Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that the ongoing Middle East conflict could have consequences comparable to the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially slowing development across all regions. Speaking to business leaders, he highlighted severe disruptions to global supply chains, logistics, and production systems. The conflict is also putting pressure on key sectors such as energy, metals, and fertilizers, increasing economic uncertainty worldwide. Putin stressed that the situation remains unpredictable, with even involved nations unable to foresee outcomes. His remarks underscore growing global concern that prolonged instability in the region could trigger widespread economic slowdown similar to the pandemic’s impact. (PC: The Times of India)

Israel temporarily removed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf from its assassination target list following a request from Pakistan conveyed through the United States, according to a Pakistani source. Islamabad warned that killing key Iranian officials would derail any chance of diplomatic engagement with Tehran. The US subsequently asked Israel to hold back, leading to a short-term pause of several days. The development comes amid ongoing mediation efforts by Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt to facilitate dialogue between Washington and Tehran. However, Israeli officials maintain that no Iranian leaders are permanently off-limits, keeping tensions high. (PC: Reuters)

The United States’ increasing military focus on the Middle East amid the ongoing Iran conflict is raising concerns about weakened air defence coverage in other strategic regions. Experts warn that diverting key systems, including missile interceptors and defence assets, could create vulnerabilities against major rivals like Russia and China. With resources stretched, the Pentagon faces a difficult balancing act between supporting operations in the Middle East and maintaining deterrence in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Analysts caution that adversaries may exploit these gaps, especially as global tensions rise and military commitments expand simultaneously. (PC: Reuters)

Amid escalating tensions in the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, Tehran has warned that it may open a new front by targeting the strategically vital Bab al-Mandab Strait. Iranian officials stated it may be “necessary to discipline the enemy,” signaling that Yemen’s Houthi (Ansarullah) forces are prepared to intervene and potentially block the key maritime route. The warning comes if ground attacks are launched on Iranian territory, especially southern islands. The strait, linking the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, is crucial for global trade and oil shipments, raising fears of major economic and geopolitical disruption. (PC: X)

Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, Iran has permitted India and four other “friendly nations” to pass through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route. This selective access comes as Iran tightens control over the waterway following military tensions with the US and its allies. The move ensures continued energy supply for India, which heavily depends on Gulf oil and gas. However, passage is conditional on coordination with Iranian authorities and compliance with security rules. The decision highlights India’s diplomatic balancing amid the crisis while raising concerns over global energy stability. (PC: Getty Images)

Alireza Tangsiri, a senior commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy, has been killed in a reported US-Israeli strike near Bandar Abbas, Israeli media said. Israel linked him to Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. There has been no official comment from Iran or the Israeli military. Tangsiri led the IRGC navy since 2018 and played a key role in restricting ship movement. Around 20% of global oil trade passes through the strait in normal times. Recent data shows crossings have dropped sharply, with only limited vessels allowed through under Iran’s control. (PC: X)

Donald Trump has warned Iran to move quickly on peace talks, saying “before it is too late.” He claimed Iranian negotiators are “begging” for a deal, despite Tehran saying it is only reviewing the US proposal. Trump said Iran has been “militarily obliterated” and urged it to “get serious soon.” The comments come as both sides send mixed signals on talks. Iran has already rejected a US-backed 15-point plan. Fighting continues across the region with heavy casualties reported. Efforts to reach a ceasefire remain uncertain as strikes and tensions continue. (PC: X)

The Pentagon is considering redirecting weapons meant for Ukraine to the Iran conflict, according to reports. The US is facing heavy costs and fast depletion of key missiles like Patriot and THAAD. Officials say there is “a real live discussion” on the move. The war has cost about $2 billion a day. US stocks were already low before the conflict. Volodymyr Zelensky said Middle East forces used over 800 Patriot missiles in three days. Donald Trump has also reduced direct support to Ukraine, raising concerns over its air defence capacity. (PC: HT)

Donald Trump said Iran’s leaders are “afraid” to admit they are in talks with the US. He claimed that if they accept it publicly, “they’ll be killed by their own people.”   Iran has denied any negotiations with Washington. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected reports of dialogue.   An Iranian official has listed five conditions to end the conflict. Reports also said Tehran received a 15-point proposal from the US.   The White House said Trump prefers peace but is “prepared to unleash hell.” Attacks continue in the region, with casualties reported in Abu Dhabi. (PC: BBC)

Kasim Khan, son of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council and raised concerns about his father’s imprisonment. He said Imran Khan has been held in a “solitary confinement cell” meant for death row inmates. He added, “We ask this council… to end this persecution immediately.” Kasim also spoke about “rising intolerance” and a “systematic campaign” against dissent in Pakistan. Imran Khan has been in jail since 2023 on charges he denies. His case has drawn global attention, with concerns over his health and prison conditions continuing to grow.