India has firmly denied reports that billionaire Elon Musk participated in a recent phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing Iran conflict. The clarification came after a New York Times report दावाed Musk’s involvement, calling it an unusual presence of a private individual in high-level wartime discussions. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the March 24 call was strictly bilateral, involving only the two leaders. The conversation focused on the escalating Middle East crisis, including concerns over the Strait of Hormuz and global energy security. 

India has backed Bangladesh as it seeks justice for the 1971 genocide. The Ministry of External Affairs said Pakistan remains “in denial” about the crimes.   Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Operation Searchlight involved “systematic and targeted killing” and mass sexual violence. He added that millions were forced to flee to India. “These atrocities shook the conscience of the world,” he said.   Bangladesh leader Tarique Rahman called March 25, 1971 a “pre-planned massacre”. India said it wants to further strengthen ties with Bangladesh under its new government. (PC: NDTV)

5 Indian nationals were injured in fire incidents in Abu Dhabi after debris fell from a missile intercepted by air defence systems. The fires broke out near Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD). Authorities said the injuries were minor to moderate. The incident comes as tensions rise in the Gulf due to the ongoing Iran-Israel-US conflict. The UAE confirmed it is intercepting incoming missiles and drones. Explosions heard in the area were linked to these interceptions. Officials have asked people to rely on verified information and avoid rumours. The situation remains tense as the conflict continues across the region with growing risks. (PC: AP)

Iran has written “Thank you, people of India” on missiles launched at Israel during the ongoing conflict. Visuals shared by Iranian officials show messages written before launch. Similar notes were also addressed to other countries. Iran said the strikes were part of its latest military operation targeting US and Israeli sites. The message to India comes as ties remain friendly during the conflict. Iran has allowed safe passage for Indian ships through the Strait of Hormuz. It also follows humanitarian support from Indian citizens, including donations from Kashmir and children. India has called for peace and urged dialogue to end the war. (PC: X/ @IRANinMumbai)

Billionaire Elon Musk joined a phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, according to a report. The call took place on Tuesday and focused on the ongoing Iran war. It was the first talk between the two leaders since the conflict began on February 28. US officials confirmed Musk’s presence but did not explain why he joined or if he spoke. The White House called the discussion productive. During the call, PM Modi stressed the need to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and safe, as it is important for global peace, stability, and economic growth worldwide. (PC: X/@PMOIndia)

India has backed Bangladesh in its demand for justice over the 1971 atrocities, calling out Pakistan for remaining “in denial.” External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the масштаб of violence during Operation Searchlight, including mass killings, sexual violence, and displacement of millions. Bangladesh’s leadership reiterated that March 25 is observed as Genocide Day, remembering victims of the crackdown. India also emphasised its intent to strengthen ties with Bangladesh under the new government. The statement reinforces India’s long-standing position on the 1971 events while adding diplomatic pressure on Pakistan over historical accountability. (PC: NDTV)

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman firmly dismissed nationwide lockdown rumours during a Rajya Sabha session on the Finance Bill 2026, calling them "baseless" and politically motivated fear-mongering. Sitharaman pointedly clarified: "Where is this lockdown happening? It is happening in Pakistan, not India." She drew a composed comparison with neighbouring Bangladesh, emphasising India's steady resource management amid Middle East-driven economic disruptions. Sitharaman stressed that despite global turbulence stemming from the West Asia conflict, the government is ensuring citizens face no supply difficulties. She urged both politicians and the public to refrain from spreading panic, reaffirming India's economic stability and its commitment to maintaining strong neighbourly relations with surrounding nations.

India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared ₹2.38 lakh crore worth of defence proposals in a single day one of the largest single-day approvals in recent history. Cleared under the Acceptance of Necessity route, the approvals span the Army, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Key acquisitions include additional S-400 air defence systems, medium transport aircraft replacing ageing AN-32 and IL-76 fleets, Dhanush artillery guns, remotely piloted strike aircraft, and heavy-duty coast guard hovercraft. In FY26 overall, AoNs worth ₹6.73 lakh crore have been approved across 55 proposals, though a significant gap remains between approvals and actual contracts signed, standing at ₹2.28 lakh crore. (PC: X)

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)