The United States is reportedly considering withdrawing from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) amid growing rifts with European allies over support for its actions in the Iran conflict, a move that could weaken Western security ties and accelerate a shift toward a multipolar world. A US exit from the 75‑year‑old military alliance would force Europe to rethink its defence strategy and reduce reliance on Washington. Analysts suggest that this geopolitical shake‑up could present strategic opportunities for India, which has been strengthening defence and security partnerships with European nations and building its defence manufacturing capabilities. A weakening U.S. role might allow India to expand its global influence. (PC: AFP)

US President Donald Trump has warned Iran to “make a deal before it is too late” following fresh airstrikes that targeted critical infrastructure in the country. A major highway bridge linking Tehran to Karaj—reportedly one of the tallest in the Middle East—was hit, causing significant damage and casualties. Trump shared footage of the strike, claiming the bridge was destroyed and hinting at further attacks. The escalation comes amid an intensifying US-Israel military campaign against Iran, with tensions rising across the region and increasing pressure on Tehran to negotiate. (PC: Reuters)

In a prime-time address, U.S. President Donald Trump defended ongoing military actions against Iran, claiming significant damage to its military capabilities while warning of further escalation if demands are unmet. However, he offered no clear timeline for ending the conflict, creating uncertainty among allies and markets. Trump avoided firm commitments on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and urged other nations to take responsibility. Despite declaring progress, Iran’s leadership and nuclear capabilities remain partly intact. The speech also impacted global markets and domestic politics, with falling approval ratings and rising fuel prices adding to public concern. 

French President Emmanuel Macron sharply criticised Donald Trump for inconsistent messaging on the Iran conflict and NATO, urging greater seriousness and stability in global leadership. Speaking during a South Korea visit, Macron warned that frequent contradictions weaken trust and alliances. He defended NATO, accusing Trump of undermining it by questioning US commitment. Macron also rejected military solutions like forcibly reopening the Strait of Hormuz, calling them unrealistic and risky. Emphasising diplomacy, he said lasting peace with Iran requires negotiations, not escalation, as tensions continue to strain transatlantic relations. (PC: The Guardian)

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)