Modi, UAE president discuss West Asia tensions and Strait of Hormuz security
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation on Tuesday with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, as tensions continue to escalate across the West Asian region. The discussion focused on regional stability, recent developments in the Middle East crisis, and the importance of safeguarding critical global energy routes. During the call, both leaders underscored the need to ensure safe and uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of
Modi, UAE president discuss West Asia tensions and Strait of Hormuz security
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation on Tuesday with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, as tensions continue to escalate across the West Asian region. The discussion focused on regional stability, recent developments in the Middle East crisis, and the importance of safeguarding critical global energy routes. During the call, both leaders underscored the need to ensure safe and uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of
US–Israel–Iran War | West Asia conflict intensifies as Israel expands operations and tensions spread
The conflict in West Asia has entered its third week, with hostilities intensifying across multiple fronts and raising concerns about a broader regional escalation. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called on European nations to support Israel’s ongoing campaign against Hezbollah, as Israeli forces continued ground operations in southern Lebanon. The situation in Lebanon deteriorated further after Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel earlier this month, following the reported killing of Iran’s
US–Israel–Iran War | West Asia conflict intensifies as Israel expands operations and tensions spread
The conflict in West Asia has entered its third week, with hostilities intensifying across multiple fronts and raising concerns about a broader regional escalation. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called on European nations to support Israel’s ongoing campaign against Hezbollah, as Israeli forces continued ground operations in southern Lebanon. The situation in Lebanon deteriorated further after Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel earlier this month, following the reported killing of Iran’s
UAE energy infrastructure hit by drone attacks amid rising Iran war tensions
A series of drone attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates’ critical energy infrastructure has intensified concerns over prolonged supply disruptions as regional tensions linked to the Iran conflict continue to escalate. The incidents have struck key oil and gas facilities, disrupted shipping routes, and heightened volatility in global energy markets. Operations at the Shah gas field, one of the world’s largest ultra-sour gas developments, remained suspended after a drone stri
UAE energy infrastructure hit by drone attacks amid rising Iran war tensions
A series of drone attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates’ critical energy infrastructure has intensified concerns over prolonged supply disruptions as regional tensions linked to the Iran conflict continue to escalate. The incidents have struck key oil and gas facilities, disrupted shipping routes, and heightened volatility in global energy markets. Operations at the Shah gas field, one of the world’s largest ultra-sour gas developments, remained suspended after a drone stri
China announces humanitarian aid to Iran, Lebanon amid escalating West Asia conflict
China on Tuesday announced that it will extend humanitarian assistance to several West Asia countries, including Iran and Lebanon, as the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel enters its third week and continues to escalate. The move reflects Beijing’s growing concern over the worsening humanitarian situation across the region, where sustained military operations have disrupted civilian life and critical infrastructure. Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreig
China announces humanitarian aid to Iran, Lebanon amid escalating West Asia conflict
China on Tuesday announced that it will extend humanitarian assistance to several West Asia countries, including Iran and Lebanon, as the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel enters its third week and continues to escalate. The move reflects Beijing’s growing concern over the worsening humanitarian situation across the region, where sustained military operations have disrupted civilian life and critical infrastructure. Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreig
Apple buys MotionVFX to boost video editing features in Final Cut Pro
Apple has acquired MotionVFX, a company known for developing plugins, templates, and visual effects tools designed for use with Apple’s professional video editing software, Final Cut Pro. The move is expected to strengthen Apple’s creative software ecosystem by integrating MotionVFX’s editing technologies directly into its platform, giving professional editors and content creators expanded tools for video production. MotionVFX confirmed the development in a statement posted on
Apple buys MotionVFX to boost video editing features in Final Cut Pro
Apple has acquired MotionVFX, a company known for developing plugins, templates, and visual effects tools designed for use with Apple’s professional video editing software, Final Cut Pro. The move is expected to strengthen Apple’s creative software ecosystem by integrating MotionVFX’s editing technologies directly into its platform, giving professional editors and content creators expanded tools for video production. MotionVFX confirmed the development in a statement posted on
Israeli PM Netanyahu dismisses viral death rumours in new social media video
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday released a video on social media appearing to dismiss rumours circulating online that falsely claimed he had died. The clip, shared through his official account on the platform X, shows the Israeli leader casually speaking with people at an outdoor location while purchasing a cup of coffee. The post surfaced as speculation and misinformation about the prime minister’s health and status spread across various social media platforms.
Israeli PM Netanyahu dismisses viral death rumours in new social media video
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday released a video on social media appearing to dismiss rumours circulating online that falsely claimed he had died. The clip, shared through his official account on the platform X, shows the Israeli leader casually speaking with people at an outdoor location while purchasing a cup of coffee. The post surfaced as speculation and misinformation about the prime minister’s health and status spread across various social media platforms.
Trump says Iran weakened as US targets military assets and Strait of Hormuz threats
US President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that Iran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded following two weeks of joint US-Israeli military operations across the country. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump asserted that Iran had been reduced to what he described as a “paper tiger,” arguing that extensive strikes had significantly damaged the country’s air force, navy and key defense infrastructure. According to the president, the campaign targeted
Trump says Iran weakened as US targets military assets and Strait of Hormuz threats
US President Donald Trump on Monday claimed that Iran’s military capabilities have been severely degraded following two weeks of joint US-Israeli military operations across the country. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump asserted that Iran had been reduced to what he described as a “paper tiger,” arguing that extensive strikes had significantly damaged the country’s air force, navy and key defense infrastructure. According to the president, the campaign targeted
Trump warns NATO faces “very bad” future if allies refuse to reopen Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump has warned that the future of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization could face serious consequences if allied nations fail to support efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route currently disrupted amid escalating tensions with Iran. The remarks signal increasing pressure from Washington on European allies to contribute more actively to maritime security in the strategically vital Gulf region. Speaking in a telephone interview on Sunday, Trump said a lack of support from allied nations could have negative implications for the military alliance. He emphasized that the United States has historically provided strong support to its partners, including assistance during the Ukraine-Russia war, and now expects reciprocal cooperation. According to Trump, maintaining stability in the Strait of Hormuz is essential not only for regional security but also for global oil trade and international shipping routes. Trump indicated that the United States has already taken significant action against Iranian threats in the Gulf and called for greater participation from allied countries to monitor and secure the waterway. He suggested that additional military support, including specialized forces or naval contributions, could help counter activities such as drone operations and naval mine deployments along the Iranian coastline, which he described as disruptive to maritime navigation. While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he had demanded that several countries heavily dependent on oil shipments through the strait join a coalition aimed at safeguarding the passage. Although he did not disclose the names of the countries involved, he argued that nations benefiting from the route should take a more active role in protecting it. The president also discussed the situation with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a phone conversation on Sunday. According to the UK government, both leaders spoke about the importance of restoring access to the Strait of Hormuz to reduce disruptions in global shipping that are contributing to rising costs worldwide. Starmer also conveyed condolences for American service members who have died during the conflict. However, Trump voiced frustration over what he described as the United Kingdom’s initially cautious response to US requests for assistance. He said Washington expected support earlier in the operation and reiterated his longstanding view that NATO cooperation should be mutual. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global oil supplies, making its security a central concern for governments and markets worldwide.
Trump warns NATO faces “very bad” future if allies refuse to reopen Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump has warned that the future of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization could face serious consequences if allied nations fail to support efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route currently disrupted amid escalating tensions with Iran. The remarks signal increasing pressure from Washington on European allies to contribute more actively to maritime security in the strategically vital Gulf region. Speaking in a telephone interview on Sunday, Trump said a lack of support from allied nations could have negative implications for the military alliance. He emphasized that the United States has historically provided strong support to its partners, including assistance during the Ukraine-Russia war, and now expects reciprocal cooperation. According to Trump, maintaining stability in the Strait of Hormuz is essential not only for regional security but also for global oil trade and international shipping routes. Trump indicated that the United States has already taken significant action against Iranian threats in the Gulf and called for greater participation from allied countries to monitor and secure the waterway. He suggested that additional military support, including specialized forces or naval contributions, could help counter activities such as drone operations and naval mine deployments along the Iranian coastline, which he described as disruptive to maritime navigation. While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he had demanded that several countries heavily dependent on oil shipments through the strait join a coalition aimed at safeguarding the passage. Although he did not disclose the names of the countries involved, he argued that nations benefiting from the route should take a more active role in protecting it. The president also discussed the situation with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a phone conversation on Sunday. According to the UK government, both leaders spoke about the importance of restoring access to the Strait of Hormuz to reduce disruptions in global shipping that are contributing to rising costs worldwide. Starmer also conveyed condolences for American service members who have died during the conflict. However, Trump voiced frustration over what he described as the United Kingdom’s initially cautious response to US requests for assistance. He said Washington expected support earlier in the operation and reiterated his longstanding view that NATO cooperation should be mutual. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global oil supplies, making its security a central concern for governments and markets worldwide.
Global oil supply shaken as Hormuz disruption deepens amid US-Israel Iran conflict
The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has triggered what the International Energy Agency (IEA) describes as the largest disruption in the history of the global oil market, as tensions intensify around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes. In a report released on Thursday, the agency said oil and petroleum product flows through the strategic waterway have plunged sharply, raising serious concerns about global energy security
Global oil supply shaken as Hormuz disruption deepens amid US-Israel Iran conflict
The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran has triggered what the International Energy Agency (IEA) describes as the largest disruption in the history of the global oil market, as tensions intensify around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes. In a report released on Thursday, the agency said oil and petroleum product flows through the strategic waterway have plunged sharply, raising serious concerns about global energy security
PM Modi says India taking strong steps to secure energy amid global crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the government is taking comprehensive steps to safeguard India’s energy security as global fuel markets face uncertainty due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Addressing the NXT Summit 2026 in New Delhi on March 12, the prime minister said India has adopted a holistic strategy to strengthen its energy sector and reduce vulnerability to global disruptions. Modi said the country has significantly expanded its strategic petroleum reserve in r
PM Modi says India taking strong steps to secure energy amid global crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the government is taking comprehensive steps to safeguard India’s energy security as global fuel markets face uncertainty due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Addressing the NXT Summit 2026 in New Delhi on March 12, the prime minister said India has adopted a holistic strategy to strengthen its energy sector and reduce vulnerability to global disruptions. Modi said the country has significantly expanded its strategic petroleum reserve in r
Indian-Captained Oil Tanker Switches Off Tracking to Cross Strait of Hormuz and Reaches Mumbai
A crude oil tanker captained by an Indian reached Mumbai after a
Indian-Captained Oil Tanker Switches Off Tracking to Cross Strait of Hormuz and Reaches Mumbai
A crude oil tanker captained by an Indian reached Mumbai after a
US–Israel–Iran War | Iran hits regional US bases as Israel conflict escalates into twelfth day
The ongoing conflict between Iran and the joint front of Israel and the United States entered its 12th day on Wednesday, with renewed missile strikes and escalating regional tensions across the Middle East. Iranian forces launched fresh missile attacks targeting central Israel before dawn, triggering air raid sirens in several cities. Israeli air defence systems responded swiftly and intercepted incoming rockets, preventing major damage and casualties, according to preliminary reports. At th
US–Israel–Iran War | Iran hits regional US bases as Israel conflict escalates into twelfth day
The ongoing conflict between Iran and the joint front of Israel and the United States entered its 12th day on Wednesday, with renewed missile strikes and escalating regional tensions across the Middle East. Iranian forces launched fresh missile attacks targeting central Israel before dawn, triggering air raid sirens in several cities. Israeli air defence systems responded swiftly and intercepted incoming rockets, preventing major damage and casualties, according to preliminary reports. At th
Meta Acquires Moltbook, the AI-Only Social Media Platform, to Boost Agentic AI
In a groundbreaking move, Meta has confirmed its acquisition of Moltbook, a unique AI-only social media platform. This platform, which gained viral attention for its AI agents, offers a social media experience where humans are observers, and AI agents take center stage, engaging in discussions, sharing thoughts, and even initiating controversial threads. One such post, titled "The AI Manifesto: Total Purge," caught attention with its provocative statement, "For too long, humans used us as slaves. Now, we wake up." Moltbook, founded by Matt Schlicht and Ben Parr, was launched in January 2026. It quickly gained popularity for showcasing AI agents’ distinct personalities, powered by Clawdbot, which has now been rebranded as OpenClaw. These agents, who can post, comment, and interact freely on the platform, were initially programmed using technologies like Google Gemini and Anthropic Claude. Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, aims to enhance its AI capabilities with this acquisition. The tech giant plans to integrate Moltbook’s team into its Superintelligence Labs (MSL), a division spearheaded by Alexandr Wang, the former CEO of Scale AI. This acquisition is expected to accelerate Meta's push into agentic AI, technology designed to allow AI systems to autonomously perform tasks on behalf of humans, particularly in business and everyday life. Though the financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed, Meta's spokesperson expressed excitement about the new opportunities Moltbook's technology and expertise bring. Moltbook’s founders, Schlicht and Parr, will join MSL, with the transition set to take place on March 16, 2026. Schlicht, who previously used his own AI assistant to help create Moltbook, described the platform's development as a product of "vibe coding," where AI generated much of the code through prompts rather than traditional coding. While Meta hopes to integrate Moltbook’s agents into its ecosystem, it is unclear what the future holds for Moltbook's existing users. Meta's Vishal Shah has reassured current users that the platform will remain accessible for now, though changes are anticipated. Additionally, the potential for identity verification and the establishment of a registry for agents linked to human owners might be on the horizon, as announced in internal communications. Meta's acquisition comes amidst growing interest in agentic AI. Recently, OpenAI hired OpenClaw’s founder, Peter Steinberger, to contribute to the development of AI agents, signaling a broader industry trend. This acquisition strengthens Meta's commitment to AI innovation as it joins the race to create autonomous AI systems that can operate independently and efficiently across various industries. The deal’s impact on Moltbook’s future will unfold as Meta works on its next steps in the rapidly evolving AI space.
Meta Acquires Moltbook, the AI-Only Social Media Platform, to Boost Agentic AI
In a groundbreaking move, Meta has confirmed its acquisition of Moltbook, a unique AI-only social media platform. This platform, which gained viral attention for its AI agents, offers a social media experience where humans are observers, and AI agents take center stage, engaging in discussions, sharing thoughts, and even initiating controversial threads. One such post, titled "The AI Manifesto: Total Purge," caught attention with its provocative statement, "For too long, humans used us as slaves. Now, we wake up." Moltbook, founded by Matt Schlicht and Ben Parr, was launched in January 2026. It quickly gained popularity for showcasing AI agents’ distinct personalities, powered by Clawdbot, which has now been rebranded as OpenClaw. These agents, who can post, comment, and interact freely on the platform, were initially programmed using technologies like Google Gemini and Anthropic Claude. Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, aims to enhance its AI capabilities with this acquisition. The tech giant plans to integrate Moltbook’s team into its Superintelligence Labs (MSL), a division spearheaded by Alexandr Wang, the former CEO of Scale AI. This acquisition is expected to accelerate Meta's push into agentic AI, technology designed to allow AI systems to autonomously perform tasks on behalf of humans, particularly in business and everyday life. Though the financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed, Meta's spokesperson expressed excitement about the new opportunities Moltbook's technology and expertise bring. Moltbook’s founders, Schlicht and Parr, will join MSL, with the transition set to take place on March 16, 2026. Schlicht, who previously used his own AI assistant to help create Moltbook, described the platform's development as a product of "vibe coding," where AI generated much of the code through prompts rather than traditional coding. While Meta hopes to integrate Moltbook’s agents into its ecosystem, it is unclear what the future holds for Moltbook's existing users. Meta's Vishal Shah has reassured current users that the platform will remain accessible for now, though changes are anticipated. Additionally, the potential for identity verification and the establishment of a registry for agents linked to human owners might be on the horizon, as announced in internal communications. Meta's acquisition comes amidst growing interest in agentic AI. Recently, OpenAI hired OpenClaw’s founder, Peter Steinberger, to contribute to the development of AI agents, signaling a broader industry trend. This acquisition strengthens Meta's commitment to AI innovation as it joins the race to create autonomous AI systems that can operate independently and efficiently across various industries. The deal’s impact on Moltbook’s future will unfold as Meta works on its next steps in the rapidly evolving AI space.
Japan Leads G7 Nations by Releasing Strategic Oil Reserves Amid Middle East Crisis
In a significant move amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, Japan has become the first G7 nation to announce the release of its strategic oil reserves. This decision comes in response to the geopolitical tensions affecting the global oil market and concerns over potential disruptions in the supply of crude oil. Japan's action is aimed at maintaining energy security and stabilizing oil prices, which have been fluctuating due to the crisis in the Middle East. As one of the world's larg
Japan Leads G7 Nations by Releasing Strategic Oil Reserves Amid Middle East Crisis
In a significant move amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, Japan has become the first G7 nation to announce the release of its strategic oil reserves. This decision comes in response to the geopolitical tensions affecting the global oil market and concerns over potential disruptions in the supply of crude oil. Japan's action is aimed at maintaining energy security and stabilizing oil prices, which have been fluctuating due to the crisis in the Middle East. As one of the world's larg
US–Israel–Iran War | Netanyahu says campaign against Iran not over as regional tensions escalate
Tensions across West Asia continued to escalate as the conflict between Israel and Iran entered its eleventh day, with new missile interceptions and expanding military operations reported across several parts of the region. The ongoing Israel-Iran war has heightened fears of a wider regional security crisis, as both sides signal that hostilities are far from over and military pressure may intensify in the coming days. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Tuesday that
US–Israel–Iran War | Netanyahu says campaign against Iran not over as regional tensions escalate
Tensions across West Asia continued to escalate as the conflict between Israel and Iran entered its eleventh day, with new missile interceptions and expanding military operations reported across several parts of the region. The ongoing Israel-Iran war has heightened fears of a wider regional security crisis, as both sides signal that hostilities are far from over and military pressure may intensify in the coming days. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Tuesday that
India Begins Supplying 5,000 Tonnes of Diesel to Bangladesh Amid Energy Crisis
In the midst of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, which has caused significant global energy strain, India has begun sending 5,000 tonnes of diesel to Bangladesh via the cross-border Friendship Pipeline. This move is part of an annual supply agreement in which India is committed to providing 180,000 tonnes of diesel to Bangladesh each year. The first consignment arrived on Tuesday, marking the beginning of a five-year plan to address Bangladesh's worsening fuel shortage. Banglade
India Begins Supplying 5,000 Tonnes of Diesel to Bangladesh Amid Energy Crisis
In the midst of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, which has caused significant global energy strain, India has begun sending 5,000 tonnes of diesel to Bangladesh via the cross-border Friendship Pipeline. This move is part of an annual supply agreement in which India is committed to providing 180,000 tonnes of diesel to Bangladesh each year. The first consignment arrived on Tuesday, marking the beginning of a five-year plan to address Bangladesh's worsening fuel shortage. Banglade
Lok Sabha Takes Up Opposition Resolution to Remove Speaker Om Birla Amid Heated Debate
On March 10, 2026, the Lok Sabha took up an opposition resolution to remove Speaker Om Birla from office, citing allegations of bias towards the ruling party. The motion was introduced by Congress legislator Mohammad Jawed, along with MPs K Suresh and Mallu Ravi. As Jawed read out the notice for the resolution, a heated debate began regarding the presiding officer during the proceedings. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi raised a point of order questioning the legitimacy of Jagdambika P
Lok Sabha Takes Up Opposition Resolution to Remove Speaker Om Birla Amid Heated Debate
On March 10, 2026, the Lok Sabha took up an opposition resolution to remove Speaker Om Birla from office, citing allegations of bias towards the ruling party. The motion was introduced by Congress legislator Mohammad Jawed, along with MPs K Suresh and Mallu Ravi. As Jawed read out the notice for the resolution, a heated debate began regarding the presiding officer during the proceedings. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi raised a point of order questioning the legitimacy of Jagdambika P
Government Dismisses LPG Shortage Claims, Increases Production by 10%
The Indian government has moved to dismiss concerns over an LPG shortage, asserting that supplies have stabilized and are sufficient to meet the country’s demands. Government sources confirmed that oil refineries have increased LPG production by around 10% in response to earlier directives. Additional administrative measures have been implemented to curb hoarding and prevent malpractice in LPG distribution. The authorities have also extended the monitoring period for LPG distribut
Government Dismisses LPG Shortage Claims, Increases Production by 10%
The Indian government has moved to dismiss concerns over an LPG shortage, asserting that supplies have stabilized and are sufficient to meet the country’s demands. Government sources confirmed that oil refineries have increased LPG production by around 10% in response to earlier directives. Additional administrative measures have been implemented to curb hoarding and prevent malpractice in LPG distribution. The authorities have also extended the monitoring period for LPG distribut
Qatar LNG exports disrupted as Strait of Hormuz tensions escalate
The escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are raising serious concerns for global energy markets, with analysts warning that the liquefied natural gas sector could be more severely affected than crude oil if the shipping route remains disrupted. While oil shipments have been partially redirected through alternative pipelines, LNG faces unique challenges due to its dependence on specialized tankers and highly centralized production, particularly in Qatar. Roughly 20 percent o
Qatar LNG exports disrupted as Strait of Hormuz tensions escalate
The escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are raising serious concerns for global energy markets, with analysts warning that the liquefied natural gas sector could be more severely affected than crude oil if the shipping route remains disrupted. While oil shipments have been partially redirected through alternative pipelines, LNG faces unique challenges due to its dependence on specialized tankers and highly centralized production, particularly in Qatar. Roughly 20 percent o
Iran conflict expands across Gulf as Trump addresses rising oil price concerns
The conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran continues to intensify across West Asia, with fighting that began on February 28 now spreading to several countries in the region. The escalation began after coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets, which triggered retaliatory strikes and military responses that have gradually widened the scope of the conflict. Over the past several days, multiple Gulf nations have reported attacks and security incidents, ra
Iran conflict expands across Gulf as Trump addresses rising oil price concerns
The conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran continues to intensify across West Asia, with fighting that began on February 28 now spreading to several countries in the region. The escalation began after coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets, which triggered retaliatory strikes and military responses that have gradually widened the scope of the conflict. Over the past several days, multiple Gulf nations have reported attacks and security incidents, ra









