The Embassy of India in Vietnam has advised Indian travellers visiting Phu Quoc Island to be cautious about visa restrictions and passport-related risks. While the island offers visa-free entry to Indians, this exemption applies only within Phu Quoc and does not permit travel to mainland cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City without a valid visa. The advisory warns that emergencies requiring departure from the island may lead to complications for those without visas. It also highlights that losing a passport requires filing a police report and obtaining emergency documents, followed by a mandatory wait of three to five working days for an exit permit from Vietnamese authorities.

Israel launched strikes on Iran’s South Pars gas field, targeting key energy infrastructure and killing IRGC intelligence chief Majid Khademi, officials confirmed. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the operation aimed at “terrorist leaders.” The strikes were part of broader US-Israeli attacks that reportedly killed 25 people. Iran retaliated with drones and missiles, hitting targets in the Gulf and Israel, with casualties reported in Haifa. South Pars, the world’s largest gas reserve, supplies 70% of Iran’s gas. The International Atomic Energy Agency warned of strikes near Bushehr nuclear plant, raising serious nuclear safety concerns despite no confirmed damage.

The Orion spacecraft successfully re-established contact with Mission Control after a 40-minute communication blackout during the Artemis II. The signal was regained at 5:12 a.m. IST as the capsule emerged from behind the Moon’s far side, where its bulk had blocked all transmissions with Earth. The four astronauts, who have travelled farther than any humans before, expressed relief upon reconnecting, with one remarking it was “so great to hear from Earth again.” The moment marked a critical milestone in the mission, highlighting both the challenges of deep-space travel and the success of communication tracking systems. (PC: NASA)

As tensions escalate ahead of the Strait of Hormuz deadline, Iran has urged citizens to form symbolic “human chains” around key power plants to signal protection of national infrastructure. Youth groups, artists, and students are expected to participate in the coordinated action. The move comes amid heightened rhetoric from Donald Trump, who expanded threats to target Iran’s bridges and power facilities if demands are unmet. Tehran has rejected a temporary ceasefire, pushing instead for a permanent end to the conflict. Diplomatic efforts continue through intermediaries, but tensions remain high, raising concerns over potential escalation and risks to regional stability and global energy security.

Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, Abhishek Banerjee sparked controversy by warning of retaliation after Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif allegedly threatened Kolkata. Speaking at a rally, Banerjee criticised Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and Rajnath Singh for remaining silent, vowing strong action if his alliance comes to power. Mamata Banerjee also questioned the Centre’s response, accusing it of ignoring Bengal’s security concerns. The exchange follows escalating rhetoric, with both sides issuing warnings, intensifying political tensions during ongoing election campaigning.

Amid escalating tensions, Donald Trump said he would prefer to “keep the oil” from Iran and profit from it, but acknowledged Americans may not support such a move. Speaking during ongoing conflict discussions, he framed his stance as driven by business logic while noting domestic pressure to end the war. His remarks come as negotiations continue over reopening the Strait of Hormuz and amid rising global oil concerns. The statement highlights tensions between strategic, economic, and political considerations, as the US balances military objectives, public opinion, and energy market implications.

Amid escalating US-Iran tensions, Donald Trump claimed a potential “mole” within the United States government leaked sensitive details about a covert rescue mission in Iran. He warned a journalist to reveal their source or face jail, alleging the leak endangered a second stranded airman whose presence was previously unknown to Iranian forces. Trump said the complex operation involved 155 aircraft and relied on deception to mislead adversaries. The disclosure, he argued, compromised operational security and heightened risks. The administration is now investigating the leak, underscoring concerns over national security and press freedom during a volatile geopolitical crisis. (PC: Reuters)

Senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy has made history as India’s first openly queer Member of Parliament, marking a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ representation. Renowned for her role in the 2018 Supreme Court judgment that decriminalised homosexuality, she has been a leading voice in constitutional law and rights advocacy. Her entry into Parliament reflects a broader shift toward inclusivity in Indian politics. The milestone is seen as both symbolic and substantive, potentially strengthening legislative focus on equality and civil rights. Guruswamy’s journey underscores the growing visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in public life and governance.

A major breach occurred at the Delhi Legislative Assembly when Sarbjit Singh rammed a Tata Sierra through VIP Gate No. 2 around 2 pm, placed a bouquet near Speaker Vijender Gupta’s vehicle, and fled. The act, captured on CCTV, unfolded within minutes and triggered a high alert. Police detained Singh and two others within two hours, seizing the vehicle in north Delhi. Bomb disposal and forensic teams found no explosives. Singh, reportedly missing for days, had travelled from Uttar Pradesh. Authorities are probing motive, citing possible illness, while security lapses at the less-guarded VIP gate remain under scrutiny.

Ahead of a critical truce deadline, Donald Trump issued a stark warning, stating that the United States could “take out” Iran in a single night if necessary. The remark underscores escalating rhetoric amid ongoing conflict and fragile diplomatic efforts. Trump’s statement comes as ceasefire negotiations remain uncertain and tensions intensify over key issues, including nuclear ambitions and regional security. While talks continue through intermediaries, the warning highlights the high-stakes environment surrounding the crisis, raising concerns over potential military escalation and its broader implications for global stability and energy markets. (PC: NDTV)