Israel and US on Saturday launched a daylight attack on Iran, closing the window for a diplomatic solution to Tehran’s long-running nuclear dispute with the West.The strikes reportedly took place near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, the 86-year-old leader was not in Tehran and had been transferred to a secure location during the attacks.

According to local media reports, there were at least three to four strikes in Tehran.This comes as United States deployed aircraft carriers, fighter jets, guided-missile destroyers and other capabilities to the Middle East in recent weeks. It includes two of the largest US warships — the Gerald R Ford and the Abraham Lincoln. US President Donald Trump has described it as a massive naval armada. ‘Operation Lion’s roar’: How US and Israel planned the attacksUS named its operation against Iran ‘Operation Epic Fury.’In his first statement after the strikes, Trump asserted that US’s goal is ‘eliminating imminent threats’ from Iran.

“US will destroy Iranian missile industry, ‘annihilate’ the navy,” he added.According to news agency Reuters, the strikes are being carried out by air and sea. An Israeli defence official told the news agency that the operation had been planned for months in coordination with Washington, and that the launch date was decided weeks ago.Another source told Israeli media outlet the Times of Israel that the “initial phase” of the joint attack is planned to last for at least four days.The TV report says the timing of the initial strikes for the morning hours was designed to surprise the Iranians, who would not have expected a daytime attack.Also read: Trump reacts to US-Israel joint strikes in Tehran, says ‘eliminating threat from Iranian regime’An unnamed security source tells Channel 12 that the operation was jointly planned for months. The source says Israel is going “all out” in this operation, and the US is “on the same page.”The source also says the “initial phase” of the joint attack is planned to last for four days.‘Not exactly happy’ with IranThe attack comes after Israel and Iran engaged in a 12-day air war in June, following repeated US-Israeli warnings that they would strike again if Iran pressed ahead with its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.Earlier in the day, Trump said he is “not exactly happy” with Iran’s handling of negotiations over its nuclear programme, stressing that the country cannot possess nuclear weapons.“We haven’t made a final decision (on Iran). We’re not exactly happy with the way they’re negotiating. They cannot have nuclear weapons. And we’re not thrilled with the way they’re negotiating. So we’ll see how it all works,” Trump said.“I am not happy with the fact that they are not willing to give us what we have to have. I’m not thrilled with that. We’ll see what happens. We’ll have some additional talks today. But, no, I’m not happy with the way they’re going,” he added.

Shirish Kunder, filmmaker and husband of Farah Khan, has sparked a buzz online after unveiling a surprising new look on social media. His recent photos have triggered mixed reactions; some fans praised his transformation, while others suspect the use of AI in achieving his stunning makeover.

Shirish Kunder shares cryptic post on social media

Amid the ongoing buzz, Shirish posted a new photo on Friday, February 27, with a cryptic caption that read, “If you can’t walk away, you’re not negotiating. You’re begging.” In one photo, he shows off a sculpted physique, while several others capture him shirtless, posing confidently for the camera. A few pictures feature him looking sharp in suits, and one striking image shows him seated on a flight, deepening the curiosity surrounding his sudden return to the limelight.

Netizens react to Shirish Kunder’s transformation

Social media quickly lit up with reactions to Shirish’s latest photos. “Be proud on your original looks,” one user remarked, while another joked, “It seems like sir is learning ‘How to use AI’ but sirrrrr how handsome?” Some wondered if anti-ageing treatments were behind his transformation. A surprised comment read, “Are you Farah Khan’s husband, you are looking different.” Others were left puzzled, asking, “Real or AI?”.

Shirish Kunder and Farah Khan’s love story

Farah and Shirish got married in 2004 after first crossing paths on the sets of ‘Main Hoon Na’, where Farah served as the director and Shirish worked as the editor. Despite an eight-year age gap, the couple has frequently expressed how their relationship thrives on a deep bond and a shared sense of humour. In 2008, they became proud parents to triplets — one son and two daughters.

Shirish Kunder’s last directorial project

Shirish’s most recent directorial venture was ‘Mrs. Serial Killer’, starring Jacqueline Fernandez, Manoj Bajpayee, and Mohit Raina. The film was released in 2020.

England held their nerve in a gripping Super 8 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, defeating New Zealand in a last-over finish at the R. Premadasa Stadium on February 27. While the contest itself was packed with tension and momentum swings, it was England captain Harry Brook who produced the night’s most unforgettable moment — a towering six that struck the giant stadium screen and left a visible dent.

Chasing a competitive target, England were under early pressure after losing both openers cheaply. What followed was a counter-attacking response led by Brook, whose fearless approach not only revived the innings but also stunned everyone inside the stadium.

Harry Brook’s six leaves a dent on the big screen

The dramatic moment unfolded in the third over of England’s chase. Facing New Zealand pacer Matt Henry, Brook shuffled across the crease to a full delivery aimed at the stumps. With audacious confidence, he scooped the ball high over square leg.

The ball kept traveling — higher and further than expected — before crashing directly into the giant screen above the stands. Replays soon confirmed a dent on the surface, prompting gasps from the crowd and stunned reactions from players on both sides.

It was a rare sight even in modern T20 cricket, where sixes are common but structural damage is not. The stroke also signaled Brook’s intent. England had slipped to 2/2 early in the chase, and the skipper’s calculated aggression shifted the pressure back onto the Black Caps. Brook eventually scored a brisk 26 off 24 deliveries, forging a vital 48-run partnership with Jacob Bethell to stabilize the innings.

Here’s the video:

UNBELIEVABLE! 🤯

England are two down, but the skipper is playing a different game altogether. 🔥

ICC Men’s #T20WorldCup, SUPER 8, #ENGvNZ | LIVE NOW ➡️ https://t.co/ueqfaabxcO pic.twitter.com/V04ipszmPY

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 27, 2026

Also READ: IPL 2026: Matt Henry blind ranks 10 iconic New Zealand players who’ve worn the CSK yellow jersey

England clinch thrilling four-wicket victory

Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, England stayed within touching distance of the target. Contributions from the middle order, including calm finishing touches from the lower order, ensured the chase did not spiral out of control.

New Zealand had earlier built their total around solid starts from Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, before Glenn Phillips anchored the innings with a fluent knock. England’s bowlers, led by disciplined spells in the middle overs, managed to restrict the scoring just when the Black Caps threatened to break free.

In the chase, New Zealand spinner Rachin Ravindra applied pressure with crucial breakthroughs, keeping the contest alive until the final stages. However, England held their composure in the 20th over, crossing the line with four wickets in hand and three balls to spare.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Will Jacks’ all-round heroics help England pip New Zealand to keep Pakistan alive in T20 World Cup 2026

Pakistan’s Shadab Khan (AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena)

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi believes Shadab Khan is the frontrunner to take over the national side if Mike Hesson continues as head coach. With Pakistan’s campaign at the T20 World Cup 2026 hanging in the balance, discussions have already intensified over who could replace current skipper Salman Ali Agha. Many experts in Pakistan feel Agha’s position is under threat after the team’s underwhelming showing in the tournament.Pakistan received a timely boost when England beat New Zealand by four wickets in Colombo on Friday, keeping their semi-final hopes alive. To progress, Agha’s men must defeat Sri Lanka in Pallekele by 65 runs or chase down the target with 40 balls remaining to surpass New Zealand on net run rate.

Ahead of that crucial fixture, Afridi pointed to Shadab’s strong working relationship with Hesson, built during their time together at Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League, as a decisive factor.“If Mike Hesson stays on as the coach, then I think Shadab Khan will be made the captain. They have a connection and go back a long way, stemming from their stint with Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League. Shadab is not a bad choice, but if his performance as a bowler was better, then it would have been great,” Afridi said on Samaa.TV.“We need Shadab to come up with consistent performances. If that comes, we will also feel good about calling him the captain. I always used to say he was the backbone of the team. I think Shadab will be made the captain as they don’t have any other choice. Make him the captain, but he should be a performer,” he added.Interestingly, following Pakistan’s 61-run defeat to India earlier in the tournament, Afridi had urged team management to leave Shadab out due to his struggles with both bat and ball.Shadab later responded sharply to criticism from several former players, including Afridi. After an all-round display against Namibia, he claimed his current team could defeat India in the World Cup, something he said former players could not boast of. The remarks drew significant backlash, and he faced heavy criticism from multiple quarters.Afridi is not alone in predicting a leadership change. Earlier, Shoaib Malik also indicated that Shadab’s elevation may already be in motion.“Shadab’s name has started doing the rounds as far as captaincy is concerned,” Malik said on ARY News.As it stands, Pakistan are yet to register a win in the Super 8 stage. Their fixture against New Zealand was washed out, while they suffered a narrow defeat to England, leaving their semi-final fate dependent on a dramatic turnaround

The United States has authorised the departure of non-emergency government personnel and their family members from its mission in Israel, citing escalating safety risks amid a volatile security situation, the State Department announced on Friday.The move affects staff under the chief of mission authority and comes as tensions across Israel and the wider region continue to heighten, prompting Washington to reassess the safety of its personnel.

In its updated travel advisory, the State Department said the decision was taken due to increasing security incidents and the potential for sudden deterioration. It warned that the security environment in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, remains unpredictable, with risks ranging from rocket and missile fire to armed drone intrusions and terrorist attacks.The embassy may impose additional movement restrictions on staff and their families at short notice.In a post on X, the US Embassy in Jerusalem said, “On February 27, 2026, the Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of U.S. government personnel from Mission Israel due to safety risks. “It further added, “In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Persons may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available.”Israel War Room, later quoting the embassy’s post, echoed the remarks as it said, “The U.S. State Department has authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel from Mission Israel due to security risks. This is a precautionary measure amid heightened regional tensions. Monitor updates and assess travel plans accordingly.”

What does the advisory say?

US citizens were urged to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest, while Gaza remains under a “do not travel” advisory because of terrorism and ongoing armed conflict.The department also advised against travel within 4 kilometres of the Lebanese and Syrian borders and within 11.3 kilometres of the Gaza demarcation line, citing continued military activity and heightened risk.The security notice said:

American citizens in the region have been advised to maintain heightened vigilance, avoid demonstrations and crowded areas, follow the instructions of local security officials, and enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates and facilitate assistance in an emergency.

The New Zealand camp has been hit with a bittersweet development as their premier strike bowler, Matt Henry, prepares to leave the squad during the most intense phase of the T20 World Cup 2026.

Having established himself as a cornerstone of the Black Caps’ attack with 6 wickets in 5 innings, Henry’s departure follows a high-stakes Super Eight encounter against England in Colombo. While the exit of the team’s joint-highest wicket-taker is a significant tactical blow, the decision has received the full blessing of the coaching staff and his teammates.

New Zealand Matt Henry departs the T20 World Cup 2026 at a critical juncture

New Zealand Cricket officially confirmed that Henry has been granted paternity leave to return home for the birth of his and his wife Holly’s second child. The fast bowler, who was recently re-signed by CSK for INR 2 Crore in the 2026 auction, a massive jump from his original INR 30 Lakh price tag back in 2015, will fly out immediately following the England clash. Head coach Rob Walter emphasized that family remains the priority, even as the team fights for a spot in the final four.

“Firstly, we’re all very excited for Matt and Holly on the arrival of their second child,” Walter said in a statement. “It’s a very significant moment for their family and we’re wishing them all the best. There’s a lot of water to go under the bridge but we’re hopeful that the stars align for the team and for Matt and that we’ll see him back competing in the final phases of the competition.” Walter was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Matt Henry blind ranks 10 iconic New Zealand players who’ve worn the CSK yellow jersey

T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal qualification chaos for New Zealand after defeat against England

The timing of Henry’s exit adds a layer of immense tension to New Zealand’s campaign, as they finished their Super Eight stage with a 4-wicket loss to England on Friday. While Henry managed to pick up the wicket of Phil Salt in his final over, the defeat means the Black Caps must now wait on the result of the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka match to see if they progress. If Pakistan fails to overtake New Zealand’s healthy Net Run Rate (+1.390), the Kiwis will advance, potentially allowing Henry to rejoin the squad in India for the semi-finals.

“We’re hopeful that the stars align. Matt has been a key player for us, and having him back for the final phases would be a huge boost.” Walter concluded.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan’s semi-final qualification scenario after England’s win over New Zealand