Iran has suspended indirect exchanges with the United States through mediators, citing Israel’s expanding military operations in Lebanon and alleged violations of ceasefire conditions. According to Iranian state media, Tehran halted the exchange of messages and documents with Washington, arguing that developments in Lebanon undermine broader efforts to maintain regional stability. Iranian officials stated that talks would not resume unless Israeli military operations in Gaza and Lebanon cease and forces withdraw from disputed areas. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned that escalation in Lebanon would be treated as a violation of the wider ceasefire framework, raising concerns over renewed regional tensions. (PC: AFP)

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the satirical Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has announced plans to return to India on June 6 and seek permission for a peaceful protest demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak controversy. Dipke said millions of students have been affected by examination-related issues, citing support for an online petition and protests in several cities. His announcement comes after the Delhi High Court declined to order the immediate restoration of the CJP’s X account, which was blocked in India on national security grounds. Investigations into the NEET paper leak continue, with multiple arrests reported.

The Ministry of Jal Shakti and ISRO signed an agreement on Monday to improve water resource management using satellite technology. The partnership will focus on areas such as reservoir monitoring, river flow analysis, groundwater assessment and flood forecasting. The ministry also launched the MAHA-Water programme to support research projects with funding of up to ₹20 crore. A new phase of the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari campaign was unveiled with a target of creating two crore water conservation structures by May 2027.   Officials said technology, innovation and public participation are essential to ensure water security and achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047. (PC: HT)

French naval forces, with support from the British military, intercepted and boarded a Russian-linked oil tanker in the Atlantic Ocean on Sunday. The vessel, named Tagor, was suspected of carrying oil in violation of international sanctions imposed on Russia.   French President Emmanuel Macron said the operation was carried out with help from allied countries, including the UK. British forces provided tracking and monitoring support before the tanker was boarded.   The ship is believed to be part of Russia's "shadow fleet", used to transport oil despite sanctions. Russia condemned the seizure and called such actions illegal.

Israel has ordered new strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs, a stronghold of Hezbollah, as fighting between the two sides intensifies. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks were in response to Hezbollah's rocket and drone strikes on Israel.   Following the announcement, many families fled the area, causing heavy traffic on roads leading out of Beirut. Lebanese officials said they were relying on US mediation efforts to prevent further violence.   Hezbollah said it targeted Israeli forces in response to Israeli attacks. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, both sides continue to exchange strikes, raising fears of a wider conflict in the region. (PC: Reuters)

The ICC announced several key decisions after its board meeting in Ahmedabad. It confirmed that India will not travel to Pakistan for the 2028 Women's T20 World Cup. Instead, India's matches will be played at a neutral venue under the agreed hybrid model.   The ICC also approved trials of pink balls in Test matches to reduce time lost due to bad light. Head coaches will be allowed to speak with players during scheduled drinks breaks.   The Women's Champions Trophy 2027 has been moved to February. The ICC will also launch a new Women's Emerging Nations Trophy in 2026 and suspended Cricket Canada over governance issues. (PC: ICC, AP)

The United States and Iran exchanged fresh attacks over the weekend, raising tensions in the Gulf region. The US military said it carried out "self-defence strikes" on Iranian radar and drone control sites after a US drone was shot down.   Iran's Revolutionary Guard said it responded by targeting a US air base in Kuwait. Kuwaiti authorities said missiles and drones were intercepted and no major damage was reported.   The latest attacks come as talks to extend a ceasefire remain stalled. Both sides have accused each other of violating agreements, while negotiations over a broader peace deal continue without a breakthrough. (PC: Reuters)

The success of the Bollywood film Dhurandhar has reportedly angered the Dawood Ibrahim-led D-Company, according to sources. The film features a character named Bade Saheb, who closely resembles Dawood and is shown on his deathbed. Sources claimed that D-Company later activated its network in Mumbai and began recruiting new members. The recruitment drive was allegedly handled by the Shakeel gang, while Pakistan's ISI was tasked with providing training and weapons. Sources also said the recruits were unaware of the larger plan and were allegedly motivated using local issues. Security agencies suspect the gang may be planning a major attack to regain influence. Recent arrests by Indian agencies have reportedly helped foil such plots.

Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee on Monday accused the police of denying permission for a party protest in Kolkata over recent attacks on senior TMC leaders. She alleged that a "police raj" was prevailing in West Bengal and warned that she would protest in Delhi if the ban continued.   "If you don't give permission, I will protest in Delhi alone," Banerjee said during a virtual address to party workers.   She also claimed that TMC workers were facing intimidation and arrests. The BJP rejected the allegations and accused the TMC of trying to divert attention from its electoral setbacks. (PC: PTI)

Students protested outside the Education Ministry in Delhi on Monday over the NEET-UG paper leak and other exam-related issues. Members of AISA and KYS joined the demonstration, while police detained several protesters.   "We will not let this government play with our future. We are not scared of anything," a protesting student said. Protesters demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and criticised the handling of major exams.   Students also raised concerns over delays during the CUET-UG exam and issues with the CBSE paper-checking portal. They said repeated problems have affected the future of thousands of students across the country.