Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, assured India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, that Indian officials will soon meet the 17 crew members of the MSC Aries, a ship seized by Iran near the Strait of Hormuz. Jaishankar expressed concern and sought Tehran's help. Amirabdollahian promised to arrange the meeting. The exchange follows Iran's military seizure of the cargo ship, highlighting diplomatic efforts to ensure the safety of the detained Indian nationals.

Australian police reveal that Joel Cauchi, the assailant in the Sydney shopping centre stabbing rampage, primarily targeted women, resulting in the deaths of five women and one man. The incident, which sent Westfield Bondi Junction into panic, shocked the nation. Authorities continue to investigate the motives behind the attack, emphasizing the need for thorough interviews with acquaintances of the perpetrator. Amidst the tragedy, tributes pour in for the victims, with flags flown at half-mast and the Sydney Opera House illuminated in their honor. The community mourns the loss while praying for the recovery of those injured.

Devyani Khobragade, India's ambassador to Cambodia, embraces Cambodian culture by dressing as a 'Khmer Apsara' to mark the Cambodian New Year. The photos of her traditional attire quickly spread on social media. Khobragade, a seasoned diplomat, faced controversies in 2013, including accusations of visa fraud and mistreatment of a domestic worker in the US. Despite the past tensions, her recent gesture highlights her admiration for Khmer culture. Khobragade's diplomatic journey takes a positive turn as she continues to foster cultural ties between India and Cambodia in her ambassadorial role.

Following Iran's unprecedented missile and drone assault on Israel, global efforts intensify to avert a full-scale conflict. Despite the significant escalation, diplomatic maneuvers between Iran and Israel allow both sides to claim success, tempering immediate fears of all-out war. US officials caution against Israeli retaliation, urging measured responses to avoid further escalation. While tensions remain high, international support for Israel's defense strengthens, bolstering Prime Minister Netanyahu's position. Amidst concerns of economic repercussions and regional instability, efforts to de-escalate the crisis persist, emphasizing the precarious balance in the volatile Middle East.            

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's plea challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Delhi excise policy case reaches the Supreme Court. Kejriwal contests the Delhi High Court's dismissal of his plea, citing political vendetta. The HC upheld the ED's actions, citing Kejriwal's non-cooperation. The AAP leader, first sitting CM arrested in the case, faces judicial custody till April 15. Co-accused Manish Sisodia remains in jail since last year, while Sanjay Singh was recently granted bail. The SC bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta is set to hear the matter today.

In a developing crisis, the US refutes Iran's claim of providing 72-hour notice before the recent drone and missile attack on Israel. While Iran asserts its right to self-defense, Israeli forces weigh various response options, including refraining from immediate action. Amidst condemnation at the UN, tensions escalate as both sides remain on high alert. Despite assistance from the US in intercepting inbound threats, President Biden urges caution in Israel's potential retaliatory actions. With the region on edge, global leaders call for restraint to prevent further escalation of conflict in the volatile Middle East.

UK's RAF successfully shot down Iranian attack drones, aiding in the protection of civilians in Israel and neighboring countries. Prime Minister Sunak praised the bravery of pilots and confirmed the action, highlighting the importance of saving lives. The UK's involvement extends from a military cooperation agreement with Israel, and preparations were underway for days prior to the incident. As tensions escalate, Parliament is set to convene to discuss the crisis, with potential pressure to proscribe Iran's Revolutionary Guards. The event underscores ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

Israel Defence Forces (IDF) jets successfully intercepted Iranian drones amidst escalating tensions. Iran launched 170 explosive drones, 120 ballistic missiles, and 30 cruise missiles, with 99% intercepted by the IDF. The attack, retaliation for an alleged strike on Iran's consulate in Damascus, marks the first direct assault by Iran on Israel. While Israel hasn't claimed responsibility, both nations have long been in a shadow war. Iran's hostile rhetoric towards Israel fuels the conflict, with strikes aimed at thwarting Iranian influence. Concerns for regional stability rise as both nations possess advanced military capabilities.

Israeli Security Minister Benny Gantz pledges to retaliate against Iran for its missile and drone assault, promising to build a regional coalition for an appropriate response. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister asserts Tehran's attack was limited and in self-defense, as Western nations condemn the aggression and advocate for de-escalation. Amid heightened tensions, Israeli residents express fear, while airlines suspend flights to Tel Aviv and regional stock markets react to the turmoil. The situation underscores the precariousness of the Middle East landscape and the potential for wider conflict.

Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir calls for a robust response to Iran's direct attack, stating, "Israel must not be wimpish." He emphasizes the need to establish deterrence, asserting that previous concepts of containment and proportionality are outdated. Meanwhile, Israeli residents express fear and uncertainty following the Iranian shelling, with some hoping for calm but acknowledging the possibility of further escalation. Despite concerns, many emphasize Israel's determination to defend itself against threats to its security and existence.