Three Indian sailors who went missing after a US strike on the oil tanker Settebello off the coast of Oman have been confirmed dead, according to Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The vessel was carrying 24 Indian crew members, of whom 21 were rescued after the attack. The incident has sparked concern over the safety of Indian seafarers operating in the conflict-hit Gulf region. India had earlier lodged a strong protest with the United States over the strike. The government said it is extending all possible support to the families of the deceased sailors.(PC: India Today)

For the first time in at least 26 years, no Indian company is among the top 10 constituents of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, a key global benchmark for investors. HDFC Bank and Reliance Industries have slipped to 11th and 12th positions, while India's overall weight in the index has fallen to a six-year low of 10.87%. Analysts say the shift reflects growing global preference for artificial intelligence and technology stocks. The decline could reduce passive foreign fund inflows, adding pressure on India's markets as rising crude oil prices and global uncertainty weigh on investor sentiment. (PC: ai)

At least 15 people, including 11 civilians and four security personnel, have been killed in clashes between protesters and security forces in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, according to local authorities. The unrest began after activist group Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) opposed the reservation of 12 assembly seats for Kashmiri refugees in the upcoming elections. Despite the group being banned under anti-terrorism laws, thousands of protesters continued their march towards Muzaffarabad. Security has been tightened across the region, with surveillance flights and roadblocks in place, while rights groups have raised concerns over arrests and the use of force. (PC: BBC)

Newly revealed court testimony shows that billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates alleged that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein attempted to use knowledge of Gates’ extramarital relationships to pressure and influence him. According to testimony presented in court proceedings, Epstein allegedly sought leverage over Gates after their meetings concerning philanthropy and financial matters. Gates stated that he rejected Epstein’s attempts and distanced himself from the financier. The disclosures have renewed public scrutiny of Epstein’s network of high-profile associates and the methods he allegedly used to cultivate influence among prominent business and political figures. (PC: Reuters)

The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reportedly launched 12 ballistic missiles at the Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan, targeting U.S. F-35, F-15, and F-16 fighter jets stationed there. The strike came in retaliation for recent U.S. attacks on Iranian military facilities. Jordanian air defenses reportedly intercepted several missiles, while neighboring Gulf nations increased security measures amid fears of further escalation. The attack has heightened concerns over a broader regional war, disrupted air traffic across parts of the Middle East, and renewed worries about global energy security and stability. (PC: Reuters)

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, Kerala—especially Thiruvananthapuram—has transformed into a football carnival. Giant cutouts, colorful flags, murals, and fan rallies celebrating football icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo dominate streets and neighborhoods. Localities such as Rajaji Nagar are witnessing intense yet festive fan rivalries among supporters of Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, and France. Many fans view this tournament as a possible final World Cup for Messi, Ronaldo, and Neymar, adding emotional significance. While celebrations showcase Kerala’s deep football culture, residents also highlight the need for better sports infrastructure to nurture local talent. (PC: The Hindu)

Thirteen-year-old Srishti Kiran from Bengaluru has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the world's No. 1-ranked player in the Under-13 category. The young tennis prodigy has impressed the international circuit with consistent performances, discipline, and rapid progress against top junior competitors. Her rise reflects years of dedicated training and strong support from coaches and family. Srishti's achievement is being celebrated as a significant moment for Indian tennis, highlighting the country's growing presence in global junior sports. Experts believe she has the potential to follow in the footsteps of India's leading tennis stars and make a major impact on the professional circuit in the future. (PC: X)

Kuwait temporarily shut its airspace and diverted several flights after Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting US military bases in the Gulf amid escalating tensions with Washington. The precautionary closure was ordered by Kuwait's civil aviation authorities to ensure the safety of passengers and aviation operations as air defense systems responded to potential threats. Several commercial flights were rerouted to neighboring countries before air traffic gradually resumed once officials determined the immediate danger had passed. The incident highlights the growing regional impact of the US-Iran confrontation, with concerns rising over aviation safety, regional security, and the risk of a broader Middle East conflict. (PC: X)

The United States has intensified its military campaign against Iran, carrying out fresh strikes on multiple locations, including areas near Tehran, Minab, Bandar Abbas, Qeshm, Kish, and Isfahan. President Donald Trump said dozens of Tomahawk missiles were used against Iranian military targets and warned of further action if Tehran rejects a proposed peace deal. In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a two-wave missile and drone operation targeting US military installations across the Gulf region. Tehran also claimed to have closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route, further raising concerns over regional stability, international shipping, and oil supplies. 

India has lodged a strong protest with the United States and summoned its top diplomat in New Delhi after a commercial tanker off the coast of Oman was attacked, leaving three Indian crew members missing. The vessel, carrying 24 Indian seafarers, was struck during escalating tensions in the Gulf region. While 21 crew members have been rescued, search operations for the missing sailors remain ongoing. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack, stressing that the safety of civilian seafarers must be protected. The incident has added diplomatic strain to already heightened regional tensions involving the US, Iran, and maritime security. (PC: Reuters)