News for '-saudi'

Flydubai attacker appears to be 'lone wolf': Reports

Flydubai attacker appears to be 'lone wolf': Reports

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

An investigation is underway into a flydubai co-pilot, identified as Hamam al-Hammami, who allegedly attacked Indian Captain Smit Machchhar in an attempt to crash an Israel-bound flight. The incident, which saw the plane plummet thousands of feet before the captain regained control, is being treated as a lone-wolf terrorist act, with probes by UAE, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Australia.

Asian Games: China Leads Medal Count, India Secures Fourth Spot

Asian Games: China Leads Medal Count, India Secures Fourth Spot

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

The article presents the medal tally after Day 14 of the Asian Games, showing China's significant lead, followed by Japan and South Korea. India is positioned fourth with a total of 85 medals.

'Capt Machchhar told me, I don't want to die here'

'Capt Machchhar told me, I don't want to die here'

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

A FlyDubai flight captain was stabbed by his co-pilot in a suspected terror attack, leading to a desperate fight for survival that was heroically thwarted by an Israeli dentist and other passengers, averting a major mid-air disaster.

US pauses Russia sanctions, India tariffs for 60 days

US pauses Russia sanctions, India tariffs for 60 days

Rediff.com7 days ago

The US announced a 60-day pause on sanctions against Russia and tariffs on other countries, including India, to analyse the global economic impact. This decision, made via an executive order by Trump, has drawn significant criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, who had previously passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act. US officials stated the waiver allows for assessment of global energy pressures and European allies' refusal to impose secondary sanctions on Russian oil buyers.

Mahindra Racing Confirms Driver Line-Up For Gen4 Formula E Season

Mahindra Racing Confirms Driver Line-Up For Gen4 Formula E Season

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Mahindra Racing has announced the retention of Edoardo Mortara and Nyck de Vries as their drivers for the 2026-27 FIA Formula E World Championship season, marking the start of the Gen4 era. The duo, who joined in 2023, have contributed significantly to the team's success, including two wins and 10 podium finishes. This continuity aims to leverage their experience for future challenges.

Ronaldo demands lifetime bans after 'Jota' chants target Neves

Ronaldo demands lifetime bans after 'Jota' chants target Neves

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo has called for a lifetime ban on football fans who chanted the name of deceased former teammate Diogo Jota at Ruben Neves during a Saudi Pro League match. The incident, which occurred during a game between Al-Taawoun and Al-Hilal, deeply affected Neves, a close friend of Jota.

'No external party...': India slams Erdogan's Kashmir remarks at UNGA

'No external party...': India slams Erdogan's Kashmir remarks at UNGA

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

India on Tuesday firmly rejected Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's reference to Jammu and Kashmir during his address at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), asserting that the issue pertains strictly to the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Flyers recall how Capt Machchhar fought back despite stabbing

Flyers recall how Capt Machchhar fought back despite stabbing

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

An Indian pilot and several passengers are being hailed as heroes after thwarting a co-pilot's alleged attempt to crash a flydubai flight en route to Tel Aviv. The incident involved a mid-air struggle, a rapid descent, and an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia, with international leaders praising the bravery that saved 174 lives.

Suhas Yathiraj, Krishna Nagar Lead India's Strong Start At Asian Para Games

Suhas Yathiraj, Krishna Nagar Lead India's Strong Start At Asian Para Games

Rediff.com16 Oct 2026

Indian para-badminton players, including Paralympics medallists Suhas Yathiraj and Krishna Nagar, have made a strong start at the Asian Para Games in Nagoya. Suhas Yathiraj secured a straight-game victory in men's singles SL4, while Krishna Nagar also won his opening SH6 match. Other Indian shuttlers also registered wins across various categories, though some pairs faced defeats.

Can India Stop Buying Russian Oil?

Can India Stop Buying Russian Oil?

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

'India should not trade away its energy security for temporary tariff relief. Neither signing a trade agreement nor stopping Russian oil purchases can protect it from future US action.'

Flydubai co-pilot identified; barred in Oman over radical views

Flydubai co-pilot identified; barred in Oman over radical views

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

An Omani citizen, Hamam al-Hammami, has been identified as the flydubai co-pilot who attacked Indian Captain Smit Machchhar and allegedly attempted to take control of a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight, which the UAE has now confirmed as a 'terrorist act'.

Plumber who never flew a plane steadied flydubai jet: Trump

Plumber who never flew a plane steadied flydubai jet: Trump

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

US President Donald Trump recounted an unconfirmed story about a flydubai flight where an Indian pilot, Smit Machchhar, fought off a knife attack from a co-pilot attempting to crash the aircraft. Trump also detailed a dramatic intervention by an Israeli plumber-passenger who helped subdue the co-pilot, learning flying basics from a TV show. Trump stressed that he was merely relaying an account from Israeli PM Netanyahu, not independently confirmed facts.

'Free Palestine' leaflets found with flydubai co-pilot who stabbed Capt Smit

'Free Palestine' leaflets found with flydubai co-pilot who stabbed Capt Smit

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

As international investigations intensify into the mid-air security scare aboard the Flydubai flight, Israel's i24 News reported that an Emirati source has revealed that among the belongings of the Omani co-pilot were leaflets and publications from "Free Palestine" groups, alongside pro-Palestinian material.

Flydubai Attack: Questions, Questions

Flydubai Attack: Questions, Questions

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

While Smit Machchhar is rightly being lauded as a hero, the curious thing is that the name of the Omani copilot responsible for this attempt to hijack or crash the aircraft has been withheld. His name and face should have been splashed all over the international media. This was not done and it therefore raises legitimate suspicion. Is it possible that his involvement could expose some powerful entity? Could it point to a blatant intelligence failure that would have left certain powers shamefaced? Could it be that he may have revealed things that could prove severely damaging to certain vested interests? asks Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (retd).

Rubio pushes US energy, defence deals as India trade pact nears finish

Rubio pushes US energy, defence deals as India trade pact nears finish

Rediff.com5 days ago

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio kick-started a three-day visit to India on Tuesday to advance bilateral ties in energy, trade and investment, defence, critical technologies, and exchange views on the West Asia crisis.

979 And Counting: Ronaldo Strikes Again For Al Nassr

979 And Counting: Ronaldo Strikes Again For Al Nassr

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Legendary striker Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 979th professional goal, leading Al Nassr to a 2-1 victory over Abha in the Saudi Pro League. Ronaldo opened the scoring, with Abdullah Al-Hamdan adding another, securing Al Nassr's second-place position in the league table.

Global Turmoil Makes Air Travel Unsafe

Global Turmoil Makes Air Travel Unsafe

Rediff.com17 Oct 2026

The flydubai near-tragedy showed how the gratuitous conflicts their governments started in West Asia have made the world unsafe for them (and unfortunate co-passengers of other nationalities), points out Kanika Datta.

India Unites In Prayer For Hero Pilot Smit Machchhar

India Unites In Prayer For Hero Pilot Smit Machchhar

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

BJP leaders and devotees across India are performing pujas and havans for the speedy recovery of Captain Smit Machchhar, who was stabbed while thwarting an alleged attempt to crash a Dubai-Tel Aviv flight. Temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Kedarnath, and Somnath are holding special rituals, honouring his courage in saving 174 lives.

'I was fighting for my life, but wouldn't let others die': Capt Machchhar tells Modi

'I was fighting for my life, but wouldn't let others die': Capt Machchhar tells Modi

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Captain Smit Machchaar for his exceptional bravery in foiling an alleged attempt by his co-pilot to crash an Israel-bound flydubai flight. Modi spoke to Machchaar and his family, expressing pride in his heroic actions that saved hundreds of lives. The incident involved a sharp descent and diversion of the flight, with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu also acknowledging Machchaar's courage.

Araujo saves Uruguay the blushes in draw with Saudi Arabia

Araujo saves Uruguay the blushes in draw with Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Maxi Araujo scored a late equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw for Uruguay in their World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia on Monday, preventing another stunning upset in Group H after Spain's earlier goalless draw with Cape Verde.

New bilateral investment treaty framework to get Cabinet nod soon: FM Sitharaman

New bilateral investment treaty framework to get Cabinet nod soon: FM Sitharaman

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that India is set to introduce a new, more investor-friendly bilateral investment treaty (BIT) framework, which is expected to receive Cabinet approval shortly, aiming to provide sharper protection for investors from both sides.

India's Russian Crude Imports Dip to 5-Month Low Amid Diversification

India's Russian Crude Imports Dip to 5-Month Low Amid Diversification

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

India's Russian crude oil imports reached a five-month low in September, dropping to 1.75 million barrels per day, as Indian refiners strategically diversify their energy supplies amidst evolving geopolitical landscapes and robust domestic demand, according to ship tracking data.

Dentist's 45-minute battle saved Smit Machchhar after cockpit stabbing

Dentist's 45-minute battle saved Smit Machchhar after cockpit stabbing

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

A dentist on a Tel Aviv-bound flydubai flight heroically saved Captain Smit Machchhar's life after he was stabbed by a co-pilot in an apparent attempt to crash the aircraft. Dr. Shuta Musaev's 45-minute intervention, using makeshift medical supplies, stabilised the severely injured captain, who is now recovering and has been praised by Indian and Israeli Prime Ministers.

'Capt Machchhar's family was worried but also proud of him'

'Capt Machchhar's family was worried but also proud of him'

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar is being hailed as a hero after he was stabbed while preventing a co-pilot from crashing a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. His Mumbai neighbours express immense pride and are praying for his speedy recovery, while his parents have travelled to Saudi Arabia for his treatment. The incident has drawn global attention and praise from leaders like PM Modi and Benjamin Netanyahu.

Asian Games 2026 Medal Tally - Live Updates & Rankings

Asian Games 2026 Medal Tally - Live Updates & Rankings

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Track the Asian Games 2026 medal table with live updates, countrywise rankings, gold, silver, and bronze counts. Stay updated on India's performance and overall standings.

Lahiri On LIV Golf Future: 'Wait For A Month, Let Things Play Out'

Lahiri On LIV Golf Future: 'Wait For A Month, Let Things Play Out'

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri described his recent season as his 'weakest' and addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding LIV Golf. He stated that his future decisions regarding where he plays will be based on the best interests of his family and himself, urging patience as the situation is dynamic. Lahiri also shared insights into his break from golf, focusing on fitness and mental well-being, and expressed excitement about returning to play at the Delhi Golf Course.

'Cristiano Ronaldo is the one who will decide on his return to Portugal team'

'Cristiano Ronaldo is the one who will decide on his return to Portugal team'

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has stated that Cristiano Ronaldo can return to the national team if he chooses to, following the captain's abrupt departure from the squad last week after being an unused substitute.

'Captain Machchhar's muscle memory averted disaster'

'Captain Machchhar's muscle memory averted disaster'

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar is being hailed as a hero for preventing a Flydubai flight from crashing after being stabbed by his co-pilot. His friend, Dr. Jinit Shah, attributes his ability to avert the tragedy to "muscle memory" and his extensive pilot training. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised Captain Machchhar's immense courage.

BRICS Express: Idea To Global Alliance

BRICS Express: Idea To Global Alliance

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

From four nations to a powerful 11-member bloc, here's how BRICS reshaped the global order in 27 years.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Struggling Spain face another stubborn opponent in Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Struggling Spain face another stubborn opponent in Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Spain arrive into their Group H clash against Saudi Arabia needing a sharper attacking display after being held to a shock 0-0 draw by World Cup debutants Cape Verde in their opening match in Atlanta.

From World Cup Hero to 28 Million Followers: Vozinha Says 'I've Lost My Peace'

From World Cup Hero to 28 Million Followers: Vozinha Says 'I've Lost My Peace'

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Vozinha went from 56,000 to 28 million Instagram followers after Cape Verde's World Cup run. Now the goalkeeper says he wants his old life back.

Gujarat to honour flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar for heroic act

Gujarat to honour flydubai pilot Smit Machchhar for heroic act

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

The Gujarat government announced that Indian pilot Smit Machchhar will be awarded the 'Visisht Gujarat Garima Award' for his extraordinary bravery. Machchhar thwarted his co-pilot's alleged attempt to crash a Flydubai flight, saving 174 lives despite being stabbed. He is currently receiving treatment in Saudi Arabia, and special prayers for his recovery have been organised at the Somnath temple.

Don't view mosque demolitions for development communally: BJP's Basit Ali

Don't view mosque demolitions for development communally: BJP's Basit Ali

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Kunwar Basit Ali, national president of BJP Minority Morcha, stated that the demolition of religious structures for development should not be viewed communally, citing examples from Uttar Pradesh and Muslim nations. He accused the Congress of misleading Muslims and instigating unrest. Ali also expressed confidence in the BJP forming the next government in Jammu and Kashmir and addressed concerns regarding the delay in statehood restoration, asserting that the central government would make the best decisions for Kashmir.

Saudi Arabia coach rues lack of intensity in draw with Uruguay

Saudi Arabia coach rues lack of intensity in draw with Uruguay

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Saudi Arabia coach Georgios Donis said his players lacked self-confidence in the second as they failed to hold on to their lead with Maxi Araujo equalising for Uruguay in the 2nd half.

Ronaldo fires Al Nassr to Saudi league title

Ronaldo fires Al Nassr to Saudi league title

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Al Nassr defeated Damac 4-1 to clinch the Saudi Pro League title, securing the club's first league crown since 2019 and Ronaldo's maiden Saudi triumph.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Yamal ignites Spain's goal rush in 4-0 rout of Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Yamal ignites Spain's goal rush in 4-0 rout of Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Inspired by Lamine Yamal, Spain strolled to a 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia in Group H on Sunday, where Mikel Oyarzabal restored his reputation with two goals and Luis de la Fuente's side found their groove after an underwhelming World Cup opener.

Jailer 2: Meet The New Players

Jailer 2: Meet The New Players

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

From Mithun Chakraborty and Vidya Balan to S J Suryah and Hrithik Roshan, Jailer 2 boasts an eclectic new cast. Here's a look at the fresh faces joining Rajinikanth's Tiger Muthuvel Pandian and the films you know them from.

4 Golds, 30 Medals: India's Asian Games Tally After Day 7

4 Golds, 30 Medals: India's Asian Games Tally After Day 7

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Asian Games medals tally after Day 7 shows China in a commanding lead with 176 medals, including 107 gold. Japan and Korea follow, while India is positioned tenth with a total of 30 medals.

Multiple countries probe background of Flydubai co-pilot

Multiple countries probe background of Flydubai co-pilot

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Authorities in Australia, Israel, and the UAE are investigating an Omani co-pilot's attempted "terrorist act" on a flydubai flight. The co-pilot, identified as Hamam al-Hammami, attacked the Indian captain with a crash axe, but passengers and reserve pilots managed to land the plane safely. The probe focuses on his motives, connections, and past radical views.

Messi, Haaland and Kane headline star-studded 30-man Ballon d'Or shortlist

Messi, Haaland and Kane headline star-studded 30-man Ballon d'Or shortlist

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Lionel Messi has made the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist after another prolific season, while five-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo was omitted despite helping Al-Nassr secure the Saudi Pro League title.