US President Donald Trump said the United States has agreed to hold talks with Iran despite ongoing military tensions. "The ceasefire is over," Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that Washington had agreed to continue discussions with Tehran. His statement came after two days of US airstrikes across Iran. Iranian health officials said the attacks killed at least 14 people and injured 78 others. The latest escalation followed attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict has raised fears of a wider regional crisis, even as both countries prepare for possible diplomatic talks.

The Centre has said offering pure petrol and different ethanol blends at fuel stations is not practical. It said E20 fuel, which contains 20% ethanol, is "superior and cleaner" than pure petrol. The government said storing different fuel types across the country would increase costs and create major logistical problems. It added that E20 may reduce mileage by 3–5% in some older vehicles but offers better performance and lower emissions. The Centre also said there is no evidence that E20 damages vehicle engines. It urged people not to believe misinformation circulating on social media.

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to rise. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency said the threat level remains "severe" after recent attacks on commercial vessels. Fewer oil and liquefied natural gas tankers are now passing through the key waterway. The strait carries about one-fifth of the world's oil and gas trade. Shipping companies are closely monitoring the situation. The slowdown has also raised concerns for the safety of seafarers working in the region. Officials warned that the conflict continues to threaten global energy supplies.

Microsoft's latest Xbox layoffs have reignited the debate over the H-1B visa programme in the United States. The company recently announced about 4,800 job cuts, including around 3,200 in its Xbox division. Critics targeted Indian-origin Xbox CEO Asha Sharma after the layoffs. Republican lawmaker Riley Moore said, "It's long past time to end the H-1B scam." Some people claimed American workers were being replaced by foreign employees. Microsoft denied the allegation. The company said the layoffs were based on business needs, not visa status. It also said H-1B workers were among those who lost their jobs during the restructuring.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said she plans to return to Bangladesh around December. "They may arrest me. They may even kill me. Still, I have to go," she said. Hasina added that she will surrender before the court with other Awami League leaders. She has been living in India since leaving Bangladesh in 2024. Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia after her government was removed from power. She denied the charges and said she wants justice. "If death comes, I want it to come on my own soil," she said. (PC: Reuters)

A tunnel boring machine named Durga has completed a 1.6-km tunnel between Kidderpore and Victoria for Kolkata Metro's Purple Line. The work finished on Friday, one year after it began in July 2025. This is the first of two tunnels on this section. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw praised the team for the achievement. Metro officials said the work was completed safely without affecting traffic above ground. The Purple Line will connect Joka with Esplanade. At present, trains run only from Joka to Majerhat. Officials said the full 15.1-km metro line is expected to be completed within the next three years.

American national and alleged mercenary Matthew VanDyke has approached a Delhi court seeking permission for a special diet while lodged in Tihar Jail. VanDyke claimed the prison's regular food is excessively spicy and oily, making it unsuitable for his health and dietary needs. He requested permission to receive meals such as shrimp and pasta from outside the jail. The plea is part of ongoing legal proceedings after his arrest in Mizoram. Jail authorities are expected to respond before the court decides whether any dietary accommodations should be granted under prison regulations. (PC: X)

Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower was illuminated in the colours of the Indian national flag to commemorate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to New Zealand. The symbolic gesture highlighted the growing friendship and strategic partnership between India and New Zealand while celebrating the strong contributions of the Indian diaspora. During the visit, PM Modi is expected to hold high-level talks with New Zealand’s leadership on trade, investment, education, defence cooperation, and regional security. The tricolour display drew widespread public attention, reflecting the warm diplomatic ties and shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

France captain Kylian Mbappé etched his name deeper into FIFA World Cup history by becoming the youngest player to appear in 20 World Cup matches and the fastest to score 20 goals in the tournament. The landmark came during France's 2-0 quarter-final victory over Morocco at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Mbappé's remarkable consistency across multiple World Cups has further strengthened his reputation as one of football's greatest performers on the biggest stage. His latest records underline his extraordinary impact for France as the reigning champions continue their pursuit of another World Cup title. (PC: X)

The naturally formed ice Shiva Lingam at the Amarnath Cave Shrine melted just five days after the start of the 57-day Amarnath Yatra 2026, sparking concern among devotees and experts. Officials attributed the early melting to unusually high temperatures, changing weather patterns, and heavy pilgrim footfall inside the cave. The incident has renewed debate over the impact of climate change and human activity on the fragile Himalayan environment. Authorities have urged pilgrims not to panic, emphasizing that the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage remains unchanged while measures are being reviewed to better protect the sacred site.