Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf mocked the United States after reports of a downed American fighter jet, sarcastically questioning Washington’s war strategy. In a post targeting United States leadership, he derided the conflict as a “no-strategy war,” saying it had shifted from “regime change” to searching for missing pilots. Iranian media claimed a fifth-generation jet, possibly an F-35, was shot down by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps using a new air defence system. A search operation for the pilot is reportedly underway, though US authorities have not confirmed the incident. Analysts warn that any verified loss could significantly escalate tensions. (PC: ANI)

Iran mocked the United States after Donald Trump’s administration saw major military leadership upheaval, including the sudden removal of Army Chief Randy George by Pete Hegseth amid the ongoing West Asia war. The Pentagon confirmed George’s immediate retirement, alongside other senior dismissals. Iranian officials ridiculed the shake-up as a “regime change,” amplifying criticism online. The firings come as US military operations intensify, primarily led by naval and air forces, with ground troops being deployed. Analysts suggest internal disagreements over a potential Iran ground invasion may have influenced decisions, though no official reason was provided by Washington. (PC: X)

An earthquake of magnitude 5.9 struck Jammu and Kashmir on Friday at 9:46 pm, triggering tremors across North India, including Delhi NCR, Punjab, and adjoining areas. The quake, with a depth of 175 km, had its epicentre near Darawan (36.52°N, 71.01°E). Residents reported brief but noticeable shaking, causing momentary panic, especially in high-rise buildings. Eyewitnesses from Chandigarh and Zirakpur described strong jolts lasting a few seconds, though no immediate damage or casualties were reported. The incident highlights the region’s seismic sensitivity, as authorities continue to monitor aftershocks and assess any potential impact across affected areas.

Donald Trump mocked Keir Starmer during a White House speech, accusing him of hesitating to deploy UK aircraft carriers for the US-Israeli war against Iran. Trump claimed Starmer deferred the decision to his team despite the urgency, ridiculing Britain’s carriers as “old” and “broken.” He also criticised NATO as a “paper tiger,” questioning its reliability in major conflicts. Additionally, Trump took a swipe at Emmanuel Macron, alleging France refused immediate assistance. The remarks highlight growing transatlantic tensions as the conflict escalates, with allies divided over military support and strategic responses in the Gulf region. (PC: X)

Donald Trump said the US could reopen the Strait of Hormuz “with a little more time,” suggesting Washington could take control of the route and its oil flows. His remarks come nearly five weeks into an escalating conflict involving US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which has responded by effectively shutting the vital corridor. The disruption impacting nearly a fifth of global oil supply has pushed prices higher and heightened global concern. Trump reiterated potential strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure, while offering no clear diplomatic roadmap, as tensions, retaliatory attacks, and uncertainty continue to dominate the region.

Amid the West Asia conflict's volatility, Russia has offered to increase crude oil and LNG supplies to India, reinforcing energy cooperation between the two nations. The proposal was discussed during high-level meetings between Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and Indian officials including Ajit Doval and S. Jaishankar. Energy security emerged as a key focus area as both sides explored ways to deepen bilateral ties. The development comes as global markets remain unstable due to disruptions in West Asia, prompting India to diversify and secure reliable energy sources to safeguard its economic and strategic interests. (PC: ANI)

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud to discuss the rapidly evolving situation in West Asia. Both leaders reviewed recent regional developments and stressed the urgent need for de-escalation and dialogue amid rising tensions. The conversation also included deliberations on the Pak-China Five-Point Initiative aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Gulf and the broader Middle East. The engagement highlights ongoing diplomatic efforts by key regional stakeholders to prevent further escalation and to encourage multilateral cooperation in addressing security challenges and maintaining stability across the conflict-affected region. (PC: X)

India significantly boosted its naval strength as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned INS Aridaman and INS Taragiri into the Indian Navy. INS Aridaman, an advanced Arihant-class submarine platform, follows INS Arihant (2016) and INS Arighaat (2024), strengthening India’s nuclear triad and maritime deterrence. Simultaneously, INS Taragiri, a 6,670-tonne Project 17A stealth frigate built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, features reduced radar cross-section, over 75% indigenous content, and advanced weapons including supersonic missiles and anti-submarine systems. Designed for high-speed, multi-dimensional operations, it enhances combat readiness, supports Indo-Pacific engagement, and reinforces India’s push for Aatmanirbhar defence manufacturing. (PC: Times Now)

Iran state media claimed its forces downed two US fighter jets, including an F-15E Strike Eagle, amid the escalating conflict with the United States. Reports allege one pilot ejected over southwestern Iran and may have been captured, though this remains unverified. Iranian broadcasters urged citizens to capture or even shoot downed pilots, offering rewards. Separately, claims emerged that a F-35 Lightning II was also destroyed, with its pilot unlikely to have survived. These assertions, circulated by agencies like Mehr and Tasnim, have not been independently confirmed, highlighting the fog of war and competing narratives surrounding the conflict.

Five Indian nationals were among 12 people injured after debris from an intercepted aerial projectile fell in Abu Dhabi’s Ajban area. Authorities said all five Indians suffered minor injuries, while seven Nepali nationals were also hurt, including one seriously. The incident followed a fire at a nearby gas facility caused by interception debris. Officials did not specify the origin of the threat, but it comes amid escalating regional conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel. Similar incidents in recent weeks have injured and killed foreign nationals in the UAE, highlighting growing risks to civilians as missile and drone interceptions increasingly occur over populated areas. (PC: India Today)