Elbridge Colby described India as an “essential partner” for the United States in the Indo-Pacific, stating India’s rise aligns with American strategic interests. Speaking in New Delhi, he emphasised a shared goal of preventing dominance by any single power in the region. Colby noted that both nations can cooperate effectively despite differences, underscoring pragmatic engagement. He made no reference to the Quad while outlining policy priorities. His visit coincides with ongoing West Asia tensions and precedes defence talks with Indian officials, highlighting continued bilateral dialogue on regional security and strategic alignment.

Narendra Modi and Donald Trump held their first call since the February 28 strikes on Iran triggered conflict, focusing on West Asia tensions and global supply risks. Modi stressed de-escalation and ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open, secure, and accessible. India has intensified diplomatic outreach to Iran, Israel, GCC nations, and the US to stabilise the situation. Concerns centre on disruptions to fuel, food, and fertiliser supplies. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has engaged multiple counterparts. While avoiding direct involvement, India continues maritime security operations to safeguard shipping and maintain critical supply chains.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with US President Donald Trump on the Middle East crisis. Modi said the call was a “useful exchange”. He said India supports de-escalation and early peace. He stressed that the Strait of Hormuz must stay open, secure and accessible. He said this is important for global trade and energy supply. Modi also told Parliament that any disruption in Hormuz is “unacceptable”. He said attacks on ships are affecting fuel and goods supply. He warned the war is hurting the global economy. He added India is using diplomacy to ensure safe passage of its ships. Both leaders agreed to stay in touch. (PC: India Today)

India clarified that no payments or special permissions are required from Iran for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, dismissing speculation about multimillion-dollar fees. A senior government official said vessel movements are guided solely by safety assessments amid heightened West Asia tensions. India remains diplomatically engaged with Iran to ensure safe passage of its ships. This engagement recently facilitated the transit of LPG tankers Shvalik and Nanda Devi, with another vessel docking at Mundra Port earlier. Iran has also rejected claims of charging transit fees. The Strait, a crucial oil route between Iran and Oman, continues to face scrutiny as geopolitical risks impact maritime operations. (PC: The Indian Express)

PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed escalating West Asia tensions, emphasising the need to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, secure, and accessible. The update, shared by Sergio Gor, noted their review of the crisis and its implications for global energy supply and maritime security. Modi confirmed a “useful exchange of views,” supporting de-escalation and peace. Both leaders agreed to stay in touch. The Strait, handling 20 per cent of global crude shipments, remains vital. India, heavily dependent on Gulf energy imports, is monitoring developments and has initiated contingency planning to ensure uninterrupted fuel and essential commodity supplies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with US President Donald Trump about rising tensions in the Middle East. Both leaders stressed the need to keep the Strait of Hormuz open. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said they discussed “the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open.” The route carries a large share of global oil supply. Recent disruptions have raised concerns over energy stability. The call came a day after Trump said the US had held “productive” talks with Iran. He also delayed a planned strike to allow more time for diplomacy. (PC: India Today)

Residents across Kashmir, especially in Budgam and Baramulla, have launched a large humanitarian campaign to support people affected by the ongoing conflict in Iran. Volunteers conducted door-to-door collections after Eid, gathering cash, gold, silver jewellery, livestock, and traditional copper items. People from all sections of society, including women and children, contributed—some even donating lifelong savings and sentimental valuables. The Iranian Embassy in India publicly thanked Kashmiris, saying their “kindness will never be forgotten.” The collected aid will be routed through official channels to ensure it reaches victims of the war.

United Kingdom Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, Chief of Air Staff of the Royal Air Force, arrived in India for a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral military cooperation. He commenced his visit by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial, paying tribute to fallen soldiers. The visit reflects deepening defence ties between India and the United Kingdom, with discussions expected on joint exercises, advanced technology sharing, and enhanced strategic coordination between the two nations’ air forces. (PC: X)

Two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Jag Vasant and Pine Gas, are transiting the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz, carrying over 92,000 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas bound for India. Ship-tracking data shows the vessels are following a route close to Iran’s coastline, approved to ensure safe passage amid ongoing regional tensions. Their movement comes as global shipping remains disrupted due to the US-Iran conflict, which has severely affected energy supplies. The ships are expected to reach Indian ports within days, offering partial relief to India’s LPG shortages and highlighting efforts to maintain critical fuel supply chains during the crisis. (PC: Reuters)

An Air India flight AI133 from Bengaluru to London Heathrow Airport was diverted mid-air to Jeddah on March 23 due to a suspected technical issue. The aircraft landed safely at 19:58 IST, with all passengers and crew confirmed safe. The airline termed the diversion precautionary and said detailed technical inspections are underway as per safety protocols. Air India is coordinating with local authorities in Jeddah to assist passengers. The number of passengers onboard was not disclosed. The incident follows recent operational disruptions, including a Delhi-Vancouver flight turnaround and a separate aviation accident at LaGuardia Airport. (PC: Reuters)