Pakistan has issued over 2,800 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India for the Baisakhi celebrations, scheduled between April 10 and 14 in Punjab province. Pilgrims will enter via the Wagah border and attend the main ceremony at Gurdwara Panja Sahib on April 14, marking the 327th Khalsa Janam Din. The delegation will also visit key religious sites including Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib. Pakistani authorities have completed security and hospitality preparations, ensuring accommodation, transport and essential facilities. The annual pilgrimage highlights cross-border religious engagement and cultural ties, even as broader diplomatic relations remain complex between the two countries. (PC: PTI)

Fears of a potential nuclear escalation surged after Donald Trump warned that an entire civilisation could be wiped out if Iran fails to meet a looming deadline. Speculation intensified when JD Vance said Washington could deploy “tools” not yet used, prompting social media claims about possible nuclear options. The White House swiftly rejected such interpretations, stating no remarks implied nuclear intent. The rhetoric follows US strikes on Kharg Island and ongoing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. While concerns persist within political circles, officials emphasised that nuclear use remains speculative, even as the US President retains sole authority to order such action.

Amid escalating tensions before a US deadline, Masoud Pezeshkian claimed 14 million Iranians have volunteered to sacrifice their lives, signalling defiance against threats from Donald Trump over the Strait of Hormuz. The statement comes as Washington warns of strikes on Iran’s power plants and bridges. Tehran has also mobilised civilians, urging human chains around critical infrastructure. Violence has intensified, with fresh airstrikes and regional missile exchanges. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps signalled escalation, while global concern grows over legality of targeting civilian infrastructure. Oil prices surged past $111 per barrel as fears of supply disruption mount and casualties continue rising across the region. (PC: AP)

London’s Wireless Festival has been cancelled after Kanye West was denied entry into the UK, with the Home Office withdrawing his Electronic Travel Authorisation over concerns his presence was not conducive to public good. The decision followed backlash over the rapper’s past antisemitic and pro-Nazi remarks, prompting sponsor withdrawals and mounting criticism. Organisers said consultations had raised no prior objections, but acknowledged the impact of antisemitism. Despite West expressing willingness to engage with Jewish groups, community organisations and political leaders backed the ban. With no headline act and escalating controversy, the festival was scrapped, and ticket refunds announced, marking a major disruption to the UK’s summer music calendar. (PC: Getty Images)

With less than 12 hours before a deadline set by Donald Trump for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, tensions escalated sharply as both sides exchanged stark warnings. Trump warned that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” if Tehran failed to comply, while leaving room for last-minute diplomacy. Iran rejected the ultimatum, with its embassy warning of an “unforgettable hit” and signalling defiance. US strikes targeted Kharg Island, a key oil export hub handling most of Iran’s crude shipments. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps vowed a decisive response, declaring self-restraint over as ceasefire efforts stalled over demands for a permanent end to the conflict.

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has advised Indian nationals to remain indoors for 48 hours as a deadline set by Donald Trump for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz approaches. Citizens have been urged to avoid power grids, military installations and upper floors of buildings, and to coordinate any travel with the Embassy. The advisory follows continued US-Israel strikes on Iran since February 28. India has already facilitated the evacuation of thousands, including students and fishermen, via neighbouring countries. Authorities said efforts remain focused on ensuring the safety and welfare of Indians in the region.

Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran, saying its civilisation could face destruction as a deadline over reopening the Strait of Hormuz approaches. While threatening severe military action, Trump indicated the strike could still be called off at the last moment. He described the moment as historically significant, while also hinting at possible regime change leading to a different future. The US has repeatedly extended deadlines tied to Hormuz, creating uncertainty over its next move. The strait remains crucial for global oil supply, and its closure has heightened concerns about energy security and regional stability amid escalating tensions. (PC: India Today)

NASA has released new images from the Artemis II Moon fly-by. Astronauts captured a rare “Earthset” view, showing Earth rising beyond the Moon’s surface. Another image showed a solar eclipse as the Moon blocked the Sun. The photos were taken during a six-hour fly-by. Astronauts experienced a short period of radio silence behind the Moon. One astronaut described the view as unreal and like science fiction. The images remind people of the famous Earthrise photo from 1968. They show Earth’s beauty and the vast darkness of space around it. (PC: NASA)

Donald Trump has suggested that the United States may charge tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He said this while warning Iran to reopen the route. The strait is key for global oil supply. Trump said the US could earn large revenue from tolls. Experts say this would need strong US military control in the area. Iran has rejected US demands and wants new rules for the waterway. Tensions remain high as both sides continue strong statements and military threats.

The United States carried out strikes on 50 military targets on Kharg Island in Iran on Tuesday. The attack came hours before a ceasefire deadline set by Donald Trump. Kharg Island is a key oil export centre for Iran. Reports said missile sites and military storage were hit. Oil facilities were mostly not damaged. Iran warned it may respond and target energy systems linked to the US and its allies. Tensions remain high as both sides show no sign of backing down before the deadline. (PC: Reuters)