Asian stock markets fell sharply as the US and Iran warned of more action in the ongoing war. Japan’s Nikkei dropped 3.5%, while South Korea’s Kospi fell 6.5%. Oil prices rose as the Strait of Hormuz remained blocked. “Worst energy crisis in decades,” an energy chief said, warning of global impact. The route carries about 20% of the world’s oil. US President Donald Trump threatened strikes on Iran’s power plants. Iran warned of strong retaliation. Rising fuel prices increased fears of higher costs worldwide. Markets stayed tense as investors watched the conflict closely. (PC: AFP via Getty Images)

Tensions rose as Iran threatened to deploy sea mines across the Persian Gulf amid the ongoing war. The move could disrupt key oil routes like the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump warned of strikes on Iranian power plants if the route is not reopened. The energy crisis is “very severe,” an official said, as oil prices remain high. Missile attacks and air defences were reported across the region. The war has killed over 1,500 people in Iran and displaced millions. Global markets remain under pressure as uncertainty and fears of escalation continue to grow.

The US has deployed about 4,500 Marines and sailors to the Middle East amid rising tensions near the Strait of Hormuz. The move includes fighter jets, helicopters, and armoured vehicles. Reports suggest the US may target Iran’s key oil hub at Kharg Island. “Those Marines aren’t coming for decoration,” an official said, hinting at possible military action. The Strait of Hormuz, a key oil route, remains under pressure. Oil prices have surged as fears of disruption grow. Iran warned of strong retaliation if its energy sites are attacked. The situation remains tense, with no clear end in sight. (PC: AFP)

A pilot and co-pilot died after an Air Canada Express plane hit a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport in New York. The crash happened late Sunday during landing. At least 13 people, including two firefighters, were injured. The aircraft, a CRJ-900 from Montreal, struck the truck on runway 4. Videos showed damage to the front of the plane and rescue work at the site. The US aviation authority ordered a ground stop, and flights were diverted. Reports said 72 passengers and crew were onboard. Officials have not confirmed all details. An investigation into the cause is ongoing. (PC: Reuters)

A civilian staffer at an Air Force station in Assam was arrested for allegedly spying for Pakistan. The accused, Sumit Kumar, worked at Chabua Air Force Station. He was held in a joint operation by Air Force Intelligence and Rajasthan Intelligence. He was taken to Jaipur for questioning. Police said he shared details about aircraft, missile systems, and personnel. He used social media to contact handlers and received money. The probe began after another arrest in January. Officials said he had “shared sensitive information since 2023.” A case has been filed, and further investigation is underway.

“Several people are feared to have been injured,” early reports said after an Air Canada Express plane hit a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport in New York. The aircraft, a CRJ-900, collided on runway 4. The pilot and co-pilot were severely injured. Two rescue workers also suffered fractures. Videos online showed evacuation and rescue work at the airport. Authorities shut the airport after the accident. Some reports claimed up to 100 people were injured, but this is not confirmed. Another report suggested around 70 injuries. Officials have not released final numbers. An investigation into the cause is underway.

“Kindness will never be forgotten,” the Iranian Embassy said, thanking people in Kashmir for donations to war-hit Iran. Residents in Budgam and Baramulla started a relief drive after Eid. People gave cash, gold, silver, and even livestock. Many women donated personal jewellery. A widow gave a gold memento kept for 28 years. Children also shared their savings. MLA Muntazir Mehdi pledged one month’s salary. The campaign saw wide support from all sections of society. Locals said the aid was a small step to help those suffering. Donations will be sent through official channels to reach affected people.

“Uncertainty is huge,” said VK Vijayakumar as markets fell sharply on Monday. The Sensex dropped over 1,800 points, while the Nifty also declined. Rising tensions near the Strait of Hormuz pushed oil prices above $110 per barrel. This increased fears of higher costs for India. The rupee hit a record low against the US dollar, making imports more expensive. Metal stocks led the fall, along with banks and auto shares. Midcap and smallcap stocks also declined. Investors remained cautious as global tensions grew. Experts said markets may stay volatile until there is clarity on the conflict.

“Stop, stop, stop,” air traffic controllers shouted as an Air Canada Express plane hit a fire truck while landing at LaGuardia Airport in New York on Monday. The flight had arrived from Montreal. At least four people were injured in the crash. Reports said the pilot and co-pilot were badly hurt. After the accident, the US Federal Aviation Administration ordered a ground stop and halted flights at the airport. Other planes were told to turn around. The runway was closed soon after the collision. Officials have not confirmed all details yet. An investigation into the cause is expected. (PC: AFP)

Germany is increasingly turning to India to address a growing labour shortage caused by ageing demographics and low birth rates. Employers, struggling to fill roles, have recruited young Indian workers through agencies like India Works and Magic Billion, expanding from an initial 13 apprentices in 2022 to around 200 today. Sectors such as butchery, baking, construction, and logistics are benefiting. A 2024 study estimates Germany needs 288,000 foreign workers annually to prevent a 10% workforce decline by 2040. Policy support, including the 2022 Migration and Mobility Partnership and increased visa quotas, has accelerated inflows. Indian workers cite better wages, job prospects, and living standards as key motivations for relocating. (PC: BBC)