The Economic Times

US Israel Iran war to go uglier and last for several weeks, and who is mightier, US and Israeli military forces or Iran drones and ballistic missiles remains a key question as threats rise, Strait of Hormuz tensions grow, and military actions expand across regions.

The Congress party has revealed its fifth list of candidates for the Assam Assembly elections. This announcement brings the total declared candidates to 101 out of 126 seats. Key nominations include Joseph Hasda, Birkhang Boro, Rajat Kanti Saha, and Anchula Gwara Daimary. The elections are scheduled for April 9, with vote counting on May 4.

Chennai Super Kings honored Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden by inducting them into the franchise's first-ever Hall of Fame. The announcement occurred at the Roar'26 fan event. Raina, known as 'Chinna Thala', was a key player for CSK from 2008 to 2021, contributing to four IPL titles.

Global economies face serious damage if the Middle East conflict extends beyond six months. TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne stated this on Sunday. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is blocking ten million barrels of oil daily. Current inventories can absorb a shorter conflict. However, a prolonged war will severely impact global growth and inflation. Solutions are urgently needed.

Iran Supreme Leader: Both U.S. intelligence and Israeli officials are reportedly equally surprised as they are trying to gather accurate inputs about current whereabouts of Mojtaba Khamenei.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a high-level security meeting to assess the West Asia conflict's impact on India. Discussions focused on mitigating economic effects across various sectors including agriculture, energy, and trade. Measures were planned to ensure the availability of essential commodities like food and fuel. The government is working to secure fertilizer supplies and diversify imports.

Most of the country's almost 35,000 villages, towns and boroughs elected their leaders in a first round last weekend, but the races went to run-offs in about 1,500 communes, including bigger urban centres.

The Strait of Hormuz faces a hidden danger. Iran's small submarines and naval mines could disrupt global trade. These weapons are hard to detect. They can halt shipping for weeks. The US targets visible threats. But underwater warfare presents a major challenge. This situation impacts oil prices and supply chains worldwide.

Voter registration for the Kerala Assembly elections has a deadline. Applications submitted up to March 15 will be processed for the April 9 polls. New applications received after this date will be considered post-election. This ensures eligible voters are included in the electoral roll for the upcoming elections.

Why are Brent futures up and oil prices looking to surge on Monday, and what to expect next? Oil prices are rising after U.S. and Iran threats, Strait of Hormuz tension, supply disruption, and market uncertainty linked to the Mideast war and global energy risks.

America has sufficient funds for the Iran war. However, the US government is seeking additional money from Congress to ensure the military remains well-equipped for future needs. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed no tax hikes are planned. This supplemental funding request faces significant debate in Congress. The administration emphasizes building military strength for ongoing and potential future operations.

Quote of the Day: C.S. Lewis is best known for his Narnia children's fantasy series. Lewis died at the age of 64. He was buried in Oxford.

Kashmirs youth have united to raise funds and contributions for war-torn Iran, collecting cash, gold, and cherished copper utensils from neighbors. The Iranian Embassy has conveyed their sincere thanks for such compassionate humanitarian assistance, emphasizing that this support from India is a memorable act of kindness.

US President Trump's military actions in Iran are facing unexpected challenges. Average gas prices are rising, and infrastructure in the Persian Gulf is damaged. Iran's government remains in power, and American allies are struggling with demands. Trump's objectives have shifted, and the conflict shows no clear end in sight, suggesting long-term consequences.

Nancy Guthrie missing case probe latest big bombshell update shows the investigation remains active after eight weeks. FBI and local authorities are reviewing evidence, questioning neighbors, and focusing on nearby properties while the family urges public help and recalls key timelines.

Iran and Hezbollah intensified attacks on Israel. The United States and Iran issued threats regarding energy infrastructure and the Strait of Hormuz. Israel's Prime Minister visited Arad after missile strikes. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for a fatality in northern Israel. Gulf Arab states intercepted Iranian strikes. The conflict escalates with potential for wider regional impact.

RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale stated the organization opposes religious discrimination and supports constitutional rights to faith, highlighting India's shared civilizational culture. Speaking at a Meghalaya event, he emphasized the RSS's goal of societal organization and national awakening, tracing its growth from 1925 to its current widespread presence.

India is poised to champion the cause of emerging economies, as emphasized by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The nation is ready to tackle global challenges and extend its support to the Global South. A cohort of innovative deep-tech startups will represent India at an international forum in France.

Chennai Super Kings are hosting their inaugural ROAR 2026 fan event at Chepauk, showcasing the IPL 2026 squad including MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson. The event features an exhibition match with franchise legends like Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden, followed by a performance by A. R. Rahman. Tickets are available online.

The Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board is opening applications for 911 positions. The registration window closes on March 25, 2026. Interested candidates can apply online for roles like Legal Assistant and Engineer. Selection will be based on a written examination. Specific minimum qualifying marks are outlined for different categories. Women and certain reserved categories are exempt from the application fee.

Arsenal vs Manchester City: Manchester City are League cup winners of eight times, only behind Liverpool's haul of 10. Arsenal have lost the League cup finals six times.

Iran has launched over 400 ballistic missiles at Israel during the ongoing conflict. Most of these projectiles were intercepted, with a success rate of approximately 92 percent. However, recent attacks struck two towns in southern Israel, Dimona and Arad. One man was injured in Tel Aviv from a blast. Israeli leadership vows to pursue Iranian officials and their assets.

Iran launched long-range missiles for the first time, with Israeli officials stating European capitals are now within range. Iran also struck cities in southern Israel, including near nuclear facilities, causing injuries. Conflicting reports emerged regarding a strike on Iran's Natanz nuclear complex. Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed continued strikes against enemies on all fronts.

Rahul Gandhi will launch the United Democratic Front's election campaign in Kerala on March 25. Congress leaders are confident of returning to power after a decade. The ruling LDF is campaigning for a third term, positioning itself as the sole secular front. The UDF performed well in recent local body polls.

Twin brothers Him and Hard Dalsaniya from Gujarat achieved a rare feat by securing postgraduate medical seats. Both brothers will pursue specialised fields after excelling in the NEET PG exam. They studied together from childhood and shared a pact to become doctors. Him will study Dermatology while Hard will pursue Radiology. Their dedication led them to their preferred branches.

The Congress party has named Samarth Shamnur as its candidate for the Davanagere South bypoll. This decision comes after intense lobbying from Muslim leaders. Shamnur is the grandson of the late Lingayat leader Shamnur Shivashankarappa. The party leadership held discussions with community leaders. The bypoll is scheduled for April 9. In Bagalkot, Umesh Meti was chosen as the candidate.

Ram Navami, celebrating Lord Rama's birth, falls on Thursday, March 26, 2026. The festival honors Goddess Siddhidatri. Devotees observe fasts with sattvic food like sabudana khichdi and kheer. Panakam, a jaggery drink, is the main prasad. Temples are decorated, and special prayers are held. Grand celebrations occur in Ayodhya, drawing many devotees.

What is gold and silver price prediction, and will gold fall to $3,800 or rise to $4,800 while silver may slip to $60 or climb towards $80 in next week? Gold sees a weekly decline amid a strong dollar and global conflict. Analysts point to key support and resistance levels.

Iran's Parliament Speaker warns of immediate retaliation against regional energy and oil infrastructure if its power plants are attacked. This comes after a US threat to strike Iranian power plants if freedom of navigation is not restored in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's military reinforces this warning, targeting US and allied energy and IT infrastructure.

A tragic ropeway accident occurred in Mahasamund, Chhattisgarh. A trolley carrying passengers crashed while descending from a hilltop temple. One woman lost her life and six others sustained injuries. The incident happened on Sunday morning. Authorities have ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the cable snap. The injured have been hospitalized.

Police officials are visiting stations across West Bengal. They are reviewing security and poll preparedness. The Election Commission is stepping up monitoring. Local police units are receiving guidance. The aim is to ensure free and fair polling. Measures will curb malpractice and intimidation.

Sydney's transport union urges the government to abolish public transport fares, citing rising petrol costs and cost-of-living pressures. The RTBU suggests free or heavily subsidized travel to encourage commuters out of cars. However, the Transport Minister maintains current fares are fair, despite a daily cap of $19.30 for adults.

An Indian man in London captured a video of a classic auto-rickshaw navigating the city's traffic, a sight that instantly evoked memories of home. The unexpected appearance of the familiar vehicle amidst typical UK cars created a striking contrast, resonating with viewers who shared their own nostalgic sentiments.

Home Minister Amit Shah lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for becoming the longest-serving head of government in India, surpassing 8,931 days in public life. Shah highlighted Modi's dedication to nation-first governance, integrity, and tireless service, attributing the achievement to his unwavering commitment and the trust of the people.

Opposition MPs have submitted notices in Parliament seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Charges include acting under executive influence and causing mass disenfranchisement through the SIR exercise. The notices cite seven grounds of proved misbehaviour. Opposition leaders are awaiting government action on these notices.

The West Asian conflict is disrupting global shipping, energy, and supply chains, impacting Indian companies with shipment delays and input pressures. However, India entered the crisis from a position of strength, with the government taking swift measures to manage the fallout and enhance economic resilience.

Tragic news out of Qatar today, where a helicopter went down, killing all six people on board. Officials are pointing to a technical malfunction as the cause of the devastating crash. This incident has understandably caused a stir, with the ministry confirming the unfortunate details.

The Trinamool Congress pledged to increase tea garden worker wages to Rs 300. Industry stakeholders express caution, citing the sector's financial struggles. They emphasize the need for consultations involving employers, unions, and the government. The Darjeeling tea industry faces challenges from rising costs and cheaper imports.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made history. He is now India's longest-serving head of an elected government. This milestone combines his time as Gujarat Chief Minister and Prime Minister. Modi's leadership journey spans nearly 25 years. He has achieved significant political relevance and public support. His digital presence is also notable, with millions of followers across platforms.

The Trinamool Congress has released its second list of candidates for the Assam Assembly elections. Congress MLA Sherman Ali Ahmed will contest from Mandia. The party withdrew Dulu Ahmed's candidature from Chamaria. Seven candidates are named in this new list. Elections are scheduled for April 9, with vote counting on May 4. This move shapes the opposition's strategy.

Parliamentary Committee demands updates on Lokpal's inquiry and prosecution wings. The anti-corruption ombudsman's law was enacted in 2014. The committee is reviewing the appointment of the Director of Inquiry and staffing. It also seeks the operational roadmap for the prosecution wing. Consultations for a dedicated special court are ongoing. Staffing at the Lokpal secretariat needs review due to rising complaints.

Katharine Hepburn, a Hollywood icon, defied societal norms for women. She pursued her career and independence, famously choosing not to have children. Her four Oscar wins highlight her remarkable acting talent. Hepburn's life demonstrated a commitment to living on her own terms, inspiring many to challenge expectations and forge their own paths.