Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, Abhishek Banerjee sparked controversy by warning of retaliation after Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif allegedly threatened Kolkata. Speaking at a rally, Banerjee criticised Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and Rajnath Singh for remaining silent, vowing strong action if his alliance comes to power. Mamata Banerjee also questioned the Centre’s response, accusing it of ignoring Bengal’s security concerns. The exchange follows escalating rhetoric, with both sides issuing warnings, intensifying political tensions during ongoing election campaigning.

Amid escalating tensions, Donald Trump said he would prefer to “keep the oil” from Iran and profit from it, but acknowledged Americans may not support such a move. Speaking during ongoing conflict discussions, he framed his stance as driven by business logic while noting domestic pressure to end the war. His remarks come as negotiations continue over reopening the Strait of Hormuz and amid rising global oil concerns. The statement highlights tensions between strategic, economic, and political considerations, as the US balances military objectives, public opinion, and energy market implications.

Amid escalating US-Iran tensions, Donald Trump claimed a potential “mole” within the United States government leaked sensitive details about a covert rescue mission in Iran. He warned a journalist to reveal their source or face jail, alleging the leak endangered a second stranded airman whose presence was previously unknown to Iranian forces. Trump said the complex operation involved 155 aircraft and relied on deception to mislead adversaries. The disclosure, he argued, compromised operational security and heightened risks. The administration is now investigating the leak, underscoring concerns over national security and press freedom during a volatile geopolitical crisis. (PC: Reuters)

Senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy has made history as India’s first openly queer Member of Parliament, marking a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ representation. Renowned for her role in the 2018 Supreme Court judgment that decriminalised homosexuality, she has been a leading voice in constitutional law and rights advocacy. Her entry into Parliament reflects a broader shift toward inclusivity in Indian politics. The milestone is seen as both symbolic and substantive, potentially strengthening legislative focus on equality and civil rights. Guruswamy’s journey underscores the growing visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in public life and governance.

A major breach occurred at the Delhi Legislative Assembly when Sarbjit Singh rammed a Tata Sierra through VIP Gate No. 2 around 2 pm, placed a bouquet near Speaker Vijender Gupta’s vehicle, and fled. The act, captured on CCTV, unfolded within minutes and triggered a high alert. Police detained Singh and two others within two hours, seizing the vehicle in north Delhi. Bomb disposal and forensic teams found no explosives. Singh, reportedly missing for days, had travelled from Uttar Pradesh. Authorities are probing motive, citing possible illness, while security lapses at the less-guarded VIP gate remain under scrutiny.

Ahead of a critical truce deadline, Donald Trump issued a stark warning, stating that the United States could “take out” Iran in a single night if necessary. The remark underscores escalating rhetoric amid ongoing conflict and fragile diplomatic efforts. Trump’s statement comes as ceasefire negotiations remain uncertain and tensions intensify over key issues, including nuclear ambitions and regional security. While talks continue through intermediaries, the warning highlights the high-stakes environment surrounding the crisis, raising concerns over potential military escalation and its broader implications for global stability and energy markets. (PC: NDTV)

Iran has rejected a US ceasefire proposal, conveying its response via Pakistan and outlining a 10-condition framework for ending the conflict. Tehran insists on a permanent end to war across the region, including Lebanon and Gaza, along with guarantees against future attacks. It seeks sanctions relief, recognition of its uranium enrichment rights, and compensation for war damages. Iran also demands control over the Strait of Hormuz, including regulating maritime traffic. Donald Trump said alternatives remain as military operations continue. Mediation efforts involving Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are ongoing, reflecting intensified diplomacy amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

At the Grenke Freestyle Open, Uzbek Grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev again drew attention for greeting with “Namaste” instead of a handshake, initially seen when he declined Harika Dronavalli’s handshake. The moment went viral and was later mirrored by Krishnan Sasikiran, who folded his hands in a similar gesture, which Yakubboev reciprocated. The Uzbek player has previously avoided handshakes with women, citing religious beliefs, including an earlier incident involving R Vaishali, for which he apologised, clarifying his respect. The repeated gestures have sparked discussion on cultural sensitivity, personal beliefs, and etiquette in international chess tournaments. (PC: Times Now)

Amid escalating tensions, Donald Trump said Iran is “not so strong” compared to a month ago, while acknowledging its forces remain “capable fighters.” His remarks come as negotiations continue over a potential ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump indicated Iran had made a “significant” proposal, though insufficient, as military operations persist. He reiterated that the conflict centres on preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The statement reflects Washington’s dual stance of pressure and negotiation, even as Tehran maintains firm conditions for a permanent resolution, keeping geopolitical and energy market uncertainties elevated.

Amid escalating tensions, Iran has set firm conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, insisting it will remain closed until a permanent peace agreement is achieved. Rejecting temporary ceasefires, Tehran outlined four key demands: a complete end to war, no short-term truce, guaranteed non-aggression from the United States and Israel, and using Hormuz as leverage. Iran also dismissed negotiations under pressure and mocked Donald Trump’s deadline with sarcastic remarks online. As the strategic oil route remains restricted, the standoff intensifies, raising concerns over global energy stability and highlighting Hormuz’s central role in the geopolitical conflict. (PC: X)