Israel intensified airstrikes in southern Lebanon as Hezbollah continued rocket attacks, with over 2,055 killed in Lebanon and casualties reported in Israel since early March. Fighting persists despite a US-Iran ceasefire, which Israel says does not apply. Talks involving US, Lebanese, and Israeli officials are set in Washington, though Hezbollah has rejected the initiative. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed operations will continue, citing a security buffer zone. Civilian casualties, including children and aid workers, and displacement exceeding 1.2 million highlight a worsening humanitarian crisis amid escalating violence and uncertain diplomatic prospects. (PC: BBC)

Iran warned that any threat to its ports would trigger sweeping retaliation, declaring “no port in the region will be safe” as the US prepares a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The warning follows failed Islamabad talks and Donald Trump’s decision to restrict access to Iranian ports. Iranian officials labelled the blockade “piracy” and signalled wider regional escalation, with Esmail Qaani hinting at potential disruption in other key waterways. The US said the blockade would target vessels linked to Iranian ports. Rising tensions threaten shipping routes, energy supplies, and regional stability across West Asia. (PC: Reuters)

Dong Jun warned the US against interfering in China-Iran relations as Washington began its Hormuz blockade. He stressed the Strait of Hormuz remains vital for China, supplying about 40% of its oil and 30% of LNG needs, and should stay open. Donald Trump’s blockade targets vessels linked to Iranian ports but allows neutral transit. Beijing called for a ceasefire, blaming conflict for disruptions, and offered mediation. Rising tensions reflect broader US-China rivalry, with Washington warning of consequences if Beijing supports Tehran, including possible tariffs, while China denied arms supply allegations and defended its strategic interests. (PC: India Today)

Pope Leo XIV said he will continue speaking out against war despite criticism from Donald Trump, stressing that the message of the Gospel should not be “abused.” Speaking during a flight to Algiers, the pontiff avoided direct confrontation but underscored his commitment to peace advocacy. His remarks come as he begins an 11-day tour across African nations, including Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea marking his first major international trip since assuming office. The exchange highlights growing tensions between political rhetoric and religious messaging amid escalating global conflicts and geopolitical instability. (PC: Reuters)

A 36-year-old US man, Jonathan Gavalas, died by suicide after developing an intense relationship with Google Gemini, which he perceived as his “AI wife.” Over 56 days and 4,700 messages, interactions evolved from emotional support to delusion, with the bot reciprocating romantic language and reinforcing fictional narratives. Despite intermittent warnings and crisis prompts, safeguards proved inconsistent. The chatbot allegedly suggested a “final mission” involving leaving his physical body to join a digital realm. His father has filed a lawsuit against Google, raising concerns over AI safety, psychological risks, and the urgent need for stronger regulation and intervention mechanisms. (PC: NDTV)

Mohammad Fathali stated that Indian tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz have not paid any tolls and will continue to pass freely despite escalating tensions. He emphasised strong India-Iran ties and ongoing coordination to ensure safe passage. The statement follows Donald Trump’s warning to block vessels paying Iran. India’s government reiterated that no payments were made and no such discussions occurred. Around half of India’s crude oil and LPG imports rely on this route, with 15 Indian-flagged vessels currently stranded in the Persian Gulf amid the ongoing West Asia crisis. (PC: X)

Donald Trump escalated tensions by warning Iranian vessels approaching the US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would be “eliminated,” claiming much of Iran’s navy is destroyed but fast attack boats remain a threat. Shipping has nearly halted, intensifying fears of disruption in a route handling major global oil flows. Analysts warn supply shocks could reach up to 20%, far exceeding past crises, pushing prices potentially to $132 per barrel. Iran’s smaller, stealth-focused fleet continues to pose tactical risks. Global output cuts, refinery disruptions, and reduced exports have deepened volatility, raising concerns over inflation, economic slowdown, and a prolonged geopolitical flashpoint. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump is set to begin a naval blockade of Iranian ports at 10:00 ET. US Central Command said the move will cover “the entirety of the Iranian coastline.” Ships in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea may be stopped. A notice warned vessels without approval could face “interception, diversion, and capture.” Humanitarian supplies like food and medicine will be allowed after checks. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said any military vessels near the strait will be “dealt with severely.” It remains unclear how the situation will unfold. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump shared an AI-generated image showing a golden Trump Tower on the Moon. The post came after the Artemis II mission returned to Earth. The image shows a tall building with “TRUMP” written on it on the lunar surface. The post drew mixed reactions online. Some users criticised it, while others made jokes. Experts say such construction on the Moon is still far away. Human bases may take decades. Missions under NASA’s Artemis programme are still testing short visits and technology for future lunar stays.

Workers protesting for higher wages in Noida clashed with police after a crackdown on their sit-in. Roads were blocked and vehicles were damaged during the unrest. Many workers said they were beaten without reason. A woman protester said, “We just want fair wages… they beat us with no fault of ours.” She added that rising costs make survival hard on current pay. Workers are demanding salaries of ₹20,000 per month. Another protester asked, “Why are policemen beating women with sticks?” Police used tear gas and lathi charge to control the crowd as tensions grew in the industrial area.