India has withdrawn its bid to host the 2028 UN climate summit (COP33), the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the decision followed consideration of multiple factors, without detailing specifics. Despite stepping back, India reaffirmed its commitment to global climate goals under the Paris Agreement. Officials emphasized that India remains among G20 nations that have fully met their Paris targets and will continue advancing its green agenda. The government highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance. The move comes even as India continues to engage in international climate cooperation and positions itself as a key player in global sustainability efforts.

Amir Hamza, co-founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba with Hafiz Saeed, was shot by unidentified attackers in Lahore and is in critical condition. The attack occurred outside a news channel office and marks the second attempt on his life within a year. Born in 1959 in Gujranwala, Hamza is linked to multiple terror activities, including the 2005 IISc Bengaluru attack. A US-designated terrorist, he held key leadership roles in LeT, overseeing propaganda and outreach. Despite distancing himself in 2018 and forming Jaish-e-Manqafa, he remains a globally sanctioned figure with influence in extremist networks. (PC: NDTV)

Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Macron discussed the escalating West Asia crisis, stressing urgent restoration of safety and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. In a phone call, both leaders agreed to work closely to support regional peace and stability. The Strait, a critical route for global oil and gas shipments, remains disrupted amid ongoing tensions. The conversation comes as diplomatic efforts intensify following a fragile two-week US-Iran ceasefire. Talks mediated by Pakistan have yet to yield results, though another round may begin soon. The conflict has killed over 4,000 people across West Asia, mainly in Iran and Lebanon.

The United States said it will not extend sanctions waivers that allowed countries like India to buy oil from Russia and Iran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, “We will not be renewing the general license on Russian oil.” The waiver had allowed Indian refiners to buy oil already loaded on ships. It was introduced for 30 days to stabilise global prices during the Iran conflict. India was a major buyer under this relief. The move comes despite requests from Asian countries to extend the waiver. US lawmakers had criticised the policy for helping Moscow. (PC: HT)

Russia has confirmed that President Vladimir Putin will visit India for the upcoming BRICS summit, signalling a major diplomatic engagement amid shifting global alignments. The Kremlin’s announcement, despite dates yet to be finalised, underscores the summit’s strategic importance as emerging economies deepen cooperation. The visit is expected to draw global attention, reflecting evolving geopolitical dynamics and partnerships within BRICS. With key leaders set to participate, the gathering is likely to address economic coordination, geopolitical tensions, and multilateral cooperation, positioning the summit as a critical platform in an increasingly multipolar world order. (PC: X)

The United States will not renew sanctions waivers allowing limited purchases of Russian and Iranian oil, affecting buyers including India. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the licence covering shipments loaded before March 11 has expired. Washington also warned of secondary sanctions on countries continuing Iranian oil imports, amid efforts to intensify economic pressure on Iran. Disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz have already strained supply chains. While India maintains diversified sourcing and adequate reserves, tighter restrictions could pressure markets. The move signals a shift toward aggressive financial measures alongside diplomacy as both sides prepare for further negotiations. (PC: India Today)

Airfares across India have surged over 40% in April, driven by escalating tensions in West Asia that are disrupting global aviation operations. Key domestic routes like Delhi–Mumbai, Bengaluru–Delhi, and Mumbai–Chennai have seen steep fare increases, with ticket prices rising significantly compared to last year. Airlines are facing multiple pressures, including higher aviation turbine fuel (ATF) costs, flight cancellations to Gulf destinations, war-risk insurance premiums, and longer flight paths due to restricted airspace. These combined factors have sharply increased operational expenses, which are being passed on to passengers. As geopolitical instability persists, travellers are likely to face sustained high fares during the peak summer travel season. (PC: X)

An Iranian oil tanker carrying about 2 million barrels of crude has arrived near Gujarat without a declared buyer. The vessel, Derya, has stayed close to the coast with little movement since Tuesday, according to tracking data. Sources said Indian refiners are unlikely to buy the oil as it was loaded after the US waiver cut-off date. Buying it could risk fresh sanctions. The tanker is linked to Iran’s National Iranian Tanker Company. The US has also begun a blockade of Iranian ports after talks failed. Industry sources said the cargo may struggle to find buyers, except possibly in China. (PC: X)

A planned meeting between Sergio Gor and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu was abruptly cancelled by Malé in March, with the Maldivian side proposing a private meeting later, which Gor declined. The envoy left without meeting Muizzu despite engaging other officials. The no-show is reportedly linked to Muizzu’s opposition to US-Israel actions involving Iran and his reluctance to face external pressure. Domestically, Muizzu faces political setbacks after electoral losses and a rejected referendum. Meanwhile, the Maldives is grappling with financial strain, seeking loan relief from India amid growing strategic ties with China.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor stated that India can play a role in efforts to end the ongoing Iran–Middle East conflict, but emphasized that the decision rests entirely with New Delhi. The United States has welcomed involvement from any country willing to support peace, reflecting a broader push for global mediation. Donald Trump also supports inclusive diplomatic participation. The remarks come amid stalled US-Iran talks and tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, India continues diplomatic engagement with global partners, balancing neutrality while exploring avenues to contribute to de-escalation efforts. (PC: X)