Laylat ul Qadr, the holiest night of Ramadan 2026: Thousands gather for Night of Power prayers in UAE and Saudi Arabia

Laylat ul Qadr, the holiest night of Ramadan 2026: Thousands gather for Night of Power prayers in UAE and Saudi Arabia
Ramadan 2026: Thousands gather at mosques in UAE and Saudi Arabia for Laylat ul Qadr (Night of Power) prayers

As Ramadan Entering its most spiritually significant phase ever, thousands of Muslim worshipers across the Gulf have gathered at mosques for special prayers for Laylat ul Qadr, widely considered the holiest night in Islam. Believers in UAE and saudi arabia Major mosques remained packed late into the night, seeking forgiveness, blessings and spiritual renewal during the holy final days of Ramadan.

Thousands of people gather for Laylat ul Qadr prayers united arab emirates and saudi arabia

Large gatherings were reported at some of the region’s most revered places of worship, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Masjid al-Haram, where thousands of worshipers gathered for late night prayers, recitation of the Holy Quran and prayers. The atmosphere of these mosques reflects the deep spiritual significance of the night, with believers spending hours in prayer and contemplation.Laylat al Qadr, often translated as “Night of Power” or “Night of Commandment”, Muslims believe is the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It occurs during the last ten nights of Ramadan and is considered more beneficial than a thousand months of worship.

Spiritual intensity during the last ten nights of Ramadan

As Ramadan comes to an end, mosques across the Gulf region see an increase in the number of worshipers who spend the night offering Qiyam-ul-Lail prayers, reciting the Quran and making dua (prayers). Many believers also engage in I’tikaf, a practice where Muslims remain in a mosque for long periods of time and are completely dedicated to worship.Many Muslims believe that the 27th night of Ramadan is Laylatul Qadr, although the exact night is not known with certainty and may fall on any odd night in the last ten days of the holy month.

UAE mosques are preparing for huge crowds on Lailat ul Qadr

Authorities in the UAE feared huge crowds during the last nights of Ramadan. Special arrangements were made around major mosques, including additional transport services, parking spaces and security measures to accommodate the large number of worshipers attending late night prayers.At the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, one of the world’s largest mosques, thousands of worshipers gathered shoulder to shoulder in prayer. The vast courtyards and prayer halls of the mosque were filled with believers who had come in search of the immense spiritual rewards associated with the blessed night.

Devotions at Islam’s holiest sites in Saudi Arabia during Laylat ul Qadr

In Saudi Arabia, large crowds similarly gathered at the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, Islam’s two holiest sites. Pilgrims performing Umrah and local worshipers alike joined the special night prayers, creating a powerful scene of devotion as thousands raised their hands in prayer.The atmosphere inside the Grand Mosque in Mecca was described as highly spiritual, with worshipers filling every available space around the Kaaba and spilling into the surrounding courtyards. Many believers spend the entire night in prayers in the hope of receiving the blessings of Laylat ul Qadr.

Lailat Ul Qadr: It is believed that this night brings immense blessings

Laylat ul Qadr holds a unique place in the Islamic faith. According to the Quran, worship performed on this night is considered superior to worship performed in thousands of months, making it one of the most spiritually significant occasions for believers to receive forgiveness and divine mercy. Since the exact date is unknown, Muslims are encouraged to intensify their worship during the last ten nights of Ramadan. For many, this means attending nightly prayers, engaging in charity, and seeking spiritual closeness to God.Anticipation has increased for Eid Al Fitr 2026. As Ramadan nears its end, preparations have begun Eid-ul-Fitr A beginning is also being made in the Muslim world. However, for many believers, the final nights of Ramadan remain a time of reflection, repentance and devotion rather than celebration. In mosques across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, scenes of worship during Lailat ul Qadr highlight the deep spiritual unity shared by Muslims around the world. As worshipers gather under the night sky in prayer, the sacred atmosphere of Ramadan reaches its most intense moment, defined by faith, humility and hope for divine mercy.

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Pakistan launches attacks on Afghanistan; Taliban says more than 400 people killed in hospital attack

Pakistan launches attacks on Afghanistan; Taliban says more than 400 people killed in hospital attack

Afghanistan on Tuesday accused Pakistan of carrying out an airstrike on a Kabul hospital treating drug addicts and said more than 400 people were killed in the attack.Pakistan denied the accusation, saying its strikes – also carried out in eastern Afghanistan – targeted only military and “terrorist” sites.Health Ministry spokesman Sharafat Zaman gave the death toll during a television interview with local media, the AP reported. He said all parts of the drug treatment hospital were destroyed. However, deputy government spokesman Hamdullah Fitrat said the death toll had risen to 400, while 250 were injured. Powerful explosions rocked the Afghan capital at around 9:00 pm local time, and plumes of smoke were visible from the Shahr-e-Nawa and Wazir Akbar Khan areas. Local television footage showed firefighters struggling to put out the blaze amid the ruins of the building.Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid wrote on Twitter that Pakistani forces had “once again violated Afghan territory,” calling the attacks a “crime” and “inhumane act.” He said most of those killed and injured were drug addicts and were undergoing treatment in hospital.Pakistan’s Information Ministry said the strikes “precisely targeted military installations and terrorist support infrastructure, including technical equipment storage and ammunition storage of the Afghan Taliban” and targeted Afghanistan-based Pakistani militants in Kabul and Nangarhar. It added that the locations were “being used against innocent Pakistani civilians.”The ministry said Pakistan’s targeting was “precise and careful to ensure no collateral damage.” It described Mujahid’s claim as “false and misleading” and intended to inflame sentiments and cover up “illegitimate support for cross-border terrorism”.Pakistan’s military has launched several attacks on Kabul in recent weeks as tensions have risen over allegations that Afghanistan’s Taliban government has harbored militants carrying out attacks inside Pakistan.The latest development came as deadly clashes continued along the countries’ shared border.Pakistan has repeatedly said that its army only targets Afghan posts and terrorist hideouts. Officials in Islamabad have described the situation as an “open war”, with clashes including several Pakistani air strikes on Kabul’s presidential palace. Asif Ali Zardari Said Afghanistan’s Taliban administration had crossed a “red line” by deploying drones, which left several civilians injured in Pakistan last week.In response, Pakistan’s air force attacked equipment storage sites and “technical support infrastructure” in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province over the weekend, saying the sites were being used for attacks inside Pakistan. Kabul said Pakistan attacked two locations, including an empty security site and a drug rehabilitation centre, causing minor damage.In Kabul, Afghanistan’s administrative deputy prime minister, Abdul Salam Hanafi, said it was the duty of all citizens to protect sovereignty. Speaking during a meeting with political analysts and media personalities, Hanafi expressed regret over the civilian casualties in recent Pakistani attacks and said the war was imposed on Afghanistan.

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Eid ul Fitr 2026 moon sighted in Saudi Arabia? KSA Supreme Court calls on Muslims to observe Shawwal AH 1447 Crescent on March 18

Eid ul Fitr 2026 moon sighted in Saudi Arabia? KSA Supreme Court calls on Muslims to observe Shawwal AH 1447 Crescent on March 18
Saudi Arabia Eid Al Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting: KSA Supreme Court asks Muslims to search for Shawwal AH 1447 Crescent before Eid

As the holy month of Ramadan 2026 comes to an end, Muslims around the world are preparing for one of the most awaited moments of the Islamic calendar and that is the sighting of the Shawwal crescent that marks the beginning of the month of Ramadan. Eid Ul Fitr festival. in officers saudi arabia Now an official call has been issued urging Muslims across the state to observe the sky on Wednesday evening to spot the new moon, which will decide when Eid celebrations will begin.

Saudi Arabia calls for viewing of Shawwal crescent Ramadan 2026 is about to end

Supreme Court Saudi Arabia has asked Muslims across the kingdom to sight the crescent of Shawwal on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, 2026, which corresponds to the 29th day of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar. If the crescent moon is visible, the next day i.e. March 19 will mark the first day of Eid al-Fitr, a festival that celebrates the end of a month of fasting and spiritual contemplation.The court has requested anyone who sees the crescent moon with the naked eye or through binoculars to inform the nearest court, so that an official announcement can be made. This centuries-old tradition remains an important part of the determination of the Islamic calendar, which follows the lunar cycle rather than the Gregorian calendar used in much of the world.

depends on the date of Eid moon sighting

The sighting of the Shawwal crescent determines the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal and hence the date of Eid al Fitr. If the crescent moon is visible on March 18, Eid will be celebrated in Saudi Arabia on Thursday, March 19, 2026. If the moon is not sighted that evening, 30 days of Ramzan will be completed and Eid will be celebrated on Friday, March 20, 2026.Astronomical predictions suggest that the moon may be difficult to see on the evening of March 18, meaning the festival may begin as early as March 20 in many parts of the Arab world. However, the final decision will be confirmed only after the official moon-sighting committees verify the reports from observers across the state.Saudi Arabia’s announcement has global significance as many Muslim communities around the world pay attention to the kingdom’s announcement of moon sighting when determining the start of Eid celebrations. Countries across the Gulf, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait, often align their Eid dates with Saudi Arabia’s official announcement. However, countries in South Asia such as India, Pakistan and Bangladesh usually celebrate Eid a day later as they depend on local moon sightings or slightly different moon visibility conditions.

Eid ul Fitr 2026: Why sighting the moon is central to Islam?

Unlike the solar Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is based entirely on the lunar cycle. Each month begins when a new crescent moon becomes visible after sunset. Since lunar months last 29 or 30 days, Islamic holidays move earlier each year to the Gregorian calendar. The evening when the moon is sighted is popularly known as Chand Raat, the time when families gather, markets stay open till late and preparations for Eid celebrations begin.In Saudi Arabia and the wider Muslim world, preparations for Eid Al Fitr are already underway. Markets are seeing an increase in the number of people buying new clothes, sweets and gifts, while mosques are preparing for special Eid prayers in the morning on the first day of Shawwal.

​Eid Ul Fitr 2026: Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court urged Muslims to visit Shawwal Crescent on Wednesday.

Eid Ul Fitr 2026: Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court urges Muslims to visit Shawwal Crescent on Wednesday

Eid al-Fitr, meaning “festival of breaking the fast”, marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most important celebrations in Islam. The day begins with collective prayers, followed by family celebrations, festive meals and acts of charity known as Zakat al-Fitr, ensuring that those in need can also participate in the festivities.At the moment, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and beyond are waiting for the moment when the thin crescent moon will be visible in the evening sky. The scene will signal the end of Ramadan and begin a day of celebration for more than a billion Muslims around the world. Pending an official announcement, anticipation is growing as communities look towards the horizon, hoping to catch a glimpse of the crescent moon that will mark the arrival of Eid al Fitr 2026.

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Emirates resumes flights after shutdown due to security incident at Dubai International Airport: What travelers need to know amid Iran vs US-Israel war

Emirates resumes flights after shutdown due to security incident at Dubai International Airport: What travelers need to know amid Iran vs US-Israel war
Relief for passengers: Emirates resumes flights from Dubai after temporary halt due to drone incident near airport amid Iran vs US-Israel war

The Middle East aviation sector has begun to stabilize after a brief but significant disruption, with Emirates confirming that it has resumed flight operations following a temporary suspension due to security concerns in the region. The airline, one of the world’s largest international carriers, resumed services from Dubai International Airport after authorities cleared the airspace and airport infrastructure for safe operations.On Monday morning, the Dubai Media Office reported a drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest airport for international passengers. According to the DMO, the incident impacted a fuel tank at the airport. Dubai Civil Defense’s emergency response teams immediately arrived at the scene and successfully extinguished the fire that broke out after the collision near the fuel storage area. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported, the Dubai Media Office said in its update.The drone-related incident near the airport forced Emirates to temporarily suspend flights as fires broke out around the aviation hub. Given Dubai’s central role in connecting travelers between Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas, the shutdown disrupted dozens of flights and impacted the global travel network.

Emirates resumes flights after security checks amid Iran vs US-Israel war

Emirates confirmed that it has gradually begun to restore its flight schedule as airport authorities have completed security inspections and reopened operations at Dubai International Airport. The airline said it will initially operate on a reduced schedule to clear the backlog of delayed flights and ensure passenger safety.The temporary suspension forced the airline to cancel or delay many services, affecting thousands of passengers who rely on Emirates’ extensive global network. As operations resume, passengers are being advised to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport, as schedules may still be subject to change when normal operations resume.Industry observers say restarting operations at a major hub airline like Emirates requires complex coordination between the airline, air traffic controllers and airport authorities. Aircraft that were diverted or delayed during the suspension must be rerouted, while crews and ground staff will also have to adjust to the revised schedule.

Dubai’s flagship airline, Emirates at the center of global aviation amid Iran vs US-Israel war

Emirates plays an important role in global air travel. Operating hundreds of daily flights to destinations on six continents, the airline relies heavily on Dubai International Airport as its primary hub. Therefore, any disruption in airline operations could affect passengers from dozens of countries.When the suspension occurred, several Emirates flights already bound to Dubai were forced to delay arrival or temporarily divert while the situation near the airport was assessed. The airline worked closely with airport authorities to ensure passenger safety as it prepares to resume operations as soon as conditions permit.Travel analysts say the rapid resumption of flights highlights the airline’s operational flexibility. Major international carriers usually maintain contingency plans that allow them to quickly recover from unexpected disruptions such as weather events, security incidents or airspace closures.

Passenger disruption as Emirates flights suspended in Dubai amid Iran vs US-Israel war

During the temporary shutdown, passengers traveling with Emirates experienced cancellations, delays and missed connections on the airline’s global network. Many passengers had added itineraries via Dubai, one of the world’s busiest international transit hubs. The airline advised affected passengers to rebook flights through its website, mobile application or customer service channels.Emirates coordinated with airport authorities to manage crowding at the terminals and ensure that stranded passengers received updated information about their travel plans. Although the suspension only lasted a few hours, the disruption highlighted how dependent global aviation networks are on major hub airlines like Emirates. An operational pause at Dubai International Airport could span multiple continents due to the large number of flights operated through the hub every day. The incident comes at a time when geopolitical tensions remain high in the Middle East, raising concerns about the potential impact on key transportation infrastructure across the region. Aviation authorities have intensified security surveillance around major airports and airspace corridors to ensure the safety of commercial flights. For Emirates, maintaining uninterrupted operations is particularly important as the airline’s business model is built around connecting long-haul passengers through Dubai.Even small disruptions can impact hundreds of onward connections and create logistical challenges for airline employees and passengers alike. Despite these challenges, Emirates stressed that security remains its top priority. The airline said it will continue to work with airport authorities and regulators to ensure all flights operate under strict safety protocols as regional conditions evolve.

Emirates slowly returns to normal operations in Dubai amid Iran vs US-Israel war

Now with flight operations resuming, Emirates is focusing on clearing delayed departures and restoring its regular schedule. The airline expects services to stabilize in the coming hours as flight operations return to normal and passengers complete re-booking arrangements. Travel experts say the rapid recovery reflects the resilience of both the emirate and Dubai’s aviation infrastructure.Over the years, the airline has developed sophisticated operational systems capable of managing large-scale disruptions while maintaining passenger safety and service continuity. For travelers around the world, the resumption of Emirates flights signals a return to stability after a brief period of uncertainty. However, aviation authorities and airlines across the region are likely to remain cautious as geopolitical developments develop.

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Al Bahya District: UAE on alert after missile attack on civilian car in Abu Dhabi, 1 dead as Iran vs US-Israel war escalates

UAE on alert after missile attack on civilian car in Abu Dhabi, 1 dead as Iran vs US-Israel war escalates
Shock in UAE: Missile falls on car in Abu Dhabi, one killed, officials issue urgent warning amid Iran vs US-Israel war

Working middle east The conflict has cast a long shadow over the Gulf, with the UAE facing one of the most serious security incidents linked to the regional crisis. Authorities in the emirate of Abu Dhabi confirmed that a missile struck a civilian vehicle in the Al Bayah district, killing one person and triggering a rapid emergency response from local security and civil protection teams. The victim was identified as a Palestinian civilian, one of the few fatalities reported inside the UAE since tensions escalated in the region.The incident occurred in the Al Baiyah area on the outskirts of the capital, where emergency authorities responded immediately to reports of a missile hitting a civilian car. Officials confirmed that one person died as a result of the attack, while response teams secured the site and began investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.

A rare but serious incident in the UAE iran vs US-Israel war

While the UAE has largely succeeded in curbing threats during the current conflict, the attack in Al Bayyah highlights how regional hostilities can still spill over into civilian areas. According to official statements, the missile directly hit a civilian vehicle, resulting in the death of one occupant of the vehicle before emergency services could intervene. Officials did not immediately reveal the exact origin of the missile, but the incident came amid broader hostilities linked to the war involving Iran, the United States and Israel. The UAE has significantly strengthened its air defense systems in recent years and many missile and drone attacks have been intercepted before they can reach populated areas. Government figures indicate that since the conflict escalated, air defense systems have fired hundreds of incoming projectiles, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones, at targets across the country.Despite those defensive successes, officials acknowledged that sporadic incidents could still occur, particularly when debris or projectiles fall after interception attempts. The Al Bayhiyah attack is therefore a reminder of the unpredictable nature of modern warfare and how even highly defended countries can face sudden security risks during regional conflicts.

UAE officials urge caution and information discipline amid Iran vs US-Israel war

Following the incident, officials stressed the need for calm and responsible communication among residents. Officials urged the public to rely only on verified government channels for updates and warned against spreading rumors or unconfirmed reports on social media. The advisory stressed that disseminating misleading or unverified information during security incidents could hinder emergency response operations and cause unnecessary panic among the population. Officials also reiterated that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates through official platforms. In recent weeks, the UAE has taken a tough stance against misinformation related to the conflict, warning that spreading misinformation online could lead to legal consequences. Officials say such measures are necessary to maintain public safety and ensure accurate communications during a crisis.

Iran vs US-Israel war tensions spill over into Gulf

The missile incident in Abu Dhabi comes as the broader Middle East experiences an increase in military activity linked to the escalating confrontation between Iran and the US-Israel alliance. The conflict has already resulted in missile and drone attacks in several parts of the Gulf region, including incidents affecting airports, energy infrastructure and shipping routes. These developments have made the Gulf countries extremely alert. Governments across the region have strengthened air defense systems and increased surveillance to prevent attacks on civilian and economic infrastructure.The strategic importance of the Gulf to global energy and aviation networks means that even isolated incidents can have cascading effects. Oil shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, aviation corridors across the region, and major commercial centers such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi all play important roles in international trade and travel. As a result, security threats associated with the conflict are being closely monitored not only by regional governments but also by global markets and international organizations.

Impact of the Iran vs. US–Israel war on UAE residents and daily life

Despite the seriousness of the incident, officials have assured residents that security forces are fully prepared to deal with the emerging threats. Emergency services responded rapidly to the Al Bahya attack, securing the area and coordinating with law-enforcement agencies to investigate the incident. Residents have been urged to remain calm and continue to follow the official guidelines issued by government officials. Public security agencies also reiterated that the UAE maintains one of the most advanced security and civil defense infrastructures in the region, enabling rapid response to emergencies. Nevertheless, this deadly attack is a sobering reminder of the human cost of regional conflict. The death of the Palestinian civilian highlights how geopolitical tensions can sometimes spill over into civilian life, even in countries far from the primary battlefield. The attack also reflects the growing complexity of the conflict unfolding across the Middle East. As hostilities escalate, missile and drone warfare has become a common tactic, allowing conflict to extend far beyond traditional front lines.Maintaining stability amid regional unrest has become a major priority for Gulf countries like the UAE. Governments are balancing strong defensive measures with diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and regional security cooperation. Currently, the investigation into the incident in Al Bayhiyah remains ongoing, with officials continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the missile attack. Officials have reiterated that public safety remains their top priority and updates will be provided through official channels as more information becomes available.

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Singer D4Vd: Singer and streamer D4vd faces fresh scrutiny in Celeste Rivas case after Neo’s online posts

Singer and streamer D4vd faces fresh scrutiny in Celeste Rivas case after Neo's online posts

Singer and streamer d4vd is once again in the spotlight after his former friend Neo Langston’s new online post adds another twist to the ongoing investigation involving Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The case has received widespread public attention since authorities began investigating the 14-year-old girl’s death. Now, Neo’s recent activity on social media has drawn renewed attention to the situation and raised new questions about what may have happened.D4vd, who is 20, has not been arrested or charged in the case. However, reports state that he is considered a “Target” In investigation. The situation began to become a matter of serious concern in September 2025 when the remains of Celeste Rivas Hernandez were found in the trunk of a Tesla belonging to the singer. The vehicle was parked at a Hollywood tow yard. Since then, investigators have continued to review evidence and speak to people connected to the case.

Former friend Neo’s online posts draw new attention to investigation involving D4vd

Recently, Neo Langston, who was once known to be a close friend of D4vd and is also a streamer, shared a series of posts on Instagram. In the post, Neo used harsh language while talking about the singer and the ongoing investigation. The messages spread quickly online and brought new attention to the case.Neo had already appeared before a California grand jury during the investigation. Reports also said he was arrested last month for failing to appear before a jury at one point in the process. In the new post, Neo suggested that he is legally protected and hinted that there may be more details about the situation than what has been publicly disclosed so far.The matter itself remains disturbing and complicated. According to reports, Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s remains were found in two bags inside the Tesla. The discovery was made after a strong odor came from a vehicle at a tow yard. Authorities have not publicly confirmed how long the remains had been there, although earlier reports suggested the girl had been missing for several weeks.Some reports also mention a possible trip between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara in 2025 involving people connected to the case. However, Neo’s lawyer has denied that he had any role in the crime.At present the investigation is going on. Authorities have not announced any charges against D4vd, and the legal process is still developing. As the case continues, Neo’s new posts have increased public interest in what investigators may uncover next.

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Trump: ‘Over 7,000 targets attacked’ Donald Trump says Iran has been ‘literally wiped out’ as he pressures allies to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

'7,000 से अधिक लक्ष्यों पर हमला किया गया': डोनाल्ड ट्रम्प का कहना है कि ईरान को 'सचमुच मिटा दिया गया' है क्योंकि वह सहयोगियों पर होर्मुज जलडमरूमध्य को फिर से खोलने में मदद करने के लिए दबाव डाल रहे हैं।donald trump Claiming on Monday that the United States has “virtually destroyed” Iran’s military capabilities, he said US forces have attacked more than 7,000 targets across the country since the beginning of the conflict, even as he urged other countries to join efforts to secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.Speaking before a meeting with the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees, Trump offered one of his most comprehensive assessments of the US-led campaign against Iran, declaring that Tehran’s air force, navy, air defense and command structure had been devastated.Trump said, “Our powerful military campaign to eliminate the threats posed by the Iranian regime has been continuing in full force for the last few days. They have been virtually destroyed. The Air Force is gone. The Navy is gone. Many, many ships have been sunk.”“They are battlecruisers, anti-aircraft guns have been destroyed, their radar is gone and their leaders are gone. Other than that, they are doing quite well,” he said.

Trump claims over 7,000 US strikes, huge decline in Iranian strikes

Trump said the US has struck more than 7,000 targets across Iran since the war began, targeting both commercial and military sites, and claimed the operation had sharply reduced Tehran’s offensive capabilities.Trump said, “Since the beginning of the conflict, we have struck more than 7,000 targets throughout Iran, and these were mostly commercial and military targets. We have achieved a 90 percent reduction in their ballistic missile launches and a 95 percent reduction in drone strikes.”He said the US has also attacked facilities involved in missile and drone production.“We have also attacked manufacturing plants, places where they manufacture missiles and drones, and this is going on even today. We killed three of them today,” he said.Trump further claimed that more than 100 Iranian naval vessels were “sunk or destroyed” in the past week and a half, including 30 mine-laying vessels, as Washington seeks to blunt Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Gulf.“We are aggressively destroying Iran’s defense industrial base and its ability to rebuild its missiles and drone capability is becoming close to zero,” he said.

Claim of attack on Kharg Island and warning on Iranian oil infrastructure

Trump also said the US had attacked Kharg Island, home to Iran’s main oil export terminal, but claimed Washington had deliberately avoided completely destroying the energy infrastructure.Trump said, “We attacked Kharg Island and destroyed it. We destroyed everything on the island except the area where the oil is. We left the pipes.”He said, “We didn’t want to do it, but we will do it… but for the purpose of someday rebuilding that country, I think we did the right thing.”Tehran has accused the United States, without any evidence, of using “ports, docks and bases” in the UAE to launch attacks on Kharg Island.

Trump says the Strait of Hormuz is in ‘very good shape’ but asks other countries to ‘come and help us’

Despite his claims of battlefield success, Trump said the Strait of Hormuz – the strategic waterway through which about one-fifth of the world’s traded oil normally flows – remains vulnerable due to its narrow geography and Iran’s ability to launch short-range attacks.Trump said, “We have it (the Strait of Hormuz) in very good shape. We’ve already taken care of Iran, but now, because of the fact that literally a single terrorist can fire a missile, and it’s very close range, because it’s a tight area…Iran has always used it as an economic weapon.”“It won’t be in use for a very long time. A number of countries have told me they are on the way. Some are very excited about it and some are countries we have helped for many years,” he said.Earlier, Trump had said that he wanted countries dependent on Gulf oil flows to move forward.“Come and help us across the strait,” he said, according to CBS News, adding that he would not reveal which countries had agreed to assist.Trump’s comments came as the US tries to build a coalition to protect shipping through the waterway after tanker traffic was effectively disrupted due to Iranian attacks and mining threats.

Allies respond coolly to Trump’s call for Navy support

But Trump’s appeal has so far received a cautious — and in some cases downright negative — response from allies.US allies around the world have responded coolly or rejected Trump’s call to send warships to escort merchant ships through the Persian Gulf, reflecting the strain in Washington’s alliance ties after the US and Israel launched the war without extensive prior consultation.According to the New York Times, the sharpest denial came from Germany, where Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said, “This is not our war; we didn’t start it.”Japan, Italy and Australia indicated on Monday they would not participate in efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while France, South Korea and Britain were more non-committal.In London, the Prime Minister keir starmer He said Britain would not “get drawn into a broader war”, while still working with allies on a “viable collective plan” to restore freedom of navigation in the strait.Starmer said Britain was discussing with the US and partners in Europe and the Gulf whether to use mine-hunting drones already deployed in the region, but indicated Britain was unlikely to send warships.Italy also showed reluctance. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said Rome supports strengthening EU naval missions in the Red Sea, but added, “I do not think these missions can be expanded to include the Strait of Hormuz.”Trump has also publicly warned that a lack of support from allies could damage the coalition. He told the Financial Times on Sunday that if NATO members refused or responded negatively, “it would be very bad for the future of NATO.”

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Meet Alexander Singh: The Indian-origin filmmaker who won an Oscar for Best Live-Action Short Film ‘Two People Exchanging Saliva’.

Meet Alexander Singh: The Indian-origin filmmaker who won an Oscar for Best Live-Action Short Film 'Two People Exchanging Saliva'.

Filmmaker Alexandre Singh won the 98th Oscar in the Best Live Action Short Film category for French-language drama ‘Two People Exchanging Saliva’. academy awards On 15 March.His film, co-directed with longtime creative partner Natalie Mastietta, shares the honor with Sam A’s ‘The Singers’ in a rare tie. Davis and Jack Piatt. According to a report by New India Abroad, this is only the seventh tie in the history of the Oscars.Born in Bordeaux, France, to an Indian father and a French mother, Singh was raised in Manchester, United Kingdom, and studied Fine Arts at the University of Oxford. He is currently based in Brooklyn.With steady progress as a visual artist and storyteller, Singh’s work blends surreal imagery with sharp social commentary.Singh and his partner Mustiyata’s 36-minute short film explored an absurd dystopia where intimate human acts became taboo and punishable by death, and people had to pay for things by getting slapped in the face.He mentioned being inspired by Will Storr’s ‘The Science of Storytelling’.During his acceptance speech, Singh invoked the immense power of art and creativity and that cinema can change society, and said,“We believe that art can change people’s souls. Maybe it takes 10 years, but we can change society through art, through creativity, through theater and ballet and cinema.”Singh’s other notable works include ‘The Appointment’ (2019) and ‘Plan Large’ (2016).‘Two People Exchanging Saliva’ continued its festival path after premiering at important events including the Telluride Film Festival.

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Indian in Dublin: ‘I’m not stupid’: An Indian man in Dublin convicted of groping a woman on a bus says he can’t get a job because of background checks.

'I'm not stupid': Indian man convicted of groping woman on bus in Dublin says he can't get job because of background check

Kishore Karunakaran, a 44-year-old software developer who was convicted of sexually assaulting a woman on a bus, said he was honeytrapped, was fired from his job at Amazon, and has not been able to find work since the incident. In an exclusive interview with the Sunday World, the father of one said he was no idiot but a “valued professional” and his wife stood by him because of this conviction. He said, “Actually, nothing happened. The whole thing was a fabrication.” “I think they’re trying to get compensation. I’m thinking it’s a honeytrap or something like that,” he said.

Dublin bus molestation incident in 2024

A 20-year-old woman alleged that she was in a window seat when she felt fingers touching her. When she turned back, she saw Karunakaran sitting behind her wearing sunglasses, who according to her looked scary. The touching continued and the woman changed her seat, informed her family members, boyfriend, who informed the police. Karunakaran denied the whole thing and initially told the police that he was sleeping during the entire journey. Her lawyer asked the victim why she did not alert anyone on the bus. The woman testified in court that she alerted her family members, who told her to alert the bus driver. But she was scared and did not even tell anyone in the bus because she did not want to delay the bus. Later, he said, Karunakaran’s lie was caught because he told his family that he had gone to a work party, but he was going to Galway to dine at an exclusive restaurant. He said he was wearing sunglasses so he could sleep. He said that he did not even know that his photo had been taken, but he admitted that he was the person in the photo. The monitoring system on board did not record due to a bad hard drive. The defense argued that it was a “he said, she said” case with no witnesses. Judge John Hughes said he considered the credibility of the evidence and witnesses and rejected Karunakaran’s evidence.

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The United States’ war with Iran: Donald Trump supports Mark Levin in the internal MAGA conflict with Megan Kelly

The United States' war with Iran: Donald Trump supports Mark Levin in the internal MAGA conflict with Megan Kelly

The war of words between conservative commentators Megyn Kelly and Mark Levin over US-Israeli air strikes on Iran escalated Sunday, with Kelly accusing Levin of being a “micro-p****.”Levin, who has long been described as a Tehran hawk, appears to have initiated the latest exchange by posting his disapproval of Kelly’s statement opposing the conflict, the Independent reports.“Poor Megyn Kelly,” he wrote on Twitter. “An emotionally disturbed, vulgar and irritable girl. She has completely exposed and destroyed herself.“He’s everything people say about him, but worse. Never an intelligent, thoughtful or cogent comment. Completely toxic.”Kelly responded: “Micro-p**** Mark Levin thinks he has a monopoly on vulgarity. He obsessively tweets the most vulgar, filthy words about me.“Literally more than some of the stalkers I’ve arrested. He doesn’t like it when women like me retaliate. BC of his micro-p****.”Levine replied: “It’s a busy Sunday morning for Megyn Kelly. She wakes up and ‘micro-p****is’ is on her mind.“Suffice to say, if it talks like a whore, and posts like a whore, then it’s… well, you know the rest. Shalom!”President Donald Trump then intervened on his platform, Truth Social, to support Levin.“Mark Levin, truly a great American patriot, is under siege by others with somewhat lesser intelligence, ability and love for our country,” the president said, calling Levin “tough, strong and brilliant” and noting that another Fox host, Sean Hannity, had nicknamed him “The Great One.”Trump added: “He is a true conservative and an intelligent man, far smarter than many of his critics, but, above all, he is a man of great intelligence and common sense who truly loves our country.“When you hear others unfairly attacking Mark, remember that they are jealous and angry human beings whose ‘influence’ is much less than the public realizes, and will, now that they know where I stand, diminish exponentially.”Levin and Kelly have a history of bitter onstage feuding, with Levin earlier this month calling Kelly “an evil, egotistical lunatic.”Late last year, he attacked her after she defended MAGA activist Jack Posobiec, whom Levin accused of having ties to anti-Semites, labeling Posobiec, Kelly and fellow right-wing influencer Candace Owens “very appalling criminals.”Kelly retorted by calling them “old, angry anti-Christian lunatics” before Levin dismissed the three as “woke reach psychos and groper-bigots.”As the feud continued, Levin referenced an old culture war controversy involving Kelly: “Meg Kelly, whose ratings were so bad on NBC that she became a laughing stock, was blamed for promoting blackface on Halloween.“You see, she was always a degenerate fanatic. That’s why she looks good with Candace Owens and Jack Posobiec. This is why she snitches on Katalson [Tucker Carlson]”Kelly responded: “You’re just annoying because I’m not afraid of you or your baseless abuse. You’re an old, irrelevant, bitter, angry man who could never get on Fox News primetime.“We used to laugh at you there for your red-faced tantrums about everything.”

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