri, Uri, Tangdhar & so many other places.” This sentiment resonated across Indian social media, with many accusing the IMF of indirectly funding a military offensive. India’s Formal Objection at IMF India had already raised serious objections during the IMF’s board meeting on Friday. The Indian delegation abstained from the vote on the loan package, which included: While abstention might appear neutral, it was, in diplomatic terms, a measured protest. India highlighted Pakistan’s poor track record with IMF funds and emphasized the risk of these resources being misappropriated to fund cross-border terrorism and military aggression. Timing and Optics Raise Global Questions The timing of the IMF’s approval—within hours of Pakistan’s Operation Bunyan Ul Marsoos, which involved drone and missile strikes (including the Fattah-1 missile) on Indian territory—has sparked serious questions about the fund’s vetting processes and its political optics. Critics argue this disbursement: Broader Implications This episode underscores a critical geopolitical dilemma: How should international financial institutions engage with unstable or conflict-prone nations without becoming complicit in exacerbating violence or instability? India, while calling for de-escalation, is now caught in a broader diplomatic balancing act—engaging global forums, addressing domestic outrage, and maintaining operational readiness on the ground.

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Editor03 mins

Major Escalation as India Strikes Pakistan Amid Coordinated Militancy Attacks in Quetta

Tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated following a wave of militant assaults on Pakistani military installations in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan. Multiple coordinated attacks rocked the city late Friday, with heavy gunfire and explosions reported from several locations. The violence comes amid a broader regional conflict, as India launched significant retaliatory military strikes across Pakistan by air, land, and sea. The first and most significant attack in Quetta targeted the Frontier Corps (FC) headquarters. Eyewitnesses described a series of loud explosions followed by a prolonged gun battle between unidentified assailants and Pakistani security forces. In another incident, two powerful blasts struck the Captain Safar Khan Check Post on Qambarani Road in the Jangal Bagh area. A third security post, located on Karani Road in Hazara Town, was also attacked, though details remain unclear regarding casualties or damage. Simultaneously, a separate group of attackers reportedly targeted an Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) camp near Arif Gali, close to Borma Hotel. Authorities are still verifying information from that scene. Earlier in the day, an explosion on Spinny Road left one person injured and three others hurt. The internal unrest coincides with a full-blown military conflict erupting between India and Pakistan. In response to a series of attempted Pakistani drone and missile incursions—successfully intercepted by Indian defense systems on Thursday—India launched a sweeping counteroffensive. According to government sources, Indian forces have fired missiles targeting key Pakistani cities including Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, and Karachi. A total blackout has reportedly descended over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). In a major setback for Pakistan’s military, an airborne early warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft was shot down within Punjab province. Three Pakistani fighter jets were also downed, including one near Lathi in Pokhran, Rajasthan. For the first time since the 1971 war, the Indian Navy has opened a direct front, launching missile strikes on Karachi Port. Explosions have rocked the southern city, with reports indicating extensive damage to Pakistani naval installations. Panic is spreading across Pakistan’s coastline as further Indian naval operations remain underway. This series of developments marks one of the most dangerous escalations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors in decades, drawing international concern over the potential for further conflict.

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Editor04 mins

Violence Continues in Ukraine Amid Victory Day Ceasefire as World Leaders Rally Support in Kyiv

As the Victory Day ceasefire declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin enters its third and final day, reports of continued Russian attacks in Ukraine highlight the fragility of the truce. In the northern Sumy region, an 85-year-old woman lost her life, and three others were injured as 19 residential homes and 10 additional buildings were damaged or destroyed, according to Ukrainian police. In the eastern Donetsk region, the town of Kostyantynivka was hit, injuring one person and setting two apartment blocks ablaze. Ukraine’s State Emergency Service (DSNS) reported that rescue workers who arrived at the scene were targeted by subsequent “double tap” strikes—deliberate secondary attacks aimed at first responders. In the southern city of Kherson, a 58-year-old man was injured by an explosive-laden Russian drone, according to local authorities. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude toward the United Kingdom for its newly announced sanctions targeting Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”—a network of oil tankers used to circumvent energy export restrictions. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled the sanctions on Thursday, drawing praise from Zelensky, who said in a social media post that every measure to curb the Kremlin’s war financing brings peace closer. A high-level meeting between European leaders took place today at the Mariyinsky Palace in Kyiv. Attending were France’s President Emmanuel Macron, Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Alongside Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska, they paid tribute at Kyiv’s Independence Square to honor victims of the war. In a joint statement, the leaders reaffirmed their readiness to support potential peace talks. Meanwhile, the Kremlin reiterated its position through spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, stating that arms deliveries to Ukraine must cease before any ceasefire agreement can be genuinely discussed. Speaking to ABC News, Peskov claimed that Ukraine continues full-scale mobilization and is not prepared for negotiations, while Putin remains open to a “peaceful and diplomatic” resolution. As Kyiv welcomed European solidarity, Moscow celebrated Victory Day with a grand parade in Red Square. The presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping was the highlight, emphasizing deepening Russia-China ties in the face of what they call the “collective West.” Putin and Xi held two rounds of talks before the event and discussed the Ukraine war informally. Also attending were leaders from Brazil, Venezuela, and Serbia, with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico being the only EU head of state present in Moscow.

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Editor04 mins
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