World

India ranked 116th in the World Happiness Report 2026, improving by two places from last year but remaining behind neighbours Nepal and Pakistan, while Finland continued to top the rankings for the ninth consecutive year

US strategy to involve Kurds in a ground offensive against Iran may set the entire West Asia on fire

Ukraine has sought a transparent probe into the detention of six of its nationals in Mizoram, denied any terror links, and offered cooperation to India, even as New Delhi said investigations are underway and a request for consular access is under consideration

Global oil and gas prices surged after Iran attacked key Gulf energy facilities, raising fears of prolonged supply disruptions and inflation, while stock markets across the world declined amid heightened geopolitical tensions and uncertainty over economic impact.

Indian agencies report that Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar appears weak and ill in his latest Eid message. Internal bickering and leadership dilemmas suggest a potential change, while Lashkar-e-Taiba emerges more active in PoK amid JeM’s visible lull

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

The United Arab Emirates suspended operations at Habshan gas facilities after intercepted missile debris fell, condemning Iran for the attack. Authorities warned of escalation, citing threats to regional stability and global energy security

A US congressional hearing highlighted future warfare driven by AI, cyber tools, and autonomous systems. Jason Crow and Frank Bradley stressed rapid adaptation, resource gaps, and growing global focus on technology-led, multi-domain military strategies influencing countries like India

US intelligence officials told lawmakers that Iran’s military capabilities have been significantly degraded by recent operations, but the regime remains intact and capable of rebuilding, continuing to pose a long-term threat to US interests and regional stability.

Real Madrid, PSG, Arsenal, and Sporting CP have advanced to the Champions League quarter-finals. Real Madrid defeated Manchester City, PSG overcame Chelsea, Arsenal triumphed over Leverkusen, and Sporting CP staged a thrilling comeback against Bodo/Glimt

Eid ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, with Muslims worldwide observing prayers, family gatherings, and festive traditions. This year’s celebrations unfold amid geopolitical tensions, affecting communities in the Middle East, the US, and beyond.

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

Despite conflict, nearly 90 ships have crossed the Strait of Hormuz as Iran sustains oil exports amid selective restrictions. “Dark” vessels and diplomatically cleared ships continue transit, while tensions involving Donald Trump keep global energy markets volatile

Global oil prices fell over 3 percent after recent gains, amid volatile West Asia tensions. Despite conflict escalation involving Iran, the US and Israel, concerns over restricted Strait of Hormuz flows and stalled security efforts continue to unsettle markets and supply outlook

Democrat Raja Krishnamoorthi lost Illinois’ Senate primary to Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, conceding after trailing in vote counts. Backed by party establishment, Stratton is favoured for general election victory, ending Krishnamoorthi’s bid to become a second Indian American US Senator

New Zealand defeated South Africa by 68 runs in the second T20 at Hamilton to level the five-match series 1-1. Devon Conway scored 60, while Ben Sears and Lockie Ferguson shared six wickets as South Africa collapsed for 107

Finnish President Alexander Stubb urged a ceasefire in the US-Iran conflict and suggested India could aid diplomacy. Narendra Modi and S. Jaishankar have engaged Iran amid rising tensions

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar concluded a productive Brussels visit, meeting EU leadership to advance the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. The talks prioritized strategic cooperation in technology, de-risking supply chains, security partnerships, and connectivity initiatives like the IMEC corridor

A drone attack in the UAE’s Fujairah triggered a fire at an oil facility amid escalating Iran-linked regional tensions. Missile interceptions and airstrikes were reported across the Middle East, including Iran, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, raising fears of wider conflict

An alleged Pakistani airstrike on Kabul’s Umid addiction treatment hospital killed over 400 people and injured at least 250, with Taliban officials blaming Pakistan and international figures expressing concern over rising civilian casualties and escalating tensions.

Israel’s Ambassador to India Reuven Azar dismissed rumours of the death of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling them disinformation. Netanyahu also posted videos from Israel to counter speculation circulating on social media amid the ongoing West Asia conflict

A drone strike on a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport triggered a fire and led to the temporary suspension of all flights on Monday. Emergency crews swiftly contained the blaze, and authorities confirmed no injuries.