International Current Affairs MCQs

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Jordan’s King Abdullah II appointed Jaffer Hassan as the new Prime Minister, replacing Bishar Khasawane. Hassan was instructed to support the Palestinians. He will focus on reducing the economic impact of the Gaza War. Hassan will also address the decline in tourism, a vital sector for Jordan’s economy. Jordan is located in the Middle East, between Asia, Africa, and Europe. It’s bordered by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Israel, and the West Bank of Palestine.

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India has sent a new notice to Pakistan to seek “review and modification” of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), following a similar request in January 2023. This notice, under Article XII (3) of the IWT, indicates India’s intention to potentially revoke and renegotiate the 64-year-old treaty. The IWT, brokered by the World Bank, allocates three rivers (Ravi, Sutlej, Beas) to India and three rivers (Sindh, Jhelum, Chenab) to Pakistan. Pakistan receives about 80% of the total water from the six-river system, while India gets 19.48%. India is allowed to construct storage facilities and run-of-the-river projects on the western rivers, with prior notification to Pakistan.

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The joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas, initiated in 2004, focuses on enhancing military cooperation between India and the US. The latest edition, Yudh Abhyas 2024, took place at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan from September 9 to 22. This exercise aims to improve interoperability and conduct counter-terrorism operations. Both nations have emphasized the importance of joint training and sharing best practices to strengthen their military capabilities in a sub conventional context under the UN Charter’s Chapter VII.

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The UN General Assembly adopted the “Pact for the Future” to reshape global governance. It reaffirms UN Member States’ commitment to sustainable development, peace, and stronger governance. It emphasizes building peaceful, inclusive societies and addressing conflict root causes. The Pact highlights the role of science, technology, and innovation in advancing UN goals. It prioritizes youth inclusion in decision-making at national and global levels. The Pact calls for stronger partnerships with civil society, the private sector, and local authorities.

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Iran unveiled its latest ballistic missile, named “Jihad,” in a military parade in Tehran. The missile was developed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) Aerospace Force. This marks the introduction of a new liquid-fuel missile platform in Iran’s defense technology. The Jihad missile highlights Iran’s ongoing military advancements despite international sanctions. Iran’s missile development has raised concerns among Western nations about its potential destabilizing effects in the region.

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The Axis of Resistance is a coalition led by Iran, comprising groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. This alliance opposes Israeli actions and Western influence in the region, utilizing asymmetric warfare tactics. Iran supports these groups militarily and financially, intensifying their capabilities against Israel. The Axis poses a significant ideological and military challenge, particularly with Hezbollah’s proximity to Israel and Hamas’s ongoing resistance in Gaza, amidst a deepening humanitarian crisis due to the ongoing conflict. The situation remains volatile, with potential for further escalation.

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Hurricane Helene hit Florida, US as a powerful Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 130 mph (209 kph). Officials urged residents in the storm’s path to follow mandatory evacuation orders due to life-threatening conditions. A hurricane is a tropical cyclone that forms over warm ocean waters and has sustained winds of at least 74 miles per hour. Hurricanes can cause substantial destruction.

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Jordan has become the first country globally to eliminate leprosy, with the World Health Organisation confirming this milestone. This success is attributed to extensive public health campaigns, early detection initiatives, and free treatment programs. Community education played a crucial role in raising awareness and preventing the spread of this historically significant disease. Despite this achievement, Jordanian health officials emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring to avert potential future outbreaks of leprosy.

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Nagaland signed Wales as a Country Partner for the 25th Hornbill Festival. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, during his visit to Wales, announced the agreement with the Welsh Government, British Council, and Wales Arts International. The partnership concludes the “Wales in India 2024” celebration and aims to strengthen bilateral ties, enhance people-to-people contact, and create opportunities for youth.

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India and the USA have signed a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) to expand and diversify critical minerals supply chains, aiming to leverage their complementary strengths for resilience in the sector. This agreement focuses on equipment, services, policies, and best practices for the commercial development of critical minerals exploration and processing. The MoU is part of broader efforts to enhance innovation ecosystems and secure supply chains in semiconductors and clean energy, following discussions held during the 6th US-India Commercial Dialogue in October 2024.