WASHINGTON — In what could be a groundbreaking discovery, scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have detected the strongest indicators so far of possible life beyond our solar system. They found chemical traces in the atmosphere of a distant planet — K2-18 b — that, on Earth, are produced solely by living organisms. The gases — dimethyl sulfide (DMS) and dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) — are typically released by marine microbes like phytoplankton. Their presence suggests K2-18 b may host microbial life. However, researchers emphasize that this is not direct evidence of living organisms, but rather a potential biosignature, or sign of life-related chemical activity. More observations are needed to confirm the findings.

Astrophysicist Nikku Madhusudhan from the University of Cambridge, the study’s lead author, expressed excitement, calling it a major step forward in the search for extraterrestrial life. He noted this marks the first time that biosignatures have potentially been identified on a habitable exoplanet using current telescope technology — a significant milestone for observational astrobiology. While previous missions have investigated Mars, Venus, and icy moons for signs of life, this finding looks far beyond — at a planet 124 light-years away in the constellation Leo. K2-18 b, 8.6 times more massive than Earth and 2.6 times its diameter, orbits a red dwarf star in its habitable zone, where liquid water could exist — a key ingredient for life.

The planet is thought to be a hycean world — a theorized type of exoplanet with a hydrogen-rich atmosphere and a warm, deep ocean possibly suited for microbial life. Earlier JWST data had already found carbon-based molecules like methane and carbon dioxide in K2-18 b’s atmosphere. Now, the detection of DMS or DMDS at over 10 parts per million — levels much higher than on Earth — strongly hints at biological activity, as no known non-biological processes explain their presence in such quantities. Madhusudhan noted that while this strengthens the case for life, scientists need to remain cautious. The detection, though statistically significant (99.7% confidence), still leaves a 0.3% chance it could be a statistical anomaly. Repeat observations and deeper theoretical analysis are necessary to rule out non-biological sources for these gases.

Other experts welcomed the findings but echoed the call for careful verification. Christopher Glein of the Southwest Research Institute described the planet as "tantalizing" but emphasized the need for rigorous testing and independent confirmation. K2-18 b belongs to the sub-Neptune category — planets larger than Earth but smaller than Neptune. To study its atmosphere, astronomers use the transit method, analyzing starlight that passes through the planet’s atmosphere as it moves in front of its host star.

The JWST’s newer instrument and wavelength range offered more detailed results compared to previous data. Still, Madhusudhan underlined that science must avoid prematurely declaring the discovery of life. Though we may be on the brink of answering humanity’s age-old question — “Are we alone?” — researchers must first confirm the biosignatures through repeated observations and explore every alternative explanation. In conclusion, while the evidence from K2-18 b is compelling and could mark the dawn of a new chapter in the search for life, it remains a hopeful possibility, not a confirmed reality — at least, not yet.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

Harvard University has hired prominent conservative attorney William Burck, known for his strong legal acumen and connections to President Trump, in an effort to push back against federal threats to strip the university of billions in funding. Burck, of Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, was brought on board to support interim President Alan Garber in rejecting the Trump administration’s demands that Harvard reform its governance, admissions, and hiring to align more closely with the administration’s views.

Burck made it clear that Harvard would not compromise its autonomy or constitutional rights. However, soon after the university's refusal, the Trump administration retaliated by freezing $2.2 billion in multi-year federal grants and even hinted at removing Harvard’s tax-exempt status. Trump and his allies, who are attempting to reshape higher education, have increasingly targeted Harvard, accusing the university of fostering antisemitism and failing to respond adequately to anti-Israel protests on campus.

This legal battle is seen as a major test for Burck, whose past clients include billionaires and major political figures. He is known for his courtroom prowess and conservative worldview, making him a strategic pick to negotiate with Trump’s inner circle. Legal expert Alan Dershowitz commented that Burck’s appointment sends a dual message: defiance to Harvard’s faculty and conciliation to the government. Since the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, Harvard has faced intense scrutiny over campus protests that many say included antisemitic rhetoric. This unrest led to the resignation of President Claudine Gay. Although the university has since introduced stricter policies against antisemitism and hired lobbying support linked to the Trump administration, tensions have continued.

Last month, the administration expanded its probe into alleged antisemitism across universities and began reviewing up to $9 billion in federal funds to Harvard. Similar actions have already impacted Columbia, Princeton, Cornell, and Northwestern. While some institutions have made concessions to reinstate funding, Harvard drew the line when the Trump administration pushed for deeper control over hiring and admissions decisions. Alongside Burck, Harvard also retained Robert Hur of King & Spalding—a conservative attorney and former special counsel in the Biden classified documents investigation. Burck had represented Hur during his congressional testimony, showing how deeply connected he is to high-profile cases and figures across the political spectrum.

Burck’s track record includes defending high-stakes political and corporate clients. He played a key role in negotiating a $40 million pro bono legal deal to shield Paul Weiss from Trump-era executive actions, represented New York Mayor Eric Adams in a corruption probe, and even sued the IRS on behalf of billionaire Ken Griffin over a data leak—leading to a rare public apology from the agency. He also won a major Supreme Court case in 2021 for conservative groups by challenging a California law that required disclosure of donor information. In 2024, Burck became the Trump Organization’s ethics advisor, overseeing major business decisions, a role underscoring his close ties to Trump’s inner circle. The Trump Organization praised him as one of the country’s most respected attorneys.

Burck, a Yale graduate and former clerk for Justice Anthony Kennedy, has had a long and varied career—from prosecuting Martha Stewart to working in the George W. Bush White House and representing Brett Kavanaugh during his Supreme Court confirmation. His client list also includes FIFA, Steve Bannon, Don McGahn, and Reince Priebus in the Mueller investigation. A fan of the New England Patriots, he even defended team owner Robert Kraft and Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross in headline-making cases.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Bloomberg.

GENEVA — United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over an Israeli airstrike on the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza on Sunday, his spokesperson reported on Tuesday (April 15). In a statement, the spokesperson emphasized that under international humanitarian law, the wounded and sick, medical personnel, and healthcare facilities — including hospitals — must be protected. He stated that the strike dealt a major blow to Gaza's already strained healthcare system. Concerns were also raised about the critical shortage of food, clean water, and medical supplies in the region.

Medical sources in Gaza reported that two Israeli missiles struck the hospital, disabling its emergency department and damaging other nearby structures. The Israeli government claimed the strike targeted Hamas operatives who were allegedly using the hospital as cover. Prior to the strike, a person identifying as an Israeli security officer contacted the hospital, prompting the evacuation of patients and staff.

The humanitarian crisis has worsened since March 2, when Israel blocked the entry of aid trucks into the Palestinian territory. This blockade followed the breakdown of ceasefire negotiations. Israel resumed its military operations on March 18. According to Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 25,000 aid trucks had entered Gaza during the 42-day ceasefire period. The ministry accused Hamas of exploiting this aid to rebuild its military infrastructure, a charge that Hamas has firmly denied.

The strike and ongoing blockade have sparked renewed global concern, as Gaza's healthcare system faces collapse and its population struggles with extreme shortages of essential resources. The UN continues to call for respect for humanitarian law and unimpeded delivery of aid to civilians in need.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

DUBAI — On Friday (April 11), Iran announced that it would approach upcoming high-level nuclear talks with the United States “with a genuine chance,” following President Donald Trump’s warning of potential military action if diplomacy fails. Trump, who recently returned to the White House, surprised many on Monday by revealing that discussions between Washington and Tehran would begin in Oman, a country known for mediating between the West and Iran.

During his first term, Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal, and his return has signaled a renewed hardline stance against Iran—a nation viewed by Israel, a close US ally, as a serious threat due to its nuclear ambitions. Recent military actions by Israel across the region—including strikes within Iran—have weakened Iran and its allied groups. These offensives followed Hamas' October 2023 attacks from Gaza. Despite tensions, Iran’s foreign ministry stated that it was entering the talks with cautious optimism. “We intend to assess the other side's intent and resolve this Saturday,” said ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on X. “With sincere vigilance, we are giving diplomacy a genuine chance.”

US airstrikes on the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen, who disrupted Red Sea shipping in support of Hamas, have raised fears of a broader conflict. Meanwhile, Israel has resumed military operations against Hamas, and a fragile truce with Hezbollah in Lebanon remains uncertain. Though Iran had previously refused direct talks, Trump’s warning on March 30 that failure to reach a deal would lead to unprecedented bombing has brought both sides to the table.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

During an emergency parliamentary session on Saturday, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds announced urgent action to save Scunthorpe’s British Steel plant, the UK's last mass producer of virgin steel. MPs passed legislation forcing the plant’s Chinese owners, Jingye, to keep it open or face criminal charges. Financial journalist Jasper Jolly explained the steelworks' importance to Scunthorpe and the town’s potential devastation if it closed. The plant has struggled financially for years, largely due to cheap Chinese steel flooding global markets. The government’s intervention has sparked debate about foreign ownership of key infrastructure and contrasts with its approach to Port Talbot steelworks.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from The Guardian.

Australia has officially launched a four-week campaign leading up to its national elections on May 3. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, leader of the Labour Party, is aiming for a second term in office. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman discuss voter sentiment and key election issues with Dominic O'Sullivan, a Political Science Professor at Charles Sturt University.

Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA News.

A new playbook has been introduced to support caregivers of individuals with autism, offering a structured guide on preparing their loved ones for a future without them. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman speak with Dr. Sim Zi Lin, Psychologist and Programme Director at the Autism Resource Centre (Singapore), who developed the playbook, to understand the process behind its creation. They also hear from Farah Juwita, a mother of a 12-year-old son with autism, about how this resource helps alleviate her concerns and provides clarity for long-term planning.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA.

Malaysian retail group Macro-value is set to acquire Cold Storage Singapore, raising questions about the potential impact on the country's food security. In a discussion with Lance Alexander and Daniel Martin, Professor William Chen, Director of the Future Ready Food Safety Hub at NTU, examines whether foreign ownership of major supermarket chains could affect Singapore’s long-term food sustainability goals.

With food security being a key national priority, the takeover sparks concerns about supply chain stability, sourcing practices, and the ability to maintain resilient food networks. Professor Chen explores the possible challenges and implications of such acquisitions, particularly in terms of local food production, import strategies, and price stability. As Singapore continues its efforts to enhance food sustainability and self-sufficiency, the discussion sheds light on whether foreign ownership of essential retail infrastructure could influence government initiatives and the broader food ecosystem. The conversation highlights the importance of strategic planning to ensure that national food security remains uncompromised despite shifts in supermarket ownership.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA News.