A projectile strike on a Kuwait-flagged oil tanker near Oman’s Bukha coast has triggered fresh concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, with a fire breaking out aboard the vessel amid escalating Middle East tensions. The tanker, M/T Al Dasma, was struck on October 21, raising fresh alarms over the safety of commercial shipping across the Gulf. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed that all 21 Indian seafarers aboard the tanker are safe. The vessel remains stationary following the incident as authorities monitor the situation and assess the damage. 

French President Emmanuel Macron has headed to the Gulf as violent protests and unrest rock France, putting his government under mounting pressure. Protesters reportedly attempted to move towards the Élysée Palace, while shops and public buildings were looted or set ablaze during clashes. French authorities arrested thousands, and the government is considering local curfews to contain further violence. Macron condemned the unrest but refused to dismiss his interior minister, despite acknowledging security failures. The protests have been fuelled by soaring living costs and wider public grievances.