Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has claimed that nearly seven million volunteers are prepared to defend the country amid rising tensions with the United States. His remarks follow reports that the US is considering targeting or seizing Kharg Island, a crucial hub for Iran’s oil exports. Ghalibaf warned that any military action would provoke strong retaliation against US forces and regional interests. Iran has been bolstering its defenses in anticipation of a potential conflict. The situation underscores growing fears of escalation, with Kharg Island emerging as a key strategic and economic flashpoint in the crisis. (PC: AP)

US President Donald Trump has removed Attorney General Pam Bondi following mounting criticism over her handling of sensitive Jeffrey Epstein case documents. Bondi faced backlash from lawmakers and political allies for alleged mismanagement, excessive redactions, and lack of transparency in releasing key files. The controversy intensified with reports of a congressional subpoena and internal dissatisfaction within the administration. Trump’s decision reflects growing pressure to ensure accountability in high-profile investigations. Her dismissal marks a significant leadership change in the Justice Department, as scrutiny over the Epstein case and its handling continues to raise political and legal concerns. (PC: X)

Iran has intensified its military actions in the ongoing Middle East conflict by targeting key US-linked assets. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for striking an Amazon Web Services (AWS) data center in Bahrain, causing reported disruption to critical cloud services. Simultaneously, Iran launched a drone attack on US fighter jets stationed at the Al-Azraq airbase in Jordan, marking a direct escalation against American forces. These coordinated strikes highlight Iran’s expanding retaliation strategy, raising fears of a broader regional conflict involving multiple countries and strategic infrastructure. (PC: Reuters)

US military has drafted a high-risk plan under President Donald Trump to seize Iran’s enriched uranium from fortified nuclear sites like Isfahan and Natanz. The proposal could deploy hundreds or thousands of troops inside Iran, making it an unprecedented ground operation. The mission involves locating and extracting over 1,000 pounds of radioactive material, some buried under debris after prior strikes. Experts warn the operation would be slow, technically complex, and extremely dangerous, with high risks of escalation. Former officials say international inspectors are better suited for such tasks, but that would require a ceasefire and cooperation from Tehran amid ongoing conflict and rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East region today. (PC: News 18)

Emmanuel Macron strongly criticised Donald Trump over personal remarks targeting him and his wife, calling them “neither elegant nor up to standard.” Trump had mocked Macron during a private lunch, referencing a past viral video and questioning France’s support in the Iran conflict while labelling NATO a “paper tiger.” The comments triggered rare cross-party backlash in France, with leaders condemning the tone amid global tensions. Macron also warned against military action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, stressing diplomacy with Iran as the only viable solution to avoid prolonged conflict and risks to global shipping. (PC: India Today)

Iran sharply rejected Donald Trump’s claims of weakening its military, warning the war will continue until the United States faces “permanent humiliation, regret, and surrender.” A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said US intelligence underestimates Iran’s “vast strategic capabilities,” including missile systems, drones, and air defences. Tehran accused Washington of initiating aggression and vowed intensified retaliation. The statement counters Trump’s assertion that Iran’s navy, air force, and leadership have been largely destroyed. As both sides escalate rhetoric, the conflict shows no immediate signs of de-escalation, raising concerns over prolonged instability in the region. (PC: X)

India has been invited by the United Kingdom to join urgent international talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route disrupted by ongoing conflict. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is attending the virtual meeting alongside representatives from over 30 countries. The discussions focus on restoring safe maritime navigation and stabilising global energy supplies, as the strait handles nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil trade. The initiative reflects growing global concern over rising fuel prices and trade disruptions. India’s participation highlights its strategic interest in securing energy routes and maintaining stability in global shipping corridors. (PC: Reuters)

The United States military has prepared a risky plan to seize Iran’s uranium, reports said. The plan may send hundreds or thousands of troops into Iran. It targets nuclear sites like Isfahan and Natanz. Officials said the mission would be complex and dangerous. A former operator said, “It is slow, meticulous and extremely deadly.” The operation aims to secure over 1,000 pounds of radioactive material. Donald Trump has signalled a stronger approach toward Iran. However, experts warned of serious risks. Some said the International Atomic Energy Agency is better suited to handle such material under a ceasefire. (PC: AP)

Emmanuel Macron said it is “unrealistic” to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by military force. He spoke after Donald Trump urged allies to help secure the route. In a national address, Trump said US goals against Iran were “nearing completion”. He warned strikes would continue “extremely hard” for two to three weeks. Iran’s army chief replied that no invader would survive if US troops entered the country. The conflict has also involved Hezbollah attacks near Israel. Oil prices rose after the speech, as markets reacted to uncertainty over the key shipping route. (PC: The Indian Express)

Iranian commander Seyed Majid Moosavi criticised US remarks about pushing Iran “back to the Stone Age”. He was replying to US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Moosavi said, “It is you who are taking your soldiers to their graves.” He added that a country with a “250-year history” was threatening a civilisation over 6,000 years old. The exchange comes amid the ongoing conflict between United States and Iran. Fighting began after US-Israel strikes in February. Iran has since targeted US-linked assets and disrupted the Strait of Hormuz. (PC: NDTV)