Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, Iran has permitted India and four other “friendly nations” to pass through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route. This selective access comes as Iran tightens control over the waterway following military tensions with the US and its allies. The move ensures continued energy supply for India, which heavily depends on Gulf oil and gas. However, passage is conditional on coordination with Iranian authorities and compliance with security rules. The decision highlights India’s diplomatic balancing amid the crisis while raising concerns over global energy stability. (PC: Getty Images)

Alireza Tangsiri, a senior commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy, has been killed in a reported US-Israeli strike near Bandar Abbas, Israeli media said. Israel linked him to Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. There has been no official comment from Iran or the Israeli military. Tangsiri led the IRGC navy since 2018 and played a key role in restricting ship movement. Around 20% of global oil trade passes through the strait in normal times. Recent data shows crossings have dropped sharply, with only limited vessels allowed through under Iran’s control. (PC: X)

Donald Trump has warned Iran to move quickly on peace talks, saying “before it is too late.” He claimed Iranian negotiators are “begging” for a deal, despite Tehran saying it is only reviewing the US proposal. Trump said Iran has been “militarily obliterated” and urged it to “get serious soon.” The comments come as both sides send mixed signals on talks. Iran has already rejected a US-backed 15-point plan. Fighting continues across the region with heavy casualties reported. Efforts to reach a ceasefire remain uncertain as strikes and tensions continue. (PC: X)

The Pentagon is considering redirecting weapons meant for Ukraine to the Iran conflict, according to reports. The US is facing heavy costs and fast depletion of key missiles like Patriot and THAAD. Officials say there is “a real live discussion” on the move. The war has cost about $2 billion a day. US stocks were already low before the conflict. Volodymyr Zelensky said Middle East forces used over 800 Patriot missiles in three days. Donald Trump has also reduced direct support to Ukraine, raising concerns over its air defence capacity. (PC: HT)

Donald Trump said Iran’s leaders are “afraid” to admit they are in talks with the US. He claimed that if they accept it publicly, “they’ll be killed by their own people.”   Iran has denied any negotiations with Washington. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected reports of dialogue.   An Iranian official has listed five conditions to end the conflict. Reports also said Tehran received a 15-point proposal from the US.   The White House said Trump prefers peace but is “prepared to unleash hell.” Attacks continue in the region, with casualties reported in Abu Dhabi. (PC: BBC)

Kasim Khan, son of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council and raised concerns about his father’s imprisonment. He said Imran Khan has been held in a “solitary confinement cell” meant for death row inmates. He added, “We ask this council… to end this persecution immediately.” Kasim also spoke about “rising intolerance” and a “systematic campaign” against dissent in Pakistan. Imran Khan has been in jail since 2023 on charges he denies. His case has drawn global attention, with concerns over his health and prison conditions continuing to grow.

A prolonged conflict in the Middle East could change global air travel. Key hubs like Dubai International Airport have faced major disruption. Flights were grounded and many passengers were stranded after airspace closures.   Airlines such as Emirates and Qatar Airways have cut services. Fuel supply has also been hit after issues around the Strait of Hormuz. Prices have risen sharply.   Experts warn the Gulf hub model may suffer if the crisis continues. One analyst said, “The longer it goes on, the more passengers will find alternate ways to fly.”   Fewer flights and reduced capacity could lead to higher fares and longer routes worldwide. (PC: BBC)

Alireza Tangsiri, head of Iran’s elite naval force, has been killed, Israel said. He led the naval wing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and played a key role in actions around the Strait of Hormuz.   Israel said the strike targeted senior military leadership. There was no immediate confirmation from Iran.   Tangsiri was seen as central to Iran’s naval strategy in the Persian Gulf. His reported death could affect Iran’s control over key shipping routes.   The Strait of Hormuz is vital for global oil supply. Any change in command may impact security and movement in the region. (PC: India Today)

Sarah Mullally made history on March 25 as the first woman to become Archbishop of Canterbury. She was formally installed at Canterbury Cathedral before about 2,000 people, including Prince William and Catherine.   The ceremony began with her knocking on the cathedral door, following tradition. She said, “I am sent as archbishop to serve you.”   Mullally, a former nurse, succeeds Justin Welby, who resigned after an abuse scandal. She has promised to make the church safer and support victims.   She is now the spiritual leader of 85 million Anglicans worldwide and the 106th person to hold the role. (PC: Euro News)

India is set to receive its first gas shipment from Iran as a tanker docks in Mangalore. The move comes after the US allowed limited sale of Iranian oil already at sea. Analysts say India may increase purchases to manage fuel shortages. Disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has hit supplies and raised prices. “India could re-emerge as a key demand centre,” said analyst Sumit Ritolia. Iranian oil and LPG cargoes nearby may help ease short-term supply gaps. However, risks remain due to ongoing conflict and possible sanctions. (PC: The Telegraph)