Iran says it is ready to fight for “at least six months” as the US weighs an early exit. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran is well prepared and not “begging for a deal”. He told Al Jazeera the country will defend itself “for as long as required”.   Trump has suggested the US may end its role in two to three weeks. Iran denied accepting any US peace terms. Araghchi said no reply has been given to a reported American plan. He stressed Iran wants a full end to the war, not a ceasefire. He also said “trust is at zero” after past US actions. (PC: X)

The United Arab Emirates may join the US and its allies in the Iran conflict, a report said. The UAE is considering a military role to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This comes as Iran continues attacks on Gulf states. The report said the UAE is also pushing for a UN resolution to support action. Even if it fails, officials say the country may still help. Support could include mine clearance and escorting ships. The move marks a shift from earlier efforts to mediate. Other Gulf nations are also changing their stance, but have not yet committed forces to the conflict.

Oracle Corporation has initiated a major wave of layoffs as part of a large-scale restructuring, with reports suggesting up to 30,000 employees could be affected globally. The move is aimed at cutting costs and reallocating resources toward aggressive investments in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure. The company, which had around 162,000 employees, is under financial pressure due to massive spending on AI data centres and related projects. Analysts estimate the layoffs could save billions in cash flow. The decision reflects a broader tech industry trend where companies are downsizing traditional roles while accelerating AI-driven growth strategies. (PC: Deccan Herald)

Fresh missile and drone attacks have intensified the Middle East crisis, with Kuwait and Bahrain reporting new strikes and alerts amid the ongoing Iran-linked conflict. A tanker off Qatar’s coast was damaged by an unidentified projectile, though no casualties or oil spill were reported. Meanwhile, Israel confirmed it intercepted a missile launched from Yemen, signalling the widening involvement of regional actors. The incidents come as Gulf nations face repeated threats and infrastructure attacks, raising fears over maritime security and energy supplies in the Strait of Hormuz. The escalating violence underscores a rapidly expanding regional conflict. (The Times of India)

Stephen Lewis, a prominent Canadian politician, diplomat, and global human rights advocate, has died at the age of 88 following a prolonged battle with cancer. He was widely known for his leadership of Ontario’s New Democratic Party and later as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations. Lewis gained international recognition for his passionate advocacy against HIV/AIDS in Africa and his criticism of global inequality. He also co-founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation to support affected communities. Canadian leaders praised his compassionate leadership and enduring commitment to social justice. (PC: AP) 

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that American forces could leave the Iran conflict within “two to three weeks” even without a formal agreement with Tehran, emphasizing that the U.S. does not need a diplomatic deal to end its involvement. He suggested other nations could assume responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to continue operations aimed at weakening Iran’s military and regional influence, highlighting a divergence between U.S. withdrawal plans and Israel’s strategy in the Middle East. (PC: AP)

A Russian Antonov An-26 military transport aircraft crashed in Crimea on March 31, 2026, killing all 29 people on board, including 23 passengers and six crew members. The aircraft reportedly lost contact during a routine flight before crashing into a cliff. Rescue teams later located the wreckage, confirming no survivors. Preliminary investigations by Russia’s Defence Ministry suggest a technical malfunction as the likely cause, ruling out external interference. A formal inquiry has been launched to determine the exact cause, raising concerns over aging military aircraft safety. (PC: X)

The United Arab Emirates is reportedly willing to join the US-led effort against Iran and help reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force, marking a major strategic shift. Officials say the UAE is pushing for a UN Security Council resolution to legitimise action, while also preparing to assist even without approval. The move follows continued Iranian attacks on Gulf states and aligns with Donald Trump’s call for allies to take greater responsibility. The UAE could support mine clearance, escort missions, and military operations using its bases and air force. If executed, it would become the first Gulf nation to directly enter the conflict. (PC: X)

Shelly Kittleson, an American reporter who has worked with BBC, Politico and Foreign Policy, was kidnapped in broad daylight in Baghdad. Armed men intercepted her vehicle in the Karrada district, forcibly abducting her and fleeing. Iraqi security forces launched immediate operations, arresting one suspect and seizing a vehicle after a pursuit. Authorities said efforts are ongoing to locate Kittleson and apprehend remaining perpetrators. The Interior Ministry emphasised its commitment to securing her release and holding those responsible accountable, highlighting concerns over journalist safety in conflict-affected regions. (PC: Times Now)

Donald Trump said US forces will leave Iran “very soon,” estimating a timeline of two to three weeks, even without a deal with Tehran. He claimed operations had largely neutralised Iran’s military capabilities and nuclear ambitions. The campaign began on February 28 after joint US-Israeli strikes, prompting Iran to close the Strait of Hormuz and disrupt global oil flows. Trump reiterated that reopening the strait is no longer a US responsibility, urging other nations to secure their own energy supplies. Despite ongoing airstrikes, Washington continues parallel diplomatic efforts. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said coming days will be decisive, while refusing to rule out further escalation or ground operations if required. (PC: Reuters)