Dong Jun warned the US against interfering in China-Iran relations as Washington began its Hormuz blockade. He stressed the Strait of Hormuz remains vital for China, supplying about 40% of its oil and 30% of LNG needs, and should stay open. Donald Trump’s blockade targets vessels linked to Iranian ports but allows neutral transit. Beijing called for a ceasefire, blaming conflict for disruptions, and offered mediation. Rising tensions reflect broader US-China rivalry, with Washington warning of consequences if Beijing supports Tehran, including possible tariffs, while China denied arms supply allegations and defended its strategic interests. (PC: India Today)

Pope Leo XIV said he will continue speaking out against war despite criticism from Donald Trump, stressing that the message of the Gospel should not be “abused.” Speaking during a flight to Algiers, the pontiff avoided direct confrontation but underscored his commitment to peace advocacy. His remarks come as he begins an 11-day tour across African nations, including Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea marking his first major international trip since assuming office. The exchange highlights growing tensions between political rhetoric and religious messaging amid escalating global conflicts and geopolitical instability. (PC: Reuters)

Donald Trump escalated tensions by warning Iranian vessels approaching the US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would be “eliminated,” claiming much of Iran’s navy is destroyed but fast attack boats remain a threat. Shipping has nearly halted, intensifying fears of disruption in a route handling major global oil flows. Analysts warn supply shocks could reach up to 20%, far exceeding past crises, pushing prices potentially to $132 per barrel. Iran’s smaller, stealth-focused fleet continues to pose tactical risks. Global output cuts, refinery disruptions, and reduced exports have deepened volatility, raising concerns over inflation, economic slowdown, and a prolonged geopolitical flashpoint. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump is set to begin a naval blockade of Iranian ports at 10:00 ET. US Central Command said the move will cover “the entirety of the Iranian coastline.” Ships in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea may be stopped. A notice warned vessels without approval could face “interception, diversion, and capture.” Humanitarian supplies like food and medicine will be allowed after checks. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said any military vessels near the strait will be “dealt with severely.” It remains unclear how the situation will unfold. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump shared an AI-generated image showing a golden Trump Tower on the Moon. The post came after the Artemis II mission returned to Earth. The image shows a tall building with “TRUMP” written on it on the lunar surface. The post drew mixed reactions online. Some users criticised it, while others made jokes. Experts say such construction on the Moon is still far away. Human bases may take decades. Missions under NASA’s Artemis programme are still testing short visits and technology for future lunar stays.

Workers protesting for higher wages in Noida clashed with police after a crackdown on their sit-in. Roads were blocked and vehicles were damaged during the unrest. Many workers said they were beaten without reason. A woman protester said, “We just want fair wages… they beat us with no fault of ours.” She added that rising costs make survival hard on current pay. Workers are demanding salaries of ₹20,000 per month. Another protester asked, “Why are policemen beating women with sticks?” Police used tear gas and lathi charge to control the crowd as tensions grew in the industrial area.

Astronaut Christina Koch returned to Earth after the Artemis II mission and shared a video of her reunion with her dog, Sadie. The clip shows Sadie excitedly waiting at the door before running to Koch as she enters. Koch kneels down and calls out to her pet, which runs around and plays. Sharing the video, Koch wrote, “I’m still pretty sure I was the happier side of this reunion.” The video has crossed over a million views online. Many users reacted to the emotional moment after the astronauts safely landed in the Pacific Ocean. 

Donald Trump warned China of 50% tariffs if it supports Iran with weapons. He said, “they get a 50 per cent tariff” if such actions are confirmed. Reports claimed China may send air defence systems to Iran, but Beijing denied it. Trump also suggested China buy oil from the United States or Venezuela instead. He said the US could sell oil at lower prices. The warning adds to rising tensions between the US and China during the ongoing conflict.

The United States will begin blocking Iranian ports from 3pm UK time (7:30pm IST), Donald Trump said after failed talks with Iran. The US Navy will stop ships entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas. Iran called the move “ridiculous” and warned of strong action. Trump also attacked Pope Leo, calling him “weak on crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy” after criticism of the war. The Strait of Hormuz remains tense as shipments stay disrupted. Oil prices have crossed $100 again. Markets are reacting with uncertainty, and fears of wider conflict are rising. 

Talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad failed after key disagreements. Iran said a call from Benjamin Netanyahu to JD Vance changed the course of negotiations. Iranian officials claimed the call shifted focus and stalled progress. The US said Iran rejected its “final and best offer”. Issues included nuclear activity, frozen assets, and security in the Strait of Hormuz. Tensions remain high, and the fragile ceasefire is now uncertain. Both sides have signalled they may continue diplomatic efforts. (PC: AFP)