Former US President Donald Trump has said Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is likely still alive but may be seriously injured. Trump stated he believes Khamenei is “alive in some form” though possibly “damaged,” as speculation grows about his condition following recent US-Israel strikes on Iran. Reports suggest Khamenei suffered injuries during the attacks that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Since his appointment earlier this month, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly, fueling rumours about his health. Iranian officials claim he is injured but still functioning as leader while the ongoing regional conflict continues to escalate. (PC: X)

Fresh explosions were reported in central areas of Dubai, sending thick black smoke rising above buildings and alarming residents amid the escalating Iran-US-Israel conflict. Witnesses reported loud blasts and shaking buildings in downtown districts, with visuals showing dark plumes over the skyline. Authorities are still assessing the cause, but the incident comes as Iranian missile and drone strikes expand across Gulf countries. UAE air-defence systems have reportedly intercepted several projectiles, though debris and explosions have been seen in parts of the city. The attack highlights the growing spillover of the Middle East war into major regional hubs. 

The Indian government has said reports claiming that Iran has allowed Indian ships to safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz are premature and not officially confirmed. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has spoken several times with his Iranian counterpart about the safety of shipping and India’s energy security, but no formal assurance has been announced yet. The clarification comes amid the ongoing Iran-US-Israel conflict, which has disrupted maritime traffic and triggered attacks on multiple vessels in the region. The government said discussions with Iran are continuing while closely monitoring the situation, as the waterway is critical for global oil supplies and India’s energy imports. (PC: AP)

The United States has issued a temporary 30-day waiver allowing several countries, including India, to purchase Russian oil shipments that are currently stranded at sea. The decision by the US Treasury aims to ease pressure on global energy supplies as the ongoing Iran conflict disrupts oil transport routes and pushes prices higher. Officials clarified that the waiver only applies to cargo already loaded onto ships before March 5 and does not permit new Russian exports. Washington said the measure is designed to stabilise fuel markets and control rising oil prices while ensuring the move does not significantly increase Russia’s revenue during the crisis. (PC: X)

A US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft crashed in western Iraq while supporting military operations linked to the ongoing Iran conflict. The aircraft went down during Operation Epic Fury, prompting an immediate search-and-rescue mission by US forces. Officials confirmed the incident occurred in “friendly airspace” and was not caused by hostile or friendly fire, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Two aircraft were reportedly involved in the mission, with the second landing safely. The number and condition of crew members were not immediately confirmed. The crash comes amid escalating regional tensions and intensive aerial operations as the US continues strikes and missions related to the war with Iran. (PC: AP)

An Indian sailor was killed after an Iranian underwater drone and explosive boat attack targeted the US-owned oil tanker Safesea Vishnu near Basra. The strike reportedly came after the vessel ignored warnings from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy amid escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf. The explosion caused heavy damage and a fire onboard, while other crew members were rescued and taken to safety in Basra. The incident highlights growing threats to global shipping routes as the Iran–US–Israel conflict intensifies.

An India-bound crude oil tanker successfully crossed the conflict-hit Strait of Hormuz and reached Mumbai after briefly going “dark” to avoid detection during the Iran–Israel conflict. The Liberia-flagged Suezmax tanker Shenlong, carrying Saudi crude from Ras Tanura, switched off its AIS tracking system while navigating the high-risk waters. Maritime data showed its signals disappearing inside the strait before reappearing after passing the danger zone. The ship, captained by an Indian officer, later docked at Jawahar Dweep Terminal, highlighting growing risks to global shipping routes. (PC: X)

Pakistan leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed was signed by Sunrisers Leeds for £190,000 during the 2026 auction of The Hundred, sparking criticism from several Indian cricket fans. The franchise, owned by the same group as Sunrisers Hyderabad, faced online calls for boycott after the signing. Many fans questioned the move because Pakistani players have not participated in the IPL since 2009. The England and Wales Cricket Board earlier clarified that selections must be based on performance, not nationality. Despite the controversy, the signing highlights growing international participation in the league ahead of the 2026 season. (PC: Getty Images)

The war between Iran and Israel continues to intensify across West Asia, drawing in regional actors and disrupting global energy markets. The conflict began after joint U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites in late February 2026, triggering retaliatory missile and drone attacks from Iran and its allies. Fighting has spread to Lebanon, the Gulf, and key shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global oil supplies. Hezbollah rockets, Israeli airstrikes, and attacks on tankers have caused heavy casualties and displacement. Oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel, while world powers including Russia and the UN urge immediate de-escalation. (PC: ANI)

The India national cricket team has answered years of criticism by winning three ICC titles in less than two years, ending a long trophy drought that followed the 2013 Champions Trophy. India’s resurgence began with the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, followed by victory in the ICC Champions Trophy and the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Earlier near-misses including the 2014 T20 World Cup final and the 2019 Cricket World Cup semifinal had led critics in Western media to label the team “frauds” or “chokers.” Former captain Virat Kohli faced intense scrutiny during that barren period. With the recent titles, India has firmly re-established itself as one of the most dominant white-ball teams in world cricket. (PC: BCCI)