The Middle East crisis intensified after the United States launched a new wave of airstrikes targeting more than 80 Iranian military sites near the Strait of Hormuz, citing recent attacks on commercial vessels. Iran condemned the strikes as a violation of the fragile peace agreement and responded with missile and drone attacks on U.S. military bases in Bahrain and Kuwait. The renewed hostilities have raised fears of a broader regional conflict, disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, and pushed global oil prices higher. Diplomatic efforts continue, but prospects for de-escalation remain uncertain. 

The United States launched a new wave of airstrikes on more than 80 Iranian military targets after attacks on commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, further shattering the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran. Iran accused the US of violating the peace agreement and vowed a "crushing response," later launching missiles and drones at US military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait while claiming to have downed an American drone. The renewed escalation comes amid the funeral ceremonies for Iran's late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, intensifying regional tensions and raising fears of wider conflict across the Middle East. 

US authorities have charged jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his close aide Goldy Brar with allegedly ordering the 2023 killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, Canada, as part of a sweeping crackdown on transnational organised crime. The charges were announced under “Operation Hard Ball”, a US-led investigation targeting three Punjab-based criminal syndicates. A total of 37 individuals have been indicted, with 24 arrests made across the US, Canada and Europe. The indictment also names Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, alleging his network operated across multiple countries. Investigators say the gangs were involved in murder, extortion, drug trafficking and arms offences, while US agencies seized large quantities of narcotics, cash and firearms during coordinated raids. (PC: X)

The United States launched a series of military strikes on Iran after accusing Tehran of attacking three commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, sharply escalating tensions despite an existing ceasefire. US Central Command said the strikes aimed to impose “heavy costs” for attacks on civilian shipping, calling Iran’s actions dangerous and unjustified. Iran retaliated by targeting US Navy warships in the Sea of Oman. Explosions were reported across Kharg Island, Qeshm Island, Sirik and Bandar Abbas, with Iranian media reporting injuries after projectiles struck commercial and fishing facilities. Authorities said no civilian deaths had been reported, though several people were wounded as the conflict intensified.

The FBI has launched a major international crackdown on the Lawrence Bishnoi gang under "Operation Hard Ball," arresting 24 suspects after conducting more than 50 coordinated raids across the United States, Canada and Europe. Investigators also charged 37 people in connection with the alleged transnational criminal network. Authorities seized firearms, illegal drugs and large amounts of cash during the operation. Officials say the gang is linked to organised crime, extortion and violent offences affecting communities in North America and India. The operation is one of the largest international actions taken against the Lawrence Bishnoi network to date. (PC: India Today)

A 3 commercial tanker was hit in the Strait of Hormuz within 24 hours, increasing concerns over the safety of one of the world's busiest shipping routes. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the vessel suffered structural damage after being struck by an unidentified projectile. No injuries were reported. Earlier, a Qatari LNG carrier and a Saudi-flagged oil tanker were also damaged. Qatar blamed Iran for the attack on its LNG ship, but no group has claimed responsibility. The incidents come despite a temporary US-Iran ceasefire and renewed efforts to restart peace talks. (PC: Reuters)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will ask NATO leaders for more air defence systems at the summit in Turkey. His appeal comes after deadly Russian missile attacks hit Kyiv twice in one week, killing more than 50 civilians. Zelensky said Ukraine needs more Patriot missiles to protect its cities from ballistic attacks. He will also meet US President Donald Trump to discuss the war and ways to achieve peace. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte urged allies to increase support for Ukraine. Zelensky said stronger air defences are needed to save lives and strengthen Ukraine's position in peace talks. (PC: Getty Images)

A cattle herder in Gujarat's Bhavnagar district survived a terrifying lioness attack after remaining calm while pinned to the ground for nearly 30 minutes. A viral video shows the injured man gently petting the lioness as it stood over him, though officials have not confirmed that this caused the animal to let him go. Villagers tried to drive the lioness away by shouting and throwing stones, but it eventually walked off on its own. The man was rushed to a hospital with injuries. Forest officials are investigating the incident and have urged caution in lion habitats.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will urge NATO leaders to provide more Patriot air defence systems during the alliance's summit in Ankara after recent Russian missile attacks killed more than 50 civilians in Kyiv. Zelensky is also expected to meet US President Donald Trump, arguing that Russia's intensified strikes show weakness rather than strength. While Ukraine has increased long-range drone attacks on Russian military and energy targets, Kyiv says it urgently needs stronger air defences to intercept ballistic missiles and protect civilians from escalating attacks. (PC: BBC)

U.S. President Donald Trump has said a resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war is "getting closer than people realise" after holding separate talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump said he will continue discussions on the conflict during the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, expressing optimism about peace efforts. His remarks come despite continued Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine. The Kremlin confirmed ongoing contact with Washington, while Zelensky has also signalled hope that diplomatic efforts could move forward. No breakthrough or formal peace agreement has been announced yet. (PC: NDTV)