India and New Zealand will sign a free trade agreement to double bilateral trade to $5 billion within five years and boost investment. The pact, to be signed by Piyush Goyal and Todd McClay, offers duty-free access for Indian MSMEs in sectors like textiles, leather, and processed foods, while easing access for pharmaceuticals and temporary employment visas. New Zealand gains tariff reductions on 95% of exports, including meat, wine, and fruits. India has excluded sensitive sectors such as dairy, sugar, and edible oils to protect domestic industries, marking a significant step in economic partnership.

Israel reportedly deployed its Iron Dome and troops to the United Arab Emirates to counter Iranian missile threats, marking its first such overseas deployment. The move followed talks between Benjamin Netanyahu and Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The UAE has faced heavy attacks, with hundreds of missiles and thousands of drones reportedly launched by Iran since February 28. Israeli forces also conducted strikes on Iranian missile sites. The deployment reflects deepening Israel-UAE cooperation amid escalating conflict, shifting regional dynamics, and ongoing but fragile ceasefire efforts. (PC: AFP)

Pakistan faces criticism for allegedly amplifying disinformation around stalled US-Iran talks to project itself as a mediator. The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations, reportedly circulated misleading updates claiming Iranian participation in negotiations despite Tehran’s reluctance. This narrative coincided with diplomatic movements by Abbas Araghchi, who engaged Pakistani leaders to convey concerns to Washington, not to hold talks. The strategy aimed to position Islamabad as a peacemaker but risks undermining credibility. Analysts warn such actions could erode Iran’s trust and damage Pakistan’s mediation prospects, especially amid heightened geopolitical tensions and already fragile diplomatic channels. (PC: X)

Ajit Doval met Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi to discuss regional security and strengthen the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He conveyed greetings from Narendra Modi and reviewed cooperation across defence, trade, and economic sectors. The visit is part of India’s intensified Gulf outreach amid rising West Asia tensions and maritime security concerns, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. Doval’s engagement follows talks in Saudi Arabia, signalling a coordinated diplomatic push. India emphasised de-escalation, protection of civilian infrastructure, and uninterrupted global commerce while safeguarding its diaspora and strategic energy interests in the region. (PC: The Tribune)

Iran has proposed a new plan to the United States via Pakistani intermediaries aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending the ongoing war, according to reports. The conflict began on February 28 following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Donald Trump said Iran could directly contact Washington to negotiate, emphasising open communication channels. The proposal signals Tehran’s attempt to ease tensions and restore critical global energy transit routes disrupted during the conflict. The Strait of Hormuz remains central to global oil flows, making its reopening a key strategic objective as diplomatic efforts continue amid stalled negotiations and heightened regional instability. (PC: X)

Oil prices surged after US-Iran peace talks stalled, heightening global supply concerns. Brent crude rose 2.2% to $107.70 per barrel, while US crude gained 2.1% to $96.40. Donald Trump confirmed Washington cancelled plans to send officials to Pakistan for negotiations, citing delays and internal divisions in Tehran. The conflict has strained energy markets, with the Strait of Hormuz effectively disrupted after Iranian threats following US and Israeli airstrikes. Abbas Araghchi said discussions with Oman continue on regional stability and safe transit. Roughly one-fifth of global oil and LNG flows through the strait, amplifying market volatility and geopolitical risk concerns. (PC: Getty Images)

A shooting disrupted the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner attended by Donald Trump at the Washington Hilton. The suspect, Cole Tomas Allen, carried two handguns and a shotgun and sent a manifesto outlining targets before opening fire. The list prioritised senior administration officials but excluded Kash Patel for unclear reasons. Secret Service secured Trump, the First Lady, and Vice President. Allen cited political grievances and claimed intent to limit casualties. He was apprehended after breaching a security checkpoint and exchanging gunfire. Jeanine Pirro confirmed federal firearm and assault charges, with additional charges possible as investigations continue. (PC: NDTV)

Narendra Modi visited Thanthania Kalibari, a historic temple known for its non-vegetarian prasad tradition, before a roadshow in Kolkata amid West Bengal election campaigning and political debate over food culture. The temple, established in 1703, worships Maa Siddheshwari and is considered spiritually awakened. Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress alleged BJP may restrict non-vegetarian food, citing practices in NDA-ruled states. Bharatiya Janata Party leaders denied this, asserting respect for food choices. The temple’s unique ritual, linked to Ramakrishna Paramahansa, includes offerings like ‘dab-chingri’, continuing a long-standing devotional tradition.

An Iranian lawmaker has questioned Pakistan’s role as mediator in ongoing regional negotiations, citing concerns over neutrality. Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, said Pakistan lacks credibility and tends to align with US interests, avoiding criticism of Washington and unmet commitments. He stressed mediators must remain impartial. The remarks come as Abbas Araghchi intensifies diplomacy, visiting Islamabad twice in three days and meeting Asim Munir after talks with Shehbaz Sharif and Oman’s Haitham bin Tariq al-Said. Discussions span Hormuz security, legal frameworks, compensation, guarantees, and lifting US maritime restrictions. Donald Trump said Iran could initiate direct talks after Washington cancelled Pakistan-based negotiations. Tehran plans further diplomacy including a Moscow visit to sustain momentum.

US authorities said Donald Trump and senior officials were the “likely targets” of the suspect in the White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said early findings suggest the gunman wanted to attack administration officials. The suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, was arrested after gunfire near a security checkpoint at a Washington hotel. Trump, First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance were evacuated safely. The FBI is investigating the motive. (PC: Reuters, Getty Images)