The Economic Times

Who are Ayatollah Alireza Arafi and Ahmad Vahidi? This explainer covers Iran Israel War Live Updates, the reported appointment of Ahmad Vahidi as IRGC chief after Gen Mohammad Pakpours death, and the rise of Ayatollah Alireza Arafi as Irans interim Supreme Leader.

Indian refiners currently hold sufficient crude inventories to meet at least 10 days of requirements, with fuel stocks covering another 5-7 days, cushioning the impact of any short-duration disruption.

Iran Supreme Leader: Ayatollah Alireza Arafi has been chosen as interim successor to deceased Ali Khamenei.

Iran's embassy in Jakarta has welcomed Indonesia's offer to mediate between Washington and Tehran. This comes after recent US and Israeli strikes against Iran. President Prabowo Subianto is willing to travel to Tehran for mediation if both sides agree. Iran's embassy also urged Indonesian officials to condemn the aggression by the United States and Israel.

Fresh explosions rocked Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Manama on Sunday. Iran's retaliatory campaign entered its second day. Residents and journalists reported hearing multiple blasts and loud bangs across the Gulf cities. Sirens were heard in Manama following an explosion. A journalist in Doha also reported a faint blast.

Latest OTT releases this week (March 1-7) are headlined by Anil Kapoors action-drama Subedaar on Prime Video and Guy Ritchies Young Sherlock. From Leonardo DiCaprios award-winning One Battle After Another on JioHotstar to Jisoos K-drama Boyfriend on Demand, here is your ultimate weekend binge guide.

Flight ticket scam: An elderly Indian-origin couple lost over 2,500 to an online flight booking scam after being tricked via WhatsApp. They were left stranded at Heathrow Airport when their supposedly booked tickets were revealed as fake. The couple urges vigilance, highlighting the increasing sophistication of fraudsters targeting older individuals.

Delhi's government pensions are concentrated in outer and densely populated areas. Najafgarh leads with the most beneficiaries. The government is working to make pension payments transparent and accountable. A verification drive will start this month to ensure only eligible seniors receive support. This initiative aims to improve the delivery of financial aid for a dignified life.

Austin shooting today: A gunman was killed at a bar as mass shooting left three people dead and many critical.

Iran Israel war live updates report missile attacks across Iran, Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar. Iran launched fresh strikes as President Isaac Herzog appeared at a Tel Aviv blast site. The IDF announced strikes in Tehran. Gulf states intercepted drones and missiles. Casualties and damage were reported.

Cheers in Tehran. - Music in Tehran - Iranians took to the streets cheering with joy, setting off fireworks and playing celebratory music after reports of Khamenei's death, according to witnesses and video footage verified by AFP. 00 pm (1930 GMT), according to multiple witnesses and audio recordings.

India faced a significant 185-run loss to Australia in Hobart. Australian captain Alyssa Healy marked her farewell ODI with a century. Australia posted a formidable 409, setting India a challenging target. India's batting faltered, resulting in a series whitewash. The team now prepares for a Test match in Perth.

Families in Barabanki face distress over communication with their relatives in Qom, Iran. Students and scholars are reportedly in the city which is under attack. Contact has been intermittent, increasing fears. Relatives are praying for safety and have appealed to the Indian government for assistance and secure return of their loved ones.

An oil tanker flying the Palau flag faced an attack near Oman's Musandam peninsula. Four crew members sustained injuries. This incident follows earlier drone strikes at Oman's Duqm commercial port. The tanker, Skylight, is under U.S. sanctions for allegedly transporting Iranian oil. The attacks mark a significant escalation in regional tensions.

We're in constant communication with his father. Until yesterday, he was staying at the Palm Zumeria, but when the attacks began there, he changed hotels... Now, explosions are occurring around this hotel as well... The local government is sounding sirens and issuing alerts on mobile phones, Sagar Shukla told ANI.

Holi is approaching and households are preparing traditional gujiya. Chef Ranveer Brar offers a festive twist with his colourful pink rose gujiya. This recipe uses natural beetroot juice for a marbled effect. It is paired with a refreshing strawberry slush. This combination creates a vibrant and eye-catching treat for Holi celebrations.

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has called the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei a defining moment. She believes this opens a path to a different Iran where its people may have greater freedom. Kallas is in contact with regional partners to find practical steps for de-escalation.

Iran's next leader appointed: Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint USIsraeli airstrikes on February 28, 2026, Iran has appointed Ayatollah Alireza Arafi as its interim Supreme Leader. A trusted veteran of the clerical establishment born in 1959, Arafi brings decades of experience from the Guardian Council and Al-Mustafa International University to the role.

A powerful explosion rocked Iran's capital, Tehran, on Sunday. The Israeli military announced it was striking targets in the city's heart. The blast created a large smoke plume and shook the ground. The area affected is reportedly near the police headquarters and state television. This action follows earlier military movements by Israel.

Fifteen Naxalites surrendered in Mahasamund district, Chhattisgarh. The group included nine women and a Special Zonal Committee-level member named Vikas. They belonged to the Balangir-Bargarh-Mahasamund division. The surrendered cadres laid down arms including AK-47 rifles. This surrender is a significant step under the state government's rehabilitation policy. Over 2,700 Maoists have surrendered in Chhattisgarh in the last two years.

Lebanese group Hezbollah has pledged to confront the United States and Israel. This comes after joint strikes on Iran and the death of its supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Hezbollah is organizing a show of support for its ally Iran. The group's chief condemned the assassination as a crime. Lebanon's Prime Minister has rejected being drawn into war.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader for 36 years, has died. His death, attributed to a U.S.-Israeli attack, has divided the nation. While some mourn, others celebrate, toppling statues and dancing in the streets. This event follows years of unrest and crackdowns. Iran vows revenge against the U.S. and Israel for the leader's death.

Six trainee constables in Rewa face disciplinary action after a viral social media reel, featuring them in uniform, joked about the perks of government jobs. Authorities issued show-cause notices, citing violations of training guidelines that prohibit using the police uniform for non-official public content. The incident highlights concerns over the misuse of official attire online.

Union minister Giriraj Singh alleged the West Bengal government issued identification documents to infiltrators. He urged the Election Commission for re-verification in the state. Singh claimed lakhs of Bangladeshis and Rohingyas are on electoral rolls. He stated West Bengal is a nursery for infiltrators. The minister also criticized Rahul Gandhi, calling him a proponent of urban naxalism.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup journey concluded with a win but left the nation's cricket community disheartened. Former stars like Javed Miandad and Mohammad Yousuf are urging for significant changes. They highlight concerns over player selection and the team's inability to perform against top-ranked opponents. A review of senior players' roles is expected as the board considers its next steps.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has strongly condemned the reported killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his family. Putin described the act as a cynical murder. He stated that the incident violates all norms of human morality and international law. The Russian leader conveyed his deep condolences to the Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian following the tragic event.

Holi 2026 Outfit Ideas: Holi 2026 is approaching on March 4. Fashion for the festival emphasizes comfort and practicality. Men and women should choose breathable fabrics and light colours. Kids need comfortable cotton outfits. Practical footwear and minimal accessories are recommended. The focus is on enjoying the celebration without outfit worries.

The Trinamool Congress has raised concerns over cricketer Richa Ghosh's voter status. Ghosh, a World Cup winner, has been placed in an 'under adjudication' category. The party alleges this is part of a 'silent invisible rigging' exercise by the Election Commission. This action targets prominent figures and raises questions about the democratic rights of common voters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched infrastructure projects exceeding Rs. 4,400 crore in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The initiatives include redeveloped railway stations, highway four-laning projects, and new FM transmitters, all aimed at boosting connectivity, mobility, and regional economic growth.

The Indian Youth Congress staged a peaceful protest demanding the release of its national president Uday Bhanu Chib and other members. They were arrested following a protest during the AI Summit. A Delhi court stayed Chib's bail, leading to the Youth Congress alleging administrative pressure on justice. Their satyagraha continues to raise these issues.

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha stated poor decisions under pressure affected the team's T20 World Cup performance. The team did not reach the semifinals. Agha accepted responsibility for the under-par results. He highlighted the need to improve decision-making in high-pressure ICC events. The captain will consider his future after the campaign.

India's Goods and Services Tax collection saw a significant increase. Gross GST revenue for February 2026 reached Rs 1.83 lakh crore, an 8.1% rise compared to the previous year. For the fiscal year 2026, total GST revenue up to February 28 stood at Rs 20.27 lakh crore. This growth indicates a robust economic performance.

India and West Indies clash in a crucial match to decide a semifinal spot in the 2026 T20 World Cup. The winner will face England. Eden Gardens in Kolkata hosts this high-stakes encounter. A win for India secures their place in the last four. The pitch conditions and weather forecast are favorable for a thrilling contest.

Senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and AAP MP Sanjay Singh have condemned strikes by the US and Israel following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Gandhi called the actions despicable, while Singh highlighted Iran's historic ties with India.

Major Middle Eastern airports remain shut Sunday. Dubai, the world's busiest international hub, is closed. Air strikes have severely restricted flights in the UAE and Qatar. Thousands of flights are affected. This disruption impacts global travel, stranding aircraft and crews. Airlines are rerouting flights, increasing journey times and costs. The situation poses a risk of protracted disruption to air travel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to strike thousands of targets in Iran. He called on the Iranian public to rise up and overthrow their government. Netanyahu urged millions to take to the streets, uniting various ethnic groups. This escalation raises concerns about a wider regional conflict.

A major assault by United States and Israel on Iran has intensified scrutiny of Tehrans leadership structure after Donald Trump urged Iranians to rise against their rulers and Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei could be targeted. Khamenei, who succeeded Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989 and holds ultimate authority over Irans military, government and religious establishment, sits atop a complex power hierarchy.

Kerala Lottery Result Live: The Kerala State Lotteries Department has conducted the high-stakes draw for the Samrudhi SM-44 weekly lottery today, March 1, 2026. The event, held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, featured a grand first prize of 1 crore.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has sent messages of support to leaders in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. He strongly condemns military actions that threaten state sovereignty. Kazakhstan advocates for diplomatic solutions to international conflicts. The nation is ready to offer assistance to these Arab countries.

Drones targeted an Omani port, injuring one worker, marking the first attack on the sultanate amid Iran's retaliation campaign. The strikes, which also hit Dubai, Doha, and Manama, have raised fears of a wider conflict in the region. This follows Saturday's attacks that killed civilians in the UAE and injured others in Qatar.

IND vs WI Playing 11: India and West Indies clash in a crucial T20 World Cup match on Sunday. The winner advances to the semi-finals. Both teams have two points. South Africa has already secured a spot. India's likely playing eleven includes Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma opening. Suryakumar Yadav captains the side. Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh lead the bowling attack.

Nepali migrant workers face uncertainty as flights to West Asia halt amid regional conflict. Thousands are stranded in Kathmandu, unable to reach their jobs or return home. Airlines offer no immediate solutions, leaving workers without resources. The Nepalese government has issued advisories urging citizens in affected countries to remain vigilant and follow local security instructions.