diplomatic action

Israel and Iran exchanged fire on Monday as their conflict entered its 100th day, placing an already fragile ceasefire under severe strain and increasing fears of a wider regional confrontation. Adding to concerns over maritime security, the Iran-backed Houthis announced a ban on Israeli shipping through the Red Sea, one of the world's most important trade and shipping routes.

In light of the increasingly volatile situation in the Middle East, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed his deep concerns, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and adherence to ceasefire agreements in Lebanon, Iran, and Gaza.

Iran's recent missile and drone strikes on Israel, though militarily minor, signal a significant strategic shift. Tehran now views attacks on its proxy as direct assaults, expanding its red lines and increasing regional risks. This move aims to bolster its credibility with allies and leverage in diplomatic talks, potentially normalizing limited force as a diplomatic tool.

President Trump asserted that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu would have no choice but to accept any Iran deal negotiated by Washington, stating he calls the shots. Despite Iran's missile attack on Israel and subsequent Israeli strikes, Trump insisted the escalation would not impact ongoing negotiations.

President Trump revealed a shelved plan to militarily extract Iran's enriched uranium, deeming it too risky. Despite this, he asserted the US capability to seize the material, which he described as "entombed" and secure. Meanwhile, US envoys consulted specialists for upcoming nuclear talks with Tehran, though significant divisions persist.

A recent fire at a south Delhi B&B echoes past tragedies, specifically the 1986 Siddharth Continental and 2019 Arpit Palace hotel infernos. These devastating blazes, striking at night, claimed numerous lives due to asphyxiation and blocked exits, highlighting persistent safety lapses in the capital's highrises despite decades of urban development.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged 'tactical disagreements' with US President Trump over regional conflicts but emphasized their shared goals, particularly countering Iran's nuclear ambitions and Hezbollah. Despite recent heated exchanges, Netanyahu hailed Trump as Israel's 'greatest friend,' citing his strong support for the nation. Both leaders aim for regional stability.

During the Bonn climate negotiations, India urged advanced economies to amplify their commitments to emission reductions while significantly increasing climate finance. New Delhi emphasized that for developing countries, securing 'carbon space' is crucial to effectively tackle poverty and promote sustainable progress.

Sharib Hashmi is set to make his debut in the vertical drama space with Double Life, a comedy-thriller directed by Shadab Khan. In the series, he plays Baburao Sawant, a hawaldaar who is constantly ridiculed by those around him but harbours another side to his personality. Sharib talks about what drew him to the project, why he finds the show's treatment unique, and his belief that actors should continue exploring new storytelling formats. He also opens up about collaborating with director Shadab Khan, reuniting with co-star Nancy Thakkar, and his upcoming film Haiwaan.

US President Trump reportedly clashed with Israeli PM Netanyahu over recent military actions in Lebanon and Iran. A senior US envoy suggested a near confrontation, with Trump urging restraint to avoid derailing diplomatic efforts with Iran. Trump publicly called for an immediate ceasefire, emphasizing his role in brokering a deal.

Despite reports of intensified tensions between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu, Israel's ambassador downplayed a rift, likening it to a "lover's spat." Trump reportedly warned Netanyahu against expanding military operations against Iran, urging restraint to avoid isolation. While the US and Israel collaborated on earlier strikes, differences emerged over diplomatic versus military approaches to the conflict.

Tensions in West Asia surged as Iran's IRGC claimed to target a US military base, while Washington announced fresh strikes on Iranian radar and command-and-control sites. Kuwait's air defense systems also responded to drone and missile attacks amid ongoing exchanges and diplomatic efforts.

Following Iran's downing of a US Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz, President Trump ordered retaliatory strikes on Iranian air defense systems. This escalation intensifies months of Middle East tensions, disrupting shipping and raising global energy prices. Iran vowed a "decisive response," casting doubt on ceasefire efforts amid ongoing regional hostilities.

China is intensifying its crackdown on any public remembrance of the 1989 Tiananmen Square events. Families of victims are being barred from visiting graves, and authorities are actively erasing the incident from public memory. This suppression escalates as Hong Kong also bans commemorations, while global reactions highlight ongoing censorship.

Princess Diana's 1985 White House visit saw a memorable, informal moment as Nancy Reagan facilitated a dance with actor John Travolta. This spontaneous interaction, captured in a now-iconic photograph, transcended rigid state visit protocols. Diana's grace in this blend of diplomacy and popular culture became a defining symbol of her public life, offering a fresh perspective on international engagements.

President Trump repeatedly declared a deal with Iran imminent for months, even after a ceasefire was announced. Despite his optimistic pronouncements, tensions persist as Iran launched retaliatory attacks following Israeli strikes, straining a fragile ceasefire and raising questions about US influence.

When Chinese authorities detained Uyghur economist Ilham Tohti in January 2014, his daughter Jewher Ilham was preparing for a future she believed would include both her family and her father's work promoting dialogue between Uyghurs and Han Chinese. Instead, Tohti was sentenced later that year to life imprisonment on separatism-related charges.

US President Trump labelled Iranians "nuts" and "crazy people" while defending his hardline stance against Tehran acquiring nuclear weapons, warning of global catastrophe. He asserted the US is acting to prevent Iran from obtaining nukes, even threatening harsh military action if talks fail. Trump, however, also expressed personal liking for Iranians and sees a diplomatic path forward.