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)

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)

An Indian national was killed in a Saudi Arabia strike as the ongoing war involving Iran, the United States and Israel continues to escalate across the Middle East. The fatality occurred after a projectile struck a residential area in Al‑Kharj, near Riyadh, killing two people including the Indian citizen and injuring others, according to Saudi civil defence. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh extended condolences and is supporting the family. Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reiterated that the conflict will go on, reaffirming ongoing missile production and attacks despite heavy strikes on Iranian forces and facilities. (PC: India Today)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have intensified diplomatic outreach amid escalating strikes on energy infrastructure in West Asia. They held multiple conversations with global leaders, urging restraint, de-escalation, and a return to dialogue. India emphasised the importance of maintaining energy security and safeguarding trade routes, especially as attacks threaten global oil supplies. The government is also focused on the safety of Indian nationals in the region. Officials reiterated that diplomacy remains the only viable path to reduce tensions and stabilise the increasingly volatile geopolitical situation. (PC: X)

India is diversifying energy imports amid escalating conflict involving Iran and Israel, with 70% of crude sourced outside the Strait of Hormuz, officials said. The Oil Ministry noted increased LNG supplies from the United States and Australia, while confirming all 22 Indian vessels in Hormuz are safe. Despite concerns over potential disruptions, fuel supply remains stable, with no shortages reported and normal refinery operations. The government is promoting a shift from LPG to CNG and expanding PNG networks to ease pressure. However, officials acknowledged the LPG situation remains concerning amid ongoing geopolitical tensions impacting global energy flows. (PC: Times Now)

S Jaishankar held talks with Gideon Sa'ar on the “many repercussions” of the escalating West Asia conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States. India has maintained active diplomatic engagement since the war began on February 28, urging dialogue and de-escalation. The conflict has disrupted global markets and blocked the Strait of Hormuz, impacting energy supplies. The government said it remains in touch with multiple countries to safeguard energy security and promote peace. Diplomatic efforts recently ensured safe passage for Indian LPG shipments, as India continues balancing strategic interests with calls for stability. (PC: PTI)

India criticised Pakistan’s nuclear record after Tulsi Gabbard identified it among top nuclear threats to the United States. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal cited Pakistan’s history of clandestine proliferation, calling it a global concern. Gabbard’s 2026 threat assessment also named Russia, China, North Korea and Iran as major risks, warning of advanced missile systems capable of reaching the US. She noted Pakistan’s long-range missile programme may include ICBMs. Islamabad defended its nuclear policy as “credible minimum deterrence,” while concerns persist over proliferation links and regional security risks. (PC: AFP)

A video from Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day parade has gone viral after showing participants carrying Indian flags, prompting mixed reactions online. The clip was shared with the claim that the parade was “full of Indians,” which triggered criticism from some users who felt it reflected a loss of traditional Irish identity. However, many others defended the scene, highlighting Ireland’s multicultural society and the inclusion of Indian-origin residents in national celebrations. Supporters argued that Irish identity is not limited by ethnicity and that immigrants contribute to the country’s cultural fabric. The incident has sparked a broader debate on immigration, diversity, and evolving cultural identity in modern Ireland.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a series of conversations with global leaders, including France, Oman, and Malaysia, amid escalating tensions in West Asia. He emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation, dialogue, and diplomacy as the conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel intensifies. A key focus was ensuring safe and free navigation through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which carries a significant share of global oil trade. Modi also condemned threats to sovereignty and highlighted the wider global economic impact of the crisis, reaffirming India’s commitment to regional stability and energy security. (PC: X)