During its 83rd wave of Operation True Promise 4, Iran's IRGC inscribed "Thank You to People of India" on missiles launched at Israel, a symbolic gesture shared by the Iranian Consulate in Mumbai. Similar messages addressed Spain, Pakistan, and Germany. The tribute reflects Iran's recognition of India's humanitarian support, including Kashmiris donating gold, jewellery, and even children's piggy banks for Iranian war victims. Iran has also granted safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz exclusively to Indian vessels, calling India a "friendly" nation. The development underscores India's complex diplomatic balancing act between its historical ties with Tehran and relationships with Washington and Tel Aviv.

Amid the ongoing Iran war, Douglas Macgregor suggested that Narendra Modi could play a crucial role in brokering peace between Iran and United States. He argued that India’s balanced ties with multiple global powers make it uniquely positioned to mediate effectively. Macgregor added that Donald Trump is more likely to listen to Modi than other leaders. In contrast, he dismissed Pakistan as a neutral mediator, citing credibility concerns and internal challenges. As diplomatic efforts stall and conflict intensifies, India’s role is increasingly viewed as potentially pivotal in facilitating dialogue and de-escalation. (PC: India Today)

An Indian national was killed and another injured in Abu Dhabi after debris from an intercepted ballistic missile fell in a populated area, amid the ongoing US–Iran War 2026. A Pakistani national also died, while Emirati and Jordanian individuals were injured. The incident occurred on Sweihan Street after air defence systems neutralised the incoming missile. Falling fragments damaged vehicles and triggered emergency response operations. Authorities confirmed the UAE has intercepted hundreds of missiles and drones since the conflict began. The death toll of Indians in the war has now reached at least seven, highlighting civilian risks even when defence systems successfully intercept aerial threats.

An Indian national was killed in Abu Dhabi after debris from a successfully intercepted ballistic missile fell in a populated area, highlighting the growing risks to civilians amid the ongoing West Asia conflict. According to UAE authorities, another victim—a Pakistani national—also died, while three others of Emirati, Jordanian, and Indian origin sustained injuries ranging from moderate to serious. The incident occurred as UAE air defence systems intercepted incoming threats linked to regional hostilities involving Iran. Despite successful interception, falling debris caused fatalities and damage on the ground. This tragedy raises the number of Indian casualties in the conflict to at least seven, underlining the increasing danger for expatriates in the region. (PC: X)

A London-bound flight of Air India returned to Delhi on Thursday after flying for nearly seven hours. The aircraft was headed to Heathrow but turned back while over Saudi airspace.   The airline said the flight made a “precautionary return” due to a suspected technical issue. Sources said unusual noise was heard onboard.   The plane had taken off at 6.13 am and landed around 1.20 pm. It had already covered about 3,300 km before turning back.   The airline said the aircraft landed safely. “It is currently subject to extensive technical evaluations,” a spokesperson said. Passengers were provided assistance. (PC: India Today)

Boman Irani shared a humorous video as Donald Trump spoke about talks with Iran. He joked that he, Smriti Irani and Aruna Irani could act as the “Iranis” for peace talks. “I am ready to do anything for peace,” he said. He added he would not travel to Washington and invited Trump to Mumbai instead. “Bring a big gas cylinder, it will make life smooth,” he said. The video gained strong reactions online, with many users and celebrities calling it funny.

India has accelerated oil and LPG import deals to counter supply disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India now sources energy from 41 countries, up from 27 earlier, reflecting diversification efforts. Negotiations are underway with suppliers including Russia and the United States. Despite disruptions affecting nearly 40% of imports via Hormuz, the government maintains there is no immediate shortage, citing 74 days of reserves. LPG production has been increased and strategic reserves remain robust, even as global supply constraints and rising prices continue to pressure energy markets. (PC: NDTV)

Iran has allowed “friendly nations,” including India, China, Russia, Pakistan and Iraq, limited access through the Strait of Hormuz amid its conflict with the US. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said passage is restricted to “non-hostile” vessels coordinating with Iranian authorities. The partial reopening comes as global energy markets reel from disruptions caused by the strait’s closure. India confirmed safe transit of its LPG carriers, easing immediate supply concerns. Meanwhile, Tehran is pushing demands for sovereignty over Hormuz and considering toll charges, as global powers and the UN urge restoration of full maritime flow.

A UK court has rejected fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi’s plea to reopen extradition proceedings, upholding earlier rulings and accepting India’s assurances that he would not be interrogated if extradited. The High Court of Justice in London, led by Jeremy Stuart-Smith and Robert Jay, ruled no “exceptional circumstances” justified reopening the case. India assured that agencies like CBI and ED would not question Modi, with any future interrogation requiring UK consent. Modi, accused in the ₹6,498 crore Punjab National Bank fraud, argued risk of torture citing the Sanjay Bhandari case. The court acknowledged concerns but found India’s assurances specific, binding, and given in good faith. (PC: HT)

Iran announced selective access through the Strait of Hormuz, allowing vessels from five “friendly” nations, including India, to pass amid ongoing conflict. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said ships from Russia, China, Pakistan, and Iraq are also permitted safe transit after coordination. However, vessels linked to the US, Israel, and allied Gulf states remain restricted. Iran emphasised the strait is not fully closed but controlled based on geopolitical alignment. The move highlights Tehran’s leverage over a critical global oil route while signalling preferential access, raising concerns about selective disruptions to global energy flows. (PC: India Today)