The Strait of Hormuz remains open but tightly controlled by Iran during the ongoing war. Shipping has dropped sharply, with only a few vessels allowed through daily. Around 20 ships have been attacked for crossing without permission. Reports suggest Iran may charge up to $2 million per tanker, though Tehran denies this. Vessels must share details and get clearance before entry. Many ships are now waiting near the strait. Insurance costs have also surged due to rising risks. About 20% of global oil passes through this route. The situation has made transport slower, costlier, and more uncertain for global energy supply. (PC: India Today)

India has enough fuel supplies despite global disruption from the Iran war, state oil companies said on Wednesday. Bharat Petroleum, Hindustan Petroleum, and Indian Oil said there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG. “Rumours of petrol and diesel shortages are completely unfounded,” BPCL said. HPCL also asked people not to panic or rush to buy fuel. The Strait of Hormuz remains affected, slowing oil shipments worldwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned the war may have “serious consequences” and urged people to “be prepared for every challenge”. He said the government is alert and working to protect supply chains and public interest. (PC: HT)

Iran has said “non-hostile vessels” can pass through the Strait of Hormuz if they coordinate with its authorities. The statement came from Iran’s mission to the UN. The key shipping route remains under Tehran’s control during the ongoing conflict. Oil prices fell by about 6% after signs of possible talks. US President Donald Trump said negotiations to end the war are happening “now”. The Pentagon may send troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. Experts say this could increase pressure on Iran. Israel and Iran continue to exchange strikes. Reports also suggest the US has shared a 15-point plan, but this is not yet confirmed. (PC: BBC)

Aryaman Birla, son of Kumar Mangalam Birla, has been appointed chairman of Royal Challengers Bengaluru following its acquisition by an Aditya Birla Group-led consortium. The deal, worth about $1.78 billion (₹16,700 crore), makes it one of the biggest in IPL history. Aryaman Birla, a former domestic cricketer who played for Madhya Pradesh and was picked by Rajasthan Royals, brings both business and cricketing experience. He has played nine first-class matches, scoring 414 runs, including a century. (PC: ESPN)

Amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, Tehran has set stringent conditions for any potential ceasefire. Reports indicate Iran is demanding the closure of all US military bases in the Gulf, complete lifting of sanctions, and financial compensation for war damages. Additionally, Iran seeks control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, including the right to impose transit fees on global shipping. These demands come in response to a proposed peace plan, but are seen as highly ambitious, signalling difficult negotiations ahead as regional tensions continue to escalate. (PC: India Today)

Amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, Tehran has set stringent conditions for any potential ceasefire. Reports indicate Iran is demanding the closure of all US military bases in the Gulf, complete lifting of sanctions, and financial compensation for war damages. Additionally, Iran seeks control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, including the right to impose transit fees on global shipping. These demands come in response to a proposed peace plan, but are seen as highly ambitious, signalling difficult negotiations ahead as regional tensions continue to escalate.

Reigning IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have announced they will keep 11 seats empty during their next home match to honour victims of a recent stampede tragedy. The symbolic gesture aims to pay respect to those who lost their lives and raise awareness about crowd safety at large events. The franchise expressed solidarity with the affected families and emphasized the importance of stricter safety measures at public gatherings. The decision has been widely appreciated by fans and the cricketing community, highlighting how sports teams can use their platform to promote social responsibility and remembrance.

A suspected Iranian drone strike hit a fuel storage tank near Kuwait International Airport, causing a massive fire and thick black smoke to billow across the area. Emergency services rushed to contain the blaze, while airport authorities temporarily halted or diverted several flights as a precaution. No immediate casualties have been officially confirmed, though investigations are ongoing. The incident comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with increasing attacks targeting strategic infrastructure. Authorities are assessing damage and security vulnerabilities, while regional air traffic faces disruptions due to rising conflict risks and safety concerns.

The Middle East conflict intensified as Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain, alongside strikes on Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli operations in Lebanon have worsened the humanitarian situation. Despite escalating violence, oil prices dropped sharply after reports that former US President Donald Trump proposed a 15-point peace plan, raising hopes of de-escalation. The US is preparing to deploy over 1,000 additional troops to the region, signalling possible further escalation. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to threaten global energy supplies and food security, keeping markets volatile. (PC: Reuters)

In a significant development, Rohit Pawar, nephew of late Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, has filed a complaint in Bengaluru alleging a criminal conspiracy behind the January 28 plane crash that killed Pawar and four others. He claimed Maharashtra Police refused to register an FIR despite repeated requests, prompting him to seek a Zero FIR in Bengaluru. The complaint calls for a full criminal investigation beyond the ongoing technical probe. Bengaluru Police have registered the Zero FIR and transferred it to Maharashtra authorities. The move intensifies demands for a transparent probe into the crash, amid growing political scrutiny and allegations of foul play. (PC: PTI)