At least five people were killed during a high-risk US operation to rescue a downed fighter jet crew member in Iran, according to Iranian officials. The mission followed the shooting down of a US F-15E aircraft, leaving one crew member stranded for two days. Iran claimed its forces destroyed multiple “flying objects,” including a C-130 transport plane and two Black Hawk helicopters, and also downed a drone. Despite heavy resistance, US forces successfully rescued the missing airman, with President Donald Trump calling it a “daring” operation. The conflicting claims highlight intensifying tensions and ongoing military escalation between the US and Iran. (PC: X)

The death toll in a hooch tragedy in Bihar’s East Champaran district rose after several people consumed spurious liquor in areas like Turkauliya and Raghunathpur. Initial reports confirmed multiple deaths, with several others hospitalised and some discharged after treatment. Authorities have arrested around 12 suspects and registered a murder case based on complaints from victims’ families. A police officer has been suspended for negligence, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the incident. The tragedy has once again raised serious concerns over the enforcement of Bihar’s liquor prohibition law. (PC: The Hindu)

Dhurandhar 2 has scripted box office history by becoming the first Bollywood film to cross the ₹1000 crore mark in India. Starring Ranveer Singh and directed by Aditya Dhar, the spy thriller achieved the milestone within just a few weeks of release. The film showed strong momentum in its third week, crossing ₹1000 crore after steady daily collections and weekend growth. It has significantly outperformed blockbusters like Pathaan and Dangal. With massive domestic and global earnings, the film is now eyeing even bigger records. (PC: HT)

U.S. President Donald Trump triggered global alarm after issuing an expletive-laced warning to Iran, demanding the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. In his statement, Trump threatened that if the blockade continues, the United States would launch targeted strikes on Iranian power plants and bridges as early as Tuesday. The Strait, a critical global oil transit route, remains disrupted amid escalating tensions. Iran has refused to yield and warned of strong retaliation. The confrontation has heightened fears of a wider regional conflict and potential disruptions to global energy supplies and markets. (PC: AFP)

India has helped eight of its ships cross the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing tensions. Sixteen India-flagged vessels still remain in the Persian Gulf. Officials said India is in touch with Iran to ensure safe passage. Iran has allowed ships from countries it considers friendly to pass through with coordination. Most of the ships that crossed are LPG tankers. One more vessel is currently moving through the strait. The route is key for global oil trade. Around one-fifth of oil and gas supplies pass through this channel. (PC: The Indian Express)

Dhurandhar 2, starring Ranveer Singh, has crossed ₹1000 crore at the Indian box office in 18 days. It is the first Bollywood film to reach this mark domestically. The film earned ₹938 crore in two weeks and saw steady growth in week three. It has now outperformed Pathaan and Dangal by large margins. High ticket prices and strong demand helped boost collections. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film continues to draw audiences despite competition and limited reach due to its A-rating. (PC: HT)

The United States Air Force destroyed two MC-130J aircraft during a rescue mission in Iran to stop them falling into enemy hands. A US official said the planes got stuck during the operation. They were later blown up. The mission rescued a pilot from a downed F-15 jet. Donald Trump said, “We got him!” Iran shared images of the wreckage and criticised the US. Iranian officials claimed more aircraft were lost. The rescue took place at night in difficult terrain. US officials said there were no casualties during the operation. (PC: India Today)

An Iranian missile strike has destroyed a drone facility in Petah Tikva, forcing operations to stop. The plant was run by Aero Sol Aviation Solutions and supplied key defence equipment. The blast damaged buildings, machines and offices. CEO Israel Vaserlauf said, “Everything was blown to pieces — a total loss.” Some data, parts and drones were recovered. The company said core capabilities remain intact. It now plans to shift work to other sites and restart production soon. The strike comes amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel, with defence sites increasingly targeted. (PC: X)

Raghav Chadha has responded to criticism from Aam Aadmi Party leaders in Punjab, sharing a video of his speeches in the Rajya Sabha. He rejected claims that he failed to raise Punjab’s issues. “Punjab isn’t a talking point for me,” he said. Party leaders had accused him of not highlighting key concerns like GST losses and pending funds. The row follows his removal as Deputy Leader in Rajya Sabha. The leadership also asked that he not be given speaking time. The dispute signals rising tension within AAP, with Chadha becoming the second MP after Swati Maliwal to face internal differences. (PC: India Today)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said it is “deeply concerning” that Kanye West is set to headline Wireless Festival in London. Starmer cited West’s past antisemitic remarks and said such views must be confronted. “Everyone has a responsibility to ensure Britain is a place where Jewish people feel safe,” he said. Sponsor Pepsi has withdrawn support from the event. Political leaders have also called for stricter action. Officials said no visa application has been received yet. West earlier apologised for his remarks in a public statement. (PC: BBC)