Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes, citing Israeli attacks in Lebanon as the reason behind the move. The development comes just days after the waterway had reportedly been reopened following a period of heightened regional tensions.

According to reports, the announcement was made by Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the country’s top joint military command. Iranian authorities alleged that ongoing Israeli military actions in Lebanon and what they described as insufficient efforts by the United States to restrain those attacks had violated the terms of a recently established ceasefire arrangement.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy corridor connecting the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea. A significant share of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passes through the narrow waterway, making any disruption a matter of international concern.

Iranian officials reportedly described the closure as an initial response and warned that additional measures could follow if regional hostilities continue. The announcement has raised concerns about potential disruptions to global energy markets and maritime trade.

However, there were conflicting assessments regarding the immediate impact of the decision. A senior US official reportedly said there was no visible indication of Iranian military activity that would suggest an imminent enforcement of the closure, while diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran were expected to continue in Switzerland.

The latest development marks another escalation in regional tensions and places renewed focus on the security of one of the world’s most important shipping routes.

A tragic accident at a prominent temple in Maharashtra’s Parbhani district claimed four lives on Saturday after a portion of an under-construction roof collapsed on devotees gathered at the site.

The incident took place at the Yashwadi temple in Yashwadi village, around 190 km from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Authorities launched a large-scale rescue operation after devotees were trapped beneath the debris following the collapse.

According to local officials, the roof section in front of the sanctum, part of an ongoing construction project, gave way during the afternoon. MLA Rajesh Vitekar said 27 people were trapped under the rubble. All those trapped were later rescued, but four people lost their lives in the incident.

Several injured devotees were shifted to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Three people were admitted to the District General Hospital, while around 20 others received treatment at RP Medical College, according to officials.

Rescue teams rushed to the site

Police, district administration personnel and emergency responders reached the temple soon after the collapse was reported. Rescue efforts continued for several hours as teams worked to remove debris and locate those trapped underneath.

Officials said the structure that collapsed was the temple’s sabhamandap, or outer assembly hall, where construction work was nearing completion. Initial assessments suggest there may have been a structural issue linked to a pillar being erected at the site, though the exact cause remains under investigation.

Popular pilgrimage site draws huge crowds

The Yashwadi temple is among the most visited religious sites in the Parbhani region and attracts thousands of devotees every Saturday. The accident occurred on a day when large numbers of worshippers had gathered at the shrine, increasing concerns about the scale of the tragedy.

Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed inquiry into the collapse and examine whether construction safety norms were followed during the expansion work.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended warm birthday greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, praising her dedication to public service and describing her life journey as a source of inspiration for people across the country.

In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister lauded President Murmu’s commitment to the nation and highlighted her efforts toward the welfare of the poor and marginalised sections of society. He said her leadership and service continue to motivate citizens.

Modi also wished the President a long and healthy life, noting that her rise to the highest constitutional office reflects the strength of India’s democratic values. He said her journey gives hope to millions and serves as an example of perseverance and public service.

President Murmu, who was born on June 20, 1958, assumed office as the 15th President of India in July 2022. She made history as the first person from a tribal community to become President and the second woman to hold the post.

Her political and public life has included service as a legislator in Odisha, a minister in the state government and Governor of Jharkhand before she was elected President.

The President’s journey from Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district to Rashtrapati Bhavan is often cited as a symbol of social mobility and inclusive representation in Indian democracy.