China has issued a firm warning to the United States over its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, urging Washington not to interfere in its ties with Iran. Defence Minister Dong Jun confirmed that Beijing will continue honouring trade and energy agreements, with Chinese vessels operating normally in the region. The strait, crucial for global energy flows, supplies nearly 40% of China’s oil and 30% of its LNG. The warning follows disruption to tanker routes after the US blockade. Donald Trump said vessels linked to Iranian ports would be stopped, escalating tensions after failed US-Iran talks despite a temporary ceasefire. (PC: X)

In a landmark moment for human spaceflight, NASA released footage of the Artemis II crew’s recovery after their Moon mission, highlighting the critical “four green” confirmation. As divers reached the Orion capsule following splashdown, the phrase signaled that all four astronauts were conscious, stable, and free of immediate medical concerns. The recovery team then secured the capsule and began extraction procedures. Traveling at nearly 40,000 kmph during re-entry, the crew endured extreme conditions before safely returning to Earth. The successful mission demonstrates NASA’s capability to send humans to the Moon and back, marking a major step toward sustained lunar exploration and future crewed missions beyond Earth orbit in the years ahead.

The United States has launched a high-stakes naval blockade targeting Iranian ports, deploying advanced military assets including F-35B Lightning II jets, MV-22 Osprey aircraft, and over 15 warships across the Gulf. The move signals a significant escalation in tensions with Iran, aimed at restricting maritime access and exerting strategic pressure. The deployment underscores Washington’s intent to dominate key sea lanes and deter Iranian response, while raising concerns over regional stability, global energy supply disruptions, and the risk of broader military confrontation in one of the world’s most critical geopolitical theatres. (PC: ET)

An exhibition titled “Angels of Minab” at the Iranian Embassy showcases drawings recovered from a girls’ school in Minab destroyed during February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The attack, reportedly caused by a Tomahawk missile targeting error, killed over 165 children and staff. The artwork, restored from debris by Red Crescent teams, highlights the human cost of conflict and lost innocence. The initiative aligns with Iran’s diplomatic messaging following failed US-Iran talks. A symbolic tribute by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf further underscored the tragedy, drawing global attention to civilian casualties.

Enforcement Directorate arrested Vinesh Chandel under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in a coal scam-linked case ahead of West Bengal Assembly elections. The probe stems from a 2020 FIR by Central Bureau of Investigation alleging a coal pilferage racket tied to Eastern Coalfields Limited. ED claims hawala transactions routed funds to I-PAC’s entity. Earlier searches targeted associates, including Rishi Raj Singh and Vijay Nair, sparking political controversy with Mamata Banerjee. The matter, including alleged obstruction of raids, is now before the Supreme Court of India.

A key sticking point in US-Iran negotiations is the duration of limits on Tehran’s nuclear activity, with United States proposing a 20-year suspension while Iran is willing to accept only a five-year pause. The proposal stops short of a permanent ban, allowing Iran to retain its rights under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Additional disputes include US demands to remove near-bomb-grade uranium, curb enrichment, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and end support for proxy groups. Despite failed Islamabad talks, both sides signalled possible renewed discussions, suggesting a narrow window remains for a diplomatic breakthrough. (PC: AP)

Fresh momentum is building for a second round of US-Iran talks, with Pakistan positioning itself as a key mediator after earlier negotiations failed. Sources say both sides have informally agreed to resume discussions within two days, likely in Islamabad or Geneva. Donald Trump is reportedly keen for a swift diplomatic resolution, while Iran seeks assurances to frame any deal as a strategic win. Draft frameworks from prior talks are under review, with internal consensus-building underway. Iran has also consulted allies like Russia and China, highlighting broader geopolitical stakes as both sides cautiously move toward renewed engagement.. (PC: AFP)

Violence during workers’ protests in Noida has been termed a “well-planned conspiracy” by Uttar Pradesh Labour Minister Anil Rajbhar, with investigators probing possible links to Pakistan-based handlers. Around 350 people have been arrested and over 100 detained after arson, vandalism, and clashes disrupted multiple sectors. Authorities cited recent terror arrests in Noida and Meerut as strengthening suspicion of external involvement. Police used tear gas and deployed heavy forces to restore order, while scanning CCTV footage to identify culprits. The unrest, driven by wage demands, may also have aimed to disrupt state administration. Officials say the situation is now under control, with dialogue efforts ongoing. (PC: PTI)

The United States has begun a blockade of Iranian ports, raising tensions in the region. President Donald Trump said Iran wants a deal “very badly” but warned of strict action. He said any Iranian boats nearing the blockade would be stopped. Iran’s leaders said they will not give in to threats. The move comes after peace talks failed over nuclear demands. The UK Maritime Trade Operations warned ships of military checks in the area. The situation remains tense, with no clear signs of talks restarting soon between both sides.

The United States has started a naval blockade near the Strait of Hormuz after failed talks with Iran. President Donald Trump ordered the move to increase pressure on Iran. Soon after, two oil tankers turned away from the route. Data showed both ships reversed course within minutes of reaching the area. The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for global oil supply. The blockade may affect trade and raise tensions in the region. Officials said the decision followed the collapse of talks in Islamabad. More developments are expected as the situation continues to change.