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Globe at a glance: From PM Modi in Sweden to Trump's fresh warning to Iran

Your window to world news: Trump’s warning to Iran, PM Modi’s Sweden honour, Taliban’s child marriage law, Ebola emergency in DR Congo and North India’s heatwave alert — here’s a quick roundup of the biggest global stories shaping today

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PM Modi during a joint press meet with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (ANI)
PM Modi during a joint press meet with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (ANI)
FP News Desk|May 18, 2026, 06:14:42 IST

Trump warns Iran: US President Donald Trump sharply warned Iran to act fast on stalled nuclear negotiations, saying “the clock is ticking” and threatening devastating consequences if diplomacy collapses. His warning came after speaking with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, raising fears of fresh conflict in the region and growing global tensions.

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PM Modi in Sweden: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Sweden’s Royal Order of the Polar Star, Commander Grand Cross, the country’s highest honour for a foreign head of government. Presented by Crown Princess Victoria, it marks PM Modi’s 31st international award, recognising his role in strengthening India-Sweden ties.

Jets crash midair: Two US Navy fighter jets collided mid-air during an air show at Idaho’s Mountain Home Air Force Base, forcing an immediate lockdown. All four crew members safely ejected before the crash. The show was cancelled, and officials have launched an investigation into the dramatic accident.

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Taliban legalises child-marriage: The Taliban has formally recognised child marriage under a new family law in Afghanistan, saying a “virgin girl’s” silence can count as consent. The move has triggered global outrage, with rights groups warning it further strips Afghan girls and women of freedom and basic rights.

Ebola emergency declared: The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an international health emergency after an Ebola outbreak in DR Congo killed over 80 people. A confirmed case in Goma has raised fears of wider regional spread, while officials warn the deadly strain has no approved vaccine.

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Heat wave: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe heat wave warning for North India today, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, with temperatures expected to climb significantly over the next few days. Conversely, the IMD announced that the southwest monsoon is tracking early, expected to hit Kerala by May 26.

YouTube against deepfake: YouTube has officially expanded its AI deepfake detection tool to all creators aged 18 and older. The tool is designed to flag unauthorised AI-generated likenesses and clones, giving creators a stronger defence against digital impersonation.

The big number: A new Amnesty International report says global executions reached a 45-year high in 2025, with at least 2,707 recorded deaths. Iran led the surge, carrying out 2,159 executions last year — more than double its 2024 total.

Quote of the day: "This is the 'mother of all deals.' The political, economic, and strategic convergence between India and Europe is absolutely essential for peace and stability across the world right now."

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—  Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission speaking in Gothenburg alongside Indian and Swedish leadership regarding the finalisation of the sweeping India-EU Free Trade Agreement. 

This day in history: India successfully detonated its first nuclear weapon (under the code name "Smiling Buddha"), officially becoming the world's sixth nuclear power.

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First Published:May 18, 2026, 06:13:54 IST
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