As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off, Kerala—especially Thiruvananthapuram—has transformed into a football carnival. Giant cutouts, colorful flags, murals, and fan rallies celebrating football icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo dominate streets and neighborhoods. Localities such as Rajaji Nagar are witnessing intense yet festive fan rivalries among supporters of Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, and France. Many fans view this tournament as a possible final World Cup for Messi, Ronaldo, and Neymar, adding emotional significance. While celebrations showcase Kerala’s deep football culture, residents also highlight the need for better sports infrastructure to nurture local talent. (PC: The Hindu)

Thirteen-year-old Srishti Kiran from Bengaluru has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the world's No. 1-ranked player in the Under-13 category. The young tennis prodigy has impressed the international circuit with consistent performances, discipline, and rapid progress against top junior competitors. Her rise reflects years of dedicated training and strong support from coaches and family. Srishti's achievement is being celebrated as a significant moment for Indian tennis, highlighting the country's growing presence in global junior sports. Experts believe she has the potential to follow in the footsteps of India's leading tennis stars and make a major impact on the professional circuit in the future. (PC: X)

Kuwait temporarily shut its airspace and diverted several flights after Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting US military bases in the Gulf amid escalating tensions with Washington. The precautionary closure was ordered by Kuwait's civil aviation authorities to ensure the safety of passengers and aviation operations as air defense systems responded to potential threats. Several commercial flights were rerouted to neighboring countries before air traffic gradually resumed once officials determined the immediate danger had passed. The incident highlights the growing regional impact of the US-Iran confrontation, with concerns rising over aviation safety, regional security, and the risk of a broader Middle East conflict. (PC: X)

The United States has intensified its military campaign against Iran, carrying out fresh strikes on multiple locations, including areas near Tehran, Minab, Bandar Abbas, Qeshm, Kish, and Isfahan. President Donald Trump said dozens of Tomahawk missiles were used against Iranian military targets and warned of further action if Tehran rejects a proposed peace deal. In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a two-wave missile and drone operation targeting US military installations across the Gulf region. Tehran also claimed to have closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route, further raising concerns over regional stability, international shipping, and oil supplies. 

India has lodged a strong protest with the United States and summoned its top diplomat in New Delhi after a commercial tanker off the coast of Oman was attacked, leaving three Indian crew members missing. The vessel, carrying 24 Indian seafarers, was struck during escalating tensions in the Gulf region. While 21 crew members have been rescued, search operations for the missing sailors remain ongoing. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack, stressing that the safety of civilian seafarers must be protected. The incident has added diplomatic strain to already heightened regional tensions involving the US, Iran, and maritime security. (PC: Reuters)

India has abolished excise duty on petrol blended with 22% to 30% ethanol (E22–E30), marking a major step in its clean-energy and biofuel strategy. The move is aimed at encouraging wider adoption of higher ethanol blends, reducing the country's dependence on imported crude oil, and lowering carbon emissions. As the world's third-largest oil importer, India has been aggressively promoting ethanol blending to improve energy security and support domestic sugarcane-based ethanol production. The tax exemption is expected to make high-ethanol fuels more attractive for consumers and fuel retailers while advancing the government's long-term sustainability and emission-reduction goals. (PC: India Today)

Iran has announced the complete closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz following fresh US military strikes on Iranian targets, dramatically escalating tensions in the Middle East. Tehran warned that any vessel attempting to pass through the waterway could be targeted. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments, making its closure a major threat to international energy supplies. Oil prices immediately surged by more than 2%, with analysts warning that prolonged disruption could push crude prices toward $100 per barrel. Governments, shipping companies, and global markets are closely monitoring the rapidly worsening crisis. (PC: X)

Iran dramatically escalated tensions in the Middle East by launching missile and drone strikes against multiple US military bases across the Gulf following recent American attacks on Iranian targets. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the operation, calling it a direct response to US aggression. Iranian leaders warned that any further attacks would trigger harsher retaliation. The United States defended its actions, with officials signaling a willingness to use force alongside diplomacy. The rapidly unfolding confrontation has heightened concerns about regional stability, global energy supplies, and the possibility of a broader conflict involving multiple Middle Eastern nations. (PC: X)

India on Wednesday summoned the US Charg d’Affaires in New Delhi to protest a strike on the tanker Settebello off the coast of Oman. The vessel had 24 Indian crew members onboard.   The Ministry of External Affairs said 21 Indian sailors were rescued, while three remain missing. India condemned the attack and said its embassy in Oman is helping with search and rescue efforts.   Later, the US military confirmed it had targeted the tanker during its blockade operations against Iran. India called for immediate de-escalation and urged diplomatic efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday became India’s longest-serving elected Prime Minister. Speaking at the NDA conclave in New Delhi, he called it his “supreme privilege” to serve the nation for so many years.   Modi thanked NDA leaders and the people of India for their support. He said he never imagined reaching this milestone and described public service as a spiritual duty. The Prime Minister said political stability has helped India move forward since 2014.   NDA leaders gathered to celebrate 12 years of the Modi government. Modi surpassed the previous record held by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.