*) Ballistic missile attack on Russia will trigger nuclear retaliation — Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin approved an updated nuclear doctrine, signalling Moscow might use nuclear weapons in response to conventional missile strikes supported by nuclear powers. The revision, prompted by US approval for Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia, comes on the 1,000th day of the Russia-Ukraine war. The updated policy considers attacks with conventional weapons, drones, or aircraft as potential triggers for a nuclear response. Additionally, aggression by a coalition member state would be treated as aggression by the entire coalition. *) Israel bombs Gaza home, leaving a dozen Palestinians dead Israeli air strikes hit a Joudeh family home in Gaza’s Jabalia al-Balad, killing at least 12 Palestinians and leaving 10 missing, witnesses report. Journalist Hossam Shabat, named on an Israeli hit list, was injured in another attack. “I was deliberately targeted,” Shabat shared, recalling chaos and carnage as he responded to survivors before another bomb struck. *) Biden failed Gaza, stood by Israel blindly: White House staff White House staffers criticise President Joe Biden over Palestine’s Gaza, citing his failure to enforce an ultimatum requiring Israel to ease the humanitarian crisis or face arms restrictions, according to a report by Politico. A letter from Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had set a 30-day deadline for measures like allowing 350 aid trucks into Gaza daily. Despite the deadline passing, Biden reaffirmed the US's "ironclad" support for Israel. Meanwhile, the Senate is set to vote on blocking $20B in arms sales amid global criticism of civilian harm. *) Pakistan launches anti-terror operation amid rising attacks Pakistan has launched a major military operation against separatist groups in the southwest region, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). This comes after a recent surge in attacks, including a deadly suicide bombing at a train station. The operation aims to target groups responsible for targeting civilians and disrupting the country's economic progress. *) Türkiye aims to double down on African trade Türkiye is setting its sights on a significant boost in trade with Africa, aiming to reach a staggering $50 billion. This ambitious goal, nearly ten times the 2003 figure, is a testament to the growing economic ties between the two regions. Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz emphasised Türkiye's commitment to supporting Africa's development, highlighting Turkish investments and projects across the continent. With increased diplomatic efforts and a focus on key sectors like agriculture, energy, and technology, Türkiye is poised to strengthen its partnership with African nations.