UAE leaders congratulate Custodian of Two Holy Mosques on success of Hajj season

India on Thursday welcomed Nepal's successful elections, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating Rabi Lamichhane and Balendra Shah on their victory, signalling a fresh chapter in the bilateral relationship between the two neighbouring nations.

Bangladesh's 13th Parliament unanimously elected veteran BNP leader Hafizuddin Ahmed as Speaker and Barrister Kayser Kamal as Deputy Speaker. Following the BNP's recent election victory, the two leaders were sworn in by President Shahabuddin in a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, marking the new legislative journey.

The UAE has led a successful UN diplomatic push, with the Security Council adopting Resolution 2817 to condemn Iran's "egregious attacks." Co-sponsored by 140 nations, the resolution demands an end to "indiscriminate strikes" and affirms the UAE's right to self-defence against threats to its sovereignty and civilian infrastructure.

The UAE has activated air defences to intercept an Iranian missile and drone attack, advising residents to "remain in a safe location." Authorities have intercepted over 1,700 threats since the conflict began. While most were neutralised, hostilities have tragically caused six deaths and 131 injuries among various nationalities.

Two oil tankers caught fire near Iraq after being struck by an "unknown projectile," with UKMTO reporting all crew are "evacuated and safe." This follows a surge in maritime attacks amid regional conflict, drawing a sharp response from India and warnings from President Trump regarding the Strait of Hormuz.