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)

India has raised fuel costs amid the global energy shock triggered by the Iran war and disruption of the Strait of Hormuz. Prices of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders have surged sharply, rising by ₹195.50 in Delhi and ₹218 in Kolkata, reflecting escalating global oil prices. India, which imports a large share of its LPG much of it routed through Hormuz is directly impacted by supply disruptions and rising crude costs. The crisis has tightened supply chains and increased import costs, prompting domestic price adjustments. The development underscores how geopolitical tensions are rapidly translating into higher fuel expenses for businesses and consumers. (PC: X)

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned it will target American firms across West Asia from April 1 if Iranian leaders are killed in further “targeted assassinations.” The threat includes companies such as Microsoft, Apple, Alphabet, Intel, IBM, Tesla and Boeing. The IRGC stated attacks could begin at 8 pm Tehran time and urged employees to evacuate facilities. The warning extends beyond military-linked entities to commercial operations, including offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The escalation signals a widening conflict footprint, raising concerns over corporate security and civilian safety across the Gulf region. (PC: X)

Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is forging new alliances with key regional countries to counter Iran amid escalating conflict. Without naming partners, he indicated growing cooperation with parts of the Arab world driven by shared concerns over Iran’s military and nuclear ambitions. Netanyahu claimed recent operations have weakened Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities and reduced its regional influence, including that of Hezbollah. He described the outreach as part of a broader strategic shift following battlefield gains and suggested long-term changes in Iran’s regime could occur as tensions continue to reshape regional geopolitics.

Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran’s President, said the country has the will to end the war with the US and Israel but wants clear guarantees to stop future attacks. He said, “We possess the necessary will to end this conflict,” but stressed the need to prevent “repetition of aggression.” In a call with António Costa, he discussed possible conditions for peace. The US has warned of “severe consequences” if Iran does not engage. Costa urged Iran to de-escalate. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the coming days will be “decisive.” Talks are ongoing. (PC: X)