Times of India

West Asian conflict is causing airlines, especially Indian ones, significant operational challenges and fare hikes due to Pakistan airspace closure. Air India seeks approval for a new Central Asia route to bypass war zones and mitigate rising costs, including soaring insurance premiums and fuel prices. This crisis is leading to a demand-supply mismatch, drastically increasing ticket prices for passengers.

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the "conflict" and the sinking of an Iranian warship. They accused the government of "surrendering strategic sovereignty" and "undoing" India's foreign policy, particularly concerning oil imports and the safety of Indian citizens in the Gulf region.

India and Finland emphasized that ending the Russia-Ukraine war is crucial for global stability and called for UN reform. Both nations agreed to support a just peace in Ukraine through diplomacy. A new Migration and Mobility Agreement was signed, fostering cooperation in technology, defense, and critical minerals, strengthening bilateral ties and global supply chains.

A Srinagar court has rejected the Enforcement Directorate's bid to add charges against Dr. Farooq Abdullah and others in the JKCA scam. While the ED cannot join the existing CBI case, the court found prima facie evidence of criminal conspiracy and breach of trust.

Jammu and Kashmir authorities are coordinating with the Centre to bring back students, primarily medical students, stranded in Iran. Officials are facilitating peaceful expressions of condolences while urging against exploiting the situation. Internet services have been restricted in Kashmir ahead of planned protests. Efforts are underway to evacuate students to safer locations within Iran before flying them home.

President Trump declared he will personally select Iran's next leader, deeming Ali Khamenei's son, Mojtaba, "unacceptable." Trump stated he must be involved in the appointment, comparing it to Venezuela, to ensure a leader who brings peace, not war. This comes amid a US military campaign targeting Iran's capabilities, not regime change.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared readiness for a potential US ground invasion, asserting confidence in confronting American forces and dismissing any ceasefire requests. He blamed US or Israeli forces for a deadly school strike, stating negotiations have collapsed due to recent military actions, and warned of no winners in the escalating regional conflict.

Sanju Samson's blistering 89 powered India to a massive total before the bowlers held their nerve in a six-hitting thriller at the Wankhede. England threatened through Jacob Bethell's century, but Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya's exceptional bowling sealed a dramatic seven-run win as India set up a T20 World Cup 2026 final clash with New Zealand.

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is reportedly targeting Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby in a blockbuster trade. Analysts suggest the Cowboys are best positioned to acquire Crosby. The edge rusher is seeking a Super Bowl contender. And Jones is hungry for a Lombardi Trophy after a drought of 30 years. This potential move aligns with the Cowboys owner’s history of aggressive trades like Micah Parsons, Herschel Walker, and George Pickens.

Thalapathy Vijay and Trisha recently turned heads at a Chennai wedding, arriving together in the same car. Their coordinated traditional attire and on-stage presence generated significant social media buzz. This appearance occurs amidst personal controversy surrounding Vijay, adding an intriguing layer to their reunion, which fans eagerly anticipate seeing more of.

A Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force crashed in Assam's Karbi Anglong district during a training sortie. The aircraft had lost radar contact shortly after departing from Jorhat. Search operations are currently in progress to locate the jet and its crew. This incident involves a key multirole fighter in the IAF's extensive fleet.

Bihar's longest-serving Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, has filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha, marking a significant political shift. After over two decades in power, Kumar's move, announced via social media, has surprised many within his party and political circles, signaling the end of an era in state politics.

Despite the rising tensions in West Asia, India remains confident in its energy supply, undertaking daily assessments and maintaining a strong inventory. By diversifying sourcing to include Australia and Canada, India enhances its energy security. In addition, strategic reserves and ongoing dialogues with global energy organizations and the United States reinforce India's readiness against any supply disruptions.

Although the fighting is taking place in the Middle East, much of the monitoring work is carried out thousands of kilometres away. Personnel in the United States operate from facilities housing large radar domes known as radomes. These spherical structures resemble giant golf balls and collect satellite data in real time. Analysts use the information to determine missile trajectories and likely targets.

Google co-founder Sergey Brin is reportedly linked to a $51 million waterfront mansion purchase in Miami's exclusive Allison Island. While his name isn't on the deed, transaction documents point to his involvement. This move places him alongside other tech titans like Larry Page and Mark Zuckerberg, who have also invested heavily in Miami's luxury real estate market, driving up prices.