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Mumbai: Sanju Samson’s sublime fifty and Jasprit Bumrah’s spell, touched with unearthly genius on a batting beauty, helped India secure a seven-run win over gallant England, as the defending champions powered to the T20 World Cup final in Mumbai on Thursday, March 5.

Sanju Samson (89 off 42) overcame the Jofra Archer challenge through a slice of luck for his second successive fifty, firing India to a mammoth 253 for seven, the highest total in a knock-out game in the tournament’s history. 

It was an above-par total at Wankhede, but Jacob Bethell (105 off 48) led England’s fightback with a sublime hundred after they lost three wickets in the powerplay for 68 runs. 

In the end, a critical contribution from Bumrah (1/33 in 4 overs) in the death overs allowed India to stop England at 246/7 in 20 overs. 

India will now face New Zealand in the title clash in Ahmedabad on Sunday, March 8. 

Tom Banton (17 off 5) was the fourth wicket to fall, but sixes kept coming, propelling England to 119 for four at the halfway stage, equalling India’s mark after 10 overs. 

Varun Chakaravarthy was again the weakest link in the attack as he failed to find the right length on an unforgiving surface to leak 64 runs in his four overs. 

Bumrah had got rid of the dangerous Harry Brook in the power play with a slow cutter, and Axar Patel took a sensational backward running catch from the cover region. 

With Will Jacks (35 off 20) and Bethell on the offensive in the middle overs, it was another brilliant work of fielding from Axar in the deep that saw the former’s back, ending a 77-run stand off 39 balls. 

Curran joined Bethell in the middle and the equation was brought down to a gettable 45 off the last three overs, forcing Suryakumar Yadav to bring Bumrah for one final time in the game. 

The Indian wizard delivered once again by conceding only six runs. With both Arshdeep and Bumrah not available, Shivam Dube was called upon to defend 30 in the final over. 

England’s hopes ended with a heartbreaking run out of Bethell, who played a memorable innings. 

Samson wins Archer battle with a fair share of luck 

After single-handedly taking India to the semifinals, a supremely confident Samson (89) bludgeoned the England bowling attack, including Archer, who had dominated his battle against the Indian opener in last year’s bilateral series. 

Having lost the toss at a ground with short boundaries, India had to put up a big total and Samson helped them do that after being dropped by Harry Brook on 15 off Archer in the third over.

England had already removed Abhishek Sharma the over before and a Samson dismissal would have put India under pressure, but Brook dropped a sitter at mid-on, leaving Archer in disbelief.

That was all the luck Samson needed to make England pay, hammering seven sixes and eight fours in his sizzling knock. 

Dismissed thrice by Archer last year when he did not have the answers for short balls into the body, Samson subdued the England pace spearhead with a flurry of pull shots. 

He picked up length quickly and was aided by a wayward Archer, who was too short in his opening spell of two overs. 

His first maximum off Archer came via a pull over fine leg before the opener dispatched a slower ball off the pacer over deep mid-wicket for another maximum. 

Samson shared a 97-run stand off 45 balls with Ishan Kishan (39 off 19), who too picked up the boundaries against an erring England bowling line-up. India raced to 67 for one in the power play and maintained the onslaught to reach 119 for two in 10 overs.

Shivam Dube (43 off 25) was promoted to number four to maintain the left-right combination after Kishan fell to Rashid. 

Samson, at the other end, was equally menacing against the other bowlers, including Curran and Jamie Overton.

Archer returned for his second spell only to get hammered by Samson again. The opener smashed him for a six over backward point before smoking Archer for another maximum over long-off. 

Archer ended up leaking 61 runs in four overs as Tilak Varma (21 off 7) added to his forgettable night with three sixes in the 19th over.

England went with the off-spin of Jacks in the final over and Hardik Pandya (27 off 12) put him to the sword with a couple of sixes. The last five overs yielded 76 runs, pushing India to an above-par total.

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The US–Israel war on Iran entered its eighth day on Saturday, March 7, anßd continues to intensify, with huge overnight explosions reported across several locations in Iran, including the capital Tehran. The Israeli military said it carried out “large-scale” strikes on Tehran, while also targeting the southern suburbs of Beirut.

US President Donald Trump reiterated that Washington would only accept Iran’s “unconditional surrender”, warning there would be no deal to end the war without it.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard continued intensive missile attacks on Israel, coinciding with rocket fire from Lebanon’s Hezbollah. Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia were also targeted by fresh Iranian missile and drone attacks, most of which were intercepted with no casualties reported.

The Iranian Red Crescent said at least 1,332 people have been killed in Iran since the US-Israeli attacks began. Trump also announced an agreement with arms companies to increase the production of precision-guided munitions as the conflict continues to escalate.

If you have just joined us, here are the major updates

• Death toll at 294: Lebanon
• 41 killed in Lebanon’s Nabi Chit from Israeli attacks, Netanyahu confirms raid
• Protests in London to end US-Israeli attacks on Iran
• We did a favour to the world: Trump on Iran attack
• Kuwait issues new Ramzan prayer timings
• US destroyed 42 Iranian naval ships: Trump
• Israel has claimed it destroyed 16 aircraft belonging to the IRGC’s Quds Force in a “broad wave of attacks” across Tehran, including Mehrabad Airport.
• President Trump said that Iran’s military is significantly damaged. “In recent days, we have destroyed 42 Iranian naval vessels and knocked out much of the country’s air power and telecommunications systems,” he said
• CBSE Class 12 board exams postponed

Follow our live updates here:

Debris from interception kills driver in Dubai’s Al Barsha

12:53 am IST: Authorities in Dubai said debris from an aerial interception fell onto a vehicle in the Al Barsha area, killing the driver, an Asian national.

The Dubai Media Office (DMO) said emergency teams responded promptly to the incident and investigations are ongoing.

Interception debris hits Dubai Marina tower

12:10 am IST: Debris from an aerial interception struck the facade of a tower in Dubai Marina on Saturday, prompting a response from authorities. The Dubai Media Office (DMO) said the incident caused minor damage and the situation was contained, with no injuries reported.

💢 Missile and drone interception debris strikes tower facade in Dubai Marina, authorities describe incident as minor and report no injuries

⚠️ Incident occurs amid ongoing Iranian missile and drone launches linked to US-Israeli offensive against Iran https://t.co/TKShLZkeTE pic.twitter.com/xOPIru3xKs

— Anadolu English (@anadoluagency) March 7, 2026

Netanyahu confirms airborne raid on Bekaa Valley

10:33 pm IST: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the military’s overnight raid in Lebanon’s Nabi Chit town in the Bekaa Valley, which killed at least 41 people.

“The operation carried out did not yield the findings we were seeking, but the commitment of the State of Israel and my commitment to completing all the missions to retrieve our captives and missing persons is absolute and unwavering,” he said.

Israel has further claimed it has hit more than 300 targets in Iran in the last 48 hours.

US defence systems may have diverted missiles: Iran to UN

9:39 pm IST: Iran’s mission to the United Nations in New York says Tehran has only targeted military bases and US assets during its recent attacks. It said that an initial assessment suggested that “some of these incidents may have resulted from interception by US electronic defence systems, which may have diverted the projectiles from their intended military targets.”

It declined to provide further details.

Germany announces 100 million Euros aid to Lebanon

9:35 pm IST: With the death toll increasing day by day in Lebanon, Germany announced to provide €100m (USD 108m) with additional humanitarian support for regions hit hard amid Israeli strikes. The announcement comes a day after Germany said it had withdrawn additional Bundeswehr troops from the Middle East. German soldiers deployed with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) were pulled out due to security concerns.

UAE is beautiful, UAE is strong: President

9:33 pm IST: In his first address to the citizens of UAE, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the country is strong and the safety of the people rests on his shoulders. While visiting the wounded in a hospital, he said, “Pardon us if we did not meet expectations, but we are in a time of war. I promise you that we will fulfil our responsibility to defend you, our people and our families.”

Death toll at 294: Lebanon

8:55 pm IST: The death toll has reached 294, and 1,023 people were wounded in Lebanon from the relentless Israeli strikes, state-run National News Agency (NNA) cited the Health Emergency Operations Center of the Ministry of Public Health.

US using our bases for ‘defensive operations’: UK

8:50 pm IST: Under heavy fire from its own public, the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence alleged that the US is using their military bases for “specific defensive operations to prevent Iran firing missiles into the region, which is putting British lives at risk.”

We did a favour to the world: Trump on Iran attack

8:45 pm IST: Trump said the military operation against Iran was progressing extremely well, rating it “about a 15” on a scale of 10.

“We did the world a favour,”” he said, adding, “Those killed in the joint US–Israeli strikes so far were sick people, very sick people.”

US destroyed 42 Iranian naval ships: Trump

8:20 pm IST: Speaking in Florida, United States President Donald Trump proclaimed that Iran’s military is significantly damaged with its navy, air force and communications infrastructure heavily hit. “In recent days, we have destroyed 42 Iranian naval vessels and knocked out much of the country’s air power and telecommunications systems,” he said

Describing the military operation with Israel as a major success, Trump claimed US strikes have weakened Iran’s nuclear programme, claiming Tehran had been close to obtaining a nuclear weapon before the attacks.

Israel strikes Iran’s oldest airport, shoots IRGC aircraft

8:11 pm IST: Israel has claimed it has destroyed 16 aircraft belonging to the IRGC’s Quds Force in a “broad wave of attacks” across Tehran, including Mehrabad Airport.

In a statement, the Israeli army said its air force carried out a “broad wave of attacks” across the Iranian capital, including strikes at Mehrabad Airport. “The airport was used by the Quds Force as a transit for weapons and money to armed groups across the Middle East, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah,” the statement read.

It is one of the oldest airports in the country, used by several Iranians to fly to Shiraz, Isfahan and Mashhad.

The claims could not immediately be independently verified and there was no immediate comment from Iranian authorities.

Iranian President makes U-turn

8:00 pm IST: In a series of social media posts, President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated his earlier statement, saying Iran remains committed to maintaining friendly relations and mutual respect with its neighbhours.

“Iran’s defensive operations are exclusively against targets and facilities that are the origin of aggressive actions against the nation,” he said, adding they have the right to defend against military aggression by the United States and Israel.

Kuwait issues new Ramzan prayer timings

7:34 pm IST: In view of the escalating ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Islamic Affairs issued new timings for Ramzan prayers.

• Taraweeh prayer: 20 minutes after Isha prayer
• Qiyam prayer: Daily from 12 am to 12:30 am (Kuwait timings)

Hezbollah claims attack on Israeli army base

7:25 pm IST: Hezbollah carried out two separate attacks targeting Israeli positions at the Tzrifin base and fired rockets at a gathering of vehicles near the Fatima Gate crossing of Kfar Kila. In a statement, the group said the attacks were carried out in response to what it described as Israeli strikes across Lebanon.

Israel says missiles launched from Iran towards its territory

7:23 pm IST: The Israeli military intercepted missiles from Iran, a statement said.

Bahrain: Sirens alarms, people scatter for safe place

7:22 pm IST: Sirens have been activated in Bahrain. “Citizens and residents are urged to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place,” the Interior Ministry said.

Protests in London to end US-Israeli attacks on Iran

7:22 pm IST: More than 100 protesters gathered on Millbank in Central London on Saturday, calling for an end to US and Israeli attacks on Iran. Groups including Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, Stop the War Coalition, Palestine Solidarity Campaign, Muslim Association of Britain, Palestinian Forum in Britain and Friends of Al-Aqsa led a march to the Embassy of the United States.

Bahrain, UK and US discuss ‘working together to ensure stability’

7:20 pm IST: The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said representatives from Bahrain, the United Kingdom and the US held a virtual meeting on March 5 were “the importance of working together to ensure peace and stability” was discussed.

The meeting was attended by Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, national security adviser, secretary-general of the Supreme Defence Council of the Kingdom of Bahrain; Air Chief Marshal Richard Knighton, chief of the defence staff of the UK; and CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper.

Leadership Council holds meet to elect new Supreme Leader

6:25 pm IST: The Interim Leadership Council held its fourth meeting to select Iran’s next Supreme Leader after Ali Khamenei was killed by a US-Israeli strike on February 28. The meeting was held under the chairmanship of President Masoud Pezeshkian, Head of Judiciary Gholamhossein Mohseni Eji and Vice President of the Assembly of Experts and interim Ayyatollah Alireza Arafi.

41 killed in Lebanon’s Nabi Chit from Israeli attacks

6:02 pm IST: The Lebanese Health Ministry announced the number of people killed in Israeli airstrikes and ground raids on Nabi Chit, a Lebanese town east of the Bekaa Valley, has risen to 41. The number of injured has reached 40, the ministry said.

Four children were among the dead.

16 ballistic missiles, 121 drones launched at the UAE

5:52 pm IST: The United Arab Emirates was targeted by as many as 16 ballistic missiles and 121 drones on Saturday, according to the authorities.

Every missile that was launched was intercepted, except for one that fell into the sea. At least 119 drones were intercepted within the UAE territory, they stated.

Since the start of the Middle Eastern conflict,221 ballistic missiles were detected, 205 were destroyed, 14 fell into the sea, and two landed in the UAE. They also intercepted 1,229 Iranian drones, detected 1,305 and 76 landed within the UAE. The attacks killed three Pakistani, Nepalese and Bangladeshi nationals, while 112 of various nationalities were left injured.

Israeli military intercepted 110 unmanned aerial vehicles since the start of war

5:46 pm IST: Israeli military said it has intercepted more than 110 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from Iran since the war began on February 28.

“Since the launch of Operation ‘Roar of the Lion’ the Air Force has identified and intercepted more than 110 unmanned aerial vehicles launched by the Iranian terror regime toward the State of Israel. The Air Force continues to remove threats to the citizens of the State of Israel while intensifying strikes on all systems of the Iranian terror regime,” the statement said.

UN coordinator for Lebanon calls for peace talks

5:42 pm IST: UN special coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, urged Israel and Lebanon to enter talks to put an end to hostilities since the outbreak of the renewed Israel-Hezbollah war.

“As bad as things are today, they are set to get even worse. Talks between Lebanon and Israel can be the game changer needed to save future generations from going, time and again, through the same nightmare,” she said.

Hezbollah bombs Israeli military site in Safed

5:36 pm IST: Hezbollah announced that its army had shelled the “Dado base,” with missiles in northeast Safed, which is the headquarters of the Israeli army’s Northern Command.

Iran will be hit very hard today: Trump

4:58 pm IST: US President Donald Trump warned that Iran officials will be targets in war, saying, “Today Iran will be hit very hard.”

Trump made the comments on his Truth Social post, noting an apology by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian earlier in the day to neighbouring nations over Tehran’s attacks.

“Iran, which is being beat to HELL, has apologized and surrendered to its Middle East neighbors, and promised that it will not shoot at them anymore. This promise was only made because of the relentless US and Israeli attack,” Trump wrote.

“It is the first time that Iran has ever lost, in thousands of years, to surrounding Middle Eastern Countries. They have said, ‘Thank you President Trump.’ I have said, ‘You’re welcome!’ Iran is no longer the ‘Bully of the Middle East,’ they are, instead, ‘THE LOSER OF THE MIDDLE EAST,’ and will be for many decades until they surrender or, more likely, completely collapse!”

Israeli Defence Minister asks Lebanese government to take action against Hezbollah

4:56 pm IST: Israel Katz, Israel’s Defence Minister, said, “The Lebanese government must act against Hezbollah before Israel intervenes further. If Nasrallah had destroyed Lebanon, then Naim Qassem may lead it to further destruction.”

Locals report hearing several explosions in Tehran

4:53 pm IST: Soon after the Israeli military announced it had launched a new attack, multiple explosions were reported in Tehran. Videos and images circulating on social media show plumes of smoke rising from Qarchak County, southeast of Tehran.

IRGC announces 25th wave of missiles

4:38 pm IST: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched a 25th wave of Operation True Promise 4 against military and support facilities. According to Iranian state media, this latest operation features the use of hypersonic Fatah and ballistic Emad missiles.

Israel launched an operation in Lebanon to find info on missing pilot

4:35 pm IST: The Israeli military says its special forces conducted an operation deep inside Lebanon in an attempt to gather information about an Israeli navigator who has been missing for nearly 40 years.

The Israeli army’s Arabic spokesman posted on X that no evidence was found related to Israeli pilot Ron Arad, who was captured alive after his fighter jet crashed over south Lebanon in 1986.

According to Lebanon’s state media, Israeli forces landed in the eastern Lebanese town of Nabi Chit late Friday and were intercepted by members of the militant Hezbollah group, triggering a gunfight that lasted until the early hours of Saturday.

Ron Arad was believed to have been held in Nabi Chit until 1988, when he went missing.

Iranian cleric warns that Khamenei’s successor should be named quickly

4:31 pm IST: A prominent cleric in Iran, Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi, urged the country’s Assembly of Experts to act quickly and name a new supreme leader, likely in response to the ongoing political confusion.

Buildings associated with the 88-cleric panel have been hit by airstrikes in the war, likely slowing any meeting of the group.

“The timely realization of this important matter will lead to national authority and the best possible organization of affairs,” Shirazi said in a statement.

Iran destroyed 13 enemy drones in one day

4:26 pm IST: The Iranian army said it shot down 13 enemy drones, including the MQ-9, Hermes and Orbiter types in the last 24 hours.

Iraq extends airspace closure

4:17 pm IST: Iraq has extended the closure of its airspace for another 72 hours.

The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority said airspace will remain closed until 12 pm (2:30 pm IST) Tuesday.

Death toll in Lebanon’s Nabi Chit rises to 26

4:15 pm IST: At least 26 people have been killed in the Nabi Chit village of Lebanon, the country’s official National News Agency reported. Located in the eastern Bekaa Valley, the Israeli army had launched strikes in the village, claiming to have hit Hezbollah sites

IRGC claims it hit Al Dhafra air base in UAE

4:13 pm IST: Iranian Tasnim news agency reported that the IRGC navy launched a drone attack at the Al Dhafra air base in the United Arab Emirates. The report said that Iran struck a US satellite communication site, early warning radars and fire control radars.

The UAE has not commented or confirmed the attack as of yet.

Israel orders residents of Nabi Chit in Lebanon to evacuate

4:10 pm IST: Israeli radio, citing sources, said there were no casualties or injuries reported following an Israeli military operation in Lebanon’s Nabi Chit village. It subsequently ordered residents to leave the village.

Sirens warning incoming missiles sounded in Jerusalem and parts of West Bank

4:07 pm IST: Sirens were heard in the Upper Galilee, Greater Tel Aviv and central Israel as early warnings of Iranian bombing were issued.

CBSE Class 12 board exams postponed

3:53 pm IST: The CBSE officially postpones the Class 12 board examination for students across the Middle Eastern countries. The decision announced via a formal circular comes days after the postponed and cancelled Class 10 exams. The announcement affects scheduled tests on March 9, 10, and 11. New dates for these specific exams will be shared in the near future, following another review of the regional situation on March 10.

The decision pertains to students living in Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, , Iran, Kuwait, and the UAE. Students have been advised to stay in contact with their respective schools for any updates and official announcements.

US bomber lands in Britain after UK allows use of military bases

3:42 pm IST: US bomber, 146ft B-1 Lancer, landed in the UK after Prime Minister Keir Starmer approved US military action against Iranian forces from UK bases.

Qatar Airways to start limited flights to Doha

3:42 pm IST: Following the temporary authorization from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, Qatar Airways said it will operate a limited number of flights on March 8.

“Qatar Airways intends to operate the following flights on 08 March to Hamad International Airport from: London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Madrid (MAD), Rome (FCO), Frankfurt (FRA) and Bangkok (BKK),” their statement read.

The flights will be for passengers whose final destination is Doha, the airlines said, adding that these flights do not constitute a confirmation of the resumption of scheduled commercial operations. Their remaining flight operations will remain temporarily suspended.

Hezbollah sites destroyed in southern Lebanon, says Israeli military

3:27 pm IST: Israeli military said it hit Hezbollah targets in Lebanon’s south and east, reportedly killing commanders from the armed group. The Israeli military said it “completed an additional wave of strikes targeting rocket launchers, weapons storage facilities, and additional military sites belonging to the Hezbollah terrorist organisation in various areas in southern Lebanon and in the Beqaa valley.”

Iran warns Kurdistan against deploying hostile forces

3:25 pm IST: Iranian Revolutionary Guard issued a stern warning to the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq, stating that “deploying hostile forces on the border will be met with a strong response.

“We are monitoring the movements of enemies and opposition elements in Kurdistan province and we will not allow any threats to occur,” the Revolutionary Guard said. “Iran’s northern and northwestern borders are fully secured and our forces are in full readiness,” the IRGC said.

Satellite Images show damage to US military sites in Gulf

3:14 pm IST: Iran’s response, seen through satellite images, shows damage to four US military bases in the Middle East from Iranian strikes since February 28.

Emirates resumes operations from Dubai

3:07 pm IST: Emirates announced that they have resumed operations, and passengers who had already confirmed bookings for Saturday afternoon can proceed to the airport.

“This includes customers transiting in Dubai, if their connecting flight is also operating. Customers can check the flight schedule for upcoming flights, as well as book seats to travel: http://emirat.es/nowoperating“

Emirates resumes operations

Emirates will resume operations. Passengers who have confirmed bookings for this afternoon’s flights may proceed to the airport. This includes customers transiting in Dubai, if their connecting flight is also operating.

Customers can check the flight… pic.twitter.com/kSlcEGKCCz

— Emirates Support (@EmiratesSupport) March 7, 2026

India granted emergency docking to Iranian naval ship in Kochi

2:54 pm IST: External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that India had allowed an Iranian naval ship to dock in one of its ports in Kochi.

Addressing the 2026 Raisinia Dialogue in New Delhi, Jaishankar explained the sequence of events involving the Iranian ships. This comes days after a US sumbarine had sank an Iranian frigate, Iris Dena, in the Indian Ocean off Sri Lanka’s coast. He said that another Iranian ship requested to dock in India after it developed technical issues.

“We got a message from the Iranian side that one of the ships, which presumably was closest to our borders at that point of time, wanted to come into our port. They were reporting that they were having problems. On the 1 March, we said you can come in and it took them a few days to sail in and then they docked in Kochi. There were a lot of young cadets. When the ships had set out and when they came here, the situation was totally different,” Jaishankar said.

The ship was accommodated at Indian naval facilities on humanitarian grounds, he said.

Bahrain intercepted 86 missiles, 148 drones since February 28

2:43 pm IST: The General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force announced that 86 missiles and 148 drones were intercepted and destroyed since the beginning of the war.

According to the statement, the General Command urged everyone to remain indoors and exercise extreme caution to ensure safety. It also condemned the usage of ballistic missiles and drones to target civilians, saying it constitutes a “flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and the UN Charter.”

“These indiscriminate and criminal attacks pose a direct threat to regional peace and security,” the statement read.

At least 6,668 civilians units hit by US-Israeli strikes: Red Crescent

2:35 pm IST: The US-Israeli strikes have targeted at least  6,668 civilian units since the war started on February 28, the Red Crescent Society said, according to Fars news agency.

The attacks reportedly targeted 5,535 residential units, 1,041 commercial units, 14 medical centres, 65 schools, and 13 centres under the Iranian Red Crescent Society

Iran stock exchange to remain shut

2:30 pm IST: The country’s stock exchange will remain closed until further notice, Iranian state TV said.

Israel launches airstrike on southern Lebanon

2:20 pm IST: Israel launched an airstrike in southern Lebanon’s Bint Jbeil, Al Jazeera reported.

Israeli Air Force launches new wave of strikes on Tehran, Isfahan

2:10 pm IST: The Israeli Air Force said it has launched a wave of strikes targeting what it described as Iranian regime infrastructure in Tehran and Isfahan, according to a post on its official social media account.

Israeli air raids kill 12 in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley

1:57 pm IST: At least 12 people were killed and 33 wounded in Israeli air raids on the town of Nabi Chit in Lebanon’s eastern Bekaa Valley, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry.

Officials said the strikes come amid escalating cross-border fighting linked to the wider regional conflict. Lebanese authorities added that more than 200 people have been killed in the country since the conflict began, while about 95,000 have been displaced.

Dubai International Airport operations temporarily halted

1:45 pm IST: The Dubai Media Office (DMO) said operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) have been temporarily suspended for the safety of passengers, staff and airline crews. Officials said all procedures are being managed in line with established safety protocols.

An Iranian drone reportedly struck Dubai International Airport on Saturday afternoon, causing widespread disruption at one of the world's busiest aviation hubs.

The attack marks a dramatic escalation of regional tensions following a large-scale military offensive launched… pic.twitter.com/YIZtdkRWNu

— The Siasat Daily (@TheSiasatDaily) March 7, 2026

Saudi Arabia shoots down 21 drones, three missiles targeting key sites

1:40 pm IST: Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry spokesman Turki al-Malki said the kingdom’s air defences intercepted 14 drones in the Empty Quarter heading towards the Shaybah oil field in the southeast, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

Defences also destroyed six additional drones targeting the same field, one drone aimed at Riyadh, and three ballistic missiles launched towards Prince Sultan Air Base in Al-Kharj, about 80 km southeast of the capital.

Qatar issues ‘elevated’ security alert

1:33 pm IST: Qatari authorities have issued another “elevated” security alert, urging residents to remain indoors amid the ongoing regional tensions.

Emirates suspends all flights to and from Dubai

1:25 pm IST: Emirates Airlines announced the suspension of all flights to and from Dubai until further notice amid the ongoing regional escalation.

Bahrain activates sirens, urges residents to seek shelter

1:18 pm IST: Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior said warning sirens have been activated and urged citizens and residents to head to the nearest safe place.

Iran rejects ‘unconditional surrender’, president tells nation

1:13 pm IST: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the country will not surrender despite the ongoing war, telling citizens that “the enemy must know that its dreams of our surrender will not come true”.

In a televised address, Pezeshkian thanked the Iranian people and called for unity to defend the country. He said Iran holds no animosity towards neighbouring states and apologised to countries in the region, adding that the interim leadership council had agreed not to launch attacks on neighbouring countries unless an attack on Iran originates from them.

He also said Iran remains committed to international law and humanitarian principles and vowed the country would stand firm until it emerges from the crisis.

IRGC says drone strike targeted oil tanker in Strait of Hormuz

1:05 pm IST: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it targeted an oil and chemical tanker, Prima, in the Gulf with a drone after the vessel ignored warnings about the unsafe conditions in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Tasnim news agency.

The tanker, sailing under the Malta flag, was struck minutes earlier on Saturday morning, the report said.

Iran says it intercepted Israeli Orbiter 4 spy drone over Isfahan

12:56 pm IST: Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported that Iranian air defences intercepted an Israeli Orbiter 4 reconnaissance drone in the skies over the central city of Isfahan. The drone was reportedly brought down by Iran’s air defence systems during the ongoing escalation.

Eight killed in US-Israeli strikes in Iran’s Isfahan province

12:48 pm IST: US-Israeli strikes on Iran’s central Isfahan province killed at least eight people on Saturday, including a woman, according to a provincial security official cited by the Tasnim news agency.

The official said fighter jets targeted areas of Isfahan city and seven other cities, with about 80 houses severely damaged in Isfahan as well as the Lenjan and Borkhar areas.

Saudi Arabia intercepts two more drones amid ongoing attacks

12:40 pm IST: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence said air defences intercepted two additional drones — one east of the capital Riyadh and another in the Empty Quarter as it headed towards the Shaybah oilfields. It said air defence systems have been engaging and destroying drones and ballistic missiles since the early hours of Saturday.

IRGC says strikes targeted US bases in UAE and Kuwait

12:36 pm IST: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the latest phase of its operation involved large-scale missile and drone strikes on US positions in the region.

According to a statement carried by the IRNA news agency, targets included the al-Dhafra airbase in the UAE and the Ali al-Salem airbase in Kuwait, where the IRGC claimed missiles and drones struck radar systems, fuel facilities and other installations used by US forces.

UAE air defences responding to Iranian missile and drone threats

12:28 pm IST: The UAE’s Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran.

It added that the sounds heard in various parts of the country are the result of intercepting ballistic missiles and drones.

Arab League to hold emergency meeting over Iranian attacks

12:20 pm IST: The Arab League is set to meet on Sunday, March 8, to discuss the Iranian attacks, according to the organisation’s assistant secretary-general.

Global Village to remain closed on March 7–8

12:15 pm IST: Global Village announced on its social media platforms that it will remain closed on Saturday, March 7, and Sunday, March 8, as a precautionary safety measure in line with official guidance.

Trump to attend return of remains of six US soldiers killed in Iran attack

12:08 pm IST: US President Donald Trump will attend the return of the remains of six American soldiers killed in an Iranian attack on Kuwait. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on Saturday at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.

Israel says 80 fighter jets struck military targets in Iran

12 pm IST: The Israeli military said more than 80 Israeli Air Force fighter jets struck key Iranian military infrastructure in Tehran and central Iran.

According to the IDF, the targets included the IRGC Imam Hossein military university, ballistic missile storage facilities, underground missile command infrastructure and launch sites aimed at Israel in western and central Iran. The military said the strikes were intended to degrade Iran’s ability to target Israeli civilians.

Saudi Arabia intercepts two more missiles targeting Prince Sultan Air Base

11:51 am IST: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence said air defences intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles launched towards Prince Sultan Air Base. The ministry did not provide further details.

US embassy in Qatar urges citizens to remain vigilant

11:45 am IST: The US Embassy in Qatar urged American citizens in the region to remain vigilant as efforts continue to assist them in leaving the Middle East.

In a notice, the embassy said it is exploring additional options to help US nationals depart safely and advised citizens to closely monitor their email for updates or last-minute travel changes.

There is no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens for President Trump, Secretary of State Rubio, and the entire Department of State.

We are working on additional options to assist Americans to depart the Middle East. Please continue to check your… pic.twitter.com/95HR0RRhbU

— U.S. Embassy in Qatar (@USEmbassyDoha) March 7, 2026

Qatar partially reopens airspace as flights resume from Doha

11:35 am IST: Qatar has partially reopened its airspace in a cautious first step towards restoring flights to one of the Gulf’s key aviation hubs.

According to flight tracking service Flightradar, an A380 bound for London was the first aircraft to depart Doha since the war began on February 28. Authorities said priority will be given to stranded passengers travelling with families, elderly travellers, and those with urgent medical or compassionate needs.

Qatar Airways is beginning a series of limited relief flights from Doha today. This A380 is the first aircraft to depart Doha since last Saturday. https://t.co/Rez4cojpd5 pic.twitter.com/ijENeHOYMt

— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) March 7, 2026

Satellite images show damage at radar site near Prince Sultan Air Base

11:18 am IST: Satellite imagery from March 1 shows smoke rising from a radar site near Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, where dozens of US military aircraft are stationed.

Analysis cited by CNN said the site was among five radar locations struck by Iran or its allies. The images show damage to a compound housing a radar linked to the US-made THAAD missile defence system, used to detect and intercept ballistic missiles.

Indian envoy in Bahrain urges nationals to follow local laws

10:55 am IST: India’s Ambassador to Bahrain, Vinod K Jacob, has issued a message urging Indian nationals in the kingdom to strictly follow Bahrain’s laws and regulations, stressing the importance of respecting local rules during the current regional tensions.

Watch the video here

Dubai reports ‘minor incident’ after debris falls from interception

10:48 am IST: Authorities in Dubai said a “minor incident” occurred after debris fell following an interception, according to the Dubai Media Office. Officials said the situation was quickly contained and no injuries were reported, adding that operations at Dubai International Airport were unaffected.

US plans ‘biggest bombing campaign’ against Iran tonight: Bessent

10:22 am IST: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington is preparing what he described as its “biggest bombing campaign” against Iran.

Speaking to Fox News, Bessent said the strikes would target Iranian missile launchers and missile-production facilities, adding that US attacks are aimed at substantially degrading Tehran’s capabilities.

He also accused Iran of trying to create “economic chaos”, pointing to its influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.

4.1 magnitude earthquake strikes near Bandar Abbas in Iran

10:08 am IST: An earthquake of magnitude 4.1 struck west of Bandar Abbas in southern Iran, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). There were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage following the tremor.

Iran says passenger plane destroyed in attack on Bushehr airport

9:54 am IST: Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Bushehr airport was targeted in an attack that destroyed an IranAir passenger plane, describing it as a “cowardly attack on a civilian airport”.

The official called the incident a “wicked chapter” in what Tehran described as an ongoing campaign against Iran and warned that the country is determined to respond fiercely.

Hezbollah says it clashed with Israeli troops after helicopter infiltration in Lebanon

9:45 am IST: Hezbollah said its fighters clashed with Israeli troops after four Israeli military helicopters entered eastern Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley near the town of Nabi Chit. Lebanese authorities said at least nine people were killed in Israeli air strikes in the area.

Oil surges as US-Israel-Iran conflict raises supply fears

9:38 am IST: Oil prices jumped sharply amid fears that the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran could disrupt global energy supplies.

Brent crude rose to about USD 92.69 a barrel, up 8.5 percent on the day and nearly 30 percent for the week. Traders are closely watching developments around the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route through which about 20 percent of the world’s oil supply passes, as Iran has repeatedly threatened to block traffic.

Sirens sound across southern Israel after fresh missile launches detected

9:25 am IST: The Israeli military said it detected new missile launches targeting Beersheba, the Gaza enclave and southern regions of Israel. Air raid sirens sounded in Jerusalem, the southern Negev and large parts of southern Israel, warning residents to move to shelters as air defence systems responded to the incoming projectiles.

Missile intercepted over Jordan’s Aqaba

9:12 am IST: A missile was intercepted in the airspace above the Jordanian city of Aqaba. The city lies directly across from Eilat in southern Israel.

US may unsanction more Russian oil amid global supply gap: Bessent

9 am IST: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington may lift sanctions on additional Russian oil to address a temporary global supply gap.

Speaking in an interview with Fox Business, Bessent said the move is being considered to help stabilise global energy markets amid the ongoing turmoil in West Asia. He added that the United States had already granted India permission to purchase Russian oil to ease disruptions in global supply.

Trump considers deploying US ground forces to Iran: Report

8:41 am IST: US President Donald Trump has privately expressed interest in deploying US ground forces to Iran, according to a report by NBC News citing several sources.The report said Trump discussed the idea with White House aides and Republican officials while outlining his vision for Iran after the war, including possible cooperation with Washington on oil production. However, the discussions reportedly focused on a small contingent of US troops for specific strategic missions rather than a large-scale ground invasion, and no decision has been made so far.

Bahrain activates sirens, urges residents to seek shelter

8:30 am IST: Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior said warning sirens were activated and urged citizens and residents to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place.

Iran launches fresh wave of missiles towards Israel

8:16 am IST: Iran has launched a new wave of missiles towards Israel, according to the Iranian Fars news agency. The latest barrage comes amid continuing escalation in the conflict following ongoing US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.

Iran urges UN chief to remain neutral amid ‘Israeli-American aggression’

8:08 am IST: Iran’s Foreign Ministry called on UN Secretary-General António Guterres to remain neutral, saying the country is facing “unjustified aggression from two nuclear states”.

The ministry criticised Guterres for focusing on the global economic impact of the conflict while, it said, hundreds of people have been killed in Iran in what it described as “Israeli-American crimes”. It added that the United Nations must fulfil its legal and moral responsibilities regarding what it called an “illegal war” against Iran.

India issues advisory for stranded tourists in Qatar

8 am IST: The Embassy of India in Doha has issued an advisory for Indian nationals stranded in Qatar due to flight cancellations between February 28 and March 7, 2026.

The embassy urged tourists and short-term visitors holding Hayya A1 visas to submit their details through an online form to help authorities determine the number of stranded Indian nationals who are not residents of Qatar.

Indian embassies issue safety alert for citizens in Qatar, Kuwait

7:50 am IST: The Indian Embassy in Doha said it has activated additional 24/7 helpline numbers to assist Indian nationals as the security situation in West Asia continues to deteriorate.

In a post on X, the embassy shared the following contact numbers: +974 55647502, +974 55362508, +974 55384683, and an email helpline. It also said the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) and the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) have set up helpdesks operating from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm to support the community.

Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait urged citizens to remain indoors and strictly follow instructions from the General Staff of the Armed Forces, especially if missiles or unidentified falling objects are observed.

US says it struck over 3,000 targets in first week of Iran war

7:35 am IST: The United States struck more than 3,000 targets during the first week of the war with Iran, the US military said.

US Central Command said the targets included command-and-control centres, air defence systems, missile sites, as well as Iranian navy ships and submarines.

US likely to approve USD 151.8M ammunition sale to Israel

7:22 am IST: The US State Department said it is likely to approve the sale of ammunition to Israel worth about USD 151.8 million.

It said Secretary of State Marco Rubio determined that the sale was in the interest of US national security and therefore waived the requirement for congressional review, citing an emergency situation requiring the immediate transfer of munitions.

Qatar Airways announces special repatriation flights from Doha

7:15 am IST: Qatar Airways said it will operate a series of special repatriation flights on March 7 after the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority authorised a temporary safe operating corridor.

The flights will depart from Hamad International Airport in Doha to London, Paris, Madrid, Rome and Frankfurt. The airline said priority will be given to stranded passengers travelling with families, elderly travellers, and those with urgent medical or compassionate needs.

UK ready to support Saudi Arabia’s defence, Starmer says

7:06 am IST: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain is ready to support the defence of Saudi Arabia after speaking with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about the Israel–US war on Iran and its wider regional spillover.

Starmer added that additional British fighter jets, helicopters and a destroyer are being sent to the Middle East, while the two leaders also discussed expanding intelligence sharing.

Iran’s sole athlete to miss Winter Paralympics

6:55 am IST: The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) said Iran’s only athlete at the Winter Paralympics will not take part after being unable to travel due to the ongoing conflict.

Cross-country skier Aboulfazl Khatibi Mianaei, 23, was due to compete at the Games in Verona, Italy, but will miss the event after failing to reach the country. He had previously participated in the last two Winter Olympics and was scheduled to compete on Tuesday.

Saudi Arabia intercepts four drones heading towards Shaybah oil field

6:48 am IST: The official spokesman for the Saudi Ministry of Defence said air defences intercepted and destroyed four drones in the Empty Quarter that were heading towards the Shaybah oil field in the southeast of the Kingdom.

Sirens activated in Bahrain amid regional tensions

6:40 am IST: Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior confirmed that warning sirens were activated in parts of the country as a precaution amid the ongoing regional escalation.

Saudi Arabia intercepts ballistic missile targeting Prince Sultan Air Base

6:30 am IST: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that its air defences intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched towards Prince Sultan Air Base, located southeast of Al-Kharj city, with no casualties reported.

Israel launches ‘broad-scale’ strikes on Tehran

6:05 am IST: Israel’s military said it has begun a “broad-scale wave of strikes” targeting sites in the Iranian capital, Tehran. The announcement came as Iran’s state broadcaster reported an explosion in the western part of the city.

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