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)

US President Donald Trump is looking to use the upcoming Artemis II mission as a key moment for national unity and global competition. The mission will send four astronauts towards the Moon, marking the first deep space crewed flight since 1972. Officials say it is a step towards a permanent lunar base and future Mars missions. Trump has linked the effort to US strength and leadership. NASA chief Jared Isaacman said the goal is not just to visit but to stay. The mission also comes amid rising rivalry with China over space resources and influence. (PC: BBC)

Italy has refused to allow the United States to use its air base in Sicily for operations linked to Iran, according to Reuters. The move comes days after Spain denied similar access to US aircraft. Italy’s decision reflects growing reluctance among European allies to join the conflict. Reports said European Union nations do not want direct military involvement in the Iran war. The refusal is seen as a setback for the US as it seeks support from NATO partners. It may also add to tensions within the administration of US President Donald Trump over the handling of the conflict. (PC: India Today)