US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed that America’s relations with other countries at a “tactical” level would not come at the expense of its strategic partnership with India. Speaking alongside External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi, Rubio stressed the importance of a “free and open Indo-Pacific” and linked the concept to protecting international waterways globally. He accused Iran of blocking the Strait of Hormuz, holding civilian vessels hostage and supporting proxy terror groups, describing Tehran as the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism. Jaishankar emphasized the need for safe and unimpeded maritime commerce amid growing concerns over regional instability and shipping disruptions.

Fuel prices in India have been increased for the fourth time in less than two weeks, with petrol rising by Rs 2.61 per litre and diesel by Rs 2.71. The latest revision pushed petrol prices in New Delhi above the Rs 100 mark to Rs 102.12 per litre, while diesel climbed to Rs 95.20 per litre. State-run oil companies are continuing price adjustments to offset losses incurred after holding rates steady despite global crude oil prices crossing $100 per barrel. The hikes are largely linked to disruptions caused by the ongoing US-Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn sustained increases could raise transportation costs and fuel broader inflation. (PC: India Today)

Delhi is set to endure another spell of intense heat after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for the next three days. The weather department has forecast heatwave conditions, strong surface winds and temperatures around 44°C, with severe heatwave conditions likely in some areas between May 25 and May 27. Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 43.6°C on Sunday, while Ridge and Ayanagar touched 44.6°C. The IMD warned that heatwave conditions will persist across north and central India through the week, with relief expected only after May 29. East Uttar Pradesh remains under a red alert, while orange alerts are in place across several neighbouring regions. (PC: HT)

Talks between the United States and Iran to end tensions in West Asia remain uncertain. Iran warned that the proposed peace deal could collapse because of disagreements over important clauses. Iranian media claimed the US was blocking parts of the agreement. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said progress had been made, but added that a nuclear deal could not be completed quickly. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said no final decision would be taken without approval from Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. US President Donald Trump said negotiations were still continuing.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said racist remarks against Indians in the United States should be taken seriously. Speaking in New Delhi with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Rubio said “every country has stupid people” who make offensive comments online. He described the US as a welcoming country built by immigrants from around the world. Rubio also said recent changes in America’s immigration system are global and not aimed specifically at India. He added that Indian professionals and companies have made valuable contributions to the US economy over the years. (PC: Shiv Kumar Pushpakar)

An Indian-origin cancer specialist in the United Kingdom has been removed from the medical register after being convicted in a criminal case. Shamir Chandran was sentenced to four years in prison for coercive behaviour and cruelty towards a minor. A UK medical tribunal said allowing him to continue practising would damage public trust in doctors. Chandran denied the allegations and left the UK before sentencing. The tribunal said there was an arrest warrant against him. He earlier worked with the National Health Service in north-west England and studied medicine in Kerala, India.

At least 20 people were killed and 70 others injured after a powerful blast hit a train in Pakistan’s Balochistan province on Sunday. The explosion took place at Chaman Phatak station in Quetta while the train was carrying military personnel and their families home for Eid. Several coaches were derailed and badly damaged in the attack. The separatist group Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility and called it a suicide bombing. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and said terrorism would not weaken the country’s resolve. (PC: Getty Images, Reuters)

Indian sprinter Gurindervir Singh created history by becoming the first Indian man to run 100 metres in under 10.10 seconds. The 24-year-old clocked 10.09 seconds at the Federation Cup 2026 in Ranchi and broke the national record. Earlier in the semifinals, he ran 10.17 seconds before improving his timing in the final. Gurindervir, who comes from Punjab, was inspired by legendary sprinter Usain Bolt. He also overcame serious health problems that affected his training for nearly two years. His latest achievement has qualified him for the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a live phone call at an event in Delhi celebrating 250 years of the US Declaration of Independence. Trump called Modi a “great friend” and said India can always count on the United States for support. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio attended the event and said both countries are close to finalising a major trade agreement. Rubio also held talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on trade, energy, defence and economic cooperation. (PC: IANS)

Talks between the United States and Iran to end the ongoing war remain uncertain despite recent progress. Iran said disagreements over some important parts of the proposed deal could cause the agreement to fail. Iranian media claimed the US was blocking the release of Iran’s frozen assets. US President Donald Trump said negotiations were moving “constructively” but added that America would not rush into a deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also said any agreement must remove Iran’s nuclear threat completely. Pakistan and Oman continue to play important roles in the ongoing peace talks between Tehran and Washington.