Gianni Infantino confirmed that Iran will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026 despite the ongoing West Asia conflict. Dismissing speculation about relocating matches, he stated Iran’s Group G fixtures will proceed as scheduled in the United States. Speaking in Turkey, Infantino expressed confidence after meeting players and staff. Earlier concerns had emerged over safety and possible venue shifts to Mexico, amid tensions involving the US and Israel. FIFA reiterated its commitment to ensuring all qualified teams compete, emphasising football’s role in promoting unity despite geopolitical conflicts. (PC: AFP)

Two Indian nationals were among four people injured after debris from a missile interception fell on residential buildings in Dubai’s Al Badaa area. The others injured included one Bangladeshi and one Sri Lankan, all sustaining minor injuries, according to officials. Authorities confirmed the debris resulted from a successful air defence interception and said the situation was handled under strict safety protocols. The incident highlights risks to civilians amid the escalating West Asia conflict. Separately, Ministry of External Affairs reported eight Indian deaths and one missing in the region, underscoring growing concerns over safety of nationals abroad. (PC: AP)

Police in Bengaluru have busted a mobile theft racket operating during the Indian Premier League 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The gang allegedly used minors to steal phones from spectators in crowded stands. Cubbon Park Police recovered 21 stolen mobile phones worth ₹18 lakh. A key suspect has been arrested along with several juveniles suspected of involvement. Authorities said the group was linked to an out-of-state network targeting large public events, highlighting organised crime exploiting crowds during major sporting occasions. (PC: The Hindu)

John Healey announced deployment of additional UK troops and air defence systems to the Middle East, raising total personnel to about 1,000 across Gulf nations and Cyprus. Systems, including Sky Sabre and other missile defences, will be stationed in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait, while Typhoon jets remain active in Qatar. The UK maintains a defensive stance against Iran, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer ruling out ground involvement. The move follows escalating regional tensions and aims to protect allies and interests while supporting broader international efforts to stabilise the conflict. (PC: Reuters)

Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly in Iran and avoiding public appearances, according to Russia’s envoy, dismissing rumours he was in Russia for treatment. Mojtaba assumed leadership after his father Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes that began the war on February 28. While statements have been issued, he has not been publicly seen, fuelling speculation about his condition. US claims suggest he was injured, though Tehran denies this. Intelligence agencies continue monitoring his whereabouts as the conflict intensifies, with no ceasefire in sight despite ongoing diplomatic signals and escalating military actions. (PC: HT)

Pete Hegseth said US troops involved in Operation Epic Fury are prepared for a prolonged conflict and are seeking more powerful weapons, including larger bombs, following his undisclosed Gulf visit. Speaking alongside Dan Caine, he highlighted troops’ focus on “legacy” and determination to finish the war. Hegseth declined to clarify potential ground troop deployment but stressed strategic ambiguity. He claimed Iran has limited military options, with decisive days ahead. Despite escalating operations, he confirmed ongoing negotiations to end the conflict, while warning of expanded US strikes if a ceasefire and reopening of key routes are not achieved.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that major US firms including Microsoft, Apple, Alphabet, Intel and Boeing could be treated as legitimate targets amid escalating West Asia tensions. The warning follows alleged US-Israeli actions, with Iran claiming these firms support operations through ICT and AI. Authorities advised evacuations within a one-kilometre radius of potential sites, with retaliatory actions threatened from April 1. Meanwhile, US officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, signalled critical days ahead, emphasising ending the conflict on US terms as tensions between Iran and Washington intensify. (PC: News18)

Donald Trump warned countries facing fuel shortages due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to either buy oil from the United States or secure supplies themselves. Criticising allies like the United Kingdom for refusing to join military action against Iran, he said the US would no longer guarantee support. The blockade, affecting nearly 20% of global oil supply, has driven prices above $100 per barrel. Trump reiterated threats against Iran’s energy infrastructure while reports suggest he may end the conflict without reopening the route. Iran continues rejecting US demands and escalating military actions. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump has urged countries hit by fuel shortages during the Iran war to rely on the US or act on their own. The crisis follows the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supply. Trump said nations unable to get fuel should “buy from the U.S.” or “go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.” He criticised allies for not supporting US actions against Iran. The conflict continues with fresh strikes, including an attack on Isfahan. Trump also claimed Iran has been “decimated” as tensions remain high. (PC: HT)

India has condemned recent attacks on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon and called for their safety. India’s UN envoy said peacekeepers serve in difficult conditions and their protection must be a priority. He added that India led UN Security Council Resolution 2589 to ensure accountability for crimes against them. The statement followed an incident involving UNIFIL, where one peacekeeper was killed and another injured. The UN said the source of the attack is unknown. India paid tribute to the fallen “Blue Helmets” and urged all sides to ensure their safety. (PC: economic times)