US President Donald Trump told allies like the United Kingdom to “go get your own oil” amid rising tensions with Iran. He said countries that did not support US strikes should not expect help. Trump suggested they buy oil from the US or take it from the Strait of Hormuz. Iran continues to control the key route, affecting global oil supply. This has raised oil prices and shaken markets. Trump also warned of more US attacks if the strait is not reopened soon. Iran said its actions are aimed only at US forces. The conflict continues to grow in the region.

US journalist Shelly Kittleson was abducted in Baghdad, Iraq in broad daylight. Armed men stopped her vehicle on a busy road and forced her out. They then escaped from the scene. Iraq’s Interior Ministry confirmed the incident and launched a search operation. Security forces tracked a suspect vehicle, which later overturned during a chase. One suspect has been arrested, while others remain on the run. No group has claimed responsibility so far. A video of the incident is spreading online. Kittleson is known for reporting from conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan. Investigations are ongoing to find her and catch those involved.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it will target US companies in West Asia from April 1. The warning comes after alleged killings of Iranian leaders. The IRGC named 18 firms, including Microsoft, Google, Apple, Tesla and Boeing. It said their offices could be attacked if more strikes happen. The group warned employees to leave workplaces to stay safe. Many of these companies have offices in the UAE. The IRGC also said tech and AI firms help military operations. The threat follows a recent airstrike that killed an Iranian military official. Tensions between Iran, the US and Israel remain high. (PC: Reuters)

American journalist Shelly Kittleson was kidnapped in Baghdad, Iraq on Tuesday evening. She was taken near a hotel on al-Saadoun Street by unknown men. A video shows her being forced into a car. Iraq’s interior ministry confirmed the incident and said security forces are searching for the kidnappers. One suspect has been arrested after a vehicle linked to the case crashed during a chase. Kittleson is known for reporting from conflict areas like Iraq and Afghanistan. She was in Iraq covering the impact of the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Her work has appeared in major international publications over the years. (PC: X/@shellykittleson)

Gianni Infantino confirmed that Iran will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026 despite the ongoing West Asia conflict. Dismissing speculation about relocating matches, he stated Iran’s Group G fixtures will proceed as scheduled in the United States. Speaking in Turkey, Infantino expressed confidence after meeting players and staff. Earlier concerns had emerged over safety and possible venue shifts to Mexico, amid tensions involving the US and Israel. FIFA reiterated its commitment to ensuring all qualified teams compete, emphasising football’s role in promoting unity despite geopolitical conflicts. (PC: AFP)

Two Indian nationals were among four people injured after debris from a missile interception fell on residential buildings in Dubai’s Al Badaa area. The others injured included one Bangladeshi and one Sri Lankan, all sustaining minor injuries, according to officials. Authorities confirmed the debris resulted from a successful air defence interception and said the situation was handled under strict safety protocols. The incident highlights risks to civilians amid the escalating West Asia conflict. Separately, Ministry of External Affairs reported eight Indian deaths and one missing in the region, underscoring growing concerns over safety of nationals abroad. (PC: AP)

Police in Bengaluru have busted a mobile theft racket operating during the Indian Premier League 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The gang allegedly used minors to steal phones from spectators in crowded stands. Cubbon Park Police recovered 21 stolen mobile phones worth ₹18 lakh. A key suspect has been arrested along with several juveniles suspected of involvement. Authorities said the group was linked to an out-of-state network targeting large public events, highlighting organised crime exploiting crowds during major sporting occasions. (PC: The Hindu)

John Healey announced deployment of additional UK troops and air defence systems to the Middle East, raising total personnel to about 1,000 across Gulf nations and Cyprus. Systems, including Sky Sabre and other missile defences, will be stationed in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait, while Typhoon jets remain active in Qatar. The UK maintains a defensive stance against Iran, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer ruling out ground involvement. The move follows escalating regional tensions and aims to protect allies and interests while supporting broader international efforts to stabilise the conflict. (PC: Reuters)

Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly in Iran and avoiding public appearances, according to Russia’s envoy, dismissing rumours he was in Russia for treatment. Mojtaba assumed leadership after his father Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes that began the war on February 28. While statements have been issued, he has not been publicly seen, fuelling speculation about his condition. US claims suggest he was injured, though Tehran denies this. Intelligence agencies continue monitoring his whereabouts as the conflict intensifies, with no ceasefire in sight despite ongoing diplomatic signals and escalating military actions. (PC: HT)

Pete Hegseth said US troops involved in Operation Epic Fury are prepared for a prolonged conflict and are seeking more powerful weapons, including larger bombs, following his undisclosed Gulf visit. Speaking alongside Dan Caine, he highlighted troops’ focus on “legacy” and determination to finish the war. Hegseth declined to clarify potential ground troop deployment but stressed strategic ambiguity. He claimed Iran has limited military options, with decisive days ahead. Despite escalating operations, he confirmed ongoing negotiations to end the conflict, while warning of expanded US strikes if a ceasefire and reopening of key routes are not achieved.