Donald Trump criticised several members of the NATO for refusing to join a U.S.-led military effort against Iran to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Posting on his social media platform, Trump called allies “cowards” and warned that their reluctance would be remembered. He argued that countries complaining about rising oil prices should contribute militarily to reopening the strait and stabilising global energy flows. The remarks highlight growing rifts within NATO as the conflict widens and underline Washington’s frustration over limited allied participation in operations aimed at countering Iran’s maritime pressure. (PC: 

Donald Trump is reportedly considering seizing or blockading Kharg Island to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of global oil flows. The plan, reported by Axios, could involve expanded US military deployment, with Marine units already moving to the region. Kharg Island, located 30 km off Iran’s coast, handles roughly 90% of its crude exports. While officials say no final decision has been made, analysts warn such a move could escalate the conflict, risk US troops, and may not guarantee reopening of the crucial shipping route. (PC: X)

An Indian national was killed in Riyadh amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran and regional powers, taking the death toll of Indians to six. The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia cited “recent developments” on March 18, when Saudi Arabia intercepted four ballistic missiles targeting the capital. Debris reportedly fell near a refinery, likely causing the fatality. Earlier incidents include deaths in Sohar and Al Kharj. One Indian remains missing. Since the conflict began on February 28, repeated missile and drone attacks have targeted Gulf infrastructure, impacting expatriates and escalating regional risks. (PC: X)

Royal Canadian Mounted Police Commissioner Mike Duheme said there is currently no evidence linking India to covert operations or transnational repression in Canada, easing tensions between the two nations. His remarks, shared with Ottawa, may shape future diplomatic engagement. However, Duheme clarified this reflects the present situation and does not address past allegations made during Justin Trudeau’s tenure, when Indian agents were accused of involvement in intimidation and killings. India has consistently denied these claims, accusing Canada of politicising intelligence. The development signals a potential reset in strained bilateral relations. (PC: Times Now)

Downing Street said the United Kingdom will not be drawn into a wider war despite tensions with Iran. The statement followed warnings from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who told Yvette Cooper that allowing the United States to use UK bases would amount to “participation in aggression” and risk escalation. Responding, the UK clarified it did not take part in initial strikes and only authorised limited, defensive use of bases. Officials said the move aims to counter threats from Iran while maintaining a path toward diplomacy. (PC: X)

Bhupathiraju Anmish Varma set a world record by climbing the Seven Volcanic Summits in 92 days, 4 hours and 45 minutes, the fastest in the male category. His journey began at Mount Elbrus on October 23, 2024, and concluded at Mount Sidley on January 23, 2025. The challenge spans volcanic peaks across continents, including Ojos del Salado and Mount Damavand. The feat was officially recognised by Guinness World Records in February 2026, highlighting endurance, speed and determination in extreme mountaineering conditions. (PC: X)

Ali Mohammad Naini, spokesman of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, was killed in strikes attributed to the United States and Israel, Iranian state media reported. His death came hours after he warned of “surprises” for adversaries and asserted Iran’s missile production remained strong during wartime. The killing marks another major blow to Iran’s leadership, following recent deaths of key figures including Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. The escalating conflict has intensified missile exchanges and targeted strikes, raising fears of further instability and deepening the ongoing regional war. (PC: X/Erfan Kouchari via @clashreport)

Sri Lanka reaffirmed neutrality in the West Asia conflict as President Anura Kumara Dissanayake rejected a United States request to station missile-armed warplanes at Mattala International Airport. He also declined an Iran request for warships to dock, maintaining a balanced stance. The decision followed a US strike that sank Iranian frigate IRIS Dena near Sri Lanka, killing sailors, while Colombo rescued survivors and offered humanitarian aid. Sri Lanka abstained from a UN resolution condemning Iran, stressing fairness. The government emphasised it will not allow its territory for military use, balancing ties with both Washington and Tehran. (PC: ANI)

Premium petrol prices in India have been increased by Rs 2–2.3 per litre, while regular petrol and diesel rates remain unchanged. The hike affects high-octane variants like Indian Oil Corporation’s XP95 and Hindustan Petroleum’s Power petrol, with revised prices effective immediately in select cities. The rise is driven by global crude oil crossing $100 per barrel amid West Asia tensions and a weaker rupee, increasing import costs. Officials said pricing is deregulated and the move is a corporate decision. Stable regular fuel prices limit immediate public impact, though sustained crude price pressures could trigger broader fuel price revisions later. (PC: India Today)

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson Gen. Ali Mohammad Naini was killed in an airstrike, reportedly by US‑Israel forces, just hours after issuing a defiant warning about a “missile surprise” targeting Israel amid the ongoing Iran‑Israel‑US war, state media reported. Iranian authorities described his death as martyrdom and later released a statement in his name asserting that missile and rocket production would continue unabated. The incident underscores the volatile escalation of the conflict, with high‑ranking military figures being targeted and killed even as Tehran vows ongoing resistance and capability to strike back. (PC: NDTV)