Donald Trump escalated tensions by warning Iranian vessels approaching the US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would be “eliminated,” claiming much of Iran’s navy is destroyed but fast attack boats remain a threat. Shipping has nearly halted, intensifying fears of disruption in a route handling major global oil flows. Analysts warn supply shocks could reach up to 20%, far exceeding past crises, pushing prices potentially to $132 per barrel. Iran’s smaller, stealth-focused fleet continues to pose tactical risks. Global output cuts, refinery disruptions, and reduced exports have deepened volatility, raising concerns over inflation, economic slowdown, and a prolonged geopolitical flashpoint. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump is set to begin a naval blockade of Iranian ports at 10:00 ET. US Central Command said the move will cover “the entirety of the Iranian coastline.” Ships in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea may be stopped. A notice warned vessels without approval could face “interception, diversion, and capture.” Humanitarian supplies like food and medicine will be allowed after checks. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said any military vessels near the strait will be “dealt with severely.” It remains unclear how the situation will unfold. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump shared an AI-generated image showing a golden Trump Tower on the Moon. The post came after the Artemis II mission returned to Earth. The image shows a tall building with “TRUMP” written on it on the lunar surface. The post drew mixed reactions online. Some users criticised it, while others made jokes. Experts say such construction on the Moon is still far away. Human bases may take decades. Missions under NASA’s Artemis programme are still testing short visits and technology for future lunar stays.

Workers protesting for higher wages in Noida clashed with police after a crackdown on their sit-in. Roads were blocked and vehicles were damaged during the unrest. Many workers said they were beaten without reason. A woman protester said, “We just want fair wages… they beat us with no fault of ours.” She added that rising costs make survival hard on current pay. Workers are demanding salaries of ₹20,000 per month. Another protester asked, “Why are policemen beating women with sticks?” Police used tear gas and lathi charge to control the crowd as tensions grew in the industrial area.

Astronaut Christina Koch returned to Earth after the Artemis II mission and shared a video of her reunion with her dog, Sadie. The clip shows Sadie excitedly waiting at the door before running to Koch as she enters. Koch kneels down and calls out to her pet, which runs around and plays. Sharing the video, Koch wrote, “I’m still pretty sure I was the happier side of this reunion.” The video has crossed over a million views online. Many users reacted to the emotional moment after the astronauts safely landed in the Pacific Ocean. 

The Supreme Court refused to allow lakhs of West Bengal voters, whose names were deleted, to vote before their appeals are decided. Over 34 lakh appeals are pending just days before polling on April 23. The Chief Justice said, “We cannot create a situation where we burden the appellate tribunal judges.” Petitioners argued genuine voters should not lose their right. Senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee said people want to vote and seek relief. The court stressed a balance between voter rights and proper checks. Justice J B Pardiwala said the court will try to find a “via media” between rights and verification needs. (PC: India Today)

Donald Trump warned China of 50% tariffs if it supports Iran with weapons. He said, “they get a 50 per cent tariff” if such actions are confirmed. Reports claimed China may send air defence systems to Iran, but Beijing denied it. Trump also suggested China buy oil from the United States or Venezuela instead. He said the US could sell oil at lower prices. The warning adds to rising tensions between the US and China during the ongoing conflict.

Workers in Noida protested low wages, saying “we work 12 hours a day” but earn only ₹13,000 a month. Many demanded higher pay as living costs rise. The protest turned violent after clashes with police. Vehicles were burnt and stones were thrown in Phase 2 and Sector 60. Officials said the unrest also caused heavy traffic jams on nearby roads. Authorities held meetings to discuss wage hikes, overtime pay, and safety. Police were deployed in large numbers. Workers said their salaries have not increased despite rising rent and daily expenses. (PC: PTI)

Jan Egeland of the Norwegian Refugee Council said India and China should give more foreign aid. He said, “it’s time” they support global relief efforts. He also warned that cutting aid to boost defence spending is a “major strategic mistake”. Egeland said many countries are reducing aid while crises grow. He noted that the United States cuts have already affected humanitarian work. He added that lack of aid could increase migration and instability. He urged nations to balance security spending with support for vulnerable people. (PC: Ed Prior/Norwegian Refugee Council)

Violence broke out in Noida as workers protesting for higher wages blocked key roads. The Noida Link Road and parts of NH-9 were shut, causing heavy traffic jams. Police said “provocative elements” are being identified and warned of strict action. Vehicles were burnt and stones were thrown during clashes. Delhi Police tightened security at border points and advised people to avoid affected routes. Officials said the situation is under control, but tension remains. Authorities urged the public not to spread rumours.