Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has strongly rejected US President Donald Trump’s claims of ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington, calling them “fake news.” He alleged the statements were aimed at manipulating global financial and oil markets and distracting from challenges faced by the US and Israel. Trump had earlier said “productive talks” were underway and hinted at a possible deal to ease tensions. However, Iranian officials denied any direct or indirect discussions, reinforcing a hardline stance amid the ongoing conflict. The dispute highlights deep mistrust between the two sides as geopolitical tensions continue to impact global markets. (PC: India Today)

Hardik Pandya has revealed a deeply spiritual aspect of his life, saying he listens to the Hanuman Chalisa even while driving his luxury Ferrari. The India all-rounder stated that no song provides as much positive energy as the devotional hymn. The revelation came during a public interaction, surprising fans given his flamboyant lifestyle. Pandya emphasized faith as a source of strength ahead of upcoming cricket challenges, including leading Mumbai Indians, while balancing success, controversies, and expectations. (PC: X)

United Kingdom Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, Chief of Air Staff of the Royal Air Force, arrived in India for a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral military cooperation. He commenced his visit by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial, paying tribute to fallen soldiers. The visit reflects deepening defence ties between India and the United Kingdom, with discussions expected on joint exercises, advanced technology sharing, and enhanced strategic coordination between the two nations’ air forces. (PC: X)

Two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Jag Vasant and Pine Gas, are transiting the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz, carrying over 92,000 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas bound for India. Ship-tracking data shows the vessels are following a route close to Iran’s coastline, approved to ensure safe passage amid ongoing regional tensions. Their movement comes as global shipping remains disrupted due to the US-Iran conflict, which has severely affected energy supplies. The ships are expected to reach Indian ports within days, offering partial relief to India’s LPG shortages and highlighting efforts to maintain critical fuel supply chains during the crisis. (PC: Reuters)

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Washington is engaging with “many leaders” in Iran, not just a single authority, amid the ongoing conflict. He stated that Iran initiated the outreach, saying they “wanted to make a deal,” while the US remains open to negotiations. Trump also highlighted “major points of agreement,” including demands for Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions. However, Iranian officials and state media have denied any direct or indirect talks. The remarks come as Trump announced a temporary pause on planned strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure to allow diplomatic efforts to progress. (PC: AP)

Amid the ongoing US–Iran conflict, Donald Trump paused planned strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure for five days, signalling a tentative diplomatic opening. Mediation efforts led by Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt have facilitated indirect communication between Washington and Tehran. Iran, however, insists the United States must engage directly, asserting it initiated the conflict. While US officials claim “productive talks,” Iranian authorities deny any negotiations, calling such claims misleading. The war, ongoing since February 28, has escalated regionally, disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, and triggered global concerns over energy supply and economic stability. (PC: X)

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf rejected Donald Trump’s claim of “productive talks” between United States and Iran, calling it “fake news” aimed at manipulating financial and oil markets. Ghalibaf asserted no negotiations had taken place, while Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed only indirect messages via friendly countries. Trump had earlier paused planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for five days, citing progress in discussions with a “top person,” though not Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Markets reacted sharply, with oil prices falling over 10% and equities rising on de-escalation hopes. Iran maintains no direct talks occurred during the ongoing 24-day conflict.

An Air India flight AI133 from Bengaluru to London Heathrow Airport was diverted mid-air to Jeddah on March 23 due to a suspected technical issue. The aircraft landed safely at 19:58 IST, with all passengers and crew confirmed safe. The airline termed the diversion precautionary and said detailed technical inspections are underway as per safety protocols. Air India is coordinating with local authorities in Jeddah to assist passengers. The number of passengers onboard was not disclosed. The incident follows recent operational disruptions, including a Delhi-Vancouver flight turnaround and a separate aviation accident at LaGuardia Airport. (PC: Reuters)

A major espionage network with links to Pakistan has been dismantled in Uttar Pradesh after a routine alert in Ghaziabad escalated into a nationwide probe. At least 22 people, including minors, were arrested for conducting pre-attack reconnaissance of military bases and railway infrastructure. Operating via social media and encrypted apps, recruits were paid ₹5,000–₹20,000 to share photos, videos, and GPS data. A Special Investigation Team uncovered plans to install solar-powered CCTV cameras along the Delhi-Jammu corridor to track troop movement. The network, coordinated by Pakistan-based handlers, also ran SIM and OTP rackets. Authorities believe the operation was part of preparations for a large-scale attack in Jammu and Kashmir. (PC: NDTV)

Narendra Modi warned that the West Asia conflict could have “far-reaching” long-term consequences for India, calling the situation “worrisome.” He highlighted disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, where attacks on commercial vessels have made navigation difficult, terming them “unacceptable.” With nearly 10 million Indians in the Gulf, safety remains a priority; over 75,000 have returned, including students from Iran. Modi said India is ensuring safe passage through diplomacy and monitoring supply chains. He noted impacts on oil, gas, and fertiliser supplies but stressed preparedness through diversified imports, strategic reserves, and ethanol blending, while urging dialogue as the only path forward. (PC: PTI)