Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, delivered his first public message since assuming power amid the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel. In a strongly worded statement broadcast on state television, he vowed to avenge Iranian casualties and continue resistance against both countries. Khamenei warned that Iran would keep pressure on its enemies, including threatening to keep the strategic Strait of Hormuz closed and targeting US military bases in the region. His remarks signal a hardline stance and suggest the war could continue, further escalating tensions and deepening the regional crisis affecting global oil supplies. (PC: Reuters)

India is in talks with Iran to secure safe passage for more than 20 oil, LPG, and LNG tankers stranded near the Strait of Hormuz as the ongoing regional conflict disrupts shipping routes. The vessels were delayed after tensions escalated following US-Israel strikes on Iran. Indian officials said negotiations are being handled through diplomatic channels to protect the country’s energy supplies. S. Jaishankar has spoken several times with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi about maritime safety and energy security. India relies heavily on Middle Eastern imports for crude oil, LNG, and LPG, making uninterrupted tanker movement crucial for the country’s energy needs. (PC: X)

Iran has outlined three key conditions for ending its ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East. Iranian leaders said the war could end if the US stops military operations, economic sanctions on Iran are lifted, and Iran’s security interests and regional influence are recognised. Tehran said it seeks guarantees that such attacks will not happen again. The announcement comes as intense fighting, missile strikes, and disruptions to global oil shipments continue across the region. The conflict, which began after joint US-Israel strikes on Iran, has already shaken energy markets and raised fears of a wider regional war. (PC: X)

India’s Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill is set to be honoured with the Cricketer of the Year award at the annual BCCI Naman Awards later this month. The recognition comes despite Gill being dropped from India’s squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Gill earned the honour after an outstanding 2025 season, finishing as one of the top run-scorers in international cricket across formats. His consistent performances in Tests and ODIs and growing leadership role helped him edge past several senior players for the prestigious award. The ceremony, organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India, will take place in New Delhi. (PC: X)

An Indian national was killed after a suspected Iranian explosive-laden “suicide boat” attacked the US-owned oil tanker Safesea Vishnu in Iraqi waters near Basra on March 11. The vessel, sailing under the Marshall Islands flag, was struck near the Khor Al Zubair Port, triggering explosions and fire on board. The Embassy of India in Iraq confirmed the death and said the remaining 15 Indian crew members were evacuated safely. Another tanker was also damaged in the incident. The attack comes amid escalating regional tensions and growing threats to commercial shipping routes in West Asia. 

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Iran has reportedly assured India that oil tankers flying the Indian flag will be allowed safe passage through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. An Indian source said the understanding came after diplomatic discussions between S. Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart to safeguard Indian shipping. The route carries nearly 40% of India’s crude oil imports, making it critical for the country’s energy security. However, an Iranian source outside the country denied that any formal agreement exists. The development comes amid attacks on merchant vessels and rising regional conflict, raising concerns over global oil supplies and maritime safety. (PC: Reuters)

  Iran warned that global oil prices could surge as attacks on ships disrupt energy routes in the Gulf. An Iranian military spokesperson said the world should “get ready for oil to be $200 a barrel.” Three vessels were reported hit in Gulf waters on Wednesday. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they fired on ships that ignored their orders. Since the war began, at least 14 merchant ships have been damaged in the region. The conflict started nearly two weeks ago after US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Oil prices have already risen sharply, briefly nearing $120 a barrel earlier this week. The International Energy Agency has suggested releasing strategic reserves to calm markets. (PC: NDTV)

Union Energy Minister Hardeep Puri said there is no shortage of fuel in India despite disruption in the Strait of Hormuz due to the West Asia conflict. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, he said, “There is no shortage of petrol, diesel, kerosene, ATF or fuel oil. The availability is fully assured.” Puri said India must deal with the effects of the conflict even though it has no role in it. He added that the country’s crude oil and LPG supplies remain protected. The minister said India has diversified LPG imports. Cargoes are coming from the United States, Norway, Canada, Algeria and Russia. Domestic LPG production has also increased by 28%. (PC: HT)

India’s retail inflation rose to 3.21% in February from 2.75% in January, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The increase was mainly driven by food prices. Food inflation stood at 3.75% in February. Prices changed across vegetables, cereals and pulses. Food items have a large weight in the Consumer Price Index. Urban inflation was recorded at 3.32%. Rural inflation stood at 3.07%. Despite the rise, inflation remains within the Reserve Bank of India’s target band of 2–6%. The central bank aims to keep inflation near 4%. Economists say global oil prices and supply disruptions could affect inflation trends in the coming months. (PC: India Today)

US intelligence agencies say Iran’s leadership is not at risk of collapse despite nearly two weeks of US and Israeli strikes. Officials said several intelligence reports show the government still controls the country. “A multitude of intelligence reports provide consistent analysis that the regime is not in danger and retains control of the Iranian public,” one source said. The strikes began on February 28 and targeted air defences, nuclear sites and senior leaders. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed on the first day. Still, officials say security forces and interim leaders remain in control. Sources added the situation on the ground is fluid and could change. (PC: NDTV)