India has hits targets in Pakistan in response to a recent militant attack, triggering fears of a further escalation of military hostilities. Roman Catholic cardinals are beginning the task of electing a new pope, locking themselves away from the world in the Sistine Chapel. Friedrich Merz has been confirmed as Germany’s new chancellor but his unprecedented failure to succeed on the first round has thrown into question the stability of his coalition. Find our recommended read on Alcatraz here. Listen to our special episode on the Papal conclave and what happens next here. We want to understand how you listen to the Reuters World News podcast - and you can complete our survey here. Sign up for the Reuters Econ World newsletter ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. Find the latest podcast episode ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠. Visit the ⁠⁠⁠Thomson Reuters Privacy Statement⁠⁠⁠ for information on our privacy and data protection practices. You may also visit ⁠⁠⁠megaphone.fm/adchoices⁠⁠⁠ to opt out of targeted advertising. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices