A senior Greek foreign ministry official, Alexis Konstantopoulos, has said 2030 could mark a major milestone for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, with groundwork expected to accelerate soon. The corridor aims to connect India, the Middle East, and Europe through integrated transport, energy, and digital networks. He noted that geopolitical tensions, including disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, have reinforced the project’s importance for securing supply chains. Greece is positioning itself as a key European gateway. While conflicts in West Asia have delayed progress, ongoing diplomatic efforts and infrastructure planning could enable gradual implementation within the next few years. (PC: X)

Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Mike Johnson stated that the United States is “not at war” with Iran as the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution approaches. The law limits presidential military engagement without congressional approval. Donald Trump had notified Congress of operations on March 2, placing the deadline on May 1. Johnson emphasized that active combat operations have paused, with Washington focusing on negotiations and maintaining a ceasefire announced in April. Despite earlier military action, US officials maintain the situation does not constitute a formal war, highlighting the legal and political sensitivity surrounding ongoing tensions and diplomacy with Tehran. (PC: AP)

The Election Commission of India has firmly denied allegations of EVM tampering in West Bengal, stating that all strongrooms remain “safe and secure.” Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal clarified that CCTV systems were fully operational and continuously monitored across all storage facilities. He explained that the only activity observed involved the authorised opening of a separate postal ballot room, conducted as per established procedures and with prior intimation to candidates. The clarification comes after the All India Trinamool Congress alleged unauthorised access to ballot boxes and collusion with the BJP. The EC maintained there is no irregularity or controversy.

Donald Trump announced the removal of tariffs on Scottish whisky as a gesture to King Charles III and Queen Camilla following their US state visit. The decision reverses duties that had impacted the UK whisky industry, a key export sector heavily reliant on the American market. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer confirmed the move as part of broader trade understandings between the two allies. The step comes amid tensions over the Iran conflict, suggesting an effort to reinforce transatlantic ties. The tariff rollback is expected to boost UK exports while signalling continued economic and diplomatic cooperation between Washington and London. (PC: X)

India has sharply increased the price of 19 kg commercial LPG cylinders by ₹993, with the new rate reaching ₹3,071.5 in Delhi, according to Indian Oil Corporation. Domestic LPG cylinder prices, along with petrol and diesel rates, remain unchanged despite rising global energy costs linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict. The move shifts the burden primarily onto businesses such as restaurants and hotels, while protecting household consumers from inflationary pressure. Oil marketing companies are currently absorbing higher crude costs, leading to financial strain. If global prices remain elevated, the government may face difficult choices between subsidy expansion, price hikes, or fiscal adjustments. (PC: X)

The United Arab Emirates’ decision to leave OPEC from May 2026 is reshaping global energy dynamics and offering strategic benefits to India. Freed from production quotas, the UAE can increase oil output and export more crude through the Habshan–Fujairah pipeline, which bypasses the Strait of Hormuz—a key chokepoint disrupted by regional conflict. This alternative route ensures more stable and potentially cheaper oil supplies for India, a major importer. The move also weakens OPEC’s control over global oil markets, increasing supply flexibility. Overall, the development strengthens India’s energy security amid geopolitical volatility in the Gulf region. (PC: Reuters)

India has slipped six places to rank 157 out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), down from 151 in 2025. Pakistan, meanwhile, improved five positions to 153. The report highlights a global decline in press freedom, citing rising political pressure, restrictive laws, and weakening media environments. India remains in the “very serious” category, with concerns over legal intimidation and challenges to independent journalism. Norway continues to top the index, while Eritrea ranks last. 

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has drawn attention after saying he would urge King Charles III to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond to India during the monarch’s US visit. Speaking ahead of a 9/11 memorial event, Mamdani highlighted the jewel’s colonial origins, noting it was taken by Britain in the 19th century. His remarks resonated strongly in India, where many view the diamond as a symbol of colonial exploitation and have long demanded its return. However, it remains unclear whether Mamdani raised the issue directly with the King. The diamond’s ownership continues to be disputed by multiple countries.

Elusive street artist Banksy has confirmed a new artwork in central London—a striking statue of a man marching forward with his face obscured by a large flag. Installed overnight at Waterloo Place in Westminster, the sculpture quickly drew attention for its political symbolism and bold placement among historic monuments. Banksy shared a video showing the installation process, sparking mixed public reactions. The piece is widely interpreted as commentary on blind nationalism or leadership. Known for provocative works, the artist continues to use public spaces to challenge political and social narratives. (PC: X)

A day after polling concluded in West Bengal, starkly different strategies emerged between the two main contenders. Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party appeared confident, buoyed by favourable exit polls, with state chief Samik Bhattacharya engaging candidates and preparing for a possible victory. In contrast, the All India Trinamool Congress adopted a defensive posture, deploying workers to guard strongrooms and counting centres. Senior leaders Shashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh staged protests alleging suspicious activity around EVM storage. The developments underscore deep political mistrust as both sides gear up for the crucial vote counting on May 4.