Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a phone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, discussing the ongoing regional conflict and its global implications. Modi strongly condemned attacks on critical energy infrastructure, emphasizing their threat to global supply chains and energy security. Both leaders agreed on the urgent need to ensure freedom of navigation and keep key shipping routes open and secure, especially amid concerns over disruptions in vital oil corridors. Modi also thanked Saudi Arabia for safeguarding the Indian community. The call reflects India’s active diplomatic engagement to promote stability and de-escalation in the conflict-hit region. (PC: X)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will wear black armbands during their IPL 2026 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad as a tribute to 11 fans who died in a stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in 2025. The tragic incident occurred during celebrations of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, raising serious concerns over crowd management. As part of the tribute, players will also wear jerseys bearing the number 11, while 11 seats in the stadium will remain permanently unoccupied. The emotional gesture marks the team’s return to their home ground after months of safety reviews and upgrades. (PC: X)

Amid the ongoing Iran war, two India-bound LPG tankers successfully crossed the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz after Iran permitted passage for “friendly nations,” including India. The vessels, carrying over 90,000 tonnes of cooking gas, navigated the high-risk corridor despite widespread disruption to global shipping. This comes as a major relief for India, which depends heavily on energy imports routed through the strait. Several Indian ships, however, remain stranded awaiting clearance. Iran has warned that vessels linked to its adversaries may still face restrictions, highlighting continued uncertainty in global energy supply routes. (PC: India Today)

Nepal’s former Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli has been arrested over his alleged role in a deadly crackdown on anti-government protests in 2025. Authorities say he failed to prevent excessive police force during Gen Z-led demonstrations, which resulted in dozens of deaths and widespread unrest. Former Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak was also detained. The arrests followed a government probe recommending prosecution for negligence. The protests, driven by youth anger over corruption, led to Oli’s resignation and a major political shift in Nepal. (PC: AP)

Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi group has warned it is ready to join the ongoing US-Israel war with Iran, declaring its “fingers are on the trigger” for direct military intervention. The group said it would act if additional countries join the conflict or if the Red Sea is used to launch attacks on Iran. The statement signals a potential escalation into a wider regional war, as the Houthis possess capabilities to strike distant targets and disrupt key shipping routes. They have previously targeted Red Sea shipping and Israel, raising fears that renewed attacks could impact global trade and energy supplies if they formally enter the conflict. (PC: AP)

India has firmly denied reports that billionaire Elon Musk participated in a recent phone call between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump regarding the ongoing Iran conflict. The clarification came after a New York Times report दावाed Musk’s involvement, calling it an unusual presence of a private individual in high-level wartime discussions. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the March 24 call was strictly bilateral, involving only the two leaders. The conversation focused on the escalating Middle East crisis, including concerns over the Strait of Hormuz and global energy security. 

Iran has warned Gulf countries not to allow the United States and Israel to use their land for attacks if they want “security” and “development”.   President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran does not start wars but will respond strongly. “If you want development and security, don't let our enemies run the war from your lands,” he said.   The warning comes as strikes continue across the Gulf region. Countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have been affected.   Meanwhile, Shehbaz Sharif said trust is needed for talks, as Pakistan works to mediate. (PC: HT)

India has backed Bangladesh as it seeks justice for the 1971 genocide. The Ministry of External Affairs said Pakistan remains “in denial” about the crimes.   Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Operation Searchlight involved “systematic and targeted killing” and mass sexual violence. He added that millions were forced to flee to India. “These atrocities shook the conscience of the world,” he said.   Bangladesh leader Tarique Rahman called March 25, 1971 a “pre-planned massacre”. India said it wants to further strengthen ties with Bangladesh under its new government. (PC: NDTV)

The Indian Premier League 2026 season begins on March 28 and runs till May 31. Ten teams will play across 13 venues. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru start against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru.   Top players like Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and MS Dhoni will be in focus. Kohli needs 339 runs to reach 9000 IPL runs. He is also close to 300 sixes. Bhuvneshwar needs two wickets for 200.   Teams like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings will aim for another title. Others like Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals are still chasing their first win. (PC: India Today)

At least 10 US troops were injured after a strike on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, officials said. Two were seriously injured. The attack also damaged US refueling aircraft.   The strike came as Iran continued missile attacks on Israel and Gulf states. Israel warned it may expand operations. The US also carried out fresh strikes on Iranian targets.   US President Donald Trump delayed action on Iran’s energy sector and extended a deadline on the Strait of Hormuz issue to April 6. Iran denied talks but said missiles would continue. Sirens were reported across parts of Israel. (PC: NDTV)