February 18, 2026

Ramadan Begins in Palestine, Gulf Amid Gaza Crisis; Other Muslim States to Start Thursday

Ramadan started in Gaza and several Gulf countries on Wednesday amid food shortages and Israeli attacks. Other Muslim states including Egypt and Syria will begin fasting Thursday based on moon sightings and calculations.

February 18, 2026

Gaza Holds on to Ramadan Traditions Amid War and Hardship

Gaza faces Ramadan with heavy hearts as war causes loss, destruction, and financial hardship. Despite daily violence, residents keep Ramadan traditions alive to bring hope and joy.

February 18, 2026

TfL’s Ad Banned for Promoting Negative Stereotype of Black Men

The Advertising Standards Authority has banned a TfL ad showing a black boy verbally harassing a white girl. The ad was called irresponsible for promoting a harmful racial stereotype. TfL said the full campaign showed diverse offenders and victims. The ASA ruled the ad harmful and offensive when seen alone, and banned its future use.

February 18, 2026

Tamil Nadu State Universities Get ₹767 Crore Annual Grant with ₹175 Crore Performance Fund

Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu announced a ₹767 crore yearly grant and a ₹175 crore performance fund for state universities in his 2026 interim budget. Universities must meet strict conditions to qualify for these funds.

February 18, 2026

Maharashtra Officially Withdraws Muslim Reservation in Jobs, Education

Maharashtra government scraps caste verification for Muslim reservation, effectively ending the 5% quota in government jobs and education. The ordinance granting reservation had lapsed in 2014, and this order declares the status officially.