Today in History (March 19th,2003)
U.S. President George W. Bush ordered airstrikes on Baghdad, marking the beginning of the Iraq War. The invasion aimed to overthrow dictator Saddam Hussein, who was suspected of manufacturing weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). However, no WMDs were found. The war led to Saddam’s capture and execution but also caused years of conflict, instability, and insurgency in Iraq, significantly impacting the Middle East and global politics.
Summary of Today’s News
Israeli strikes across Gaza kill over 400 Palestinians.
On Tuesday, Israel launched airstrikes across Gaza, killing at least 400 Palestinians, mostly women and children, in the deadliest attack in 17 months. The strikes, ordered by Prime Minister Netanyahu, broke a ceasefire in place since January after Hamas refused modifications. The operation is open-ended, with possible ground operations. The White House supported Israel. The attack, during Ramzan, worsens the devastation in Gaza, raising concerns for Israeli hostages. Hamas condemned Netanyahu’s actions.
Putin agrees to pause strikes on Ukraine energy targets.
On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered a 30-day halt on strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure after a call with U.S. President Donald Trump. Putin set conditions for a ceasefire, including stopping Ukraine’s military mobilization and arms buildup. Russia and Ukraine will exchange 175 prisoners on Wednesday. The Kremlin stressed that ending Western military aid is key to peace. Putin also raised concerns about monitoring the ceasefire’s implementation.
Supreme Court to see if Lokpal has powers over judges.
A Supreme Court Bench led by Justice B.R. Gavai will examine whether constitutional court judges fall under Lokpal’s jurisdiction. Lokpal oversees public officials, including the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, and MPs. The case arose after Lokpal’s January 27 order claimed authority to investigate sitting High Court judges. Lokpal classified them as public servants under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, similar to Ministers and government officials.
India takes 24th spot in free speech survey.
A global survey by the Future of Free Speech ranked India 24th out of 33 countries in free speech support. The 2024 report noted declining commitment to controversial speech protections worldwide. Norway (87.9) and Denmark (87.0) ranked highest, while India scored 62.6, between South Africa (66.9) and Lebanon (61.8). 37% of Indians supported government restrictions on criticism, the highest among surveyed nations. Despite public support, India’s free speech protections remain weak.
