diplomatic action

US Vice President JD Vance stated that President Trump is pursuing a diplomatic deal with Iran but is prepared to resume military action if nuclear talks fail. Vance emphasized that the administration is negotiating in good faith, making it clear Iran will not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.

US forces conducted 'self-defense' strikes on Iranian missile sites and boats near the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions despite ongoing diplomatic talks. President Trump warned Iran on enriched uranium, demanding its surrender or destruction. Iran condemned the strikes as a 'war crime,' accusing the US of targeting civilians. Peace negotiations continue, reportedly discussing the Strait's reopening and a ceasefire extension.

In an unexpected turn of events, General Asim Munir, the Chief of the Pakistan Army, will not be heading to Tehran as planned for peace talks. This delay stems from Iran's request for more time to reflect on a US proposal linked to nuclear concerns and wider regional tensions.

President Trump is reportedly considering fresh strikes against Iran if negotiations fail to yield a breakthrough. Senior national security officials met to discuss potential scenarios amid "agonizing" diplomatic efforts. While Iran prioritizes ending the war, a US official expressed hope for a deal within days.

US President Donald Trump praised the Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift action in neutralizing a gunman near the White House. The suspect, identified as Nasire Best, was killed after firing at agents. Trump highlighted the incident's importance for future presidential security, referencing a previous security breach.

US forces struck Iranian missile sites and boats near the Strait of Hormuz. This happened during peace talks aimed at ending a three-month conflict. Iran accused the US of a war crime. Reports mentioned explosions and fatalities on Larak Island. Discussions continue on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's uranium stockpile.

President Trump indicated a 50/50 chance of a deal or military action with Iran, with a decision expected Sunday. Intense diplomatic efforts involving multiple Middle Eastern nations have led to a "largely negotiated" Memorandum of Understanding for peace, subject to finalization.

US President Trump and Israeli PM Netanyahu clashed over Iran diplomacy, with Trump favoring a deal and Netanyahu pushing for military action. Mediators from Qatar, Pakistan, and others are working on a revised proposal, but Trump warns the window for talks is closing, while Israel remains on high alert.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's recollection of being expelled from Mumbai's Breach Candy Club in the 1960s has resurfaced amid a controversy over the proposed government takeover of Delhi Gymkhana Club. The debate highlights lingering colonial-era elitism and exclusionary practices within India's old clubs, with the Centre seeking to reclaim the Delhi club's land for defence purposes.

United States military forces boarded an Iranian oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. This action escalates pressure on Iran. The vessel was searched and redirected. It is the fifth commercial ship intercepted since Washington imposed a blockade on Iranian shipping. This is part of efforts to force Tehran back to negotiations and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

India is pivoting towards Europe as traditional partnerships become unreliable. The burgeoning India-Italy relationship, spearheaded by Prime Ministers Modi and Meloni, is central to this strategy. This partnership is building crucial economic architecture, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and a potential EU Free Trade Agreement, positioning Europe as India's primary strategic focus.

Indian markets brace for a volatile week, with the US-Iran conflict and soaring crude oil prices dominating investor sentiment. A weakening rupee, coupled with inflation concerns, adds to the pressure. Analysts anticipate heightened sensitivity to geopolitical developments, especially concerning the Strait of Hormuz, and will closely watch foreign investor activity and upcoming economic data.

Gulf allies UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar urged President Trump to pursue diplomacy with Iran, fearing renewed conflict would destabilize regional economies. Leaders argued military action wouldn't achieve US objectives, reflecting a shift for the UAE after recent hostilities. All three nations remain wary of further escalation.

Cuba is back in US national security focus, with Washington alleging drone acquisitions and reviving Cold War-era tensions. Despite Cuba's limited military, its proximity to Florida and historical role as a rival base concern the US. New sanctions and surveillance suggest a campaign to prevent Cuba from becoming a foreign military outpost.

India expressed deep concern over Iranian drone attacks targeting the Barakah nuclear facility in the UAE, calling it a dangerous escalation. The strike, which caused a fire near an electrical generator but no injuries or leaks, has intensified regional tensions. The UAE condemned the act as unprovoked and a threat to its sovereignty.

A non-poisonous snake was safely rescued from Salman Khan's Galaxy Apartments on Monday, with a wrangler and officials present. Meanwhile, the actor's recent film 'Raja Shivaji' has become a Marathi box office hit. Khan is gearing up for his August 14 release 'Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace' and is also filming an untitled action entertainer with Nayanthara. Read on to know more in detail.

Amidst escalating US-Cuba tensions, the USS Nimitz strike group has entered the Caribbean. This follows President Trump's intensified rhetoric and a recent indictment of former Cuban President Raul Castro. The US is increasing pressure on Havana, citing economic hardship and past incidents, though Trump downplays fears of direct military action.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni for dinner and a walk through the Colosseum upon his arrival in Rome. The leaders exchanged perspectives on boosting India-Italy friendship, with their discussions taking on a relaxed tone against the historic backdrop. Modi also received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Italy.

Asian markets rallied Friday, buoyed by hopes of US-Iran peace talks, though volatile oil prices and Strait of Hormuz concerns fueled inflation worries. Tokyo led gains as investor sentiment improved. Despite diplomatic optimism, rising crude prices prompted reassessment of global interest rate expectations, with the US Federal Reserve potentially hiking rates later this year.