The United States launched fresh strikes on Iranian military targets near Bandar Abbas, marking the second American attack in 48 hours amid escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. According to US officials, the strikes targeted missile launch sites, drone units and Iranian vessels allegedly deploying naval mines threatening American forces and commercial shipping. Four Iranian attack drones aimed at a US commercial vessel were intercepted and destroyed before impact. Explosions near Bandar Abbas briefly activated Iranian air defence systems. United States Central Command said the operation was conducted in self-defence. Iran accused Washington of violating the ceasefire and warned of retaliation as disputes over control of the strategically critical Strait intensified further.

Red Balloon Aerospace successfully launched India’s first indigenous private super-pressure balloon carrying commercial payloads, marking a major milestone in the country’s near-space ambitions. The company’s VISTA platform rose nearly 25 kilometres above Earth during Mission SANA from Vijayawada, operating within the stratosphere between aircraft and satellites. Founded in 2025, the startup achieved commercial operational flight within eight months. The mission carried payloads from seven national and international partners, including biological experiments, propulsion systems and earth observation technologies. CEO C V S Kiran said the achievement places India among only five nations with indigenous stratospheric hydrogen balloon capability alongside the US, France, Japan and China.

India has invited private companies to compete for the development of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), the country’s first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet. Defence giants including Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro, and Adani Defence & Aerospace are reportedly in the race alongside state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The project, led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, aims to strengthen India’s self-reliance in advanced defence technology. The AMCA will feature stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and AI-assisted combat systems, marking a major shift toward private-sector participation in India’s military aircraft manufacturing. (PC: X)

The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to immediately enforce a complete ban on cow slaughter across the state, citing violations of existing animal protection laws. The court also ordered authorities to strictly monitor illegal slaughterhouses and transport of cattle meant for slaughter. The ruling came while hearing petitions alleging large-scale illegal cow slaughter despite regulatory restrictions already in place. The bench stressed that state officials must ensure proper implementation of the law and take swift action against offenders. The judgment has sparked political debate and renewed discussions over animal rights, religious sensitivities, and enforcement challenges in Tamil Nadu. (PC: The Hindu)

Rajasthan Royals defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by 47 runs in the IPL 2026 Eliminator at New Chandigarh to book a place in Qualifier 2 against Gujarat Titans. Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi starred with a blistering 97 off just 29 balls, helping Rajasthan post a massive 243/8. He also broke Chris Gayle’s record for most sixes in a single IPL season. In reply, Hyderabad collapsed under pressure despite resistance from Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Reddy, eventually getting bowled out well short of the target. 

Iranian state media has claimed that Tehran and Washington are discussing a draft framework agreement that could reopen commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and reduce US military presence near Iran. The reported proposal includes lifting the US naval blockade and restoring trade routes within a month if both sides agree on final terms. However, the White House dismissed the reports as a “complete fabrication,” saying no such agreement exists. The developments come amid ongoing regional tensions, recent US-Iran clashes, and fears of disruption to global oil supplies, with oil prices falling sharply after the reports emerged. (PC: Reuters)

Israel carried out more than 120 airstrikes across southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, marking one of the heaviest bombardments since fighting with Hezbollah reignited in March. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the offensive would intensify to expand Israel’s security buffer zone near the border. Lebanese officials reported at least 22 civilian deaths, including women and children, while thousands fled affected areas after evacuation warnings. Hezbollah responded with rocket and drone attacks targeting northern Israel. The escalation threatens a fragile US-brokered ceasefire and complicates ongoing Iran-US diplomatic talks amid growing fears of a wider regional war. (PC: AFP)

Hundreds of suspected undocumented Bangladeshi migrants have gathered near the Hakimpur border outpost in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas amid growing fears of detention and deportation. The rush reportedly began after the newly elected Bengal government announced stricter action against illegal immigrants, including setting up holding centres and intensifying border surveillance. Many people arriving at the border reportedly carried Bangladeshi identity documents but lacked valid Indian papers. Security forces and police have increased verification checks as tensions rise along the India-Bangladesh border. The situation has sparked political debate over immigration, border security, and humanitarian concerns in the region. 

The White House has dismissed Iranian state media reports claiming a draft US-Iran peace framework proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and withdrawing American troops from nearby regions. Calling the report a “complete fabrication,” the Trump administration denied any such memorandum of understanding existed. Iranian media had claimed the alleged deal included restoring commercial shipping through Hormuz within a month, lifting a naval blockade and coordinating ship traffic with Oman, while excluding military vessels. The framework reportedly omitted Iran’s nuclear programme. Meanwhile, negotiations remain tense despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said talks could continue for days, while President Trump warned military strikes could resume if diplomacy fails. (PC: X)

The White House has dismissed Iranian state media reports claiming a draft US-Iran peace framework proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and withdrawing American troops from nearby regions. Calling the report a “complete fabrication,” the Trump administration denied any such memorandum of understanding existed. Iranian media had claimed the alleged deal included restoring commercial shipping through Hormuz within a month, lifting a naval blockade and coordinating ship traffic with Oman, while excluding military vessels. The framework reportedly omitted Iran’s nuclear programme. Meanwhile, negotiations remain tense despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said talks could continue for days, while President Trump warned military strikes could resume if diplomacy fails. (PC: X)