Afghanistan spinner Allah Ghazanfar issued an emotional appeal following deadly Pakistani airstrikes on a Kabul rehabilitation hospital that reportedly killed over 400 people and injured hundreds. He highlighted the devastating impact on civilians and urged global attention to the crisis. In his message, Ghazanfar described India as a “close friend” and expressed a desire for stronger engagement. The strikes, denied by Pakistan, have intensified tensions between the two countries. His statement reflects growing concern within Afghanistan over civilian suffering and escalating regional instability amid the ongoing conflict. (PC: X)

In a major relief for passengers, the Indian government has directed airlines to keep at least 60% of seats on flights available at regulated or capped fares to prevent sudden price surges. The move aims to protect flyers from exorbitant ticket prices during peak demand, emergencies, or disruptions. Authorities emphasised maintaining affordability and transparency in pricing, ensuring fair access to air travel. Airlines will still be allowed dynamic pricing for the remaining seats. The decision comes amid concerns over rising airfare volatility, and is expected to make flying more accessible and predictable for passengers across the country. (PC: Reuters)

Iran has confirmed the death of senior leader Ali Larijani, reportedly killed in a targeted strike amid the intensifying Iran–Israel–US conflict. Larijani, a prominent political figure and former parliamentary speaker, played a key role in Iran’s strategic and diplomatic affairs. His death marks a major escalation, triggering strong reactions from Tehran and raising fears of further retaliation across the region. The development comes alongside ongoing missile and drone exchanges, increasing instability in the Middle East and heightening concerns over a broader regional war and its global geopolitical impact. (PC: Reuters)

The United States launched powerful airstrikes on Iranian missile sites near the Strait of Hormuz, deploying 5,000-pound bunker-buster bombs to destroy hardened underground facilities. US Central Command stated the targets included anti-ship cruise missile systems threatening international maritime routes. The strikes come amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, following disruptions to shipping in the region. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil transit chokepoint, has witnessed increasing instability, raising fears over energy security and potential wider conflict in the Middle East. 

Israel’s military warned it will continue targeting threats, including Mojtaba Khamenei, amid escalating conflict with Iran. IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin said Israel would “pursue, find and neutralise” anyone endangering the state, though Khamenei’s location remains unknown. The statement follows Israeli strikes that killed Gholamreza Soleimani in Tehran. Israel also vowed continued operations against Iran’s Basij forces and signalled preparations for a prolonged campaign, including during Passover. Meanwhile, Iran launched fresh missile barrages, triggering air raid sirens across Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, underscoring intensifying hostilities and the widening scale of the conflict. (PC: X)

Oil prices surged sharply after Iran confirmed the killing of Ali Larijani, intensifying fears of deeper conflict and supply disruption. Brent crude rose above $103 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovered near $96, reflecting heightened market volatility. The spike comes amid ongoing US-Israel-Iran tensions that have already disrupted flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route. Analysts warn that continued escalation could further tighten supply and sustain upward pressure on prices. Earlier trends also showed oil crossing $100 amid war-driven uncertainty, with global markets reacting strongly to geopolitical risks and potential prolonged disruption. (PC: X)

Preliminary findings indicate Israeli tank fire hit a UN base in southern Lebanon, wounding Ghanaian peacekeepers serving with United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. The inquiry found three direct strikes using Israeli-manufactured 120-mm shells at the al-Qawzah position, raising concerns over peacekeeper safety. UNIFIL said the investigation is ongoing but stressed that attacks on peacekeepers violate international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The incident highlights growing risks as Israel-Hezbollah tensions escalate, with UN forces increasingly caught in crossfire. The mission, due to end in 2026, faces mounting challenges amid expanding military operations and regional instability. (PC: The Hindu)

Ali Larijani, a central figure in Iran’s security and nuclear policy, was killed in an air strike near Tehran alongside his son Morteza Larijani, deputy Alireza Bayat and bodyguards, Iranian authorities confirmed. The strike, reportedly targeting his daughter’s home in Pardis, marks one of the most direct blows to Iran’s senior leadership amid escalating conflict. Israel acknowledged eliminating key figures, including Gholamreza Soleimani, and signalled continued targeting of top officials. Larijani, a former parliament speaker and nuclear negotiator, played a major role in shaping Iran’s strategic policy. His death deepens leadership uncertainty as tensions intensify across the region. (PC: India Today)

The Centre informed the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court that it is taking all measures to prevent LPG shortages amid disruptions caused by the West Asia war. An affidavit by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated the government is monitoring the situation and ensuring smooth distribution. The court disposed of a petition against Confidence Petroleum India Ltd, accused of prioritising exports over domestic supply. Petitioners cited supply constraints due to the Iran war and sought increased domestic allocation. The Centre said strict action would be taken against violations and emphasised prioritising household LPG availability across affected regions nationwide. (PC: X)

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video alongside Mike Huckabee, dismissing viral rumours claiming he had been killed during the Iran conflict. The clip shows him walking and joking, confirming, “Yes, I’m alive,” amid speculation fueled by his absence and misleading “six fingers” footage. Donald Trump was referenced humorously, with Huckabee saying he was sent to check on Netanyahu. The Israeli leader also mentioned ongoing strikes targeting Iranian figures. Earlier, Netanyahu mocked the rumours in a café video, addressing the finger claims directly. The conspiracy theories spread widely online during escalating regional tensions following Iran’s retaliation against US-Israel actions.