#iraq

Iraq's Presidential Vote Broke the Deadlock — But the Real Power Struggle Over the PM's Office Is Just Starting Iraq’s parliament may have finally elected a Kurdish president, but that vote was never the real story. The real fight — the one that will determine Iraq’s political trajectory for years — is over whether the Iran-aligned Coordination Framework will push former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki back into the prime minister’s office. Al-Maliki, who governed from 2006 to 2014, remains synonymous for many Sunni Iraqis and Western governments with sectarian rule and the security collapse that allowed the Islamic State to overrun northern Iraq. His potential return is the central political drama now unfolding in Baghdad, and it carries consequences that extend well beyond Iraq’s borders. The presidential vote, if confirmed, breaks a months-long deadlock over government formation. But it also starts a constitutional clock: the new president must formally task the nominee of the largest parliamentary bloc with forming a cabinet within a specified timeframe. That means the Coordination Framework’s choice of prime minister — whether al-Maliki, or someone less polarizing — is no longer a theoretical debate. It is imminent. Iraq’s unwritten but ironclad sectarian arrangement distributes the top offices: the presidency goes to a Kurd, the parliamentary speaker to a Sunni Arab, and the prime minister — who wields actual executive authority — to a Shia Muslim. This system, born from the post-2003 political order, means the presidency functions as a procedural trigger rather than a prize in itself. The 2022 government formation process dragged on for over a year in part because this first domino wouldn’t fall.#iraq #nouri_almaliki #iraq_parliament #coordination_framework #iraq_presidential_vote

Conmebol Internationals: South American Teams Gear Up for 2026 World Cup Qualification The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers are set to kick off with a series of international fixtures across South America, as all 10 nations in the continent prepare for the global tournament. The matches, part of the 2026 FIFA Series, offer a mix of traditional friendlies and intercontinental clashes, providing teams with opportunities to test their readiness ahead of the World Cup. Bolivia, in particular, are focusing on a crucial play-off to secure their first World Cup berth in 32 years. Bolivia’s path to qualification includes a decisive match against Suriname in Monterrey, with a win securing a spot in the final play-off against Iraq. The team, which has shown resilience in away games, will face the challenge of competing without the advantage of high-altitude conditions, a factor that has historically aided their performance. The squad includes four potential debuts, with 16-year-old Nabil Nacif as the youngest player. Goalkeeper Miguel Terceros leads the scoring with eight goals in 30 caps. Argentina, meanwhile, are navigating a unique schedule as they continue their World Cup qualification campaign. The team, which had planned to face Spain in the Finalissima, will instead take on Mauritania and Zambia in Buenos Aires after the match was canceled due to geopolitical tensions. The fixtures against lower-ranked opponents have raised questions about the level of competition for Argentina, though the squad remains strong, featuring Lionel Messi, Franco Mastantuono, and three River Plate players. The squad includes 14 players with international experience, with Mastantuono, the youngest member, adding depth. Brazil, despite a mixed 2025, are focusing on building momentum ahead of the 2026 World Cup.#iraq #suriname #bolivia #conmebol_internationals #nabil_nacif

ईरान 1980 के दशक के बाद पहली बार युद्ध के समय पारसी नववर्ष 'नौरोज' मना रहा है। इस बार अमेरिकी और इजरायली लड़ाकू विमानों की बमबारी के बीच ईरानी लोग अपना नए साल के उत्सव आयोजित कर रहे हैं। इस बार ईरान अपने देश के इतिहास में पहली बार ऐसे युद्ध के बीच नौरोज मना रहा है, जब उसके पड़ोसी देश इराक ने उस पर आक्रमण कर दिया था। इस युद्ध के दौरान आठ वर्षों तक युद्ध चला था। शुक्रवार और आने वाले दिनों में होने वाले उत्सवों की तैयारियों के बीच, तेहरान और पूरे देश के स्थानीय बाजारों तथा दुकानों पर लोग फूलों की खरीदारी करने और एक-दूसरे को बधाई देने के लिए कतारों में खड़े दिखे। यह सब तब हुआ जब रात भर और फिर दिन भर रुक-रुककर अमेरिकी और इजरायली लड़ाकू विमानों द्वारा भारी बमबारी की जा रही थी। इस बमबारी के बीच ईरानी लोग अपने परंपरागत उत्सव के अवसर पर एक दूसरे को बधाई देने के लिए बाजारों में जुटे रहे। तेहरान में नए साल की शुरुआत के बाद कुछ एयर डिफेंस बैटरियों ने कई मिनटों तक रुक-रुककर गोलियां चलाईं। ऐसा लगता है कि यह जश्न मनाने का एक तरीका था। कुछ लोगों ने अपनी खिड़कियों और छतों से खुशी मनाई, जबकि कुछ अन्य लोग "तानाशाह की मौत हो" के नारे लगा रहे थे। यह नारे ईरान के राजनीतिक विरोध का एक चिह्न बन गए। शुक्रवार को दोपहर में वसंत की बारिश होने के कारण सड़कों पर कुछ ट्रैफिक था, लेकिन शहर अभी भी अपनी सामान्य हलचल से कोसों दूर था, क्योंकि लड़ाकू विमान और ड्रोन आसमान को चीरते हुए समय-समय पर बमबारी करते रहे। इस बमबारी के बीच ईरानी लोग अपने परंपरागत उत्सव के अवसर पर एक दूसरे को बधाई देने के लिए बाजारों में जुटे रहे। ईरान के 31 प्रांतों में कई परिवारों ने कल अपने प्रियजनों की कब्रों पर जाकर उन्हें श्रद्धांजलि दी। कुछ लोग सजावट करते हुए तो कुछ कब्रों को साफ करते हैं और रंग-बिरंगे फूल चढ़ाते दिखे। यह उत्सव ईरान के धार्मिक और सांस्कृतिक विरासत का एक हिस्सा है, जो युद्ध के बीच भी जीवित रहा। इस बार ईरानी लोग अपने नए साल के उत्सव के अवसर पर अपने देश के इतिहास के अपने विश्वास और एकता को दिखाने के लिए बाजारों में जुटे रहे।#us #iran #iraq #tehran #nouruz

US-Israel-Iran War Live: Pentagon seeks $200 billion to fund Iran war, Washington Post reports Israeli warplanes struck central Beirut early Wednesday, destroying apartment buildings in one of the most intense attacks on the Lebanese capital in decades. The strikes come as the Israel–Iran conflict widens across the region. Israel claimed it killed Iran’s intelligence minister Esmail Khatib a day after assassinating security chief Ali Larijani. Iran confirmed Larijani’s death and retaliated by launching missiles with multiple warheads toward Israel, killing two people near Tel Aviv. Tehran stated the loss of officials would not disrupt its operations, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi insisting the system does not rely on individuals. Meanwhile, Israel has increased strikes and ground operations against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, while Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has rejected mediation efforts to reduce tensions. The Pentagon has asked the White House to approve a budget request of more than $200 billion to fund the ongoing war in Iran, the Washington Post reported, citing a senior administration official. The proposed funding would be submitted to the US Congress and is aimed at covering the expanding costs of the conflict, including replenishing weapons and boosting military production. Operations at Abu Dhabi’s Habshan gas facility and the Bab oil and gas field were temporarily suspended on Wednesday as authorities worked to clear debris from a missile interception, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said. Officials noted the debris fell after a successful interception, prompting precautionary shutdowns at both sites. The USS Gerald R. Ford is heading to the Mediterranean for repairs and resupply after a fire onboard, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press.#us #iran #israel #iraq #qatar

Cooler Export to Gulf Countries Faces Heat Nagpur's cooler manufacturers are grappling with significant losses this year as the West Asia conflict disrupts exports to Gulf countries. The war has severely impacted the cooler market, which traditionally thrives on seasonal demand in regions like Iraq, Kuwait, Sudan, and Saudi Arabia. Local producers, who supply both domestic and regional markets, are now facing a collapse in export orders, with some estimates suggesting losses of up to Rs2 to 2.25 crore. Rakesh Awachat, director of Ram Coolers Private Limited, highlighted the extent of the crisis. His company, which began exporting coolers to Sudan in 2016, relies on the Gulf market for a substantial portion of its business. "The export season typically starts in the last week of January, with shipments continuing until the end of March to meet the summer demand in Gulf countries," he explained. However, this year, the war has halted shipments to key destinations. "Our coolers could not reach Iraq, Kuwait, or Sudan, and negotiations with Saudi Arabia have also been disrupted," Awachat said. The conflict has not only affected existing export routes but also created uncertainty in future deals. Manufacturers from Uttar Pradesh, another major hub for cooler production, have also reported similar challenges. "The war has hit all Gulf export operations, and there’s no clarity on when things will return to normal," said industry sources. Compounding the issue, the meteorological department’s forecast of rain in the coming days has raised concerns about reduced demand for coolers. March and April are critical months for sales, as households and businesses prepare for the summer heat.#nagpur #iraq #ram_coolers_private_limited #rakesh_awachat #gulf_countries

US and Israel’s War with Iran: Key Developments on Day 19 Israel confirmed it killed Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmail Khatib, in a strike on Tehran, marking the latest in a series of targeted attacks against Iranian officials. The operation followed the killing of two other senior Iranian leaders in previous strikes on the capital, underscoring Israel’s strategy to eliminate key figures within Iran’s leadership. Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, announced the strike, stating that the military had been authorized to kill any senior Iranian official without additional approval. Iran has not yet confirmed Khatib’s death, but the attack comes amid a broader escalation of hostilities. The United States also escalated its military involvement, dropping 5,000-pound guided bombs on Iranian missile sites near the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes, part of a potential three-week campaign, aim to secure the critical waterway, which handles one-fifth of the world’s oil trade. Analysts suggest the bombings could signal the start of a broader effort to ensure safe passage for oil tankers through the region. The US military’s actions follow President Donald Trump’s calls for international assistance to reopen the strait, though many allies have hesitated to commit. Meanwhile, the US Navy’s amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli is reportedly en route to the Middle East, with officials indicating its deployment to the region. The ship’s exact destination and purpose remain undisclosed, but its movement highlights the growing US military presence in the area. Trump has also criticized NATO allies for not supporting the war effort, suggesting the US should reconsider its NATO membership. However, a senior UAE official expressed willingness to assist with securing the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s response to the attacks has been swift and intense.#us #iran #israel #iraq #strait_of_hormuz

Trump says he won’t declare Iran war over after claiming US ‘decimated’ its military | Live Updates from Fox News Digital Iran and its proxies carried out attacks across the Middle East on Monday, striking Israel with ballistic missiles, hitting a high-profile hotel in Baghdad with a drone and causing major flight disruptions at Dubai International Airport. An Iranian drone struck the Al Rashid Hotel in Baghdad’s Green Zone, a location where diplomats often stay, hitting the top floor of the building and sparking a fire. Another Iranian drone caused flight disruptions at Dubai International Airport. Iran also attacked Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates throughout the day. Before those strikes, debris from an intercepted missile caused damage in Jerusalem, near the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the historic site where Christians believe Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected. Rockets and drones were launched at the U.S. embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, on Tuesday, according to a report. The attack, which included at least five drones from areas around the city, was the most intense barrage since the start of the U.S.-Israel war on Iran, Iraqi security sources told Reuters. A witness observed at least three drones heading in the direction of the embassy, while the C-RAM air defense system intercepted two of the drones. A third struck inside the embassy compound, where fire and smoke were seen rising. Another witness said an explosion was heard in Baghdad. This comes as Iranian-backed militias have been attacking U.S. interests in Iraq in response to U.S. and Israeli strikes that began late last month, triggering a wider conflict in the Middle East. The U.S. average for retail diesel prices exceeded $5 a gallon for only the second time ever on Monday, as the U.S.#iran #iraq #strait_of_hormuz #united_arab_emirates #bahrain

Iran War Escalates as U.S. and Israel Launch Strikes, Trump Questions Leader's Status The U.S. military conducted a major bombing campaign on Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub, targeting over 90 military sites late Friday. The strike followed reports of Israeli air attacks on Iranian targets, with Israel confirming more than 7,000 strikes since Feb. 28. President Trump claimed the U.S. "totally obliterated every military target" on the island but left oil infrastructure intact, warning that he would reverse the operation if Iran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping. Iran’s foreign minister stated the strait remains "open to everyone, except American ships and those of its allies," a claim that holds little practical weight given that Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and other U.S. allies account for most non-Iranian oil transit. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also warned the UAE that U.S. military bases in the country are "legitimate targets." An Iran-backed militia attacked the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad late Friday, marking the second such strike since the war began. The embassy urged Americans to leave Iraq immediately, while the State Department ordered nonessential staff and families to evacuate Oman after Iranian strikes hit the country. Five U.S. refueling aircraft were damaged in an attack on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, though no casualties were reported. A KC-135 refueling plane crash in western Iraq killed six service members, bringing the total U.S. casualties to at least 13 since the war started. Gas prices in the U.S. rose to a national average of $3.70 per gallon, up over 25% since the conflict began. Over 1,444 people have been killed in Iran, 850 in Lebanon, and at least 12 in Israel.#iran #united_states #israel #iraq #strait_of_hormuz

US Spooked by Mojtaba? Trump’s War Ending Claim Crumbles as Iran Hits US Diplomatic Sites in Gulf The conflict in the Middle East has escalated to one of its most intense phases, with Iranian drones and missiles striking US military personnel and facilities across the region. US officials confirmed that Operation Epic Fury, the ongoing military campaign, has resulted in significant casualties. Over the first 10 days of the operation, approximately 140 American service members were wounded, including eight with severe injuries. At least seven US troops have been killed in Iranian retaliatory attacks targeting bases in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. In Iraq, a drone strike hit the Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center, a critical US diplomatic logistics hub located near the airport. The attack occurred after six drones were launched at the compound, with five intercepted and one successfully hitting near a guard tower. US officials have linked the attack to Iran-backed Islamic Resistance in Iraq militias. The incident highlights the growing intensity of the conflict, with both sides escalating their military actions. The Pentagon reported that Iranian retaliatory strikes have targeted US facilities, marking a significant shift in the conflict’s trajectory. Washington has responded with intensified airstrikes and naval operations, but the scale of Iranian attacks has raised concerns about the effectiveness of US countermeasures. The violence has also drawn international attention, with global leaders expressing alarm over the potential for further escalation. The situation has complicated efforts to de-escalate tensions, particularly as US President Donald Trump’s earlier claims about ending the war have been undermined by the recent attacks.#us #iran #iraq #saudi_arabia #iranian_militias

US Military Confirms Aircraft Crash in Iraq Amid Ongoing Conflict with Iran The United States military has confirmed that one of its aircraft crashed in western Iraq during joint operations with Israel against Iran. US Central Command, which oversees military activities in the Middle East and parts of Asia, released a brief statement on Thursday acknowledging the incident and detailing ongoing rescue efforts. The statement noted that the crash occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, with no immediate indication of fatalities or survivors. The command’s statement suggested the crash involved two aircraft, possibly due to a collision or close maneuvering. It clarified that the second plane “landed safely” and that the incident was not caused by hostile or friendly fire. This marks another setback for the US military, which has already faced multiple casualties since the conflict began on February 28. Prior to the latest crash, the US military reported seven service members had died in the campaign, with 140 others wounded. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell noted eight of the injured faced severe injuries. The crash adds to a series of incidents, including three fighter jets being mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defenses on March 1. Those aircraft personnel ejected safely and were recovered in stable condition. Public opinion has been divided on the military campaign. A Quinnipiac University survey found 53 percent of voters opposed the offensive, with 74 percent rejecting the idea of ground operations. Ipsos research echoed these sentiments, showing 43 percent of Americans disapproved of the strikes, compared to 29 percent who supported them. The war has also sparked debate among Trump’s supporters, with figures like Tucker Carlson criticizing the conflict as “absolutely disgusting and evil.#iran #iraq #us_central_command #operation_epic_fury #us_military

Iran War Live: Iraq Shuts Down Oil Port Operations; Israel Bombs Beirut Iraq has suspended operations at its oil ports following attacks on two foreign oil tankers, according to reports. The strikes, which targeted vessels operated by international energy companies, have prompted regional allies including Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia to intercept additional Iranian missiles and drones. The developments come amid escalating tensions in the region, with Israel conducting airstrikes in Beirut and Iran’s president outlining demands for an end to the conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for three conditions to halt the war: recognition of Tehran’s “legitimate rights,” compensation for damages inflicted by Iranian actions, and international assurances against future aggression. These statements follow a series of military confrontations, including the bombing of a Beirut neighborhood by Israeli forces, which killed at least 15 people. The attack occurred days after the funeral of Father Pierre al-Rahi, a priest who died from injuries sustained during an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon. The funeral in Qlayaa drew mourners who criticized the violence, with medics and first responders confirming the priest’s death. Meanwhile, Iraq’s decision to halt oil port operations has raised concerns about the impact on regional energy supplies. Analysts suggest the move may be a strategic response to the attacks, which have disrupted critical infrastructure and heightened fears of further escalation. The conflict has seen rapid shifts in military activity, with Iran and its allies intensifying strikes against Israeli and U.S. targets, while Israel and its partners have responded with precision bombings.#iran #iraq #masoud_pezeshkian #beirut #iranian_president

Indian Killed in Iran's Overnight Strikes on Oil Tankers Off Iraq Coast An Indian national was killed in an attack by Iran on two oil tankers, including one operated by a U.S. company, off the coast of Iraq during overnight strikes. The incident has intensified regional tensions amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has escalated over the past week. The attack occurred in the Persian Gulf, a region already marked by heightened military activity. The two tankers targeted were reportedly positioned near the Iraqi coastline, a strategic location for maritime trade routes. Iranian forces launched the strikes using missile technology, according to reports, though details about the exact method or timing of the attack remain unclear. The casualty count includes at least one Indian citizen, whose identity has not been disclosed. The victim was reportedly working on the U.S.-owned tanker, which was struck during the operation. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of international maritime operations in the region, particularly for vessels involved in energy exports. The attack comes as the broader conflict between Iran and its regional adversaries continues to disrupt global oil markets. Analysts warn that such incidents could further destabilize the already volatile Gulf region, potentially leading to broader geopolitical consequences. The U.S. has condemned the strike, calling it a violation of international law and a threat to global energy security. Iran has previously denied involvement in attacks on oil infrastructure, attributing such incidents to other actors. However, the recent strikes have been widely attributed to Iranian forces, citing their proximity to the conflict zone and the nature of the targets.#us #iran #india #iraq #persian_gulf

Indian National Killed in Attack on U.S.-Owned Oil Tanker in Iraqi Waters An Indian national was killed in an attack by Iran on a U.S.-owned oil tanker, the Safesea Vishnu, which was operating near Iraq’s territorial waters. The incident occurred on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, when an Iranian "suicide" boat targeted the vessel off the Khor Al Zubair port. The attack resulted in the death of one Indian crew member, while the remaining 27 personnel aboard the tanker were rescued and transported to Basra, according to sources. The Safesea Vishnu, a crude oil tanker registered under the Marshall Islands flag, was attacked in the Persian Gulf region, which has seen heightened tensions amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The Indian embassy in Iraq confirmed the death of the Indian national and stated that 15 Indian crew members were among those rescued. The embassy emphasized its ongoing coordination with Iraqi authorities and its commitment to providing support to the affected sailors. Sources close to the shipping company expressed deep concern over the incident, urging the Indian government to strongly condemn the attack and take measures to safeguard Indian seafarers in the region. They highlighted that Indians constitute over 15% of the global seafaring workforce, making them vulnerable to such attacks regardless of the target vessel. The company’s representatives called for urgent action to prevent further casualties, noting that the attack could have broader implications for the safety of Indian nationals operating in conflict zones. The attack has drawn attention to the risks faced by maritime workers in the Persian Gulf, where tensions between regional powers have escalated.#iran #iraq #safesea_vishnu #khor_al_zubair #indian_embassy

Transit through Georgia Surpasses 2,000 Flights Daily Amid Middle East Airspace Closure The sky over Georgia has become one of the busiest transit routes between Europe and Asia after the closure of airspace over several Middle Eastern countries due to ongoing military conflicts in the region. This has led to a sharp increase in the number of transit flights passing through Georgian airspace, with estimates now reaching 1,500 to 2,000 flights per day. This level of traffic represents a historic milestone for the country’s aviation sector. Previously, an average of about 642 aircraft crossed Georgian airspace daily. However, the recent surge in traffic is attributed to airlines rerouting flights to avoid restricted or closed airspace in countries such as Iran, Iraq, Israel, and the Persian Gulf states. As a result, Georgia has become a critical alternative pathway for commercial aviation, generating significant revenue for the nation. Airlines operating these routes pay navigation fees to the state-owned Sakaeronavigatsia, which manages the country’s airspace. According to the company’s financial report for 2024, the average fee for a single transit flight was 516 lari (approximately $189). With the current volume of traffic, the Georgian airspace could generate between $280,000 and $375,000 daily from transit flights alone. The increased demand has also prompted discussions about the long-term economic impact of this shift. Sakaeronavigatsia’s 2024 financial report noted that 234,293 flights passed through Georgian airspace, contributing $44.6 million in revenue. The company employs 844 staff, including 117 air traffic controllers, and its infrastructure relies on a network of radar stations across the country.#iran #middle_east #iraq #georgia #sakaeronavigatsia

At least 22 people dead after pro-Iran protests in Pakistan and Iraq Protests against the United States erupted in Pakistan and Iraq following the killing of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israeli strike. In Karachi, crowds stormed the US consulate, leading to clashes with security forces that left at least 10 dead and over 30 injured. Similar unrest unfolded in Baghdad, where protesters attempted to breach the US embassy in the Green Zone, prompting security forces to deploy teargas. The violence in Pakistan extended beyond Karachi, with at least 10 fatalities reported in Gilgit-Baltistan and two deaths in Islamabad. In Iraq, demonstrators waved flags and hurled stones at security forces guarding the US embassy, reflecting widespread anger over the strikes targeting Iran-backed groups. The attacks, which have killed dozens in the region, have intensified tensions between Iran and its adversaries. Khamenei’s assassination has sent shockwaves across the Middle East and the broader Islamic world. The 86-year-old cleric, who led Iran for 36 years, was a central figure in shaping the country’s security policies and fostering a network of Iranian-backed militias. His death has been mourned by groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, which hailed him as a religious warrior and martyr. Hezbollah’s secretary general, Naim Qassem, described Khamenei as a leader of the “march of jihad and resistance” against “tyrannical and oppressive American and Israeli forces.” Under Khamenei’s leadership, Iran trained and supported groups like Hezbollah to form what it called an “axis of resistance” in the region. This network has long served as a counterbalance to US and Israeli influence.#pakistan #iran #iraq #hezbollah #khamenei

Stock Market Declines Amid Geopolitical Tensions and Oil Price Volatility The NIFTY 50 index fell by 353 points or 1.38% to close at 25,232.50 on March 4, 2026, while the SENSEX dropped 1,065.71 points or 1.28% to settle at 82,180.47. The broad-based selloff pushed the NIFTY50 to a session low of 24,305.40, driven by rising concerns over global oil supply stability. Oil prices surged as fears of a major supply disruption grew, with the Strait of Hormuz closure threatening exports from Iraq and Kuwait. The rupee also weakened, slumping 69 paise to an all-time low of 92.18 against the US dollar amid geopolitical tensions following the escalation of the US–Iran conflict. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold shares worth ₹3,295.64 crore on Monday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) purchased equities totaling ₹8,593.87 crore. The SENSEX hit an intraday low of 78,443.20, down 1,795.65 points, and the NIFTY50 reached its session low of 24,305.40. By the close, the SENSEX fell 1,122.66 points or 1.40% to 79,116.19, and the NIFTY50 declined 385.20 points or 1.55% to 24,480.50. Among the top losers in the NIFTY50 were Tata Steel, which dropped 7.08%, followed by Tata Motors PV (-5.29%), SBI Life Insurance Company (-4.98%), JSW Steel (-4.67%), and Larsen & Toubro (-4.54%). Larsen & Toubro faced selling pressure due to heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran and retaliatory actions in the Gulf. The company has significant business ties across the Gulf and Middle East, with Macquarie noting that 37% of its order book originated from the region. In contrast, four NIFTY50 stocks rose, including Bharti Airtel (1.88%), Coal India (1.85%), Infosys (1.33%), and Tech Mahindra (0.15%). The NIFTY Midcap 100 index fell 2.16% or 1,255.35 points to 58,085.#iraq #strait_of_hormuz #sensex #nifty_50 #kuwait

Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami unfollowed Yuzvendra Chahal over Iran-related post? Fact Check A controversy erupted within the India National Cricket Team after Yuzvendra Chahal’s social media post sparked debates about patriotism and its connection to the ongoing tensions between the United States-Israel and Iran. The incident gained traction when fans claimed that Siraj and Shami had unfollowed Chahal on Instagram, allegedly due to the content of his post. However, fact-checkers later confirmed these claims were false, as the cricketers remain connected on the platform. Chahal shared a photo of a T-shirt with the message, “Support the country you live in or go live in the country you support.” While he did not explicitly reference the Iran conflict or the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, many interpreted the post as indirectly tied to the geopolitical situation. The message resonated with heightened emotions in India, where Shias mourned Khamenei’s reported death in an airstrike by the U.S.-Israel alliance. For many Shias, Khamenei was not only a political leader but also a spiritual guide, known as a Marja-e-Taqlid, and his passing led to widespread demonstrations, including gatherings at sites like the Bara Imambara in Lucknow. The controversy intensified when a user claimed Siraj and Shami had removed Chahal from their Instagram follow list. However, investigations revealed this was a misinformation campaign. Both players are still following each other on the platform, and the claims were debunked as fake. The incident highlights the sensitivity of social media in politically charged environments, where even indirect references can spark public debate. Chahal’s post also divided fans.#iraq #mohammed_siraj #yuzvendra_chahal #mohammed_shami #baraa_imambara

Iranian Ballistic Missile Hits CENTCOM HQ; Qatar Confirms Attack, No Loss Of Life Reported Iran launched ballistic missiles at the Al Udeid Air Base, the U.S. Central Command’s forward headquarters in Qatar. Doha confirmed two Iranian missiles were fired toward its territory, with one intercepted by air defenses and the second striking the base southwest of the capital. The attack targeted a critical strategic asset for Washington, as Al Udeid serves as the hub for American and coalition air operations in the Middle East. Despite the strike, no casualties were reported. The incident follows a series of Iranian attacks on U.S. military installations, including strikes on bases in Kuwait, the UAE, and Bahrain. Recent satellite imagery revealed the extent of damage to U.S. facilities in Kuwait, while reports highlighted a drone strike on a key U.S. Army base in the UAE. Qatar’s air defenses also thwarted an Iranian Su-24 fighter jet from reaching the CENTCOM headquarters, as reported by CNN. These attacks underscore the escalating tensions between Iran and the United States in the region. Separately, the sinking of Iran’s frigate IRIS Dena by a U.S. submarine in international waters near Sri Lanka’s exclusive economic zone sparked controversy. The ship had arrived in India for the MILAN-2026 naval exercise but was torpedoed days later. India’s government remained silent on the incident, despite domestic political backlash. Analysts noted that the attack occurred outside India’s jurisdiction, but questions remain about India’s role and awareness of the operation. The incident challenges India’s claim of being the dominant security provider in the Indian Ocean, raising concerns about its response to such threats. The attacks reflect a broader pattern of Iranian military actions against U.S.#iran #iraq #qatar #central_command #milan_2026

Pentagon identifies 6 US service members killed in refueling tanker crash in Iraq The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that six American military personnel were killed in a refueling tanker crash in Iraq. The incident occurred during a routine operation, and details about the crash, including the location and exact circumstances, were not immediately disclosed. The Pentagon emphasized that the service members were part of a coalition effort and that the Department is working to provide further information to families and the public. The crash has raised concerns about the safety of military operations in the region, particularly given the ongoing tensions with Iran and the challenges of maintaining supply lines in conflict zones. The incident comes amid a broader escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, with the U.S. and its allies facing increasing threats from Iranian-backed groups. The crash highlights the risks faced by service members deployed to Iraq, where both military and civilian targets are under constant threat. Officials have not yet commented on whether the crash was related to any specific conflict or attack, but the timing has drawn attention to the dangers of operating in a volatile environment. The Department of Defense has pledged to investigate the incident and take necessary steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future.#military_personnel #iran #pentagon #iraq #us_department_of_defense