Thu Oct 23 05:44:16 UTC 2025: ## From Madagascar Coup to Global Trade Wars: A World Roundup

New Delhi, October 23, 2025 – A tumultuous week on the global stage sees a military coup in Madagascar, escalating trade tensions between the US and China, a fragile ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan, and movement on the Gaza-Egypt border.

Madagascar in Crisis: The island nation of Madagascar is facing renewed political turmoil as Colonel Michael Randrianirina seized power in a military coup, ousting President Andry Rajoelina on October 17th. Rajoelina, who himself came to power in a coup in 2009, has reportedly fled the country fearing for his life. The UN and African Union have condemned the takeover and suspended Madagascar. The nation, already grappling with high poverty rates, faces an uncertain future.

US-China Trade War Heats Up at Sea: The simmering trade war between the United States and China has intensified with the implementation of reciprocal port fees on ocean shipping firms. Starting October 14th, both countries are levying charges on vessels linked to the opposing nation. The US move, initiated during the previous Trump administration and justified by findings of unfair Chinese maritime practices, aims to challenge China’s dominance in the global maritime industry. China has retaliated with similar fees. Experts warn this could distort global freight flows and impact a wide range of goods, from crude oil to consumer products.

Pakistan and Afghanistan Agree to Ceasefire: Following a week of deadly clashes, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire, brokered by Qatar and Turkiye. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry announced the agreement on October 19th, stating that both sides will establish mechanisms for lasting peace. Further talks are planned to solidify the ceasefire, which followed a week of fighting that resulted in dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries.

Bihar Elections: NDA Announces Final Candidates: In India, the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has finalized its list of candidates for all 243 constituencies in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) announced its final list, along with other alliance partners. The JD(U) and BJP will contest from 101 seats each, while other parties like Chirag Paswan’s LJP(RV) and Upendra Kushwaha’s RLM will contest from a smaller number of seats. The elections are anticipated to be closely contested.

Rafah Crossing to Reopen for Gazans Returning from Egypt The Palestinian embassy in Egypt has announced the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt will reopen on Monday (October 20, 2025) for Gazans returning home, raising hopes for the easing of the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The crossing, Gaza’s only access point not controlled by Israel, has been closed since May 2024.

This article is brought to you by The Hindu, providing an Indian perspective on global events. Stay tuned for further updates.

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