Explainer

The 2026 West Bengal Assembly election battle is intensifying in about 65–70 closely contested seats where voter list revisions have removed over 90 lakh names, potentially reshaping outcomes in key constituencies like Nandigram, Bhabanipur, and districts such as Murshidabad and North 24 Parganas

Tensions are rising between Donald Trump and Europe’s right-wing leaders over the Iran war, as figures like Viktor Orban face backlash, exposing limits to Trump’s efforts to build a unified global conservative alliance

Artemis II crew surpassed Apollo 13 record for farthest human travel, completing a lunar far-side flyby and capturing images. The mission also tested new science operations, aiding future moon missions and advancing lunar geology research

Donald Trump shifted from threatening Iran to backing a 14-day ceasefire after mediation efforts, including Shehbaz Sharif. The move aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and avoid prolonged US military involvement

The Strait of Hormuz crisis has intensified as Donald Trump pressures Iran to reopen shipping. Experts outline ceasefire, military intervention, or UN-led action scenarios, warning global oil trade and economic stability remain at risk

Fashion in 2026 focuses on effortless styling and comfort. From matching bags and oversized silhouettes to layered basics and sneakers, these trends highlight how small styling choices can create impactful looks while keeping outfits practical, versatile, and easy to wear

Instagram aesthetics in 2026 are moving towards authenticity and self-expression. From nostalgic edits to bold colours and minimal styles, users are embracing individuality. These five key trends highlight how content is becoming more relatable, creative, and visually consistent

An Australian-led study published in Nature found evidence of rare exploding stars called pair-instability supernovae, revealing a “forbidden gap” in black hole masses and offering new insights into how massive stars end their lives

Traditional Indian summer drinks like aam panna, chaas and jaljeera remain effective ways to stay cool and hydrated. Made with simple ingredients, these refreshing beverages not only beat the heat but also support digestion and overall well-being

A new Instagram trend combining Pringles and melted chocolate has gone viral, with creators experimenting with different variations. While some users are eager to try the unusual snack, others remain unsure, highlighting mixed reactions to the latest food craze

Iranian drone strikes targeting commercial data centres in the UAE and Bahrain mark a new phase in warfare, highlighting the strategic importance of cloud infrastructure. The attacks disrupted services and raised concerns over the vulnerability of AI-driven systems and global technology networks

Wars have existed for over 10,000 years, often caused by power, fear, or resource competition. “Just war theory” guides fair conduct, protecting civilians and essential infrastructure, while modern international laws aim to encourage negotiation, compromise, and peaceful conflict resolution

Dementia extends beyond memory loss, affecting language, behavior, and daily functioning. Rare forms are frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed, highlighting the need for increased awareness, early detection, and specialized care to manage diverse cognitive, emotional, and neurological symptoms effectively

April Fools’ Day, celebrated with pranks worldwide, likely dates back over 600 years. Its origins are unclear, with theories linking it to medieval England, French “Poisson d’Avril,” and calendar changes under King Charles IX in the 1500s

World Trade Organization members failed to extend the TRIPS moratorium on non-violation complaints at MC14, ending a safeguard in place since 1995. The lapse raises uncertainty, risking disputes over intellectual property policies, especially for developing nations like India

Global tensions remain elevated as diplomatic efforts continue across multiple regions. Economic uncertainty persists with fluctuating markets, while technological advancements drive industry shifts. Climate concerns intensify after recent extreme weather events, prompting renewed policy discussions and international cooperation initiatives

Declassified transcripts reveal Richard Nixon and Henry Kissinger refused to condemn Pakistan’s 1971 crackdown in East Pakistan despite genocide warnings from Archer Blood, exposing US reluctance to criticise an ally during the crisis

Ancient cultures, including those of Zeus and Jupiter, viewed lightning as divine power, though thinkers like Seneca sought natural explanations. Modern science now explains lightning, though its awe-inspiring impact still endures

The Strait of Hormuz, an international waterway, faces growing tensions due to Iran's control and its impact on global oil and trade. Under international law, neutral ships have passage rights, but wartime laws complicate the legality of convoys and ship movements

Israel’s targeted killings of senior Iranian and militant leaders weaken command structures but often fail to end conflicts, sometimes radicalising successors. Experts warn decapitation strikes work only with sustained political strategy, as underlying grievances and regional tensions persist

Indonesia faces pressure to exit Board of Peace amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Prabowo Subianto is reviewing its role, balancing neutrality, mediation efforts, and strategic ties with the United States

A projectile reportedly struck the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran, operated with Russian assistance, amid Tehran’s ongoing war with Israel and the US. No radiation leak or casualties were reported, but regional safety concerns and geopolitical tensions have intensified

Following US-Israeli airstrikes on Iranian oil depots, reports of “black rain” and toxic smoke have raised alarm among scientists. The rainfall likely contains hydrocarbons, PM2.5, acids, and carcinogenic pollutants, posing serious short- and long-term health and environmental risks for nearby populations

Death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during Ramadan could mark a historic shift as his son Mojtaba Khamenei emerges as a likely successor. His rise may strengthen the security establishment and reshape Iran’s politics amid regional tensions