Reports claimed that a broker for US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth tried to buy a defence-related fund just before the Iran conflict. The Pentagon denied the allegation, calling it “completely false and fabricated.”

Delhi Police arrested Shabir Ahmed Lone, a suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba operative, in Ghazipur. He is accused of managing a terror module and involvement in recent anti-national activities. Authorities are continuing investigations to uncover further links.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in Lok Sabha that nearly the top Maoist leadership has been wiped out, with only one leader remaining. He added sustained security operations have weakened the insurgency, marking a significant achievement for the government.                    

Iran confirmed the death of IRGC Navy commander Alireza Tangsiri, injured in an Israeli strike. Officials stressed that despite his passing, Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing operations would remain unaffected.

A 26-year-old man in Bengaluru allegedly attacked his mother, sister, and nephew by slitting their throats, then attempted suicide. Two family members remain in critical condition. Police are investigating the incident as a possible murder-suicide over financial stress.

India opposed the China-backed Investment Facilitation for Development pact at the WTO, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal saying it could harm the organisation’s rules. India stood alone, stressing that such agreements should only proceed with full global consensus.

A passenger on an IndiGo flight from Bengaluru to Varanasi tried twice to open the emergency exit mid-air, forcing the pilot to abort landing. Crew intervened, and the man, who claimed ghost possession, was detained after landing in Varanasi.

Seven people lost their lives and five others were injured after an avalanche hit Zojila Pass. One was a toddler. Vehicles were trapped under heavy snow, prompting rescue efforts. The crucial Srinagar-Leh highway was temporarily closed for safety and clearance.

An Indian national was killed and another injured in Abu Dhabi after debris from an intercepted missile fell on a street. The incident highlights rising risks to civilians amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Pakistan said it is helping the US and Iran talk to each other by passing messages between them. These indirect discussions aim to reduce tensions and find a peaceful solution amid the ongoing conflict.