Legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle has passed away at the age of 92, marking the end of an era in Indian music. She died in Mumbai after battling health issues, including exhaustion and a chest infection. Renowned for recording over 12,000 songs across multiple languages, Bhosle shaped Bollywood music for decades with her versatility and timeless voice. Beyond music, she built a successful international restaurant chain, “Asha’s,” inspired by her passion for cooking, with outlets in the UK and Middle East. Tributes have poured in from across India and the world, celebrating her unmatched legacy. (PC: India Today)

Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for civilian and commercial shipping under its supervision, even as regional tensions persist. However, Tehran issued a stern warning that any military vessels entering the strategic waterway would be treated as a violation of the ongoing ceasefire and could face a “strong and decisive” response. The statement comes amid heightened tensions following failed US-Iran talks and threats of a US naval blockade. While limited maritime traffic is allowed, strict controls and security risks continue to disrupt global shipping and energy flows through the crucial oil route. (PC: X)

Iran has announced plans to restore the majority of its damaged oil refining and distribution capacity within one to two months following recent attacks on its energy infrastructure. According to a senior oil ministry official, repair work is already underway, with authorities aiming to bring facilities back to 70–80% of pre-attack levels. Part of the Lavan refinery is expected to resume operations within about 10 days, while other units will gradually come back online. The move comes amid ongoing conflict that has severely disrupted Iran’s energy sector, highlighting urgent efforts to stabilise domestic supply and global oil markets. (PC: Reuters)

Iran has claimed that several unidentified “flying objects” were struck during a high-risk US operation to rescue a downed pilot, with at least five people killed. The incident occurred during a complex American mission inside Iranian territory following the shooting down of a US F-15 fighter jet. Tehran alleged that multiple US aircraft were destroyed in the operation, while US officials maintain some equipment was deliberately destroyed to prevent capture. The rescue mission, involving numerous aircraft and special forces, successfully retrieved the stranded airman but further intensified tensions in the ongoing US-Iran conflict. (PC: NDTV)

US President Donald Trump has warned China of imposing a steep 50% tariff if it is found supplying weapons to Iran during the ongoing conflict. The threat comes amid rising geopolitical tensions and stalled diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis. Trump described the potential tariffs as “staggering,” signaling strong economic retaliation against any country aiding Iran militarily. The warning follows intelligence concerns over possible Chinese involvement in arming Tehran, though Beijing has denied such claims. The move is expected to further strain US-China relations and escalate global trade and security tensions surrounding the Iran conflict. (PC: X)

The United Kingdom invited India to participate in high-level international talks aimed at reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, disrupted due to escalating tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel. India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri attended the meeting alongside representatives from over 30–35 countries, focusing on diplomatic and political solutions rather than military action. The discussions highlighted the urgent need to restore safe maritime navigation and stabilise global energy supplies, as the strait carries a significant portion of the world’s oil trade. India reiterated its commitment to free and secure shipping routes while engaging with Iran to ensure safe passage for vessels amid the ongoing crisis. (PC: India Today)

Iran has issued a strong warning to the United States after high-stakes negotiations in Islamabad ended without any agreement. Iranian officials accused Washington of making “excessive demands” and “unlawful requests,” urging respect for Iran’s rights and interests. The marathon talks, which lasted around 21 hours, focused on key issues such as Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and control of the Strait of Hormuz. However, deep mistrust and unresolved disagreements led to a collapse in discussions. US Vice President JD Vance returned empty-handed, with both sides blaming each other, raising concerns over the fragile ceasefire and future diplomatic efforts. (PC: X)

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the U.S. Navy will immediately begin blockading the Strait of Hormuz following the collapse of peace talks with Iran. The move aims to stop ships from entering or leaving the vital waterway and to prevent vessels from paying tolls to Iran. Trump also ordered naval forces to intercept ships in international waters that comply with Iran’s toll demands. The decision comes amid disagreements over Iran’s nuclear program, which led to a breakdown in negotiations despite progress on other issues. The blockade marks a major escalation in tensions, with potential global impact since the strait handles a significant share of the world’s oil trade.

At least 30 people were killed and dozens injured in a tragic crowd crush at the historic Citadelle Laferrière fortress in northern Haiti. The incident occurred during a large gathering, where overcrowding at a narrow entrance triggered panic and a deadly stampede. Many victims were reportedly young people attending the event. Authorities said the death toll could rise as several remain missing, while rescue operations continue. Reports suggest factors like rain, overcrowding, and possible tear gas use worsened the chaos. The government has expressed deep sorrow and launched an investigation into the disaster. (PC: The Guardian)

Israel has been accused of destroying entire villages in southern Lebanon by rigging homes with explosives and detonating them, according to reports during the ongoing conflict. The Israeli military claims the demolitions target Hezbollah infrastructure allegedly embedded within civilian areas. However, rights groups have raised serious concerns, warning such large-scale destruction of homes may violate international law and amount to war crimes. The devastation has displaced thousands of civilians, with residents describing widespread loss of homes, livelihoods, and community life. The escalation has intensified tensions in the region, raising fears of a prolonged humanitarian crisis and further instability. (PC: NDTV)