Times of India

An Indian traveller, Varun Krishnan, abandoned waiting for flights in Doha and embarked on a desert road journey to Saudi Arabia due to escalating Iran vs US-Israel conflict. His dramatic escape highlights the widespread travel chaos, with thousands stranded as airspace closures disrupt global aviation. Krishnan's resourceful overland trip underscores the vulnerability of modern travel networks to geopolitical shocks.

An India-bound Thai cargo vessel was among four ships attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, with the ship heading for Gujarat's Kandla port catching fire. The Indian government deplored the targeting of commercial shipping, emphasizing the need to avoid impeding freedom of navigation and commerce.

Naga men, women, and children were abducted by suspected militants along Manipur's Ukhrul-Imphal Road, potentially escalating ethnic tensions. A Naga organization blamed Kuki militants, demanding their immediate release. The Manipur Chief Minister appealed for the unconditional release of all civilians and urged stakeholders to maintain peace.

A crypto trader's viral tweet about needing a social media permit in Dubai has ignited debate. While framed as bureaucracy, experts clarify that the new UAE regulations target promotional content and influencer marketing, aiming for transparency and professionalisation. This reflects a global trend of governments regulating the burgeoning digital advertising landscape.

A wedding in Muzaffarnagar took a bizarre turn when two grooms arrived with separate baraats, each claiming the bride. The ceremony was halted by officials and police after a child helpline alert about the bride's age. Families couldn't produce age proof, leading to the girl being taken to a one-stop centre for verification.

Hindu and Sikh groups are challenging the UK government's new definition of anti-Muslim hostility and the appointment of an 'Islamophobia tsar'. They argue it fosters resentment and marginalizes other faiths, demanding equal treatment and consultation. Concerns are raised about potential free speech curtailment and the downplaying of attacks on Hindu communities.

A man opened fire at the cavalcade of former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah and Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary. Both leaders escaped unhurt as security personnel deflected the shot and apprehended the assailant. The accused, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, is being interrogated.

Iran's sports minister declared the nation will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the US "assassination" of their leader and recent "malicious actions." This follows similar sentiments from the Iranian Football Federation president. FIFA's president had previously stated the Iranian team would be welcomed in the US, which is co-hosting the tournament.

Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi, who plays the cunning politician Jameel Jamali in the Dhurandhar franchise, has responded to a controversy after Pakistani politician Nabil Gabol reportedly claimed that the character resembles him. As Bedi prepares for the release of the sequel Dhurandhar: The Revenge, the actor clarified that the role was not modelled on any specific individual. He also spoke about Yash’s Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups being postponed from its earlier release date.