The Economic Times

President Trump, once a vocal critic of foreign wars and a self-proclaimed President of Peace, has escalated military actions against Iran and Venezuela. This shift surprises many, as it contradicts his America First platform and promises to end forever wars, potentially impacting his base and upcoming elections.

A live television slip two weeks ago when an Iranian reporter mistakenly said death to Khamenei instead of death to America highlighted growing resentment toward Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed on Saturday in US and Israeli airstrikes. The 86-year-old cleric, who ruled Iran for nearly four decades, died along with four family members when his compound in Tehran was destroyed.

President Trump's decision to join Israel in toppling Iran's regime, resulting in Khamenei's death, faces criticism but garners support within Iran. The author argues this action responds to Iran's long-standing war against the US and strengthens global security by weakening an autocratic axis.

An Iranian missile strike has killed at least nine people in Beit Shemesh, Israel. This marks the worst casualty toll in two days of conflict. Dozens searched debris for missing persons. The Israeli military stated Iran targeted civilians. This attack follows threats from Iran's national security official. Many were injured and evacuated to hospitals.

U.S. lawmakers from both parties expressed uncertainty about a post-strike strategy for Iran following the death of its Supreme Leader. Republicans voiced optimism for the Iranian people to determine their future, while Democrats questioned the effectiveness of air strikes for regime change and warned of potential chaos and prolonged conflict.

Israel and the U.S. launched extensive strikes across Iran, targeting ballistic missile sites and warships following the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Hezbollah retaliated with missile fire into Israel, claiming the attacks were in response to Khamenei's death and Israeli aggressions. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and a widening regional war.

Police have arrested four men in connection with a fatal crash on Rajpur Road. The incident occurred Friday night during alleged high-speed racing. A bike taxi passenger, Ankit Pal, died after being struck by two motorcycles. CCTV footage shows the victim being run over after the initial collision. The accused admitted to competing for speed.

Following the killing of Iran's supreme leader and a US-Israeli bombing campaign, the country faces leadership uncertainty. Authorities have tightened control, deploying security forces and cutting internet access to prevent protests. The regime's future hinges on the succession of the supreme leader, with potential power shifts between the Revolutionary Guards and civilian leadership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged an early cessation of hostilities and emphasized civilian safety in a call with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu amid escalating Middle East tensions. The conversation followed coordinated Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran, which Iranian state media reported killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, deepening the crisis.

India is closely monitoring escalating West Asian tensions, with the Prime Minister's Office and key ministries reviewing the situation. Concerns are high that a prolonged conflict could negatively impact India's economy through increased oil prices, wider deficits, and reduced remittance flows. Top officials convened to assess the evolving situation and its potential consequences.

Tata trustees have confirmed their unanimous approval for N Chandrasekaran's reappointment as Tata Sons chairman. This decision remains valid despite recent board discussions. Trustees expressed confidence in his leadership, emphasizing group stability. New ventures require focused management. The Centre is monitoring developments. Chandrasekaran's term was previously renewed in 2022.

The UAE is in crisis mode after Iranian attacks. Food security is a top concern due to disrupted supply chains. Hotels are instructed not to overcharge guests. Explosions were heard in Dubai. Residents stocked up on essentials. Schools and universities moved to remote learning. The stock market will close.

Iran Israel war live latest updates report rocket fire on Jerusalem, strikes in Tehran, IRGC headquarters destruction claims, oil tankers hit in the Strait of Hormuz, UAE embassy closure, flight suspensions, stock market shutdowns, and global oil price surge fears amid widening regional conflict.

Iran has hit the UAE and several of its neighbours as it strikes back from the major attack by US and Israeli forces, causing fear and chaos.

US-Iran War: Oman has been acting as a mediator in nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran.

US-Iran war connection to Austin-Texas Mass Shooting: Officers in Austin shot and killed the gunman, who used both a pistol and a rifle to carry out the attack, police said.

Indian ships are told to avoid West Asian ports and the Strait of Hormuz. Major shipping companies have suspended bookings and rerouted vessels. The Strait of Hormuz is closed. This is a precautionary measure amid regional conflict. About 25 Indian vessels are being monitored.

Escalating Iran-Israel tensions threaten India's energy security, potentially raising oil prices and inflation. Disruptions in West Asia, a crucial $178.5 billion trading bloc for India, could impact the rupee and force exporters to find new routes. The Strait of Hormuz, vital for energy imports, remains a key chokepoint.

Indian onion exports to West Asia have stopped. Major ports in the region closed operations on Sunday. This has suspended vessel movements. Consignments are now stranded. The disruption occurs during the Ramadan shipping window. Overseas demand typically surges by 30% at this time. Farmers in northern Maharashtra face subdued prices.

US-Iran War: Donald Trump claimed Tehran's new leadership was willing for a dialogue and the U.S President has agreed to it.

The Gulf crisis has deepened after a strike believed to target Iran's Supreme Leader by Israel and the US, prompting Iranian attacks on Israel and US bases. The conflict threatens regional stability and could ripple into India's energy costs and trade networks, affecting its diaspora communities.

Protests erupted across India, particularly among the Shia Muslim community, following the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Demonstrations were held in Srinagar, Kargil, Ladakh, Delhi, and various cities in Uttar Pradesh, with participants condemning the assassination and chanting slogans against Israel and the US.

US-Iran war: Iran launched retaliatory missiles and drones targeting Israel and nearby Arab Gulf countries hosting U.S. forces. Three U.S. service members have been killed, according to U.S. Central Command.

The government has convened an urgent meeting with exporters, logistics players and key ministries to assess the impact of escalating West Asia tensions on Indias trade.

The Emirates have been hit by Iranian strikes since Saturday in response to the joint Israeli-US attacks.

A new era of warfare is unfolding: real-time intelligence, precision weapons, and rapid decision cycles determine outcomes. Nations clinging to old tech risk costly stalemates as conflicts grow more complex. Leading powers deploy next-generation tools to accelerate operations, underscoring the need to modernize defense capabilities for tomorrows challenges.

Indian companies face growing cyber threats. Hackers are targeting critical infrastructure like power grids and banks. Similar attacks occurred during Operation Sindoor. Experts warn of increased risks to government services and essential networks. This follows heightened cyber activity in the Gulf region. India must prepare for potential compromises.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conducted urgent telephone discussions with West Asian leaders after the US-Israel operation against Iran and the subsequent retaliatory strikes. He spoke with Iran, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE.

The assassination of the highest political authority of the Islamic Republic of Iran and a prominent leader of Shiism worldwide... is perceived as an open declaration of war against Muslims, and particularly against Shiites, everywhere in the world, Pezeshkian said

As Iran grapples with the death of its supreme leader, India tracks the shifting balance of power. Mojtaba Khamenei is seen as a potential heir, but a smooth transfer is not guaranteed and could trigger domestic upheaval among system supporters. A disruption in Iran's stability could ripple into India's interests, even as Chabahar Port remains unaffected by the strikes.

The three-day Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha, beginning March 13 in Samalkha near Panipat in Haryana, will be chaired by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat. ABPS is the Sangh's top decision-making body and takes crucial organisational decisions.

Protests erupted across Pakistan after the United States and Israel attacked Iran. Demonstrators clashed with security forces in Karachi and northern regions. At least 22 people died and over 120 were injured. Protesters attempted to storm the U.S. Consulate in Karachi and attacked U.N. and government offices in the north. Authorities have increased security at U.S. diplomatic missions.

Trump touts AI as a potential driver of growth on par with the 1990s, urging a rate cut from the Fed with a new chair leading the way. However, economists warn that AI's payoff is unlikely to come quickly and that the world economy looks different now.

Quote of the Day: Leo Tolstoy in his book 'War and Peace' has talked about things which are relevant today.

Air India is rerouting flights to North America and Europe over Middle Eastern airspaces, adding to flying times. Six European flights are cancelled on March 2, and UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Qatar routes remain suspended. Flights to New York will make technical stops in Rome due to airspace closures.

Vijay-Sangeetha Love Story: Speculation is rife as Tamil superstar Vijay and his wife Sangeetha Sornalingam have reportedly approached the District Court in Chengalpattu for divorce. This news has reignited interest in their decades-long relationship. Vijay had previously spoken fondly of their first meeting on the sets of Love Today and Sangeetha's understanding nature. His family also praised her as a devoted homemaker.

They moved to the UAE expecting a non-stop VIP experience, but instead Dubai's influencers found themselves under a barrage of Iranian missiles and drones. British content creator Will Bailey was updating his Instagram and TikTok followers by filming the trails of smoke left by missiles and interceptor rockets in Dubai's skyline.

Following the publication of West Bengal's revised electoral rolls, the BJP has launched a political offensive, claiming over 50 lakh infiltrators were removed and making it a central plank. The party's 'Poriborton Yatra' aims to revive momentum and sharpen anti-incumbency against the TMC ahead of the 2026 Assembly polls.

An oil tanker carrying 15 Indian sailors was attacked by the Iranian military near Oman. Four crew members were injured in the incident. The entire crew has been safely evacuated. This attack follows retaliatory actions by Iran after alleged US-Israel strikes. India has expressed deep concern and urged restraint from all parties involved.

US sinks Iranian warship and claims Tehran missiles did not even touch USS Abraham Lincoln during Operation Epic Fury. United States Central Command said a Jamaran-class corvette was struck and is sinking at Chah Bahar pier. Three US service members were killed and five were seriously wounded.

Recent US and Israel strikes on Iran have intensified the Shia-Sunni rivalry. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are central to these developments. Pakistan is reportedly providing bases and intelligence to the US for operations targeting Iran and Afghanistan. Saudi Arabia's stance has shifted, with Sunni-majority nations appearing satisfied by the attacks. This regional realignment offers economic and political advantages to Pakistan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Madurai, criticizing the DMK government for corruption and alleged inaction. He highlighted the honesty of former Chief Minister K Kamaraj and accused the DMK of neglecting Tamil Nadu's interests. Modi promoted the NDA alliance, stating people have decided to bring them to power for clean governance and improved law and order.

Did Iranian drones attack Al-Salam Naval Base in Abu Dhabi, and how many missiles and drones have UAE been hit with till now? The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed two Iranian drones targeted Al-Salam Naval Base. A fire broke out in storage containers. No casualties were reported. The UAE also said it has intercepted 167 missiles and 541 drones since Saturday.

US forces report three service members killed and five wounded during Operation Epic Fury against Iran. Major combat operations continue. The US military states the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was not hit by Iranian missiles. Attacks are ongoing as the US aims to degrade Iran's military capacity.