The European Union’s new Pact on Migration, effective Friday, aims to standardise migration management across member states. It includes measures for faster asylum processing and a “mandatory solidarity” system; however, actual contributions from countries have fallen significantly short, raising concerns about the pact’s efficacy.

Families marked the anniversary of the Air India crash in Ahmedabad, which killed 260 people, as they await a final investigative report. Indian authorities are anticipated to provide an interim update soon, with officials indicating further analysis of the aircraft’s engines is necessary before completing the report.

The Supreme Court has rejected Alabama’s request to proceed with Jeffrey Lee’s execution by nitrogen hypoxia following a federal judge’s ruling that declared the method unconstitutional. Alabama officials confirmed the execution was cancelled, with Governor Kay Ivey expressing disappointment but reaffirming commitment to seek justice for the victims.

A major fire at a warehouse on Oxgate Lane in Brent, northwest London, led to the evacuation of over 70 residents. Witnesses reported thick black smoke visible from miles away. The blaze, involving a multi-use two-storey building, prompted a response from 25 fire engines and around 150 firefighters.

The EU’s migration chief, Magnus Brunner, stated that Europe must engage with the Taliban government for discussions on returning failed Afghan asylum-seekers. Despite concerns about human rights, Brunner insists dialogue is necessary to enhance the asylum process amid growing migration pressures.