After Pakistan’s recent air raids inside Afghanistan, Afghanistan’s **Taliban government claimed it retaliated with drone strikes on a Pakistani army camp in Kohat, marking a serious escalation in cross‑border tensions. Pakistan had conducted airstrikes in Kabul and Kandahar, targeting what it described as militant hideouts, which Kabul condemned as violations of sovereignty. The conflict is part of a broader surge in hostilities between the neighbours, with both sides exchanging strikes and blaming each other for harbouring militants, raising fears of a wider military confrontation.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that ballistic missiles and drones struck the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Sea of Oman, asserting severe damage and a forced withdrawal. Tehran’s statement said the attack occurred about 340 km from its maritime borders, with state media claiming U.S. vessels fled at high speed. Washington’s U.S. Central Command denied the claim, releasing photos and stating the carrier remains fully operational supporting Operation Epic Fury. Conflicting narratives reflect escalating tensions between Iran and U.S./Israeli forces in the broader Middle East conflict. (PC: X)

The Supreme Court of India rejected a plea seeking a law mandating menstrual leave for women workers and students, saying compulsory leave could harm women’s careers by making employers reluctant to hire them. The bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, observed that mandatory provisions might reinforce gender stereotypes and negatively affect job opportunities. While acknowledging menstrual health issues, the court suggested interested authorities could consider policies after stakeholder consultation but declined the Public Interest Litigation (PIL). Judges stressed that voluntary practices are welcome, but legal compulsion may be counterproductive. (PC: X)

Two people were killed in Oman after debris from an intercepted drone fell in a populated area amid the intensifying US–Iran conflict. Authorities said the drone was part of the ongoing regional hostilities linked to the war. Meanwhile, Donald Trump issued a cryptic warning, telling reporters to “watch what happens today,” suggesting possible new military or strategic moves by the United States government. The remark comes as tensions surge across the Middle East, with missile strikes, drone attacks and threats to energy shipping routes continuing to destabilize the region. (PC: HT)

IT companies in Kerala’s Technopark are considering shifting to work‑from‑home as local food services struggle due to a commercial LPG shortage triggered by surging oil prices and supply disruptions. The lack of cooking gas has hit eateries and canteens relied upon by tech employees, prompting contingency planning. Internationally, the Trump administration has issued a temporary 30‑day waiver allowing the purchase of Russian oil stranded at sea to stabilize global energy markets amid the ongoing U.S.‑Iran war and rising crude costs. The move aims to ease supply tightness caused by conflict‑related disruptions at key shipping chokepoints. (PC: The Hindu)

The franchise Sunrisers Leeds has defended its decision to sign Pakistan mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed during the 2026 auction of The Hundred, saying it is “very pleased” to have him in the squad despite heavy online criticism. The signing sparked backlash from some Indian fans due to Ahmed’s past social media post linked to the 2019 India-Pakistan military standoff. Team officials clarified that the decision was based purely on cricketing merit. Head coach Daniel Vettori said the franchise needed a quality spinner after missing out on Adil Rashid and believed Ahmed was the best available option. The deal reportedly cost around £190,000. (PC: AP)

The United States and its Western allies clashed with Russia and China at the United Nations Security Council over Iran’s nuclear program amid escalating tensions from the ongoing Middle East conflict. Washington pushed to maintain oversight of sanctions through the UN’s 1737 Committee, accusing Moscow and Beijing of shielding Tehran and blocking enforcement measures. The proposal to continue discussions on the committee passed with 11 votes in favour, two against, and two abstentions despite Russian and Chinese opposition. US officials warned Iran has enriched uranium to around 60% without full international inspections, raising concerns about potential nuclear weapons capability, while Russia and China accused the US of escalating tensions. (PC: Reuters)

A US military KC-135 refuelling aircraft crashed in western Iraq while supporting operations linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, prompting an urgent search-and-rescue mission. The aircraft had five crew members on board when it went down, according to US Central Command. Officials said the crash occurred in “friendly airspace” and was not caused by hostile or friendly fire. Reports indicate that two KC-135 tankers were involved in the incident, with one aircraft crashing while the second managed to land safely despite sustaining damage. Authorities have not confirmed casualties yet as rescue teams continue efforts at the crash site amid heightened military activity in the region. (PC: AP)

Former US President Donald Trump has said Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is likely still alive but may be seriously injured. Trump stated he believes Khamenei is “alive in some form” though possibly “damaged,” as speculation grows about his condition following recent US-Israel strikes on Iran. Reports suggest Khamenei suffered injuries during the attacks that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Since his appointment earlier this month, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly, fueling rumours about his health. Iranian officials claim he is injured but still functioning as leader while the ongoing regional conflict continues to escalate. (PC: X)

Fresh explosions were reported in central areas of Dubai, sending thick black smoke rising above buildings and alarming residents amid the escalating Iran-US-Israel conflict. Witnesses reported loud blasts and shaking buildings in downtown districts, with visuals showing dark plumes over the skyline. Authorities are still assessing the cause, but the incident comes as Iranian missile and drone strikes expand across Gulf countries. UAE air-defence systems have reportedly intercepted several projectiles, though debris and explosions have been seen in parts of the city. The attack highlights the growing spillover of the Middle East war into major regional hubs.