Two US Navy destroyers crossed the Strait of Hormuz on April 11 without informing Iran. The move came as talks between the two sides were taking place in Islamabad with Pakistan mediating.   Reports said an earlier US ship had turned back after Iran warned it could be hit within 30 minutes. The later transit was completed without incident.   US President Donald Trump said, “We are now starting the process of clearing out” the strait. The waterway remains a key pressure point for Iran. Tehran has not issued an official response yet. (PC: X)

Sanju Samson scored his first Indian Premier League hundred for Chennai Super Kings in a match against Delhi Capitals on April 11. He reached the milestone in 52 balls and remained unbeaten on 115. Samson celebrated with a salute inspired by Rajinikanth’s film Padayappa.   This was his first major innings after moving from Rajasthan Royals. He had low scores in earlier matches. Samson shared a key partnership with Ayush Mhatre as CSK built momentum. He hit 14 boundaries and three sixes. CSK finished with 212 runs in 20 overs.

Veteran singer Asha Bhosle, 92, was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital on Saturday. The reason for her hospitalisation was not immediately shared. The singer is known for songs like Piya Tu Ab To Aaja, Jaiye Aap Kahan Jayenge, and Rangeela Re. She will turn 93 on September 8. Bhosle began her career in 1943 with a Marathi film song. Over the years, she sang dance numbers, ghazals, and classical tracks. She remains active on social media. Her profile on X reads, “Singer since 1943.” She has millions of followers across platforms. (PC: NDTV)

A US Navy ship turned back after Iran warned it would be attacked within 30 minutes if it entered the Strait of Hormuz. The warning came as US and Iranian officials held talks in Islamabad. Hours later, US media reported that two American warships crossed the strait without coordination. US officials said the transit happened without issues. Iran’s state TV denied this. Earlier, Donald Trump said the US had begun “clearing out” the strait. He claimed Iran’s mine-laying boats were destroyed. The brief standoff highlighted rising tension despite ongoing talks. (PC: HT)

Talks between the US and Iran began in Islamabad after a delay of more than five hours. The delay was caused by deep distrust and several preconditions set by both sides. Iran said it entered talks without trust. It also demanded a halt to Israeli strikes and release of frozen assets. The US rejected these conditions.   US President Donald Trump said he had “no idea” how talks would go and would judge Iran’s intent quickly. He warned the US could “reset” its approach if diplomacy fails.   Pakistan, led by Shehbaz Sharif, is hosting and mediating the talks. (PC: X)

Iran said it issued a direct warning to a US military ship near the Strait of Hormuz. State television reported the vessel was told it could face an attack within 30 minutes if it entered Iranian-controlled waters. A senior Iranian military official said the ship turned back after the warning.   The move followed remarks by US President Donald Trump, who said the US was “starting the process of clearing out” the Strait of Hormuz for global shipping. He also said Iran’s military had been weakened.   Iran has not shared details of the ship. Shipping in the strait remains limited due to ongoing tensions. (PC: X)

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is recovering from severe, disfiguring injuries after an airstrike at the start of the war, according to a Reuters report. Sources said he suffered major damage to his face and legs and may have lost a leg. The strike also killed his father, Ali Khamenei. Despite this, he is said to be “mentally sharp” and taking part in key decisions through audio calls. Iran has not issued any official update. His continued absence from public view has raised questions about his health and leadership. (PC: HT)

Four astronauts from NASA’s Artemis II mission returned safely after a complex re-entry and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. The Orion capsule faced extreme heat and a brief signal loss during descent. Commander Reid Wiseman said, “Houston, Integrity here. We hear you loud and clear” after contact resumed. Parachutes deployed smoothly, leading to what NASA called a “perfect” landing. The crew — Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen — are recovering on a naval ship. NASA said the mission helps prepare for future human landings on the Moon. (PC: BBC)

The US has agreed to release frozen Iranian funds held in Qatar and other foreign banks, according to a senior Iranian source. The source said the step shows “seriousness” in reaching a deal with Washington during talks in Islamabad. The funds release is “directly linked” to ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a key issue in the discussions. The US has not made any public statement on the matter. The move comes as both sides prepare for possible negotiations, with trust still low and key conditions under discussion before any final agreement. (PC: NDTV)

Talks between the US and Iran in Pakistan slowed as Tehran held firm on key demands. Iran said it wants a ceasefire in Lebanon and safety for the Strait of Hormuz before direct talks. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said there is “no trust” in the US. The US team, led by Vice President JD Vance, has not met Iran directly. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is holding separate meetings. Iran also wants frozen funds released and war reparations. The White House has not agreed. President Donald Trump has kept a firm stand on these issues. (PC: India Today)