US Customs and Border Protection seized 36 Bronze Age short swords and 50 arrowheads, nearly 4,000 years old, at the Port of Philadelphia. The ancient Iranian artifacts were misdeclared as 'metal decorations' and routed through multiple countries, likely destined for the illicit antiquities market. Archaeologists confirmed their authenticity and cultural heritage value.

Dubai's Jebel Ali Port, a global trade linchpin, has temporarily ceased operations following a fire caused by aerial debris amidst escalating US-Israel conflict with Iran. This precautionary shutdown highlights the widening regional instability, impacting vital supply chains and underscoring the vulnerability of critical infrastructure. The incident adds to DP World's recent corporate scrutiny after Epstein Files controversy.

Air travel in the Middle East is severely disrupted as the US-Israel war on Iran leads to extensive flight cancellations and airspace closures. Major UAE carriers have suspended operations, stranding thousands of tourists. Authorities are providing support, including accommodation and meals, while advising passengers to check flight statuses and know their rights.

As the US and Israel's military campaign against Iran escalates, the UAE implements broad public safety measures. Residents are urged to comply with official instructions, seek shelter during alerts, and avoid spreading unverified information, which carries legal penalties. Educational institutions have shifted to distance learning, and travel disruptions persist due to airspace closures.

The UAE has shut its Dubai and Abu Dhabi stock markets for two days, March 2-3, 2026, due to escalating Iran-US-Israel conflict fallout. This unprecedented move follows Iranian retaliatory strikes, disrupting regional business and investor confidence. Other Gulf markets saw sharp declines, with oil prices surging amid fears of supply disruptions.

In 2015, NASA-backed research led by Hongbin Yu revealed that millions of tons of Saharan dust cross the Atlantic each year, delivering vital phosphorus to the nutrient-poor Amazon rainforest. Satellite data showed this atmospheric link may replenish nutrients lost to rainfall, highlighting a vast intercontinental exchange that underscores how climate and ecosystems remain deeply interconnected.

In 2015, NASA-backed research led by Hongbin Yu revealed that millions of tons of Saharan dust cross the Atlantic each year, delivering vital phosphorus to the nutrient-poor Amazon rainforest. Satellite data showed this atmospheric link may replenish nutrients lost to rainfall, highlighting a vast intercontinental exchange that underscores how climate and ecosystems remain deeply interconnected.

Sharjah International Airport is experiencing significant flight disruptions, including cancellations and delays, due to temporary UAE airspace closures. These measures are a direct response to escalating US-Israel military actions against Iran and subsequent regional security concerns. Passengers are strongly advised to verify flight statuses with airlines before traveling to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

Following the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Tehran launched a wide-ranging retaliatory campaign targeting US and Israeli military assets across the Middle East. Multiple Gulf nations reported missile and drone attacks, with US Central Command confirming three American service members killed. The scale of the strikes raises questions about regional air defence capabilities and potential escalation.

Former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has reportedly been killed in Israeli airstrikes within Iran. Reports suggest he was under house arrest at the time of the targeted strike on his residence. Ahmadinejad, known for his hardline stance and controversial remarks, served as Iran's president from 2005 to 2013, often drawing international criticism for his rhetoric.

Three U.S. service members were killed and five seriously wounded during 'Operation Epic Fury,' a U.S.-led offensive targeting Iran's leadership. The operation, which also involved Israeli forces, aimed for a 'decapitation strike' and resulted in significant casualties, including at a girls' school.

Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi declared the Islamic Republic nearing its end following supreme leader Khamenei's reported death in US-Israeli strikes. He warned against appointing a successor, deeming it illegitimate and urging officials to surrender power to the people. Pahlavi called for a "Lion and Sun Revolution" and appealed to armed forces to join the public's demand for regime collapse.

'But Alzheimer's Disease Disrupts Renewal Process'

India's Gaganyaan mission gears up with a crucial tracking station now operational on Australia's Cocos (Keeling) Island. This facility, a collaboration with the Australian Space Agency, ensures a 360-degree view for the orbital module. Isro is also completing thousands of ground tests and propulsion checks for its upcoming uncrewed mission.

Eleven Indian Americans have been celebrated on Forbes' America's Greatest Innovators list, highlighting their transformative contributions across technology, biotech and infrastructure. These leaders, from AI pioneers to gene therapy developers, underscore the vital role of immigrant talent in shaping America's technological and economic future, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

Germany is exploring controversial defence research creating bioelectronic insects for surveillance. A startup, SWARM Biotactics, is developing prototypes combining living insects with electronic components and AI. These insect-based systems aim to gather intelligence in difficult environments where drones struggle. This innovation highlights a move towards stealthier and more adaptable military technologies.

Four Indian American researchers have been honoured as 2026 Sloan Research Fellows, a prestigious early-career recognition. Their groundbreaking work in cryptography, statistics, AI reliability and quantum computing from Carnegie Mellon University and MIT highlights the significant contributions of diaspora scientists. This award provides crucial support for their transformative research endeavours.