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.

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that major US firms including Microsoft, Apple, Alphabet, Intel and Boeing could be treated as legitimate targets amid escalating West Asia tensions. The warning follows alleged US-Israeli actions, with Iran claiming these firms support operations through ICT and AI. Authorities advised evacuations within a one-kilometre radius of potential sites, with retaliatory actions threatened from April 1. Meanwhile, US officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, signalled critical days ahead, emphasising ending the conflict on US terms as tensions between Iran and Washington intensify. (PC: News18)

Donald Trump warned countries facing fuel shortages due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to either buy oil from the United States or secure supplies themselves. Criticising allies like the United Kingdom for refusing to join military action against Iran, he said the US would no longer guarantee support. The blockade, affecting nearly 20% of global oil supply, has driven prices above $100 per barrel. Trump reiterated threats against Iran’s energy infrastructure while reports suggest he may end the conflict without reopening the route. Iran continues rejecting US demands and escalating military actions. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump has urged countries hit by fuel shortages during the Iran war to rely on the US or act on their own. The crisis follows the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supply. Trump said nations unable to get fuel should “buy from the U.S.” or “go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.” He criticised allies for not supporting US actions against Iran. The conflict continues with fresh strikes, including an attack on Isfahan. Trump also claimed Iran has been “decimated” as tensions remain high. (PC: HT)

India has condemned recent attacks on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon and called for their safety. India’s UN envoy said peacekeepers serve in difficult conditions and their protection must be a priority. He added that India led UN Security Council Resolution 2589 to ensure accountability for crimes against them. The statement followed an incident involving UNIFIL, where one peacekeeper was killed and another injured. The UN said the source of the attack is unknown. India paid tribute to the fallen “Blue Helmets” and urged all sides to ensure their safety. (PC: economic times)

A British broadcast engineer working on the Indian Premier League was found dead in his hotel room in Mumbai. The deceased, 76-year-old Ian William Langford, was staying at the Trident Hotel while covering matches. Hotel staff found him lying on the floor after he did not respond to calls. A doctor declared him dead at the scene. Police have registered a case of “unnatural death” and started an investigation. Officials said there were no signs of foul play so far. The body has been sent for examination. Langford was part of the broadcast team for IPL matches. (PC: India Today)

Iran has warned of strong retaliation as the war with the US and Israel enters its second month. A spokesperson of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said Iran’s forces will “cut off legs of any aggressor” entering the country. Reports said Russian Chechen units are ready if a US ground war begins. US forces struck a major ammunition site in Isfahan using bunker-buster bombs, triggering more explosions. Fighting between Iran and Israel continues. US President Donald Trump warned of strikes on Iran’s energy sites if talks fail. Iran called US peace proposals unrealistic. (PC: The Indian Express)

US President Donald Trump is looking to use the upcoming Artemis II mission as a key moment for national unity and global competition. The mission will send four astronauts towards the Moon, marking the first deep space crewed flight since 1972. Officials say it is a step towards a permanent lunar base and future Mars missions. Trump has linked the effort to US strength and leadership. NASA chief Jared Isaacman said the goal is not just to visit but to stay. The mission also comes amid rising rivalry with China over space resources and influence. (PC: BBC)

Italy has refused to allow the United States to use its air base in Sicily for operations linked to Iran, according to Reuters. The move comes days after Spain denied similar access to US aircraft. Italy’s decision reflects growing reluctance among European allies to join the conflict. Reports said European Union nations do not want direct military involvement in the Iran war. The refusal is seen as a setback for the US as it seeks support from NATO partners. It may also add to tensions within the administration of US President Donald Trump over the handling of the conflict. (PC: India Today)

IndiGo has appointed William Walsh as its new chief executive officer, replacing Pieter Elbers. The airline said the move is subject to regulatory approvals. Walsh is currently Director General of IATA and will join by August 3, 2026. He earlier led British Airways and IAG. IndiGo chairman Vikram Singh Mehta called him an “exceptional global aviation leader”. He said Walsh’s experience will help the airline grow in a competitive market. Walsh said he is “delighted to lead IndiGo” and praised its strong foundation. He will oversee strategy, operations and growth plans as the airline expands. (PC: HT)