Two Indian LPG tankers are preparing to move through the Strait of Hormuz after a pause in tanker traffic. The vessels, Pine Gas and Jag Vasant, are near Sharjah and may depart soon, according to ship-tracking data. This comes as crude shipments through the route have stalled for over 24 hours. The strait remains tense after Iran warned it could target vessels leaving the Gulf. A trade source said the ships could sail on Saturday, though there is no official confirmation. India has called for safe passage of its vessels as several Indian tankers remain stranded in the region. (PC: India Today)

United Kingdom has authorised the United States to use British bases for strikes on Iranian missile sites targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The decision, confirmed after ministerial discussions, allows US “defensive operations” to degrade Iran’s missile capabilities. Key bases include Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who earlier resisted involvement citing international law, shifted stance following Iranian strikes on allies. Despite authorisation, London urged urgent de-escalation. The move comes amid tensions with Donald Trump, who criticised Britain’s limited support in the escalating Iran conflict. (PC: X)

Russia reportedly offered to halt intelligence sharing with Iran on US military positions if United States stopped supplying intelligence to Ukraine, according to reports. The proposal was conveyed by Kirill Dmitriev during talks with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Miami, but was rejected by Washington. The offer suggests Moscow may have been sharing targeting intelligence with Tehran, potentially aiding strikes on US assets. Reports also cite expanded Russia-Iran cooperation, including satellite imagery and drone support, though denied by the Kremlin. The talks come amid tensions following Russia’s Ukraine invasion and ongoing geopolitical conflict. (PC: X)

Chuck Norris, legendary martial artist and action star, has died at 86 following a sudden passing, his family confirmed. Known for Walker, Texas Ranger and films like The Delta Force, Norris built an iconic tough-guy image. A six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion, he founded Chun Kuk Do and the United Fighting Arts Federation. His career began after U.S. Air Force service, later gaining fame through a memorable fight with Bruce Lee in Return of the Dragon. Beyond acting, he authored books and inspired viral “Chuck Norris Facts.” He is survived by five children and leaves a lasting cultural legacy. (PC: X)

Mojtaba Khamenei denied Iran’s role in recent attacks in Turkey and Oman, calling them “false flag” operations designed to damage regional ties. In a message marking the Iranian year 1405 and Eid al-Fitr, he accused the “Zionist enemy” of orchestrating such incidents to create discord. He claimed Iran’s armed forces achieved “resounding triumphs” in the ongoing “third imposed war,” asserting national unity defeated attempts to spread fear. Reflecting on past confrontations, he said challenges strengthened cohesion. Khamenei outlined a 2026 “resistance economy” strategy focused on national unity, welfare, and resilience, while warning media against amplifying weaknesses. He also stressed stronger regional cooperation with neighbouring Muslim nations. (PC: India Today)

Dozens of animal rights activists broke into Ridglan Farms, a beagle breeding facility in Wisconsin, and removed several dogs, according to the Dane County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities said the incident involved unauthorised entry and the taking of animals, prompting an ongoing investigation. Details on the number of dogs taken and the identities of those involved remain unclear. The case highlights tensions between breeding operations and animal rights groups, with officials assessing potential legal violations while ensuring the safety and recovery of the animals involved in the incident.

Donald Trump sharply criticised NATO, calling it a “paper tiger” dependent on the United States, amid the escalating conflict with Iran. He accused member nations of cowardice for refusing to join military operations or help reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump argued that allies complain about rising oil prices but avoid contributing to what he described as a low-risk military task. Several European countries, however, have declined involvement, favouring diplomacy. The remarks highlight growing divisions within NATO as tensions rise and energy disruptions deepen global concerns. (PC: AP)

Donald Trump said the United States military is performing “extremely well” in the ongoing conflict with Iran, claiming significant naval success. Speaking at the White House, he asserted that Iran’s navy is “at the bottom of the sea” and praised American military strength, particularly its naval power. Trump reiterated that Washington would not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, arguing such capability would pose a serious global threat. His remarks come amid escalating tensions and continued military exchanges, reflecting the administration’s confidence in its operations while reinforcing its stance on preventing Iran’s nuclear advancement.

Mojtaba Khamenei declared that Iran’s “enemy” was being defeated in the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel in a message marking Nowruz. He credited national unity across religious, cultural, and political lines for strengthening resistance. Khamenei, who has not appeared publicly since succeeding Ali Khamenei after his death in an airstrike, used the statement to project confidence amid rising tensions. The message underscores Iran’s effort to maintain morale domestically as the regional conflict intensifies and uncertainty continues over its leadership visibility and wartime strategy. (PC: Reuters)

Benjamin Netanyahu sparked controversy after invoking Jesus Christ and Genghis Khan during a wartime press conference on the Iran conflict. Quoting historian Will Durant, he argued morality alone cannot ensure survival, defending Israel’s military campaign. The remarks triggered backlash online and criticism from Iranian officials, including Abbas Araghchi, who accused him of disrespect. Netanyahu later clarified he meant no offence and was citing historical analysis. The episode comes amid escalating Israel-Iran tensions, with Netanyahu reiterating efforts to counter Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities alongside the United States.