Iran has reportedly deployed its elite counter-terrorism unit known as NOPO to protect newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei amid escalating regional conflict and security threats. The force, famous for its black tactical gear and specialized training, is tasked with guarding the leader at a highly secure and undisclosed location. Reports suggest Mojtaba Khamenei may have been injured during the strike that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israel operation. Since assuming power earlier in March 2026, he has largely remained out of public view. The deployment of the secretive NOPO unit highlights Iran’s concerns about assassination attempts and the fragile security situation surrounding its leadership. (PC: Getty Images)

A US-owned oil tanker, Safesea Vishnu, was attacked near Iraq’s Khor Al Zubair port by two explosive-laden unmanned boats, according to early investigation findings. The vessel, flagged in the Marshall Islands, was transferring about 53,000 metric tons of naphtha when the boats struck, causing a massive fire. The 28-member crew was forced to abandon the ship, with one sailor killed and the rest rescued by Iraqi authorities. Another tanker, Zefyros, was also damaged in the incident but its crew survived. The attack is part of escalating maritime violence linked to the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, threatening shipping in the Gulf region. (PC: X)

Israel is reportedly backing Palestinian militias in Gaza to weaken Hamas by carrying out raids, assassinations and kidnappings in areas such as Rafah and Khan Younis. These militias are said to operate from Israeli-controlled zones and receive weapons, intelligence and logistical support from Israel. The groups, including the Popular Forces and Counter-Terrorism Strike Force, have increasingly targeted Hamas members within Gaza. The strategy aims to undermine Hamas’s control from inside the territory. However, human rights organisations have raised concerns over alleged abuses by these militias, warning that such tactics could fuel instability and increase sympathy for Hamas among Gaza residents. (PC: X)

Two India-flagged LPG tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have successfully crossed the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and are now heading toward India amid the ongoing Iran-U.S. conflict. The ships were allowed safe passage after diplomatic talks between New Delhi and Tehran. The vessels are carrying large quantities of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), crucial for India’s domestic energy supply. One tanker reportedly crossed the strait under escort and both are expected to reach Indian ports soon. The passage is significant because tensions in the region have disrupted shipping through the Hormuz route, which normally handles a major share of global oil and gas trade. (PC: X)

Just hours before the United States launched strikes linked to Iran’s oil network, U.S. President Donald Trump said in a media interview that Kharg Island was “not high on the list” of targets. Shortly afterward, U.S. forces carried out major airstrikes hitting military facilities on the island, a crucial hub responsible for about 90% of Iran’s oil exports. Trump later stated that the bombing destroyed military targets but deliberately avoided damaging the oil infrastructure for now. Analysts say the attack marks a major escalation in the ongoing U.S.–Iran conflict and increases tensions around global energy supplies and shipping routes in the Persian Gulf. (PC: X)

Eleven Indian nationals have been charged in the United States for allegedly running a visa fraud scheme involving staged armed robberies. According to U.S. prosecutors, the group organised fake robberies at convenience stores and fast-food outlets so that store clerks could claim they were victims of violent crime and apply for U-visas, a special immigration status for crime victims who assist law enforcement. The incidents were reportedly planned from 2023 and took place at several locations across Massachusetts and other states. Authorities say the accused either arranged the fake robberies or paid to participate as “victims”. Several suspects have been arrested and presented before federal courts. (PC: The Hindu)

Amid rising geopolitical tensions, Abbas Araghchi, the Foreign Minister of Iran, accused the United States of hypocrisy over Russian oil. He claimed Washington had previously pressured countries like India to stop buying crude from Russia but is now “begging” nations to purchase it due to global energy disruptions caused by the ongoing regional conflict. Araghchi said the shift reflects changing realities in global oil markets and criticised Western policies toward Iran. The remarks come as tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz and energy supply concerns grow worldwide. (PC: India Today)

The United States Department of State has announced rewards of up to $10 million for information on 10 senior Iranian leaders, including Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei. The move is part of the “Rewards for Justice” programme targeting figures linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Washington designates as a terrorist organisation. Other officials on the list include Ali Larijani, Esmail Khatib, and Eskandar Momeni. The US says these leaders command IRGC networks involved in global militant operations. Individuals providing credible information may also receive relocation assistance, reflecting escalating tensions between the US and Iran amid the ongoing regional conflict. (PC: X)

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Iran has assured safe passage for Indian ships through the strategic Strait of Hormuz following diplomatic engagement by Narendra Modi. During a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Modi emphasised that India considers Iran a “friend” and supports resolving conflicts through dialogue. Tehran responded positively, signalling that vessels heading to India would be allowed to transit safely despite regional hostilities. The development is significant for India, which relies heavily on energy shipments passing through the strait. The assurance could ease concerns over disrupted oil and gas supplies as the conflict continues to affect maritime trade routes in the region. (PC: X)

Amid escalating tensions and travel disruptions linked to the West Asia conflict, Government of India has announced a free 30-day visa extension for foreign nationals currently in the country. The decision aims to help travellers stranded due to airspace closures and flight cancellations across the region. Authorities said overstay penalties from February 28 will be waived, and affected visitors will receive exit permits without additional charges when flights resume. India will also provide Temporary Landing Permits for passengers whose flights are diverted to the country. The move seeks to ease difficulties faced by international travellers during the ongoing crisis affecting regional aviation. (PC: X)