US President Donald Trump thanked Iran's leadership Friday for cancelling planned executions of over 800 protesters, posting "I greatly respect the fact" on Truth Social. Trump earlier stated killings from Iran's protest crackdown appeared subsiding, citing "very important sources" indicating no mass executions planned, though he didn't rule out US military intervention. The protests, Iran's most serious domestic challenge since 1979, have caused conflicting death toll reports: Iranian authorities claim 2,000 deaths since December 28, rights groups report over 3,500, with some estimates reaching 20,000. Iran's Foreign Minister called higher figures "exaggeration" and "misinformation." Trump dismissed Gulf officials' claims that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman dissuaded his attack plans.

Denmark badminton star Mia Blichfeldt criticized "unacceptable" and "highly unprofessional" conditions at India Open, questioning how World Championships could be held there. The ongoing tournament at Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium faced multiple controversies: bird droppings halted HS Prannoy's match, monkeys appeared in stands, and Anders Antonsen withdrew citing severe Delhi pollution. Blichfeldt stated the "tough" conditions made focusing on performance "extremely difficult," stressing players and frustrating participants at the Super 750 event. BWF acknowledged seasonal challenges affecting air quality and temperature while defending the venue upgrade from KD Jadhav Stadium. The federation promised improvements before August's World Championships, thanking players for feedback while reaffirming commitment to high-quality standards. (PC: Instagram)

US President Donald Trump threatened tariffs against countries refusing to support US control of Greenland, stating "we need Greenland for national security." Following punitive measures on Russian oil buyers and Iran trade partners, Trump's latest economic weapon targets Greenland opposition. Recent Washington talks between US, Denmark, and Greenland officials revealed "fundamental disagreement," though they established a high-level working group. Denmark responded by increasing Greenland's military presence, with France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, and Britain sending symbolic troop deployments. Trump argues US control prevents Russian or Chinese footholds on the mineral-rich island claims Denmark and Greenland reject. Analysts warn the combination of tariff threats and military posturing risks straining transatlantic relations and NATO unity.

India plans to significantly ease foreign investment rules in defence firms to boost domestic manufacturing following last year's Pakistan conflict. The government will raise the FDI cap under the automatic route from 49% to 74% for companies with existing licenses, sources reveal. Currently, 74% foreign ownership is only permitted for firms seeking new licenses. Authorities are also considering dropping the vague "modern technology access" condition for investments beyond 74% and eliminating maintenance facility requirements for export-oriented manufacturers. Despite operations by Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Rafael, foreign defence investments totaled only $26.5 million in 25 years through September 2025. The defence ministry seeks 20% budget increase for fiscal 2026/27. (PC: Reuters)

India stated Friday that approximately 9,000 Indian nationals in Iran mostly students, businesspeople, professionals, pilgrims, and seafarers can return via continuing commercial flights. The government is exploring evacuation options once commercial flights cease or domestic travel becomes difficult. The MEA confirmed India holds a conditional US sanctions waiver for Iran's Chabahar port project valid until April 26, 2026, and remains engaged with Washington on arrangements. Amid street protests threatening Iran's regime, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India's commitment to citizen welfare while maintaining "long-standing relations with Iran." The Indian embassy in Tehran stays connected with the community. Chabahar port provides India strategic access to Afghanistan and Central Asia. (PC: AP) 

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced the India-EU free trade agreement is nearing completion, calling it the "mother of all deals" with announcement expected by January 27. The pact, India's largest trade agreement covering 27 developed European economies, coincides with EU leadership's Republic Day visit. Goyal emphasized the mutually beneficial "super deal" will unlock massive export opportunities for India. The EU currently accounts for 17% of India's exports, with 2024-25 bilateral trade at $136.53 billion. The FTA gains significance amid US tariff disruptions, helping India diversify markets and reduce China dependence. Since 2014, India finalized seven trade agreements including Australia, UAE, and UK. (PC: X)

Chaotic scenes erupted on IndiGo flight 6E 1085 from Mumbai to Thailand's Krabi after the pilot refused to fly beyond duty hours on Thursday. The flight, scheduled for 4:05 am departure, was delayed over three hours. Viral video footage shows heated arguments between passengers and cabin crew, with one passenger kicking the exit door. IndiGo stated the delay resulted from late aircraft arrival, air traffic congestion, and crew duty time limitations. Two passengers behaving inappropriately were deboarded and handed to security agencies, causing further delays. The airline served multiple meals during the wait. The flight, scheduled to land at 10 am, finally reached Krabi around 1 pm.

India's Ministry of External Affairs clarified that it has not withdrawn from Iran's Chabahar port development despite US sanctions. The MEA stated that India remains engaged with Washington following a conditional sanctions waiver issued by the US Treasury on October 28, 2025, valid until April 26, 2026. The clarification addresses reports suggesting India's strategic role at the port collapsed after President Trump announced 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran. The US reimposed sanctions on Chabahar from September 29, 2025, but granted India a six-month exemption based on its wind-down plans. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar discussed recent developments with Iran's foreign minister regarding the strategic port. 

The Enforcement Directorate filed a charge sheet against Al-Falah University chairman Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui and the family-run Al-Falah Charitable Trust, attaching assets worth ₹139 crore including 54 acres of campus land. The probe links to the November 10 Red Fort terror attack where Al-Falah Medical College doctor Umar-un-Nabi conducted a suicide bombing killing 11 people. ED alleges the university generated ₹415 crore through fraudulent accreditation claims. Investigations revealed family-controlled firms received university contracts, undisclosed related-party transactions, and fund diversion for land acquisition. Siddiqui's children allegedly hold British nationality, with overseas entities established in the UK. The case connects to a wider white-collar terror module investigation. (PC: ANI)

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis phoned state BJP president Ravindra Chavan after the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance achieved a major victory in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, breaking decades-long dominance by rival parties. Fadnavis praised Chavan’s leadership and the efforts of party workers in securing the strong mandate. He described the win as uniquely satisfying and credited the alliance’s unity and campaign strategies for the result. Fadnavis is set to address BJP workers at the party’s Mumbai headquarters, celebrating the historic outcome and urging continued momentum in future civic and state polls.