CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Bhopal: CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News / Agencies: The major national and international headlines on the morning of Wednesday, November 4, 2026, include US-Iran tensions, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi’s open debate challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s statement on Uttar Pradesh politics. Along with these developments, international events and political statements linked to upcoming elections are also in focus.

1. US military carries out attack on Iran

Just before the midterm elections in the United States, President Donald Trump confirmed a limited military strike on Iran. According to US officials, military sites on Iran’s Qeshm Island near the Strait of Hormuz were targeted on November 2. Trump described it as a minor attack, saying Iran had prepared an anti-aircraft system, which was destroyed. The US side claims the action was taken in response to an American aircraft being targeted. Iran, meanwhile, said after the attack that it reserves the right to self-defence. The development has increased uncertainty over the prospects of war and a solution through talks.

2. Rahul Gandhi challenges Prime Minister Modi to a debate

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to an open debate on any platform. Rahul said the Prime Minister could choose the place and time as per his convenience. He sought a discussion in the debate on the India-US trade agreement, the Adani issue, the country’s financial system and allegations linked to foreign influence. Rahul also questioned why the Prime Minister does not file a defamation case over his allegations. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman hit back, saying there is no better platform than Parliament for a debate. She advised Rahul to hold the discussion in the House.

3. Akhilesh says he will become Chief Minister even without contesting election

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has made it clear that he will not contest the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly election. Speaking to journalists in Varanasi, he said that he had earlier become Chief Minister while being a Lok Sabha member, and this time too, if his party forms the government, he will take oath as Chief Minister while remaining a Lok Sabha member. Targeting the BJP’s political position in Varanasi, he said the party had faced defeat in the Legislative Council’s teachers’ and graduates’ constituencies. Akhilesh also reiterated his promise to start metro services in Varanasi if a Samajwadi Party government is formed in the state.

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