Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his valuable efforts to strengthen BRICS cooperation ahead of the group’s highly anticipated summit in New Delhi, beginning September 12. Addressing the BRICS Business Forum, Pezeshkian also thanked India’s government and people for graciously hosting the meeting. He said BRICS cooperation could be transformed into tangible economic realities through private-sector representatives, businesses and entrepreneurs. Pezeshkian criticised the use of sanctions and called for a BRICS environment where one country cannot harm another’s trade interests by manipulating financial institutions. His remarks came as he decried what he described as US “military aggression”, while emphasising stronger economic cooperation among BRICS members.

Saudi Arabia has faced an uncomfortable lesson about its defence partners as Iran-backed Houthis pummeled its military and oil facilities. Pakistan appeared to step back from its military threat against the Houthis, despite the much-touted Mecca defence pact, prompting Saudi Arabia to seek help from the United States. However, US President Donald Trump declined any direct US military action, dashing Riyadh’s hopes for American intervention. With Pakistan seemingly backing away and Washington staying out, Saudi Arabia is left confronting the Houthis with fewer partners willing to fight the Iran-backed militants. The developments have once again exposed the unpredictable nature of both Pakistan and the United States, leaving Saudi Arabia facing a difficult security challenge. (PC: India Today)

Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Lawrence has joined Instagram for the first time, quickly attracting millions of followers to her new account, @jlaw. In her debut Reel, Lawrence humorously warned that she would immediately leave the platform if users posted negative or mean comments. She reinforced the message through an Instagram Story, asking followers to avoid aggressive comments and jokingly referring to herself as “the baby.” Her unexpected social-media debut has generated significant attention among fans and fellow celebrities. The reason for joining Instagram remains unclear, although her upcoming projects have fueled speculation that the account could also support future promotional activities. (PC: Getty Images)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Prince Rahim Aga Khan V in New Delhi on September 10 to discuss strengthening India’s partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Their discussions covered healthcare, agriculture, rural development, youth and women’s empowerment. Prince Rahim, the 50th Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, is visiting India from September 9 to 15 and will also travel to Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Hyderabad. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan separately discussed cooperation in education and sports with him. Both sides highlighted AKDN initiatives in water, sanitation, education and community development, while reaffirming dialogue, peace and efforts against radicalisation. (PC: X) 

New Delhi has been transformed into a high-security zone ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, with around 25,000 security personnel deployed across the capital. The security operation includes Delhi Police, paramilitary forces, NSG commandos, anti-drone systems and extensive surveillance arrangements. Key routes, hotels and the summit venue at Bharat Mandapam have been secured for visiting world leaders and delegations. Authorities have also introduced traffic restrictions and diversions on several major roads to facilitate VVIP movements. The extensive measures aim to prevent security threats and ensure the smooth conduct of the high-profile summit, scheduled for September 11–13. (PC: X)

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has highlighted several benefits India has gained from BRICS after party colleague P. Chidambaram questioned the grouping’s tangible value for the country. Chidambaram had asked what concrete economic or strategic advantages India had received from BRICS membership. Tharoor responded by pointing to BRICS’ role in expanding India’s diplomatic outreach, strengthening ties with emerging economies and providing a platform for cooperation on global issues. He also stressed the importance of India using the grouping to advance its interests rather than viewing it solely through immediate economic gains. The debate comes amid India hosting the 2026 BRICS Summit. (PC: NDTV)

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has departed Tehran for New Delhi to participate in the 18th BRICS Summit hosted by India. His visit is expected to include a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with discussions likely to focus on strengthening India-Iran bilateral ties, regional developments, trade and connectivity. Pezeshkian’s participation comes as Iran seeks a greater role in the expanded BRICS grouping. India and Iran maintain longstanding economic and strategic ties, including cooperation on connectivity projects such as the Chabahar port. His visit also carries significance amid continuing tensions in West Asia and broader geopolitical shifts. (PC: X)

Madhuri, also known as Mahadevi, has returned to Kolhapur after being at Vantara in Jamnagar, Gujarat, following a prolonged dispute over her relocation and welfare. Vantara said Madhuri’s wellbeing remains its primary concern and committed to providing veterinary support every fortnight. The elephant had spent decades at a Jain temple in Kolhapur before being moved to Vantara amid concerns over her health and living conditions. Her return follows legal and public developments surrounding her care. Vantara has maintained that specialised treatment and rehabilitation were undertaken in her best interests, while authorities continue monitoring her health and welfare. (PC: Vantara)

A new assessment by the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) estimates that India may have produced enough weapons-grade plutonium to support 140–225 nuclear warheads. The study estimates India currently possesses around 190 assembled nuclear warheads, including more than 160 associated with operational delivery systems and additional warheads intended for newer missiles under development. It also highlights India’s continuing production of plutonium and highly enriched uranium, with the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor potentially increasing future plutonium availability. The assessment notes uncertainty over India’s advanced warhead designs. India continues to maintain its declared No First Use nuclear policy.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has left for the United Kingdom on his first official overseas visit since taking office. The week-long trip aims to attract foreign investments and promote Tamil Nadu as a leading investment destination. Vijay is scheduled to meet European business leaders and industry representatives to encourage new ventures and expansion in the State. His delegation includes Public Works and Sports Development Minister Aadhav Arjuna, SDAT member secretary Meghnatha Reddy and Guidance Tamil Nadu MD and CEO Deepak Jacob. Vijay will also study world-class motorsports infrastructure and related investment opportunities during the visit.