News for '-middle-east'

Iran claims 'over 500 US troops targeted' in Dubai; US reacts

Iran claims 'over 500 US troops targeted' in Dubai; US reacts

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, Iran claims to have inflicted heavy casualties on US forces in Dubai, a claim vehemently denied by the US Central Command, raising concerns about regional stability.

Ishaq Dar Urges Diplomatic Engagement to Resolve West Asia Crisis

Ishaq Dar Urges Diplomatic Engagement to Resolve West Asia Crisis

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has called for dialogue to address the ongoing conflict in West Asia, emphasising the importance of diplomatic engagement and sustained efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

West Asia War: Rs 48.29 Lakh Crore Investor Wealth Wiped Out Since Conflict Began

West Asia War: Rs 48.29 Lakh Crore Investor Wealth Wiped Out Since Conflict Began

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Indian investors have seen their wealth erode by a staggering Rs 48.29 lakh crore since the West Asia war began on February 28, leading to a significant downturn in the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty, driven by geopolitical tensions and rising crude oil prices.

Why Cannes' Pick Amma Ariyan Is A Haunting Masterpiece

Why Cannes' Pick Amma Ariyan Is A Haunting Masterpiece

Rediff.com12 May 2026

John Abraham's 1986 film Amma Ariyan, now heading to the 2026 Cannes film festival, remains one of Malayalam cinema's most politically charged and unsettling masterpieces.

Thai-flagged ship bound for India attacked in Strait of Hormuz

Thai-flagged ship bound for India attacked in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

A Thai cargo vessel was struck by missiles near the Strait of Hormuz, leaving three crew members missing and prompting a rescue operation by the Royal Navy of Oman.

Over 1.7 million tonnes of India's fuel stuck in Strait of Hormuz

Over 1.7 million tonnes of India's fuel stuck in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Hundreds of Indian seafarers are stranded on vessels carrying crude oil, LPG, and LNG in the Persian Gulf due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, causing disruptions to India's energy supplies.

Iran: Why Trump Must Take A Leap Of Faith

Iran: Why Trump Must Take A Leap Of Faith

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

There are enough people at the top decision-making level in Tehran who are still willing to negotiate, provided Trump can create the right setting for the negotiation to acquire a dynamic of its own, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

'Bad Move': Cyprus Chess Chief Slams Koneru Humpy's Withdrawal From Candidates Tournament

'Bad Move': Cyprus Chess Chief Slams Koneru Humpy's Withdrawal From Candidates Tournament

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Cyprus Chess Federation president has criticised Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy's withdrawal from the Candidates Tournament, citing unfounded security concerns and disrespect for organisers and players.

Sensex, Nifty dip in volatile trade as profit-taking hits banking stocks

Sensex, Nifty dip in volatile trade as profit-taking hits banking stocks

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty closed lower in a volatile session due to profit-taking in banking and financial shares, despite earlier gains driven by easing geopolitical tensions. Analysts suggest investors remain cautious and are not aggressively chasing the recent rally.

US weighs ground troop deployment in Iran: Report

US weighs ground troop deployment in Iran: Report

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

While Trump has been examining the possibility of stationing ground forces in the Middle East, CBS News reported that he has yet to define the exact conditions under which he would approve their use.

Pakistan Cricket Board Reassures on Overseas Players' PSL Travel Plans Despite Regional Conflicts

Pakistan Cricket Board Reassures on Overseas Players' PSL Travel Plans Despite Regional Conflicts

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dismissed concerns regarding the travel plans of overseas players for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) despite ongoing regional tensions. The 11th edition of the PSL is set to begin on March 26 and will feature an increased number of foreign players, particularly from Australia.

Gulf War: 'If America Wants An Exit, It Can'

Gulf War: 'If America Wants An Exit, It Can'

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

'US and Iran have not annulled the ceasefire, and the possibility of continuing negotiations remains open.'

Iran warns Israel over strikes in Lebanon despite truce

Iran warns Israel over strikes in Lebanon despite truce

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described Israel's incursions into Lebanon as a blatant breach of the ceasefire and said the continued attacks reflect deception and a lack of commitment to potential agreements.

Trump set to detail 'Op Epic Fury' success, Iran withdrawal timeline

Trump set to detail 'Op Epic Fury' success, Iran withdrawal timeline

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump is set to provide an "operational update" on the progress of 'Operation Epic Fury' during a national address scheduled for 9 PM Wednesday (US local time).

Budgam Man Faces Charges for Allegedly Inciting Unrest via Social Media Videos

Budgam Man Faces Charges for Allegedly Inciting Unrest via Social Media Videos

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

A man in Budgam district, Jammu and Kashmir, has been booked by police for allegedly circulating provocative videos on social media platforms, potentially inciting public unrest and disturbing communal harmony.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty50 in Green Amid Easing Geopolitical Tensions

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty50 in Green Amid Easing Geopolitical Tensions

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Indian markets on Dalal Street rallied sharply as easing tensions in the US-Iran conflict and stable oil prices boosted sentiment. Track Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex performance and key global triggers.

Gold futures plunge Rs 8,089 to Rs 1.36 lakh/10g on global selloff, inflation fears

Gold futures plunge Rs 8,089 to Rs 1.36 lakh/10g on global selloff, inflation fears

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Gold prices experienced a significant drop in futures trading due to global selloff, inflation concerns, and a strong US dollar. Analysts predict a continued downward trend amid geopolitical tensions and potential rate hikes.

IPL: Gudakesh Motie Linked With LSG After PSL Withdrawal

IPL: Gudakesh Motie Linked With LSG After PSL Withdrawal

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

West Indies spinner Gudakesh Motie is being linked with a possible move to Lucknow Super Giants as a replacement for injured Wanindu Hasaranga ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season.

'Iran can't have nukes': Trump rejects Tehran proposal, signals tough line

'Iran can't have nukes': Trump rejects Tehran proposal, signals tough line

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed that his administration has received a proposal from Iran aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in West Asia, but described the offer as insufficient.

'Trump's Aims In This War Have Been Inconsistent, Changing, Contradictory'

'Trump's Aims In This War Have Been Inconsistent, Changing, Contradictory'

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

'What we have yet to see on either the US or the Iranian side is willingness to compromise on their ultimate demands and the flexibility to reach an agreement to end the war.

'Worst Gulf Crisis For Migrants In 50 Years'

'Worst Gulf Crisis For Migrants In 50 Years'

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

'In India, there is this first generation migrant, say from a small village in UP. He didn't go to the Gulf to buy a big house but make the life of his family better.' 'He may have paid 1 lakh rupees to an agent to go to the Gulf. Imagine what will happen to him and his family if he has to come back. He and his family will become poor again.' 'He went to the Gulf to come out of poverty, but this war will make his family trapped in poverty once again.'

'Sidelined' in Iran truce: Israeli Oppn slams Netanyahu

'Sidelined' in Iran truce: Israeli Oppn slams Netanyahu

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Lapid said the Israeli military carried out everything that was asked of it, but Netanyahu failed politically and strategically.

'Munir Likely Made The Case To Trump That Pakistan Can Be A Useful Mediator'

'Munir Likely Made The Case To Trump That Pakistan Can Be A Useful Mediator'

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

'The White House lunch that Trump hosted for Munir last year came just after Munir returned from a visit to Iran, at a moment when Israel and Iran were at war.' 'Trump said after that lunch that the Pakistanis know Iran very well. He likely views Munir as a useful interlocutor that can give helpful insights on Iran.'

Brands chase flyers as new airports open a runway to revenue for retail

Brands chase flyers as new airports open a runway to revenue for retail

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Indian airports are rapidly becoming a significant growth avenue for the country's retail sector, with brands across various consumer segments actively opening stores to tap into the increasing number of flyers and strong domestic tourism momentum.

Asim Munir becoming 'huge favourite' of...: Cong slams govt over Pak's role in US-Iran deal

Asim Munir becoming 'huge favourite' of...: Cong slams govt over Pak's role in US-Iran deal

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The Congress party has criticised the Modi government over Pakistan's involvement in US-Iran peace talks, calling it a 'monumental setback' for India's diplomatic efforts.

Govt cuts excise duty on petrol to Rs 3 per litre, exempts diesel

Govt cuts excise duty on petrol to Rs 3 per litre, exempts diesel

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The Indian government has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel to mitigate the impact of rising global crude prices, triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. This move aims to provide relief to consumers and oil companies amidst volatile international oil markets.

Manufacturing lifts pvt sector activity in April

Manufacturing lifts pvt sector activity in April

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

India's private sector activity saw a significant recovery in April, driven primarily by robust growth in manufacturing output and sales, following a three-year low in March attributed to the West Asia conflict.

150 Israeli Airstrikes Across Lebanon In 2 Hours Kill 254 People

150 Israeli Airstrikes Across Lebanon In 2 Hours Kill 254 People

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

A massive wave of Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon killed 254 people, overwhelming hospitals.

Payment issue? Govt reacts after Iranian oil tanker diverts from India to China

Payment issue? Govt reacts after Iranian oil tanker diverts from India to China

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

India has refuted claims of payment issues hindering crude oil imports from Iran, clarifying that refiners have the flexibility to source oil from various global suppliers. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas addressed reports of a tanker rerouting to China, emphasising standard industry practices and secured oil requirements.

IRIS Dena sinking: Navy sends Tarangini, Ikshak to assist Sri Lanka

IRIS Dena sinking: Navy sends Tarangini, Ikshak to assist Sri Lanka

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

The vessel sank on March 4, 2026, approximately 20 nautical miles west of Galle, after reportedly being struck by a torpedo from a United States submarine.

Is The World Moving Towards De-Dollarisation?

Is The World Moving Towards De-Dollarisation?

Rediff.com2 May 2026

India should not stay on the margins of this initiative. There should be a serious debate about what would be in India's best interests asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

UK submarine with Tomahawk missiles arrives near Hormuz

UK submarine with Tomahawk missiles arrives near Hormuz

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Equipped with advanced weaponry, the HMS Anson is fitted with "Tomahawk Block IV land-attack missiles" with a range of 1,600 km and "Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes," providing formidable offensive capabilities.

T20 WC: Zimbabwe finally head home after travel chaos

T20 WC: Zimbabwe finally head home after travel chaos

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The members of the Zimbabwe cricket team, who were stranded in India after the T20 World Cup due to international airspace closures amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East, headed home on Wednesday after the International Cricket Council (ICC) made alternative travel arrangements for their safe journey.

Pakistan to continue facilitating US-Iran talks, urges both to uphold ceasefire

Pakistan to continue facilitating US-Iran talks, urges both to uphold ceasefire

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Pakistan has announced its commitment to continue facilitating talks between the United States and Iran, urging both nations to uphold the ceasefire agreement. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted Pakistan's role in mediating recent discussions and expressed hope for durable peace and regional stability.

Netanyahu directs talks with Lebanon after deadly strikes

Netanyahu directs talks with Lebanon after deadly strikes

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday called for the opening of direct negotiations with Lebanon, as tensions persist along the border despite a two-week ceasefire aimed at halting hostilities in West Asia.

Trump claims he threatened India, Pakistan with 250% tariff to stop war

Trump claims he threatened India, Pakistan with 250% tariff to stop war

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Former US President Donald Trump claimed he stopped a war between India and Pakistan and expressed his desire to be remembered as a great peacemaker.

Why I Want Iran To Win

Why I Want Iran To Win

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

For that to happen America does not have to lose. It only has to do the right thing, asserts Aakar Patel.

US releases video of Marines boarding Iranian vessel

US releases video of Marines boarding Iranian vessel

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

US Central Command (CENTCOM) released footage of a maritime operation where Marines boarded an Iranian-flagged vessel, the Touska, in the Gulf of Oman, leading to heightened tensions and threats of retaliation from Iran.

Iran renews threat to Gulf neighbours hours after 'apology'

Iran renews threat to Gulf neighbours hours after 'apology'

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Amidst ongoing conflict, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signals a potential de-escalation by apologising to neighbouring countries while firmly rejecting US President Donald Trump's demand for unconditional surrender.

West Asia Conflict Deepens India's Economic Challenges

West Asia Conflict Deepens India's Economic Challenges

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Even if there is an early agreement on a cessation of hostilities in West Asia, the price shock will not go away easily, points out A K Bhattacharya.