Iran says it is ready to fight for “at least six months” as the US weighs an early exit. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran is well prepared and not “begging for a deal”. He told Al Jazeera the country will defend itself “for as long as required”.   Trump has suggested the US may end its role in two to three weeks. Iran denied accepting any US peace terms. Araghchi said no reply has been given to a reported American plan. He stressed Iran wants a full end to the war, not a ceasefire. He also said “trust is at zero” after past US actions. (PC: X)

Fuel prices have increased in Delhi, raising costs for consumers and airlines. Premium petrol now costs Rs 160 per litre, up from Rs 149. Premium diesel prices also saw a small rise. Jet fuel prices were briefly doubled before being revised for domestic airlines. Even after the cut, rates remain high. Commercial LPG cylinder prices have also increased sharply since March. Officials linked the rise to global oil price surge and supply issues. The government had earlier reduced excise duty to control normal fuel prices. However, premium fuel and aviation costs continue to rise due to ongoing global disruptions.

India’s neighbours are seeking help as the Iran war causes an energy crisis, a report said. Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka are facing fuel shortages. These countries had earlier seen anti-India sentiment. Now they are turning to India for support. India has already sent diesel and petrol to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. It is also considering a request from the Maldives. The crisis has disrupted daily life and industries. Despite past tensions, India has extended help. The report said this shows India’s key role in regional energy security during difficult times. The shift highlights changing ties in South Asia.

The United Arab Emirates may join the US and its allies in the Iran conflict, a report said. The UAE is considering a military role to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This comes as Iran continues attacks on Gulf states. The report said the UAE is also pushing for a UN resolution to support action. Even if it fails, officials say the country may still help. Support could include mine clearance and escorting ships. The move marks a shift from earlier efforts to mediate. Other Gulf nations are also changing their stance, but have not yet committed forces to the conflict.

Oracle Corporation has initiated a major wave of layoffs as part of a large-scale restructuring, with reports suggesting up to 30,000 employees could be affected globally. The move is aimed at cutting costs and reallocating resources toward aggressive investments in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure. The company, which had around 162,000 employees, is under financial pressure due to massive spending on AI data centres and related projects. Analysts estimate the layoffs could save billions in cash flow. The decision reflects a broader tech industry trend where companies are downsizing traditional roles while accelerating AI-driven growth strategies. (PC: Deccan Herald)

Lionel Messi delivered an emotional farewell performance on home soil as Argentina national football team defeated Zambia national football team 5–0 in a pre-World Cup friendly in Buenos Aires. The 38-year-old was seen in tears before kickoff, in what is widely expected to be his final match in Argentina. He marked the occasion with a goal and an assist, leading a dominant display. The match served as a send-off ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Argentina showing strong form and emotional unity as they prepare to defend their title. (PC: X)

Fresh missile and drone attacks have intensified the Middle East crisis, with Kuwait and Bahrain reporting new strikes and alerts amid the ongoing Iran-linked conflict. A tanker off Qatar’s coast was damaged by an unidentified projectile, though no casualties or oil spill were reported. Meanwhile, Israel confirmed it intercepted a missile launched from Yemen, signalling the widening involvement of regional actors. The incidents come as Gulf nations face repeated threats and infrastructure attacks, raising fears over maritime security and energy supplies in the Strait of Hormuz. The escalating violence underscores a rapidly expanding regional conflict. (The Times of India)

Stephen Lewis, a prominent Canadian politician, diplomat, and global human rights advocate, has died at the age of 88 following a prolonged battle with cancer. He was widely known for his leadership of Ontario’s New Democratic Party and later as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations. Lewis gained international recognition for his passionate advocacy against HIV/AIDS in Africa and his criticism of global inequality. He also co-founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation to support affected communities. Canadian leaders praised his compassionate leadership and enduring commitment to social justice. (PC: AP) 

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that American forces could leave the Iran conflict within “two to three weeks” even without a formal agreement with Tehran, emphasizing that the U.S. does not need a diplomatic deal to end its involvement. He suggested other nations could assume responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to continue operations aimed at weakening Iran’s military and regional influence, highlighting a divergence between U.S. withdrawal plans and Israel’s strategy in the Middle East. (PC: AP)

India is grappling with a worsening energy situation as LPG shortages and soaring jet fuel prices hit consumers and industries. Disruptions in global oil supply—largely due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia—have constrained LPG availability, affecting both households and businesses. At the same time, aviation turbine fuel prices have surged sharply, raising airline operating costs. Commercial LPG rates have also increased, putting pressure on small businesses and hotels. While domestic LPG prices remain relatively stable, the broader fuel crisis highlights India’s dependence on imports and growing vulnerability to global energy market fluctuations. (PC: The Hindu)