Times of India

Israel claims to have destroyed half of Iran's missile stockpiles during a June 2025 war, though Tehran is actively rebuilding its arsenal. Despite battlefield losses, Iran's extensive missile program, focusing on precision and solid fuel technology, remains a key element of its regional deterrence strategy.

The assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes has ignited sharp criticism from Russia and China, who decry the act as a violation of international law and sovereignty. Both nations urge an immediate halt to military operations, highlighting escalating regional instability and a widening geopolitical divide.

Football authorities are supporting Iran's women's team at the Women's Asian Cup in Australia following recent military strikes in Iran. The Asian Football Confederation is monitoring the situation and prioritizing the safety of all involved. The Iranian team aims to showcase their abilities and qualify for the World Cup.

An oil tanker, the Skylight, was attacked off Oman's coast, injuring four crew members and prompting an evacuation. This incident follows Iran's warning to close the vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route. Shipping giants are suspending transit, and insurers are withdrawing cover, raising fears of severe global energy market disruption amid escalating regional tensions.

Newlyweds Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna visited a Hyderabad temple. Vijay protected Rashmika from a large crowd. Videos of his caring gesture went viral. The couple is distributing sweets and food across India. A grand reception is planned for them in Hyderabad on March 4th. Celebrations continue nationwide.

Iran fired two missiles towards Cyprus, where the UK has military bases, with Defence Secretary John Healey stating the attacks showed indiscriminate retaliation. He confirmed UK military personnel were near missile strikes in Bahrain, emphasizing the need for Iran to halt its actions and weapons programs.

Iran has appointed Ayatollah Alireza Arafi as interim supreme leader following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Arafi, a seasoned cleric with deep ties to the establishment, faces the immense task of navigating regional tensions and internal instability. His elevation signifies a crucial leadership transition, testing Iran's political resilience as it seeks a permanent successor.

Security concerns in Abu Dhabi have led to the cancellation of the second unofficial one-day match between Pakistan Shaheens and England Lions. The England and Wales Cricket Board cited safety as their top priority, also delaying the England Women's team's trip. The disruption follows military strikes and missile fire in the region, causing airspace closures and flight cancellations.

In the wake of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei's death in a joint US-Israel strike, Netanyahu warned to hit thousands of targets, framing the moment as a historic window for Iranians to challenge the regime. Reports describe coordinated operations targeting critical Iranian military hubs and infrastructure, aiming to dismantle the government and remove threats.

England Lions and Pakistan Shaheens are stranded in Dubai after Iran’s air strikes led to UAE airspace closure, cancelling their match. Jonny Bairstow, Andrew Flintoff, and others are stuck. The ECB says, “The safety and security of our teams and staff is our top priority,” while Bairstow sought flight updates on X.

Two-time Olympic medallist P V Sindhu and her coach faced a terrifying ordeal at Dubai International Airport after an explosion near their location. Stranded due to flight suspensions amid Middle East tensions, they are anxiously awaiting departure for the All England Championships. The Badminton World Federation is monitoring the situation closely, prioritizing player safety.

Iran has escalated its conflict by targeting Gulf Arab states, including Oman and the UAE, in a bid to pressure the US. Analysts suggest this move risks pushing regional powers closer to Washington, despite Iran's aim to compel de-escalation. The strikes, hitting civilian areas and ports, signal a broader regional involvement, potentially forcing Gulf nations to reconsider their stance.

Iran's President vows revenge for Supreme Leader Khamenei's killing in US-Israeli strikes, calling it a 'declaration of war.' The assassination creates a leadership vacuum and sparks regional unrest, with Iran's Revolutionary Guard threatening severe retaliation. Amidst a near-total internet blackout, Tehran views this as a pivotal moment in the Middle East conflict.

The United Arab Emirates has called on Iran to reconsider its actions. Iran launched military strikes across the Middle East, including attacks on Dubai. These actions follow the reported killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Dubai experienced significant disruption with explosions and damage to infrastructure. Local authorities reported injuries and partial damage to the main airport.

Astrologer Greenstone Lobo predicts India will defeat the West Indies in their crucial Super 8 clash at Eden Gardens, citing favorable planetary alignments. Despite past losses and opener struggles, Lobo believes hidden opportunities and the potential inclusion of Sanju Samson will lead India to victory and a semifinal spot.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board's leadership, calling the management "clueless" after their T20 World Cup exit. Akhtar highlighted flawed player selections, suggesting the team's consistent failures in ICC tournaments stem from a weak support structure around PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, urging him to seek better advice.

The Israeli military confirmed a large-scale operation killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran. The IDF stated Khamenei was responsible for years of repression and aimed to destroy Israel, leading a terror axis. His elimination marks the end of a significant chapter, according to the military. Iran's government acknowledged the US-Israeli strikes shortly after.