Times of India

Indian embassies in the UAE and Syria have issued urgent advisories for nationals to exercise caution due to escalating Middle East tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Stranded passengers are being assisted, while citizens in Syria are urged to avoid non-essential travel and remain vigilant amid reported counterattacks and significant casualties.

Tragedy struck Aligarh after a Holi Milan event when two men allegedly opened fire, killing a factory labourer and injuring a college student. Police suspect a dispute involving ragging and past enmity as the motive behind the shooting. The victims reportedly knew their assailants, who arrived on a motorcycle. Investigations are ongoing.

Bahrain's capital Manama faced attacks on residential buildings. An Iranian drone struck a tower in the city. This follows Iran's missile strikes on United States military bases in Bahrain and other Gulf nations. The strikes were in retaliation for joint US-Israel airstrikes on Tehran. Civil defense teams are responding to the incidents.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup journey ended despite a thrilling five-run victory over Sri Lanka. Needing to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 or less, Pakistan's bowlers conceded 207, falling short on net run rate. New Zealand secured the semifinal spot. Sahibzada Farhan's century was a highlight for Pakistan.

Air India has cancelled 28 international flights to Europe, the US, and Canada on March 1st due to the escalating Middle East situation. The airline cited safety concerns for passengers and staff following coordinated strikes in the region. Affected travelers are being notified and offered alternative arrangements to minimize disruption.

The Strait of Hormuz has Iran on the northern side and the UAE and Oman on the southern side. It extends for around 100 miles, and its narrowest stretch is 21 miles wide. It has shallow depth, which means that ships passing through it are vulnerable to naval mines.

In Sheeri village near the Line of Control, residents gathered anxiously to follow the Ranji Trophy final as local boy Auqib Nabi Dar played. Inside his modest home, family members watched silently until Jammu & Kashmir won and Auqib was named Player of the Tournament. His father, once keen on a medical career for him, now proudly dreams of seeing him in the Indian jersey.

Phoebe Gates, co-CEO of AI shopping assistant Phia, reveals her unique interview question: 'How much do you think California state spends on healthcare? And do a bottoms-up approach for how you would build that out.' This assesses problem-solving, not just facts. She also seeks dedication by asking about the 'craziest' sales deal closure.

Vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz are reportedly receiving radio warnings, attributed to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, stating passage is prohibited. This critical oil route, vital for global energy supplies, faces heightened tensions following recent regional strikes. Iran has not officially confirmed issuing such an order, raising concerns for commercial shipping.

An explosion and smoke plume were reported at Dubai's Palm Jumeirah on Saturday, injuring four people. This incident occurred amidst heightened regional tensions following Iran's retaliatory strikes across the Gulf. Dubai authorities confirmed a fire at a building, which has since been controlled. The event caused concern in the city known for luxury and tourism.

Missile strikes rocked the Gulf following US-Israeli actions against Iran, hitting Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Oman, however, remained untouched. This neutrality, coupled with its crucial role as a diplomatic intermediary between Tehran and Washington, likely protected it from retaliation, preserving a vital, albeit fragile, communication line amidst escalating tensions.

Fakhar Zaman and Sahibzada Farhan etched their names in T20 World Cup history with a record 176-run opening stand against Sri Lanka. This monumental partnership propelled Pakistan to a commanding 212, setting a challenging target. Pakistan's bowlers now face the crucial task of restricting Sri Lanka to secure a semi-final berth.

India's vibrant Holi festival, celebrated in spring, embodies love and camaraderie. Marked by smearing colors and splashing water, it's a time for families and friends to unite, sharing wishes for happiness and prosperity. The spirit of "Bura Na Mano Holi Hai" encourages lighthearted fun, making it a joyous occasion for all.

Commercial flights rerouted as US and Israel conducted coordinated strikes across Iran, including Tehran, following multiple explosions. Defence Minister Israel Katz termed it a 'pre-emptive' move. President Trump confirmed US involvement, aiming to curb Iran's nuclear program. Iran subsequently launched retaliatory strikes targeting Israel and US facilities, impacting several regional nations.

Donald Trump’s grandly titled Board of Peace was supposed to be a Trumpian alternative to the United Nations, promising order, stability, and the end of endless wars. Instead, it resembles a Yes Minister casting call where the least qualified are handed the grandest titles. Nearly half its members are now entangled in active military escalation, from US-Israel strikes on Iran to Pakistan’s growing confrontation with the Taliban. The result is an institution dedicated to peace whose members are too busy exchanging missiles to practise it. Like many international bodies before it, the Board of Peace demonstrates that peace, as ever, remains largely aspirational branding.

Panic erupted on the outskirts of Qatar's capital, Doha, as rocket debris fell, causing a large explosion. This incident occurred amidst retaliatory strikes by Iran targeting Israel and US facilities, following earlier attacks on Iran. The event highlights the growing risk of regional conflict spillover, with Qatar hosting a key US military base and having condemned the attack.