US President Donald Trump sparked a major controversy after sharing a podcast transcript containing remarks about India and China, triggering a sharp response from New Delhi. India’s Ministry of External Affairs called the comments “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste,” stressing that they do not reflect the strong and longstanding relationship between the two countries. 

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have escalated sharply after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released new footage showcasing a high-intensity naval operation involving the seizure of two vessels reportedly linked to India-bound maritime routes. The visuals depict fast-moving Iranian speedboats intercepting commercial ships, with masked commandos boarding under heavy coordination. The footage highlights operations involving the vessels identified as Epaminondas and MSC Francesca, with scenes showing armed personnel securing control mid-sea and conducting onboard inspections, including sensitive areas such as engine rooms and the bridge. WATCH