Donald Trump said the ongoing US conflict with Iran was progressing “unbelievably well,” comparing it to previous US actions in Venezuela. Speaking at White House events and later in the Oval Office, Trump described the conflict as more of a “skirmish” than a full-scale war and claimed negotiations with Tehran were advancing positively. He said Iran “wants to make a deal” and indicated recent talks had gone “very smoothly.” Trump also warned that if the US withdrew now, Iran could take decades to recover. Reports suggest Washington and Tehran are exploring a preliminary framework agreement tied to sanctions relief, maritime access, and temporary limits on Iran’s nuclear activities.

Chandranath Rath, personal assistant to Suvendu Adhikari, was shot dead near Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas, intensifying Bengal’s volatile post-election atmosphere. According to reports, motorcycle-borne attackers intercepted Rath’s SUV before opening fire at close range. Police recovered cartridges, live rounds, and seized a suspected crime vehicle carrying a reportedly fake number plate. Rath’s driver remains critically injured. BJP leaders termed the incident a “pre-planned political assassination,” while Trinamool Congress condemned the killing and demanded a court-monitored CBI investigation. Forensic teams and investigators are examining CCTV footage as political tensions and allegations sharply escalate across the state. (PC: PTI)

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has strongly criticised its ally Congress for backing actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) after the 2026 Tamil Nadu election results. Calling the move a “betrayal,” DMK leaders said they “paid a high price for loyalty” despite their long-standing alliance with Congress. The controversy comes after TVK emerged as a major force, ending the traditional DMK-AIADMK dominance and reshaping the state’s political landscape. Congress’s decision to support Vijay has triggered tensions within opposition ranks, signalling a major realignment and raising questions about future alliances in Tamil Nadu politics. (PC: NDTV)

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) of deploying a “gunda vahini” to impersonate BJP workers and create unrest in West Bengal following the Assembly election results. The BJP alleged such actions were aimed at misleading the public and warned of strict legal action against those involved. The accusations come amid escalating post-poll tensions, with both parties trading charges of violence. TMC, led by Mamata Banerjee, has countered by accusing BJP workers of assaulting civilians and questioned law-and-order enforcement. The situation highlights deep political friction in the state after the election outcome.

Himanta Biswa Sarma resigned as Assam Chief Minister following the BJP-led NDA’s decisive victory in the 2026 Assembly elections, a routine constitutional step before forming a new government. He submitted his resignation along with his council of ministers to the Governor, who accepted it and asked him to continue as caretaker CM. The move paves the way for the formation of a fresh government, with Sarma expected to be sworn in again for a second term. The oath-taking ceremony is likely after May 11. The BJP secured a strong mandate, reinforcing Sarma’s leadership in Assam politics. (PC: ANI)

Iran has said it will only accept a “fair and comprehensive agreement” in negotiations with the United States to end the ongoing Middle East conflict, signalling cautious openness to diplomacy. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stressed that any deal must protect the country’s rights and interests. This comes as reports indicate both sides are nearing a preliminary 14-point framework to halt hostilities and begin broader negotiations on contentious issues like Iran’s nuclear programme and sanctions. However, key disagreements remain, and Iran has expressed skepticism about US proposals, insisting on a balanced outcome. Despite tensions, diplomatic progress has raised hopes of a ceasefire and eased global market concerns. (PC: WION)

Mamata Banerjee plans to move the Supreme Court of India challenging alleged irregularities in the 2026 West Bengal elections. At a TMC meeting, she accused the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Election Commission of India of enabling a “stolen mandate.” Banerjee said she and Chandrima Bhattacharya would resume legal practice to fight the case. Refusing to resign, she framed her stance as protest and said the Centre may impose President’s Rule if it chooses. She also directed party leaders to stay active locally and observe May 9 with Rabindra Sangeet. (PC: X)

Bangladesh has expressed concern over potential migrant pushbacks following recent electoral developments in India, particularly in West Bengal and Assam. Officials in Dhaka said they hope no such incidents occur but have placed border forces on heightened alert as a precaution. Authorities are closely monitoring the frontier for any unusual movement or enforcement actions. The development reflects sensitivities around cross-border migration and bilateral coordination. While no confirmed pushbacks have been reported, the situation underscores the need for careful handling of border management amid shifting political dynamics. (PC: PIB)

Narendra Modi and To Lam elevated India–Vietnam relations to an enhanced comprehensive strategic partnership, setting a $25 billion trade target by 2030. During talks in New Delhi, both sides signed 13 agreements covering digital payments, rare earth minerals, pharmaceuticals, education, banking, and culture. The move aims to deepen cooperation across economic and strategic sectors amid evolving geopolitical challenges. Defence collaboration and supply chain resilience were also key focus areas. The upgraded partnership signals stronger bilateral alignment and reflects both nations’ intent to expand engagement across critical and emerging domains.

Diljit Dosanjh faced a video threat from Gurpatwant Singh Pannu after confronting pro-Khalistani elements during his Aura 2026 concert in Calgary. Sikhs for Justice warned it would oppose his shows in the United States. Dosanjh had rebuked individuals displaying Khalistani flags and urged the crowd to maintain order, drawing public support. The incident overshadowed his tour’s focus on commemorating the Komagata Maru incident and the Ghadar Party. Despite tensions, Dosanjh emphasised diaspora resilience and historical struggles, highlighting the community’s journey from exclusion to global cultural prominence. (PC: The Tribune)