The West Asia conflict intensifies as over 200 ships remain stuck in the Persian Gulf and 150 await passage outside the Strait of Hormuz, including 38 Indian vessels. Amid these disruptions, the United States has granted India a 30-day waiver to receive Russian oil shipments currently at sea. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the measure as a stopgap, while Union Minister Hardeep Puri stated India faces no immediate energy shortage. However, Shashi Tharoor noted oil prices have risen from 65 to 83 dollars per barrel, emphasizing the safety of 10 million Indian nationals in the region. Simultaneously, India has permitted the Iranian ship Iris Lavan to dock at Kochi for technical repairs, accommodating 183 crew members following the sinking of the Iris Dena by an American torpedo. As Israel continues missile strikes on Tehran and Isfahan, former Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao Menon highlighted the need for India to maintain strategic autonomy. These developments test India's diplomatic position regarding global energy security and sovereign trade choices.
The Congress state unit in Tamil Nadu held an online meeting and decided to extend support to TVK. Congress is seeking a power-sharing agreement and is likely to demand two cabinet portfolios, along with a few board and corporation chairman posts, and other government roles such as trust members and directors.
Watch as India Today's Geeta Mohan brings this exclusive ground report from Iran's fourteenth-century Golestan Palace, which was damaged during the US-Israel airstrikes on Tehran.
After Vijay's stunning victory in Tamil Nadu assembly elections, all eyes are now on government formation. According to sources, Vijay is eyeing alliance with Congress, Left parties and VCK.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, DMK spokesperson Salem Dharanidharan discussed the political landscape in Tamil Nadu following actor Vijay's stunning electoral victory with his party, TVK and if this means the end of the road for Dravida parties.
