PV Sindhu likely to miss All England Open due to West Asia travel crisis
Indian badminton star PV Sindhu is likely to miss this year’s All England tournament after being stranded in Dubai due to major travel disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia. With several flight routes affected by the escalating war situation, the former world champion has been unable to reach Birmingham in time for the prestigious competition scheduled to begin on March 3. Sources close to the player confirmed that Sindhu had raised concerns regarding her travel plans wel
PV Sindhu likely to miss All England Open due to West Asia travel crisis
Indian badminton star PV Sindhu is likely to miss this year’s All England tournament after being stranded in Dubai due to major travel disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia. With several flight routes affected by the escalating war situation, the former world champion has been unable to reach Birmingham in time for the prestigious competition scheduled to begin on March 3. Sources close to the player confirmed that Sindhu had raised concerns regarding her travel plans wel
Vijay Deverakonda-Rashmika Mandanna’s Hyderabad Wedding Reception To Be Invite-Only
Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s wedding reception, set for March 4 in Hyderabad, will be an invite-only event. The decision comes after consultations with local authorities who advised a tighter guest list to manage public excitement and ensure safety. The couple, who has garnered immense public attention for their relationship, made the announcement in an official statement, expressing their gratitude to fans for their love and support. The reception was initially plann
Vijay Deverakonda-Rashmika Mandanna’s Hyderabad Wedding Reception To Be Invite-Only
Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s wedding reception, set for March 4 in Hyderabad, will be an invite-only event. The decision comes after consultations with local authorities who advised a tighter guest list to manage public excitement and ensure safety. The couple, who has garnered immense public attention for their relationship, made the announcement in an official statement, expressing their gratitude to fans for their love and support. The reception was initially plann
San Francisco protest erupts after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran
Protesters gathered Saturday outside the federal building in San Francisco to denounce recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, assembling less than a day after the military action was announced. Demonstrators later marched through downtown streets, chanting anti-war slogans and calling for an end to U.S. involvement in the Middle East. Participants carried signs criticizing military spending, condemning both major political parties, and expressing opposition to immigration enforcement and forei
San Francisco protest erupts after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran
Protesters gathered Saturday outside the federal building in San Francisco to denounce recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, assembling less than a day after the military action was announced. Demonstrators later marched through downtown streets, chanting anti-war slogans and calling for an end to U.S. involvement in the Middle East. Participants carried signs criticizing military spending, condemning both major political parties, and expressing opposition to immigration enforcement and forei
Chicago introduces 1.5 percent liquor tax on retail alcohol purchases starting Sunday
Chicago residents purchasing alcohol from local liquor stores will see a new tax added to their bills starting Sunday, as the city implements a revised taxation system on retail liquor sales. The Chicago Department of Finance confirmed that a 1.5 percent liquor tax will officially take effect after a two-month delay that was granted to allow retailers additional time to update billing systems and prepare for the change. The new Chicago liquor tax replaces the previous structure that
Chicago introduces 1.5 percent liquor tax on retail alcohol purchases starting Sunday
Chicago residents purchasing alcohol from local liquor stores will see a new tax added to their bills starting Sunday, as the city implements a revised taxation system on retail liquor sales. The Chicago Department of Finance confirmed that a 1.5 percent liquor tax will officially take effect after a two-month delay that was granted to allow retailers additional time to update billing systems and prepare for the change. The new Chicago liquor tax replaces the previous structure that
Bolivia plane crash scatters millions in banknotes near El Alto airport
Bolivian authorities are working urgently to recover and destroy millions of banknotes that were scattered across the city of El Alto after a deadly cargo plane crash near El Alto International Airport on Friday afternoon. The accident killed at least 22 people and left around 37 others injured, with many victims struck as the aircraft went down in a densely populated area close to the airport. The military cargo plane was transporting newly printed currency intended for the country’s cent
Bolivia plane crash scatters millions in banknotes near El Alto airport
Bolivian authorities are working urgently to recover and destroy millions of banknotes that were scattered across the city of El Alto after a deadly cargo plane crash near El Alto International Airport on Friday afternoon. The accident killed at least 22 people and left around 37 others injured, with many victims struck as the aircraft went down in a densely populated area close to the airport. The military cargo plane was transporting newly printed currency intended for the country’s cent
PV Sindhu Stranded in Dubai as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Gulf Air Travel
Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu is among several international travellers stranded in the Middle East after escalating military tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States led to widespread disruption of air travel across the Gulf region. The conflict intensified after combined strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets began on Saturday, triggering retaliatory attacks from Iran across multiple locations in the region. Following the exchange of strikes, se
PV Sindhu Stranded in Dubai as Middle East Conflict Disrupts Gulf Air Travel
Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu is among several international travellers stranded in the Middle East after escalating military tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States led to widespread disruption of air travel across the Gulf region. The conflict intensified after combined strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets began on Saturday, triggering retaliatory attacks from Iran across multiple locations in the region. Following the exchange of strikes, se
Ayatollah Khamenei killed in US-Israel strike, Iran declares national mourning
Official media in Iran has confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, announcing a 40-day period of national mourning across the country. The announcement was made through state television, which reported that the senior leader died following recent military strikes carried out by the
Ayatollah Khamenei killed in US-Israel strike, Iran declares national mourning
Official media in Iran has confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, announcing a 40-day period of national mourning across the country. The announcement was made through state television, which reported that the senior leader died following recent military strikes carried out by the
Iran condemns school attack as UN meets over US-Israel strikes
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian strongly condemned what he described as a barbaric attack on a school in southern Iran on Saturday, following a series of strikes carried out by the United States and Israel that have intensified the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In an official statement, Pezeshkian said the incident marked another dark chapter in what he called a pattern of aggression against the country, and warned that the violence could further destabilize the region. According to Iranian authorities, at least 63 people were killed in the attack, with dozens more injured, making it one of the deadliest incidents reported since the latest escalation began. Israeli officials stated that the strikes were aimed at high-level targets connected to Iran’s leadership and military planning. A military spokesperson said multiple locations where senior Iranian figures had gathered were hit simultaneously, resulting in the elimination of individuals considered critical to the country’s campaign management and governance. The strikes were described as part of a broader effort to weaken Iran’s operational capabilities, though details about those killed were not immediately confirmed by independent sources. The developments prompted urgent diplomatic activity at the United Nations, where the security council scheduled an emergency session in New York to address the growing crisis. Diplomats said the meeting was requested by several member states, including Russia and China, who described the strikes as an act of armed aggression and called for immediate international discussion. France, Bahrain, and Colombia also supported the request, reflecting widespread concern over the risk of a wider regional war. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is expected to address the council and has already urged all sides to halt military actions. In a statement issued earlier, he warned that continued use of force could undermine international peace and security and lead to severe consequences for civilians across the Middle East. Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic negotiations, stressing that only dialogue could prevent the conflict from expanding further and threatening global stability.
Iran condemns school attack as UN meets over US-Israel strikes
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian strongly condemned what he described as a barbaric attack on a school in southern Iran on Saturday, following a series of strikes carried out by the United States and Israel that have intensified the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In an official statement, Pezeshkian said the incident marked another dark chapter in what he called a pattern of aggression against the country, and warned that the violence could further destabilize the region. According to Iranian authorities, at least 63 people were killed in the attack, with dozens more injured, making it one of the deadliest incidents reported since the latest escalation began. Israeli officials stated that the strikes were aimed at high-level targets connected to Iran’s leadership and military planning. A military spokesperson said multiple locations where senior Iranian figures had gathered were hit simultaneously, resulting in the elimination of individuals considered critical to the country’s campaign management and governance. The strikes were described as part of a broader effort to weaken Iran’s operational capabilities, though details about those killed were not immediately confirmed by independent sources. The developments prompted urgent diplomatic activity at the United Nations, where the security council scheduled an emergency session in New York to address the growing crisis. Diplomats said the meeting was requested by several member states, including Russia and China, who described the strikes as an act of armed aggression and called for immediate international discussion. France, Bahrain, and Colombia also supported the request, reflecting widespread concern over the risk of a wider regional war. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is expected to address the council and has already urged all sides to halt military actions. In a statement issued earlier, he warned that continued use of force could undermine international peace and security and lead to severe consequences for civilians across the Middle East. Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic negotiations, stressing that only dialogue could prevent the conflict from expanding further and threatening global stability.
Iran attack in Dubai near Burj Khalifa, UAE defence intercepts missiles, flights halted
Iran launched a large-scale counter-attack targeting United States military bases across the Middle East, with several strikes also reported in the United Arab Emirates, triggering panic in major cities including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Explosions were heard in multiple locations on Saturday, prompting emergency responses and heightened security across the Gulf region. Authorities confirmed that precautionary evacuations were carried out in several high-profile locations, including the Burj Khalifa
Iran attack in Dubai near Burj Khalifa, UAE defence intercepts missiles, flights halted
Iran launched a large-scale counter-attack targeting United States military bases across the Middle East, with several strikes also reported in the United Arab Emirates, triggering panic in major cities including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Explosions were heard in multiple locations on Saturday, prompting emergency responses and heightened security across the Gulf region. Authorities confirmed that precautionary evacuations were carried out in several high-profile locations, including the Burj Khalifa
Iran retaliates after US-Israel attacks as Khamenei compound destroyed in Tehran
The United States and Israel have launched large-scale military strikes on Iran, triggering a rapid escalation that has pushed West Asia toward a wider conflict. US President Donald Trump announced the start of major combat operations, while calling on the Iranian public to oppose their leadership. Within hours, Iran responded with missile attacks targeting Israeli positions and US military facilities across the region, raising fears of a prolonged confrontation. Explosions were reported in
Iran retaliates after US-Israel attacks as Khamenei compound destroyed in Tehran
The United States and Israel have launched large-scale military strikes on Iran, triggering a rapid escalation that has pushed West Asia toward a wider conflict. US President Donald Trump announced the start of major combat operations, while calling on the Iranian public to oppose their leadership. Within hours, Iran responded with missile attacks targeting Israeli positions and US military facilities across the region, raising fears of a prolonged confrontation. Explosions were reported in
India calls for diplomacy amid rising West Asia tensions after US-Israel strikes on Iran
India on Saturday, February 28, called on all parties involved in the escalating military confrontation across West Asia to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation, stressing that the safety of civilians must remain the highest priority. The Ministry of External Affairs said dialogue and diplomacy were essential to reduce tensions following the rapid spread of hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran. The ministry stated that sovereignty and territorial integrity of al
India calls for diplomacy amid rising West Asia tensions after US-Israel strikes on Iran
India on Saturday, February 28, called on all parties involved in the escalating military confrontation across West Asia to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation, stressing that the safety of civilians must remain the highest priority. The Ministry of External Affairs said dialogue and diplomacy were essential to reduce tensions following the rapid spread of hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran. The ministry stated that sovereignty and territorial integrity of al
San Francisco teachers union approves new contract after strike ends
San Francisco’s teachers union has overwhelmingly approved a new two-year labor agreement, marking the end of a recent strike and setting the stage for changes in pay, benefits, and school funding across the district. Members of the United Educators of San Francisco, which represents about 6,000 teachers, aides, counselors, social workers, and other school employees, voted by a large margin to ratify the contract valued at approximately $183 million. The agreement follows a four-day work stopp
San Francisco teachers union approves new contract after strike ends
San Francisco’s teachers union has overwhelmingly approved a new two-year labor agreement, marking the end of a recent strike and setting the stage for changes in pay, benefits, and school funding across the district. Members of the United Educators of San Francisco, which represents about 6,000 teachers, aides, counselors, social workers, and other school employees, voted by a large margin to ratify the contract valued at approximately $183 million. The agreement follows a four-day work stopp
US and Israel launch strikes on Iran, raising fears of wider West Asia conflict
The United States and Israel carried out a coordinated military operation against Iran on February 28, marking a sharp escalation in West Asia tensions and raising concerns about a wider regional conflict. Officials familiar with the development said the strikes were aimed at key military and political targets, including locations linked to Iran’s leadership and nuclear programme. Iranian authorities later responded with missile attacks targeting Israeli territory and facilities used by US for
US and Israel launch strikes on Iran, raising fears of wider West Asia conflict
The United States and Israel carried out a coordinated military operation against Iran on February 28, marking a sharp escalation in West Asia tensions and raising concerns about a wider regional conflict. Officials familiar with the development said the strikes were aimed at key military and political targets, including locations linked to Iran’s leadership and nuclear programme. Iranian authorities later responded with missile attacks targeting Israeli territory and facilities used by US for
Iran launches Operation True Promise 4 after US-Israel strikes across nuclear sites
Iran launched large-scale retaliatory strikes on Saturday after the United States and Israel carried out coordinated military attacks on multiple targets across Iranian territory following the collapse of recent nuclear negotiations held in Oman and Switzerland. The joint offensive, described by Israel as Operation Roaring Lion and by the United States as Operation Epic Fury, reportedly struck more than 30 locations, including government facilities in Tehran and sites suspected of involvement in
Iran launches Operation True Promise 4 after US-Israel strikes across nuclear sites
Iran launched large-scale retaliatory strikes on Saturday after the United States and Israel carried out coordinated military attacks on multiple targets across Iranian territory following the collapse of recent nuclear negotiations held in Oman and Switzerland. The joint offensive, described by Israel as Operation Roaring Lion and by the United States as Operation Epic Fury, reportedly struck more than 30 locations, including government facilities in Tehran and sites suspected of involvement in
US-Israel strike on Iran after Geneva nuclear talks collapse sparks regional crisis
The collapse of the Geneva nuclear talks on February 26, 2026, marked a decisive setback in months of diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the long-running dispute over Iran’s nuclear program. Mediators had earlier indicated that progress was being made, but negotiations ultimately failed after both sides refused to compromise on core demands. Officials confirmed that technical-level discussions were scheduled to continue in Vienna, though the situation deteriorated rapidly following milit
US-Israel strike on Iran after Geneva nuclear talks collapse sparks regional crisis
The collapse of the Geneva nuclear talks on February 26, 2026, marked a decisive setback in months of diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the long-running dispute over Iran’s nuclear program. Mediators had earlier indicated that progress was being made, but negotiations ultimately failed after both sides refused to compromise on core demands. Officials confirmed that technical-level discussions were scheduled to continue in Vienna, though the situation deteriorated rapidly following milit
Creekview middle school closed after norovirus outbreak in Fort Worth
Creekview Middle School in Fort Worth was closed Friday following a norovirus outbreak that sickened an unspecified number of students and staff, according to Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD officials. District leaders said the temporary school closure was necessary to allow for deep cleaning and campus sanitization after cases of a stomach virus continued to rise throughout the week. The first reports of illness surfaced Tuesday, when several students began experiencing symptoms consistent with
Creekview middle school closed after norovirus outbreak in Fort Worth
Creekview Middle School in Fort Worth was closed Friday following a norovirus outbreak that sickened an unspecified number of students and staff, according to Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD officials. District leaders said the temporary school closure was necessary to allow for deep cleaning and campus sanitization after cases of a stomach virus continued to rise throughout the week. The first reports of illness surfaced Tuesday, when several students began experiencing symptoms consistent with
IAEA denied access to Iran nuclear sites after June conflict
Iran has denied inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency access to several nuclear sites struck during a 12-day conflict involving Israel and the United States in June, according to a confidential report circulated among member states. The development has left the UN watchdog unable to verify the status of Tehran’s uranium enrichment activities or confirm the size and location of its enriched uranium stockpile. In its latest assessment, the Vienna-based nuclear monit
IAEA denied access to Iran nuclear sites after June conflict
Iran has denied inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency access to several nuclear sites struck during a 12-day conflict involving Israel and the United States in June, according to a confidential report circulated among member states. The development has left the UN watchdog unable to verify the status of Tehran’s uranium enrichment activities or confirm the size and location of its enriched uranium stockpile. In its latest assessment, the Vienna-based nuclear monit
Dubai police arrest beggar with three luxury cars in Ramadan crackdown
Dubai Police have arrested a man accused of professional begging despite owning three luxury cars, as part of an intensified Ramadan crackdown targeting illegal fundraising and street solicitation across the emirate. Authorities said the suspect amassed thousands of dirhams by appealing to public sympathy while presenting himself as impoverished and in distress. According to Brigadier Ali Al Shamsi, director of the Suspects and Criminal Phenomena Department, the man would position himself in public areas during the day, appearing fatigued and destitute to solicit financial assistance from passersby. Investigators found that once his daily activity concluded, he would abandon the disguise and leave the area in a high-end vehicle. Police said the suspect had refined his approach, crafting detailed narratives of hardship and helplessness that made his appeals appear credible and convincing. Officers discovered large sums of money in his possession at the time of arrest, with amounts estimated in the thousands of dirhams. In a separate case highlighted during the campaign, one individual was found to have collected Dh25,000 yet continued to beg despite the sum being sufficient to support himself or finance travel back to his home country. Officials described such practices as deliberate exploitation of public generosity, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan, when charitable giving typically increases. The arrest forms part of the “Combat Begging” campaign launched by Dubai Police to curb street begging and organised begging networks. During the first week of Ramadan alone, 26 beggars of various nationalities were detained as part of coordinated inspection efforts across key locations in the city. Authorities said the anti-begging campaign aims not only to enforce the law but also to protect residents and visitors from fraud and deception. Under UAE Federal Law No. 9 of 2018, begging is punishable by up to three months’ imprisonment and a fine of Dh5,000. Harsher penalties apply to those who organise begging rings or recruit individuals from abroad for the purpose of solicitation, with sentences reaching six months in prison and fines of up to Dh100,000. Police stressed that enforcement measures are designed to deter repeat offenders and dismantle organised operations that seek unlawful financial gain. Ahead of Ramadan, Dubai Police also issued warnings about online scams and donation fraud circulating on websites and social media platforms. The Anti-Cybercrime Department at the General Department of Criminal Investigation reported that fraudsters frequently exploit the spirit of compassion associated with Ramadan to solicit money through deceptive digital campaigns. Residents have been urged to verify charitable appeals through official channels and to report suspicious activities. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining public safety and ensuring that charitable contributions reach legitimate causes. They encouraged the public to channel donations through licensed charities and government-approved organisations, emphasizing that vigilance remains essential in preventing both street begging and online scams during the holy month.
Dubai police arrest beggar with three luxury cars in Ramadan crackdown
Dubai Police have arrested a man accused of professional begging despite owning three luxury cars, as part of an intensified Ramadan crackdown targeting illegal fundraising and street solicitation across the emirate. Authorities said the suspect amassed thousands of dirhams by appealing to public sympathy while presenting himself as impoverished and in distress. According to Brigadier Ali Al Shamsi, director of the Suspects and Criminal Phenomena Department, the man would position himself in public areas during the day, appearing fatigued and destitute to solicit financial assistance from passersby. Investigators found that once his daily activity concluded, he would abandon the disguise and leave the area in a high-end vehicle. Police said the suspect had refined his approach, crafting detailed narratives of hardship and helplessness that made his appeals appear credible and convincing. Officers discovered large sums of money in his possession at the time of arrest, with amounts estimated in the thousands of dirhams. In a separate case highlighted during the campaign, one individual was found to have collected Dh25,000 yet continued to beg despite the sum being sufficient to support himself or finance travel back to his home country. Officials described such practices as deliberate exploitation of public generosity, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan, when charitable giving typically increases. The arrest forms part of the “Combat Begging” campaign launched by Dubai Police to curb street begging and organised begging networks. During the first week of Ramadan alone, 26 beggars of various nationalities were detained as part of coordinated inspection efforts across key locations in the city. Authorities said the anti-begging campaign aims not only to enforce the law but also to protect residents and visitors from fraud and deception. Under UAE Federal Law No. 9 of 2018, begging is punishable by up to three months’ imprisonment and a fine of Dh5,000. Harsher penalties apply to those who organise begging rings or recruit individuals from abroad for the purpose of solicitation, with sentences reaching six months in prison and fines of up to Dh100,000. Police stressed that enforcement measures are designed to deter repeat offenders and dismantle organised operations that seek unlawful financial gain. Ahead of Ramadan, Dubai Police also issued warnings about online scams and donation fraud circulating on websites and social media platforms. The Anti-Cybercrime Department at the General Department of Criminal Investigation reported that fraudsters frequently exploit the spirit of compassion associated with Ramadan to solicit money through deceptive digital campaigns. Residents have been urged to verify charitable appeals through official channels and to report suspicious activities. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining public safety and ensuring that charitable contributions reach legitimate causes. They encouraged the public to channel donations through licensed charities and government-approved organisations, emphasizing that vigilance remains essential in preventing both street begging and online scams during the holy month.
Holi 2026: March 3 or 4? Lunar Eclipse Sparks Confusion in India, USA Follows Tradition
Holi 2026, the festival of colors, will be celebrated across the globe on March 3 and 4, but the occurrence of a rare lunar eclipse on March 3 is causing confusion, particularly in India. Traditionally, Holi is celebrated on Phalguna Purnima, the full moon night, which in 2026 falls on March 3. However, the lunar eclipse that occurs on the evening of March 3 triggers the "sutak" period, which is considered inauspicious for performing religious rituals. Holika Dahan, the bonfire lighting cerem
Holi 2026: March 3 or 4? Lunar Eclipse Sparks Confusion in India, USA Follows Tradition
Holi 2026, the festival of colors, will be celebrated across the globe on March 3 and 4, but the occurrence of a rare lunar eclipse on March 3 is causing confusion, particularly in India. Traditionally, Holi is celebrated on Phalguna Purnima, the full moon night, which in 2026 falls on March 3. However, the lunar eclipse that occurs on the evening of March 3 triggers the "sutak" period, which is considered inauspicious for performing religious rituals. Holika Dahan, the bonfire lighting cerem
Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia Discharged in Delhi Excise Policy Case
In a significant legal development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia have been discharged from the Delhi excise policy case. A Delhi court ruled that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) failed to provide substantial evidence to support the serious charges against the two leaders. The court highlighted the lack of material evidence to substantiate the allegations against Kejriwal. It emphasized that serious charges, such as th
Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia Discharged in Delhi Excise Policy Case
In a significant legal development, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia have been discharged from the Delhi excise policy case. A Delhi court ruled that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) failed to provide substantial evidence to support the serious charges against the two leaders. The court highlighted the lack of material evidence to substantiate the allegations against Kejriwal. It emphasized that serious charges, such as th









