US journalist Shelly Kittleson was abducted in Baghdad, Iraq in broad daylight. Armed men stopped her vehicle on a busy road and forced her out. They then escaped from the scene. Iraq’s Interior Ministry confirmed the incident and launched a search operation. Security forces tracked a suspect vehicle, which later overturned during a chase. One suspect has been arrested, while others remain on the run. No group has claimed responsibility so far. A video of the incident is spreading online. Kittleson is known for reporting from conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan. Investigations are ongoing to find her and catch those involved.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it will target US companies in West Asia from April 1. The warning comes after alleged killings of Iranian leaders. The IRGC named 18 firms, including Microsoft, Google, Apple, Tesla and Boeing. It said their offices could be attacked if more strikes happen. The group warned employees to leave workplaces to stay safe. Many of these companies have offices in the UAE. The IRGC also said tech and AI firms help military operations. The threat follows a recent airstrike that killed an Iranian military official. Tensions between Iran, the US and Israel remain high. (PC: Reuters)

American journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in Baghdad, Iraq on Tuesday evening. She was taken near a hotel on al-Saadoun Street by unknown men. A video shows her being forced into a car. Iraq’s interior ministry confirmed the incident and said security forces are searching for the kidnappers. One suspect has been arrested after a vehicle linked to the case crashed during a chase. Kittleson is known for reporting from conflict areas like Iraq and Afghanistan. She was in Iraq covering the impact of the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Her work has appeared in major international publications over the years. (PC: X/@shellykittleson)

John Healey announced deployment of additional UK troops and air defence systems to the Middle East, raising total personnel to about 1,000 across Gulf nations and Cyprus. Systems, including Sky Sabre and other missile defences, will be stationed in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait, while Typhoon jets remain active in Qatar. The UK maintains a defensive stance against Iran, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer ruling out ground involvement. The move follows escalating regional tensions and aims to protect allies and interests while supporting broader international efforts to stabilise the conflict. (PC: Reuters)

Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly in Iran and avoiding public appearances, according to Russia’s envoy, dismissing rumours he was in Russia for treatment. Mojtaba assumed leadership after his father Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes that began the war on February 28. While statements have been issued, he has not been publicly seen, fuelling speculation about his condition. US claims suggest he was injured, though Tehran denies this. Intelligence agencies continue monitoring his whereabouts as the conflict intensifies, with no ceasefire in sight despite ongoing diplomatic signals and escalating military actions. (PC: HT)

Pete Hegseth said US troops involved in Operation Epic Fury are prepared for a prolonged conflict and are seeking more powerful weapons, including larger bombs, following his undisclosed Gulf visit. Speaking alongside Dan Caine, he highlighted troops’ focus on “legacy” and determination to finish the war. Hegseth declined to clarify potential ground troop deployment but stressed strategic ambiguity. He claimed Iran has limited military options, with decisive days ahead. Despite escalating operations, he confirmed ongoing negotiations to end the conflict, while warning of expanded US strikes if a ceasefire and reopening of key routes are not achieved.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that major US firms including Microsoft, Apple, Alphabet, Intel and Boeing could be treated as legitimate targets amid escalating West Asia tensions. The warning follows alleged US-Israeli actions, with Iran claiming these firms support operations through ICT and AI. Authorities advised evacuations within a one-kilometre radius of potential sites, with retaliatory actions threatened from April 1. Meanwhile, US officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, signalled critical days ahead, emphasising ending the conflict on US terms as tensions between Iran and Washington intensify. (PC: News18)

Donald Trump warned countries facing fuel shortages due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to either buy oil from the United States or secure supplies themselves. Criticising allies like the United Kingdom for refusing to join military action against Iran, he said the US would no longer guarantee support. The blockade, affecting nearly 20% of global oil supply, has driven prices above $100 per barrel. Trump reiterated threats against Iran’s energy infrastructure while reports suggest he may end the conflict without reopening the route. Iran continues rejecting US demands and escalating military actions. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump has urged countries hit by fuel shortages during the Iran war to rely on the US or act on their own. The crisis follows the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supply. Trump said nations unable to get fuel should “buy from the U.S.” or “go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.” He criticised allies for not supporting US actions against Iran. The conflict continues with fresh strikes, including an attack on Isfahan. Trump also claimed Iran has been “decimated” as tensions remain high. (PC: HT)

Iran has warned of strong retaliation as the war with the US and Israel enters its second month. A spokesperson of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said Iran’s forces will “cut off legs of any aggressor” entering the country. Reports said Russian Chechen units are ready if a US ground war begins. US forces struck a major ammunition site in Isfahan using bunker-buster bombs, triggering more explosions. Fighting between Iran and Israel continues. US President Donald Trump warned of strikes on Iran’s energy sites if talks fail. Iran called US peace proposals unrealistic. (PC: The Indian Express)