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Meta to End Instagram End-to-End Encryption Feature After May 2026

by theparliamentnews.com 15 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Meta has announced that the end-to-end encryption feature for messages on Instagram will stop functioning after May 8, 2026. The change means that messages exchanged on the platform will no longer be protected by this form of encryption.

End-to-end encryption is designed to ensure that only the sender and recipient can read the contents of a message. When this protection is removed, platform operators may be able to access or analyse the content of communications under certain circumstances.

Meta confirmed the upcoming change through a blog post explaining that some existing chats may be affected once the feature is discontinued. Users who wish to keep messages or media stored in encrypted chats have been advised to download their data before the change takes effect.

According to the company, users will receive instructions inside the app on how to download messages and media files that they want to retain. The company also advised people using older versions of the application to update to the latest version so they can access the download tools before the feature is removed.

The decision comes amid increasing global concerns about harmful online content, particularly material related to child exploitation. Removing end-to-end encryption could allow platforms to scan messages and calls for content linked to child sexual abuse material, grooming, or harassment.

Social media platforms have faced growing pressure from governments and regulators to strengthen protections for younger users online. Several countries have proposed or introduced regulations aimed at requiring technology companies to detect harmful content even within private communications.

In recent years, governments in regions such as Europe and Australia have discussed policies aimed at limiting social media access for children under certain age thresholds. Some proposed laws would also give authorities greater powers to require platforms to identify illegal content online.

Instagram remains one of the most widely used social media platforms among younger audiences worldwide. The platform’s messaging system is frequently used for private communication between users, making privacy protections a key area of debate.

Encrypted messaging on Instagram was introduced in late 2023 as part of Meta’s broader efforts to strengthen privacy features across its platforms. However, the upcoming change signals a shift in the company’s approach as it balances privacy protections with efforts to detect and prevent harmful content.

The move has generated discussion among technology experts and privacy advocates. Many security specialists consider end-to-end encryption one of the most effective ways to protect digital communications from hackers or unauthorised surveillance.

At the same time, some policymakers argue that strong encryption can make it more difficult to identify illegal activities occurring within private messaging systems.

As the May 2026 deadline approaches, users and technology analysts will be watching how the change affects communication privacy on Instagram and whether similar policy discussions extend to other platforms owned by Meta.

15 March 2026 0 comment

Lok Sabha Passes Appropriation Bill 2026 Amid Opposition Protests

by theparliamentnews.com 13 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Lok Sabha Passes Appropriation Bill 2026

The Lok Sabha passed the Appropriation Bill 2026 following several adjournments triggered by protests from Opposition members. The Bill authorises the government to withdraw additional funds from the Consolidated Fund of India to meet expenditure for the financial year 2025–26.

The passage of the Bill came after the House approved the Supplementary Demands for Grants through a voice vote. These demands allow the government to seek additional financial allocations beyond the budget estimates for the ongoing financial year.

During the discussion, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the creation of an Economic Stabilisation Fund worth ₹1 lakh crore. The fund is intended to provide fiscal flexibility and enable the government to respond to global economic challenges that may affect the Indian economy.

According to the Finance Minister, the proposed fund will create fiscal space that can be used if global developments place pressure on economic stability. The initiative is aimed at strengthening the government’s capacity to manage economic risks arising from international developments.

Meanwhile, members of the Opposition coalition submitted a notice in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The notice marks the first time such a proposal has been submitted in Parliament against a sitting Chief Election Commissioner.

The notice was signed by 130 Members of Parliament from the Lok Sabha and 63 members from the Rajya Sabha. It lists several allegations related to the conduct of the Chief Election Commissioner during his tenure.

The charges mentioned in the notice include claims of partisan conduct, discriminatory actions in office, obstruction of investigations related to electoral irregularities, and allegations of disenfranchisement of voters. The proposal seeks parliamentary consideration of these claims under the constitutional process governing the removal of an Election Commissioner.

Separately, the Lok Sabha also witnessed a heated exchange during the discussion on the supplementary demands for grants. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi raised allegations concerning Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri during his speech in the House.

The remarks led to a confrontation between Mr. Gandhi and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, resulting in disruptions during the proceedings. The exchange contributed to repeated interruptions in the House before legislative business resumed.

Despite the disruptions, the government was able to complete the passage of the Appropriation Bill, allowing the authorised funds to be withdrawn for government expenditure for the financial year 2025–26.

The developments reflect continuing political disagreements between the government and Opposition parties during the current parliamentary session, with debates focusing on financial legislation as well as institutional issues raised by Opposition members.

13 March 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured Politics World

United States Opens Trade Investigation Into Major Trading Partners

by theparliamentnews.com 12 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

The United States has initiated trade investigations into several major economies, including India, China, Japan and the European Union, to examine policies that may negatively affect American manufacturing.

The investigations were announced by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), which said it will examine whether certain foreign industrial practices place U.S. companies at a disadvantage in global markets.

The probe comes after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down earlier tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump after declaring an economic emergency. With those tariffs no longer in effect, the administration is exploring other legal tools to address what it describes as unfair foreign trade practices.

Under the new initiative, the USTR has launched an investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. This provision allows the U.S. government to examine foreign policies or actions that may be considered unreasonable, discriminatory, or harmful to American commerce.

The economies included in the investigation are Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, the European Union, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Norway, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

According to the USTR, the inquiry will focus on what it describes as “structural excess capacity” in manufacturing sectors in several countries. U.S. officials argue that in some industries, foreign economies produce more goods than they consume domestically, resulting in large volumes of exports entering global markets.

American trade officials say this situation can affect U.S. manufacturing by displacing domestic production or discouraging investment in new manufacturing facilities. The investigation will assess whether government support or policies in those countries give foreign producers advantages that harm U.S. businesses.

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the investigation reflects the administration’s broader goal of strengthening domestic manufacturing and bringing more production back to the United States. The administration has repeatedly stated that rebuilding supply chains and expanding manufacturing jobs remain key economic priorities.

Section 301 investigations can lead to a range of trade responses if the U.S. determines that foreign practices are harmful to American commerce. One possible outcome could be the introduction of new tariffs on imports from the countries under investigation.

However, officials have said that the outcome of the investigation is not predetermined. The review process will examine trade data, industry conditions and government policies before any decisions are made.

The move could have wider implications for global trade relations. Previous tariffs introduced by the United States led to negotiations and new trade arrangements with several partners. It remains unclear how potential new tariffs could affect those frameworks.

The investigations are also taking place during a politically sensitive period in the United States, with upcoming midterm elections and ongoing debates about trade policy and economic strategy.

The U.S. administration says the primary objective of the investigation is to protect domestic industries and ensure fair competition for American manufacturers. The process will now move forward with consultations, analysis and review before any trade measures are considered.

12 March 2026 0 comment

Blog

India Crush New Zealand to Clinch Third T20 World Cup Title

by theparliamentnews.com 8 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

March 8, 2026: India delivered a dominant performance to defeat New Zealand in the final and lift their third ICC Men’s T20 World Cup trophy, marking another historic moment for Indian cricket. The much-anticipated final saw India display exceptional batting, disciplined bowling, and sharp fielding to outclass the Black Caps on the world stage.

Batting first, India set a strong foundation with an aggressive start from their top order. The opening pair played fearless cricket, putting pressure on New Zealand’s bowlers early in the innings. A series of powerful boundaries and quick running between the wickets helped India post a competitive total, with the middle order maintaining the momentum in the final overs.

In response, New Zealand struggled to build partnerships against India’s well-organized bowling attack. The Indian bowlers kept tight lines and lengths, picking up crucial wickets at regular intervals. Their disciplined performance restricted New Zealand’s scoring opportunities and steadily pushed the match in India’s favor.

India’s fielding also played a key role, with spectacular catches and sharp ground fielding preventing New Zealand from gaining momentum. As the match progressed, the pressure mounted on the New Zealand side, ultimately leading to India securing a convincing victory.

With this triumph, India has now claimed its third T20 World Cup title, further strengthening its legacy as one of the most successful teams in international cricket. Fans across the country celebrated the historic win, praising the team’s determination, teamwork, and outstanding performance throughout the tournament.

The victory adds another golden chapter to Indian cricket history and reflects the team’s growing dominance in the shortest format of the game.

8 March 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured World

International Women’s Day 2026: Recognising Achievements and Continuing the Push for Equality

by theparliamentnews.com 8 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

International Women’s Day is observed globally on March 8 each year to recognise the achievements of women and highlight ongoing efforts toward gender equality. The day is marked by governments, organisations, educational institutions, and communities through discussions, awareness campaigns, and initiatives aimed at advancing women’s rights and opportunities.

The observance provides an opportunity to reflect on progress made in areas such as education, healthcare, employment, and leadership while acknowledging challenges that continue to affect women in many parts of the world.

Origins of International Women’s Day

The origins of International Women’s Day date back to the early 20th century during a period of social and political movements advocating for labour rights and gender equality. One of the earliest recorded observances took place in 1909 in the United States, organised by labour groups advocating for better working conditions and voting rights for women.

In 1910, the idea of an international day dedicated to women was proposed at the International Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen. The proposal aimed to create a global platform to advocate for women’s rights, including suffrage and equal working conditions.

International Women’s Day was first officially observed across several European countries in 1911. Decades later, the United Nations formally recognised the day in 1975, which was also declared International Women’s Year.

Why International Women’s Day Matters

International Women’s Day serves as both a celebration and a reminder. It recognises the contributions of women in areas such as science, politics, education, healthcare, business, and community leadership. At the same time, it highlights areas where gender gaps still exist.

Across the world, women have made significant progress in gaining access to education, participating in the workforce, and taking leadership roles in government and industry. However, many reports from international organisations show that challenges such as wage gaps, underrepresentation in decision-making positions, and barriers to economic opportunities remain.

The day therefore acts as a platform for governments, institutions, and advocacy groups to discuss policies and initiatives aimed at creating more inclusive and equitable societies.

Women’s Contributions Across Sectors

Women continue to play critical roles in shaping modern societies. In science and technology, women researchers and innovators contribute to developments in healthcare, artificial intelligence, and environmental sustainability.

In politics and governance, women leaders across various countries are participating in policymaking and decision-making processes that influence national and international policies.

In business and entrepreneurship, women-led companies and startups are contributing to economic growth and job creation. Many organisations have also introduced diversity and inclusion initiatives aimed at increasing women’s participation in leadership positions.

Women also continue to play important roles in education, healthcare, social work, and community development, often working at the frontlines of social and economic change.

Observance in India

In India, International Women’s Day is observed through a variety of programmes organised by government bodies, educational institutions, and social organisations. Events often include seminars, awareness campaigns, award ceremonies, and discussions on women’s empowerment.

Government initiatives related to education, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and healthcare are frequently highlighted during the observance. Educational institutions also organise activities that encourage discussions about gender equality, leadership, and opportunities for young women.

Across workplaces and organisations, the day is sometimes used to recognise the contributions of women professionals and to promote policies that support workplace equality and safety.

The Road Ahead

While progress has been made in many areas, experts and policymakers note that continued efforts are needed to address structural challenges affecting women globally. Improving access to education, ensuring equal opportunities in employment, and strengthening protections against discrimination remain important goals.

International Women’s Day therefore serves as a moment not only to recognise achievements but also to reinforce commitments toward gender equality.

As the world observes International Women’s Day 2026, discussions around inclusion, equal opportunities, and representation continue to shape policies and initiatives aimed at building more equitable societies.

8 March 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India World

Energy Markets Tense As US Gives India Limited Russian Oil Waiver

by theparliamentnews.com 6 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

US Grants India 30-Day Waiver To Continue Buying Russian Oil

India has received a temporary waiver from the United States allowing its refiners to continue purchasing Russian crude oil for the next 30 days, as global energy markets face disruptions linked to escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The announcement was made on Friday by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who confirmed that the US Treasury Department had issued a special licence permitting Indian refiners to import Russian-origin crude oil already loaded on vessels.

According to the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the licence authorizes “the delivery and sale of crude oil and petroleum products of Russian Federation origin loaded on vessels as of March 5, 2026 to India.” The authorization will remain valid until the end of the day on April 3, 2026.

The waiver comes at a time when global energy markets are under pressure due to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and supply disruptions affecting key oil-producing regions.

Temporary Measure To Stabilise Energy Markets

The US government described the move as a short-term step designed to ensure stability in the global oil market. Officials indicated that the waiver applies only to oil shipments that were already in transit or stranded at sea due to existing sanctions regimes.

In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Secretary Bessent said the measure would help maintain the flow of oil in international markets during a period of uncertainty.

He stated that the waiver was intentionally limited to 30 days and would not significantly benefit the Russian government financially, as it only covers cargoes that had already been loaded on vessels.

Bessent also highlighted the importance of the relationship between the United States and India, describing India as an “essential partner.” He added that Washington expects India to expand purchases of American oil in the future.

Impact Of Russia Sanctions

The development follows sanctions imposed by the United States last November targeting major Russian oil companies Lukoil and Rosneft as part of efforts to pressure Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine.

After the sanctions were introduced, India’s imports of Russian crude fell significantly. Industry data shows that in January 2026 India imported about 1.1 million barrels per day of Russian oil, the lowest level since November 2022.

Russia’s share in India’s overall oil imports dropped to 21.2 percent during that period. However, the share reportedly increased again to around 30 percent in February, indicating renewed reliance on discounted Russian supplies.

India has been one of the largest buyers of Russian oil since the Ukraine conflict began in 2022, benefiting from lower prices compared to other international suppliers.

Middle East Conflict Adds Pressure

The US waiver also comes amid growing instability in the Middle East, where ongoing military tensions have affected oil production and shipping routes.

Oil production across parts of the Gulf has been disrupted following strikes on major oil facilities. Among the installations reported to have been hit are Saudi Aramco’s Ras Tanura refinery in Saudi Arabia and Iraq’s Rumaila oil field, both considered significant contributors to global oil supply.

The situation has further intensified after Iran reportedly blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage through which nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply passes.

The blockade has raised concerns among energy-importing countries, including India, about the security of global oil shipments and potential supply shortages.

Oil Prices Rise

The conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran has also led to a rise in global oil prices. On Friday morning, Brent crude oil was trading at $83.07 per barrel, reflecting the growing uncertainty in global energy markets.

Despite the increase in international prices, government sources in India indicated that there are currently no plans to increase domestic petrol and diesel prices.

Energy Security Concerns

India, one of the world’s largest oil importers, relies heavily on overseas supplies to meet its energy needs. Any disruption in global supply chains can have a direct impact on fuel availability and economic stability.

The temporary waiver is expected to provide short-term relief to Indian refiners while global markets adjust to the evolving geopolitical situation.

Energy analysts note that the coming weeks will be important for determining whether the Strait of Hormuz remains open and whether further disruptions occur in the Middle East’s oil infrastructure.

6 March 2026 0 comment

Blog Education & Tech

Surakshit Movement Honoured with Public Policy Impact Award at the 3rd Environment Civilian Awards

by theparliamentnews.com 4 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi: The World Environment Council (WEC) hosted the 3rd Environment Civilian Awards 2026, recognising changemakers across India and abroad for their contribution to environmental sustainability, climate action, and policy impact. Among the honoured recipients was the Surakshit Movement, which was conferred with the prestigious Public Policy Impact Award for its exemplary leadership in advancing sustainable governance.
The award acknowledges the Surakshit Movement’s commitment to integrating sustainability into public policy, shaping responsible governance practices, and driving measurable environmental and social impact. Their work sets a benchmark for institutions striving toward a resilient and sustainable future.

Surakshit Movement: Leadership Rooted in Purpose
Mr. Purvesh Gada, who leads the Surakshit Movement, expressed pride and gratitude on behalf of his team, noting that this recognition has further motivated them to work even harder in the field of public safety, policy, and sustainability. The award acts as a powerful encouragement for the team’s ongoing efforts to build safer and more sustainable communities.

The Surakshit Movement has become a strong voice in promoting responsible leadership, data-driven governance, and policy advocacy aligned with national sustainability priorities.

The Legacy of Surakshit Awards
The Surakshit Movement also drives the Surakshit Awards, an initiative dedicated to honouring outstanding contributions in corporate security, uniformed services, and safety management.
This platform is supported by:
• SymX – Presenting Partner
• PSP and ASIS – Knowledge Partners
• FSAI, GACS, WEC and CAPSI – Supporting Organizations
Growth of the Surakshit Awards has reached PAN India with events at Mumbai, Pune, Delhi and Hyderabad.
Mr. Sunil Bedlam and Mr. Mangesh Kate were present at the Occasion to receive the Award on behalf of the Surakshit Movement.

4 March 2026 0 comment

Blog

World Environment Council Launches 18 Global Environmental Development Goals at International Online Conference

by theparliamentnews.com 4 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Global Leaders Call for Measurable Sustainability Action Across Sectors

Mumbai, India – 3 March 2026 : The World Environment Council (WEC) successfully launched its 18 Global Environmental Development Goals (GEDGs) during a landmark International Online Conference by more than 250 registered participants from across the globe. The conference brought together leaders from corporates, universities, governments, research institutions, and civil society to advance structured and measurable sustainability implementation.

The conference was hosted by Mr. Puneet Trehan, who introduced WEC’s international presence and its India headquarters. He outlined the Council’s ongoing education and project initiatives, including ESG certification programs, CDP and GHG inventory training, sustainability capacity-building workshops, and upcoming global collaboration programs.

Official Launch of the 18 GEDGs : The 18 Global Environmental Development Goals were formally launched by Prof. Ganesh Channa, Founder and President of the World Environment Council. In his keynote address, Prof. Channa emphasized the need to move sustainability from discussion to implementation.

“The 18 Global Environmental Development Goals are designed to transform sustainability from commitment into measurable action. We must create frameworks that enable corporates, universities, and governments to collaborate with accountability and transparency,” said Prof. Ganesh Channa, Founder & President, World Environment Council.

He further highlighted the importance of cross-sector partnerships and encouraged global stakeholders to align strategy, governance, and environmental initiatives with measurable impact indicators under the GEDGs framework.

Global Perspectives and Expert Contributions : The conference featured expert insights from Prof. Hemlata, who shared perspectives on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the importance of integrating global sustainability priorities into localized action plans.

“Global sustainability frameworks require localized ownership. Institutions must bridge policy commitments with grassroots implementation and measurable reporting,” said Prof. Hemlata during the session.

The event also included contributions from distinguished participants including Shalini Verma, Urmimala Chaoudary, Aron Charter, Shweta Singh, Awa Cham, Allan Victor, Pogar Spajani, Mumtaz Nohri, and Ramesh Chavan. Participants shared insights on ESG integration, community-driven climate action, research collaboration, governance models, and sustainable innovation.

Focus on Collaboration and Implementation : The conference introduced the GEDGs as a comprehensive sustainability framework addressing environmental protection, climate action, responsible governance, ESG alignment, and community resilience.

Mr. Puneet Trehan emphasized the role of international cooperation: “WEC’s platform is designed to connect global professionals and institutions to accelerate sustainability implementation. The GEDGs framework provides a structured pathway for collaboration and measurable progress.”

The event concluded with an open invitation to corporates, universities, policymakers, and industry leaders to join the GEDGs Global Network and participate in structured working groups for implementation.

About the World Environment Council (WEC) : The World Environment Council is an international sustainability organization committed to advancing environmental protection, ESG integration, climate action, and responsible governance through education, research, training, and collaborative global initiatives.

For media inquiries, partnerships, or collaboration opportunities:

Contact : Email: co*****@*****rg.in

4 March 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India

India and Canada Reset Ties with ‘Landmark’ Nuclear Energy Deal

by theparliamentnews.com 3 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Narendra Modi and Mark Carney have announced a series of agreements including a 10-year nuclear energy deal following talks in New Delhi aimed at restoring relations after a period of sharp diplomatic tensions.

The two leaders also advanced cooperation in technology, critical minerals, space, defence, education and trade, signalling a broader reset in bilateral ties.

Nuclear Energy Partnership

Speaking after their meeting at Hyderabad House in Delhi, Modi described the civil nuclear agreement as a “landmark deal” that will ensure long-term uranium supply from Canada to India.

“In civil nuclear energy, we have reached a landmark deal for long-term uranium supply. We will also work together on small modular reactors and advanced reactors,” Modi said.

Carney said Canada is well positioned to help meet India’s growing energy demands and confirmed the launch of a new strategic energy partnership between the two countries.

Trade Deal Targeted by 2026

Both sides committed to finalising a long-pending comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA).

Carney said they aim to conclude the deal by the end of 2026, while Modi set a bilateral trade target of $50bn.

The agreement has been discussed intermittently for nearly 15 years. Its conclusion would mark a major breakthrough as both nations seek to reduce exposure to US trade tariffs and diversify economic partnerships.

Rebuilding After Diplomatic Crisis

Relations between the two countries deteriorated in 2023 after then–Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of potential involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

India strongly denied the allegations. Diplomatic relations nearly froze as both countries expelled diplomats and suspended visa services.

Canada’s spy agency later listed India among countries allegedly involved in foreign interference, alongside Russia, China and Iran. However, under Carney’s leadership, Ottawa has said it believes India is not currently linked to violent crimes or threats on Canadian territory.

Despite this, some Canadian lawmakers and members of the Sikh diaspora continue to raise concerns about interference.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand defended the government’s decision to re-engage with India, saying diplomatic dialogue was essential for progress, though she distanced herself from remarks by a senior official suggesting India had ceased all foreign interference activities.

The legal case against four men charged in Nijjar’s killing remains before Canadian courts.

Expanding Strategic Cooperation

During the Delhi talks, both leaders emphasised shared democratic values and strong people-to-people ties, noting Canada’s large Indian diaspora.

Modi described the two countries as “natural partners in technology and innovation”, announcing enhanced cooperation in:

Artificial intelligence
Supercomputing
Semiconductors
Renewable energy (including a jointly hosted summit)
Space and defence collaboration

Earlier in the trip, Carney met India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss a “forward-looking partnership”.

Geopolitical Context

Analysts say the reset reflects shifting global dynamics. Canada is seeking to diversify trade and reduce vulnerability to US tariffs, while India aims to broaden its energy partnerships and decrease reliance on Russian imports.

Public opinion in Canada appears supportive of renewed engagement. A recent Angus Reid poll found that half of Canadians believe it is the right time to restore ties, with more respondents expressing favourable views of India than of the United States.

Carney’s four-day visit began in Mumbai, where he met business leaders to promote investment. After India, he is scheduled to travel to Australia and Japan as part of Canada’s broader Indo-Pacific diversification strategy.

3 March 2026 0 comment

Blog

World Reacts to Killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei

by theparliamentnews.com 1 March 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

The reported killing of Ali Khamenei in an attack by United States and Israeli forces has drawn sharp responses from governments and international bodies, raising concerns about escalation and regional instability.

Iran stated it launched retaliatory strikes on Israel and US-linked assets in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Oman. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) pledged further action, claiming it targeted 27 bases in the Middle East where US troops are stationed.

Several countries in the region temporarily closed their airspace amid the exchange of attacks. A Gulf source indicated that foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE would hold an emergency meeting via video conference.

Diplomats from the European Union’s 27 member states also convened urgent discussions after the United Nations Security Council met late on Saturday.

Below is a summary of key reactions.

Iran

President Masoud Pezeshkian described the killing as an “open declaration of war against Muslims”, particularly Shia communities. In a condolence message, he termed the event a major trial for the Islamic world and signalled continued resistance.

Israel

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz congratulated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the armed forces for the operation. In a public statement, Katz said Israel would continue to act “with full force”.

United States

US President Donald Trump confirmed the operation and warned Iran against further retaliation. In remarks posted on his social media platform, he cautioned that any additional strikes by Iran would prompt a strong response from Washington.

Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the killing, calling it a violation of international law. In a message published by the Kremlin, he extended condolences to Iran and described Khamenei as an important figure in Russia–Iran relations.

China

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Beijing “strongly condemns” the killing, calling it a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and of the principles of the UN Charter. China urged an immediate halt to military operations.

European Union

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the development as a defining moment in Iran’s history and said the bloc was consulting regional partners to explore de-escalation measures.

United Kingdom

UK Defence Secretary John Healey said the immediate priority was protecting British military personnel and civilians from potential retaliatory attacks.

Hamas

Hamas condemned the strike, describing it as a serious violation of Iran’s sovereignty and attributing responsibility to the US and Israel. The group called for action from Arab and Muslim states.

Yemen’s Houthis

The Houthi political leadership expressed condolences to Iran, characterising the strike as a breach of international norms and part of broader regional aggression.

North Korea

North Korea’s Foreign Ministry labelled the US–Israeli operation an “illegal act of aggression”, accusing Washington and its ally of violating sovereignty.

Pakistan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed condolences and said Pakistan stood with the people of Iran during what he termed a period of grief.

Chad

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno conveyed sympathy to Iran and extended condolences over the killing.

1 March 2026 0 comment

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Origins of International Women’s Day

Why International Women’s Day Matters

Women’s Contributions Across Sectors

Observance in India

The Road Ahead

Nuclear Energy Partnership

Trade Deal Targeted by 2026

Rebuilding After Diplomatic Crisis

Expanding Strategic Cooperation

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