British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the United Kingdom will host a meeting of approximately 35 countries this week to discuss the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Starmer stated, 'this is not our war. We will not be dragged in this conflict.' The statement reflects the position of several European nations distancing themselves from the conflict initiated by the United States and Israel. The meeting aims to bring together top countries to address the critical maritime route. Regional partners, including Qatar, have also expressed interest in discussions regarding the future of the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian parliament recently approved additional levies on ships crossing through Iranian territorial waters, raising concerns about the safety of crucial sea lanes including the Strait of Hormuz, Bab al-Mandeb, and the Strait of Malacca. India's participation in the meeting remains unconfirmed, though likely given its significant energy dependence and diaspora presence in the region.
A severe heatwave is currently sweeping across large parts of India, with the heatwave belt covering the entire North India region, parts of West and Central India, and isolated pockets in the east.
A stabbing incident in Mumbai's Mira Road was caught on camera by a construction worker. The accused, identified as Jaib Ansari, a former chemistry and mathematics teacher who studied in the United States, attacked two security guards.
The Calcutta High Court has refused to entertain a plea filed against an Election Commission of India police observer deployed in West Bengal.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is heading towards a massive victory in the Gujarat municipal elections, securing twelve out of fifteen municipal corporations.
