Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz “completely open” for commercial shipping during a ceasefire, but the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps imposed fresh conditions. Vessels must seek permission, follow designated Iranian routes, and military ships remain barred. The announcement by Abbas Araghchi lacked these details, prompting criticism from Iranian state-linked media. Meanwhile, Donald Trump confirmed the reopening but said the U.S. naval blockade on Iran continues until a deal is finalised. He also claimed Iran agreed never to close the strait again. The mixed messaging has created uncertainty, despite oil prices dropping sharply after the reopening announcement globally. (PC: NDTV)

Indian cricketer Virat Kohli sparked a social media frenzy after allegedly liking a photo of German influencer Lizzalazz on Instagram. The interaction quickly went viral, triggering memes and speculation before reports suggested the “like” was later removed. Reacting to the buzz, Lizzalazz said she only learned about it through news reports and felt “sorry” for Kohli over the unexpected attention. She also expressed gratitude for the support. The incident has reignited debates around accidental likes, algorithm glitches, and the intense scrutiny public figures face online for even minor social media activity.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) said it received no complaints through its internal POSH or ethics channels from employees who later filed FIRs in the Nashik harassment case. The case involves nine FIRs and eight arrests over allegations of sexual harassment, coercion, and religious targeting between 2022 and 2026. TCS CEO K Krithivasan stated the company has launched internal probes and reiterated its zero-tolerance policy. The development raises concerns about gaps in workplace reporting mechanisms, as multiple victims approached police directly instead of internal systems, even as investigations by authorities continue. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump claimed Iran has agreed to never again close the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a potential breakthrough in ongoing US-Iran negotiations. The statement followed Iran’s announcement that the Strait would remain fully open to commercial shipping during the current ceasefire. Trump also asserted that the US is assisting in removing sea mines and reiterated that Israel has been “prohibited” from attacking Lebanon. However, he confirmed that the US naval blockade on Iran will remain until a final deal is reached. While the developments suggest de-escalation, the claims await independent verification amid continued geopolitical uncertainty. (PC: X)

Global oil prices dropped sharply after Iran announced the Strait of Hormuz would remain open during the ceasefire. Brent crude fell to $88 per barrel from over $98, triggering gains across global stock markets. About 20% of global oil flows through the Strait, making its reopening a major relief for energy markets. Donald Trump welcomed the move but confirmed the US naval blockade on Iran continues. Despite optimism, shipping bodies like BIMCO and the International Maritime Organization warn risks remain, including potential mines. Experts caution tanker traffic may not immediately return to normal, limiting short-term supply recovery. (PC: Getty Images)

Amid LPG disruptions linked to West Asia tensions, India is exploring ethanol-based “Superblu” burners as a cost-effective commercial cooking alternative. With ethanol production exceeding 2,000 crore litres, the government is evaluating its large-scale adoption for street vendors and small eateries. Ethanol offers up to 15 hours of high-intensity heat per litre, burns cleaner than kerosene, and costs around Rs 70/kg versus LPG’s Rs 103/kg potentially cutting fuel expenses by 30%. Its domestic production also reduces dependence on volatile global oil markets tied to the Strait of Hormuz. However, safety standards and distribution logistics remain key hurdles before nationwide rollout. (PC: News18)

India’s women’s quota bill collapsed in the Lok Sabha after failing to secure the required two-thirds majority, exposing sharp political divides. Despite 298 votes in favour and 230 against, the bill fell short of the 352 needed. The NDA, led by leaders like Amit Shah and Kiren Rijiju, accused the Opposition of harbouring an “anti-women” mindset and sabotaging 33% reservation for women. The Opposition, including Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, defended their stance, calling the bill “unconstitutional” and procedurally flawed. With both sides claiming moral victory, the issue of women’s political representation is set to remain a central electoral flashpoint. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump claimed a diplomatic breakthrough after Iran reopened the Strait of Hormuz during a ceasefire linked to Israel-Lebanon tensions. Trump said most terms of a US-Iran deal are already negotiated and could conclude soon, while maintaining a naval blockade targeting Iran. He credited Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar for facilitating talks, and criticised NATO as ineffective. Trump also asserted that the US has prohibited Israel from attacking Lebanon and vowed to address Hezbollah separately. He further claimed Iran is removing sea mines with US assistance and has agreed not to weaponise the Strait again, signalling possible de-escalation in West Asia.

Meenu Batra, a 53-year-old Indian-origin woman living in the US for over 35 years, has been detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Texas, sparking legal and humanitarian concerns. Arrested at an airport despite claiming valid work status, she is currently held at a detention facility and has filed a habeas corpus petition challenging her custody. Batra alleged she was held for 24 hours without food, water, or medication and treated “like a criminal.” Her lawyer argues she cannot be deported to India due to prior legal protections, raising fears she could be sent to a third country. (PC: NDTV)

The Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill linked to the Women’s Reservation proposal failed in the Lok Sabha after falling short of the required two-thirds majority. While 298 MPs voted in favour, 230 opposed the bill, preventing its passage. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla confirmed the outcome and adjourned proceedings. Following the setback, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju announced that related legislations, including delimitation and Union Territories amendments, would not be pursued. The debate saw sharp exchanges between the ruling NDA, led by Narendra Modi, and the opposition led by Rahul Gandhi, which questioned the bill’s intent. (PC: X)