Iran has defended India and China as “cradles of civilisation” after Donald Trump referred to them as “hellholes” while quoting a letter on immigration policy. Tehran’s response comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and ongoing disagreements between the United States and Iran. The remark has sparked diplomatic reactions, with Iran emphasising the historical and cultural significance of both nations. The exchange reflects broader strains in global politics, particularly around migration debates and rhetoric from Washington. Analysts view the episode as part of a wider narrative battle, where countries seek to shape international perception and assert their standing amid escalating diplomatic friction and strategic rivalry. (PC: X)

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released footage showing its forces intercepting two cargo vessels, including the India-bound Epaminondas, in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran claims the ships violated maritime rules and tampered with navigation systems, prompting their detention and escort to Iranian waters. The video shows armed boats approaching the vessels, but analysis by BBC Verify suggests it may have been filmed hours after the reported attack. Some visuals also raised doubts about staging, including pre-opened access points on one ship. Greek authorities denied seizure claims, while tracking data indicated the vessel continued moving before going dark, adding uncertainty.

US President Donald Trump described India as a “great country” led by a “very good friend,” shortly after facing backlash for reposting a controversial rant that referred to India and other nations as “hell holes.” The remark originated from a podcast by commentator Michael Savage, which also included offensive claims about immigrants. Trump’s contrasting statements triggered criticism and diplomatic sensitivity, with India’s Ministry of External Affairs acknowledging the issue cautiously. The episode highlights tensions between political rhetoric and international relations, even as Trump publicly emphasized friendly ties with India’s leadership. (PC: NDTV)

A Lebanese Member of Parliament has accused Israel of showing “no goodwill” following the killing of journalist Amal Khalil in an airstrike in southern Lebanon, intensifying political outrage. Khalil, reporting near al-Tiri, was killed after multiple Israeli strikes hit her location and a house where she sought shelter, while another journalist was seriously injured. Lebanese officials and media groups condemned the incident as a potential violation of international law, alleging rescue efforts were obstructed. Israel denied deliberately targeting journalists, stating the strikes were aimed at Hezbollah-linked positions. The incident has further strained fragile ceasefire efforts and heightened tensions across the region. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump has ordered the Navy to “shoot and kill” any boats found laying mines in the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing US-Iran conflict. The directive comes amid rising maritime clashes, including ship seizures by Iran and US actions against suspected oil-smuggling vessels. Trump also instructed a major intensification of mine-clearing operations to secure the vital waterway, through which about 20% of global oil passes. Officials warn that clearing mines could take months, raising fears of prolonged disruption to global energy supplies and higher fuel prices worldwide. 

Nawaf Salam accused Israel Defense Forces of war crimes after an air strike killed journalist Amal Khalil in southern Lebanon. Photographer Zeinab Faraj was injured. Lebanese officials said the journalists were hit while taking shelter after an earlier strike. They also alleged an ambulance was targeted. Salam said, “Targeting journalists… constitutes described war crimes.” The IDF denied targeting journalists and said it struck vehicles linked to Hezbollah posing a threat. The Committee to Protect Journalists said it was “outraged” and raised concerns over repeated strikes. (PC: BBC)

Iran has released video showing masked commandos seizing two cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz, including one bound for India. The vessels, MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, were intercepted by forces linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The footage shows armed troops approaching in speedboats and boarding using ladders. The India-bound ship suffered damage after gunfire and grenades, though no crew were injured. Iran said the ships lacked “required authorisation” and had “manipulated navigation systems”. The seizures came after recent US action against Iranian vessels, raising tensions in the region.

The United States said there is no fixed timeline to end the conflict with Iran. The White House said President Donald Trump has not set any new deadline for a ceasefire. Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said reopening the Strait of Hormuz is “not possible” due to repeated ceasefire breaches by the US and Israel. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the US blockade and “breach of commitments” are blocking talks. Iran also said it attacked three cargo ships and seized two. With both sides firm, the situation remains at a stalemate. (PC: BBC)

An AI-generated video mocking Donald Trump has gone viral in Iran, highlighting tensions over delayed US-Iran talks. Shared by an Iranian consulate, the clip shows a caricature of Trump waiting for Iranian negotiators who never arrive, growing increasingly frustrated. It culminates with a message telling him to “shut up” before he extends the ceasefire again. The satire reflects Tehran’s scepticism about Washington’s intentions, especially after Trump prolonged the ceasefire citing Pakistan’s request. Meanwhile, Iran has not confirmed participation in fresh negotiations, accusing the US of inconsistency. The episode underscores how digital propaganda and humour are increasingly shaping narratives around high-stakes geopolitical standoffs.

Nepal’s new government led by Balen Shah is facing early instability, with two ministers resigning within 26 days, raising concerns over governance credibility. Home Minister Sudan Gurung stepped down citing accountability issues, while Labour Minister Dipak Kumar Sah resigned earlier over alleged misuse of office. The developments have dented the reformist image of the Rastriya Swatantra Party. Meanwhile, strict enforcement of customs duties on goods from India has triggered anger in border regions, impacting daily livelihoods. Rising fuel prices following global tensions have worsened inflation, intensifying public dissatisfaction. Together, political instability, economic strain, and policy backlash are mounting pressure on Nepal’s new leadership.  (PC: Reuters)