Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have intensified diplomatic outreach amid escalating strikes on energy infrastructure in West Asia. They held multiple conversations with global leaders, urging restraint, de-escalation, and a return to dialogue. India emphasised the importance of maintaining energy security and safeguarding trade routes, especially as attacks threaten global oil supplies. The government is also focused on the safety of Indian nationals in the region. Officials reiterated that diplomacy remains the only viable path to reduce tensions and stabilise the increasingly volatile geopolitical situation. (PC: X)

The United States has sought a massive $200 billion funding package to sustain its ongoing war efforts against Iran, reflecting the conflict’s rising scale. Meanwhile, Israel has expanded its military operations, reportedly targeting Iran’s naval assets in the Caspian Sea. The escalation follows earlier strikes on Iran’s South Pars gas field, which triggered retaliatory attacks by Tehran on key energy infrastructure across Gulf nations. Despite intensifying hostilities, President Donald Trump stated that no US ground troops will be deployed. Global concerns are mounting over energy security and maritime safety, especially around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. (PC: HT)

A US F-35 stealth fighter jet made an emergency landing at a military base in the Middle East after reportedly coming under Iranian fire during a combat mission over Iran. The pilot is safe and in stable condition, while the extent of damage to the aircraft remains unclear. US officials have confirmed the incident and launched an investigation, though details are limited. Reports suggest this could be one of the first instances of Iran successfully striking an advanced US fighter jet, highlighting rising risks and intensifying tensions in the ongoing conflict. (PC: NDTV)

European nations—Britain, France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands—along with Japan have pledged to help ensure safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz following escalating tensions. In a joint statement, they strongly condemned Iran’s attacks on commercial ships and energy infrastructure, warning of severe disruptions to global oil and gas supplies. The countries expressed readiness to support coordinated maritime security efforts and stabilise energy markets. Iran’s actions, including drone and missile strikes, have significantly reduced shipping traffic, leaving vessels stranded and triggering supply concerns worldwide, including in India. (PC: X)

Russia warned the United States and Israel against striking the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in Iran, citing catastrophic radiation risks. Alexei Likhachev said any major incident would impact multiple countries, noting large quantities of nuclear material at the site. Rosatom has begun evacuating staff, leaving minimal personnel. A recent strike hit near the reactor but caused no damage or injuries, while the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed limited impact. Moscow condemned the attack, warning of regional disaster if escalation continues around critical nuclear infrastructure. (PC: Reuters)

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it struck oil refineries in Haifa and Ashdod amid escalating conflict with Israel. Reports confirm a missile attack hit Haifa’s refinery, causing limited damage and temporary disruptions but no casualties, with operations largely continuing. Shrapnel impact and smoke were also reported at the site. The strikes are part of Iran’s retaliation after Israeli attacks on its energy infrastructure, marking a widening focus on critical oil and gas facilities. The escalation heightens risks to regional energy security and adds pressure on already volatile global oil markets. (PC: Reuters)

India is diversifying energy imports amid escalating conflict involving Iran and Israel, with 70% of crude sourced outside the Strait of Hormuz, officials said. The Oil Ministry noted increased LNG supplies from the United States and Australia, while confirming all 22 Indian vessels in Hormuz are safe. Despite concerns over potential disruptions, fuel supply remains stable, with no shortages reported and normal refinery operations. The government is promoting a shift from LPG to CNG and expanding PNG networks to ease pressure. However, officials acknowledged the LPG situation remains concerning amid ongoing geopolitical tensions impacting global energy flows. (PC: Times Now)

Five European nations United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Netherlands along with Japan pledged coordinated action to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions involving Iran. In a joint statement, they condemned Iranian attacks on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure, warning of severe global energy disruptions. The crisis has halted shipping traffic, stranded vessels and triggered supply shortages in several countries, including India. The group also plans to work with energy producers to boost output and stabilise markets, urging Iran to halt attacks threatening global trade and security. (PC: Reuters)

Contradictions have emerged within the Trump administration over the Iran war. Donald Trump claimed Iran’s nuclear programme was “obliterated” after Operation Midnight Hammer, yet also described Tehran as an “imminent threat.” However, Tulsi Gabbard told lawmakers Iran had made no efforts to rebuild its programme, contradicting White House claims. Former counterterrorism director Joe Kent said Iran posed no immediate threat and resigned. Disagreements also surfaced over anticipated retaliation, with intelligence reportedly expecting Iran’s response despite Trump expressing surprise. The inconsistencies highlight confusion within US leadership over threat assessments and justification for the conflict. (PC: Bloomberg)

S Jaishankar held talks with Gideon Sa'ar on the “many repercussions” of the escalating West Asia conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States. India has maintained active diplomatic engagement since the war began on February 28, urging dialogue and de-escalation. The conflict has disrupted global markets and blocked the Strait of Hormuz, impacting energy supplies. The government said it remains in touch with multiple countries to safeguard energy security and promote peace. Diplomatic efforts recently ensured safe passage for Indian LPG shipments, as India continues balancing strategic interests with calls for stability. (PC: PTI)