UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain will not be drawn into the Iran-US-Israel conflict while announcing a 35-nation meeting to address the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. The talks, to be hosted by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, will focus on diplomatic and political measures to restore navigation, ensure safety of vessels, and resume movement of vital commodities. Starmer warned the war’s economic impact will affect the UK but said the country is prepared to withstand the disruption. He emphasised closer cooperation with European allies and reaffirmed commitment to NATO amid rising global tensions and energy market instability. (PC: Reuters)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the Iran war shows the need for “closer ties with Europe”. He announced a new summit with EU leaders. Starmer said the UK is “well-placed to weather” the crisis, but warned it “will not be easy”. He stressed the UK will not join the war. “This is not our war,” he said. He added the country remains committed to NATO. Starmer said stronger EU links will help security and the economy. Critics asked what the UK may give up. Rising energy prices remain a major concern for people.

A Russian military plane crashed in Crimea, killing 29 people on board. The aircraft lost contact during a “routine flight”, officials said. Wreckage was later found after a search. Russia’s defence ministry blamed a “technical failure” and ruled out any external attack. The plane was an Antonov An-26, a Soviet-era transport aircraft. It carried seven crew members and 23 passengers. Authorities have opened an inquiry into flight safety. Ukraine has not commented on the crash. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 and remains a conflict zone. Fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces continues in the region. (PC: AirTeamImages)

The United States is considering two ground assault plans in Iran, awaiting approval from Donald Trump. According to a report, one plan targets Kharg Island, a key oil hub. Another aims to seize “highly enriched uranium” linked to Iran’s nuclear programme. Officials warned both options are “highly risky”. Around 7,000 US troops are being moved to the region. Special forces are also on standby. The report said such action could escalate the conflict. It may not end the war or reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has not made a final decision yet, as tensions remain high.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has reportedly emerged as the de facto authority amid a leadership vacuum following the absence of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and tensions with President Masoud Pezeshkian. Reports suggest a military council of IRGC commanders is making key decisions, sidelining civilian leadership and blocking presidential appointments. Limited access to Mojtaba and lack of communication have deepened uncertainty over authority. The IRGC, already controlling military operations and the Strait of Hormuz, has expanded influence across governance and security. The situation reflects an intensifying power struggle, raising concerns over institutional balance and the future of Iran’s political structure. (PC: India Today)

Iran has said it will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz despite pressure from Donald Trump. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said the strait is under its “full and decisive control”. It called Trump’s statements “ridiculous displays”. Trump had said the US may consider a ceasefire if the strait is “open, free, and clear”. Iran denied seeking any ceasefire. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, “No proposal was made.” He added that Iran will continue the conflict until its demands are met. Iran also said only regional countries will decide the strait’s future. Tensions remain high.

The Iranian Consulate in Mumbai mocked Donald Trump for claiming Iran had a “new regime president” seeking a ceasefire, calling the remark inaccurate and “April Fools’ Day” irony. It clarified that Masoud Pezeshkian remains in office and leadership is decided through elections, not social media. Trump had said the “new president” approached the US for a ceasefire tied to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran reiterated no such proposal exists, with officials maintaining that the country will continue defending itself amid escalating conflict. The exchange underscores rising tensions, conflicting narratives, and ongoing mistrust as war rhetoric intensifies between Washington and Tehran across multiple fronts.

Sheikh Hasina has asked Bangladesh’s tribunal to set aside her death sentence as “legally void,” citing serious due process violations and demanding a fair trial under international standards. Through her London-based lawyers, she urged fresh proceedings with full disclosure of evidence, legal representation, and an impartial court. Convicted in absentia by the International Crimes Tribunal over the 2024 protest crackdown, Hasina argued the process lacked judicial independence and showed prosecutorial bias. Living in exile in India since her government’s fall, she also called for protection of Awami League members and compliance with global human rights obligations. (PC: AFP)

Donald Trump claimed Iran sought a ceasefire and said the US would consider it only if the Strait of Hormuz is reopened and secure, warning strikes would continue until then. Tehran rejected the claim, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stating no proposal was made and insisting the war will continue until the “aggressor is punished” and compensation paid. The conflict began on February 28 after US-Israeli strikes killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with regional attacks, escalating the war. Trump also hinted the conflict could end within weeks despite ongoing strikes and mounting tensions.

US President Donald Trump said American forces could leave Iran “pretty quickly” but may return for limited strikes if needed. He said, “We’re going to be out pretty quickly.” He added the US could come back for “spot hits” if threats remain. Trump also said Iran would not be able to build a nuclear weapon after US strikes. He linked any ceasefire to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran denied direct talks and rejected US claims. Trump is expected to outline the next steps in a national address. (PC: India Today)