Times of India

As US President Trump returns from China, pressure mounts over Iran. Top aides are reportedly preparing options for renewed military action against Tehran if diplomacy falters, including intensified bombing and potential Special Operations deployments. Iran, meanwhile, signals readiness for conflict, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical concern for global oil prices.

US President Donald Trump announced the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as ISIS's global second-in-command, in a joint US-Nigerian operation. Trump stated the mission, executed at his direction, successfully removed a key terrorist leader who was planning attacks on Americans and destabilizing Africa. This operation significantly weakens ISIS's global network.

Madhya Pradesh High Court has declared the Bhojshala complex in Dhar a Hindu temple and Sanskrit learning center, granting exclusive daily worship rights to the Hindu community. The court overturned a 2003 ASI order restricting Hindu prayers. The Union government and ASI will manage the site, with the Muslim community offered alternative land for a mosque.

Akash Singh's IPL 2026 debut for Lucknow Super Giants was marked by a unique celebration involving a self-written paper chit after taking crucial wickets. While the gesture went viral, former CSK batter Ambati Rayudu criticized it as 'rubbish' and likened it to using cheat notes in an exam.

Taiwan's deputy foreign minister Chen Ming-chi stressed the island's commitment to peace and stability. He stated that Taiwan's future is decided by its people. US arms sales are guaranteed by the Taiwan Relations Act. President Trump expressed uncertainty about a major weapons sale to Taiwan. He also cautioned against a formal declaration of independence. Taiwan already considers itself sovereign.

Indian consumers may soon face higher prices as wholesale inflation surges, driven by global conflicts impacting commodity and energy costs. While retail inflation remains soft for now, a widening gap between wholesale and consumer price indices suggests businesses will likely pass on increased production expenses, leading to costlier everyday goods and services in the coming months.

Anthropic employees refused to sell their shares at the $350 billion tender offer earlier this year, and now we know why. The Claude maker has agreed a fresh $30 billion funding round at a $900 billion valuation, the Financial Times reported, nearly tripling its worth in three months. With revenue at $30 billion and an IPO expected by October, staff are sitting on a payday.

Shreyas Iyer's stellar IPL-2026 campaign, marked by consistent middle-order batting and composed chases, has positioned him for a potential return to the Indian T20I squad. Despite Punjab Kings' recent struggles, Iyer's individual performance, including five half-centuries, highlights his evolution as a reliable finisher and leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Netherlands for the second leg of his five-nation tour, aiming to deepen bilateral ties. He will hold talks with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, call on King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, and address the Indian community.

A 22-year-old NEET aspirant died by suicide in Sikar, with his family attributing his death to severe stress following the NEET exam cancellation due to a paper leak. Another 20-year-old MBBS aspirant was found dead in Lakhimpur Kheri, with his family also linking it to the NEET exam's cancellation and rescheduling, though police are investigating personal reasons.

A ride at a 'Disneyland fair' in Sasaram, Bihar, collapsed on Friday, resulting in injuries to several children and women. The injured were promptly taken to Sadar Hospital for treatment. Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident and the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed.

Despite a victory over Chennai Super Kings, Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant expressed dejection over the team's disappointing IPL 2026 season. LSG, already eliminated, secured a seven-wicket win powered by Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran, but Pant highlighted frustrations with implementing the team's thought process effectively.

After a stuttering start to IPL 2026, Gujarat Titans have emerged as one of the tournament’s most complete sides, with a relentless bowling attack led by Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna. Speaking to the Teamofindia.com, Prasidh opens up on GT’s turnaround, the team’s hard-length bowling philosophy, Shubman Gill’s calm leadership and his own evolution after last season’s Purple Cap-winning campaign.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced a re-examination for NEET UG 2026 on June 21, 2026, following directions from the National Medical Commission. Candidates can update their present address and exam city preferences from May 15 to May 21, 2026. The exam will be conducted offline in 13 languages.

A retired district judge and her advocate son were booked in Bhopal for the alleged dowry death of the latter's wife, Twisha Sharma. Sharma was found hanging at her marital home, with her family alleging dowry harassment and murder. The retired judge has since been granted anticipatory bail.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported eight Chinese naval vessels near the island following US President Trump's China visit. Trump suggested China might act against Taiwan after his term, acknowledging Beijing's strong objections to its independence. The US arms package for Taiwan remains under review amid escalating tensions and China's territorial claims.

Gig workers are staging a temporary nationwide strike, halting app-based services from 12 pm to 5 pm on Saturday. This protest, organized by GIPSWU, targets rising fuel prices and inadequate payment rates, which are significantly impacting drivers' daily earnings. The union aims to highlight the financial strain caused by increased fuel costs and low payouts.

President Trump declared his China visit a historic "G-2" success, highlighting major trade deals including Boeing aircraft sales and agricultural commitments. He also suggested China would refrain from aggressive action on Taiwan during his presidency, while Xi Jinping privately warned of confrontation over the island. Trump indicated China's willingness to help broker an end to the Iran conflict.

With playoffs in sight, Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bangalore are strong contenders, boasting high qualification probabilities. Sunrisers Hyderabad also hold a solid chance. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals have a decent shot, while Chennai Super Kings' prospects have dimmed. Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals face slim hopes.