News for '-west-asia'

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

The Gulf War: What's Pakistan Up To?

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey met in Islamabad in what analysts say is the formal opening of a new diplomatic formation that could reshape the post-war regional order. Their immediate goal is a ceasefire; their larger ambition is to ensure that neither Iran nor Israel emerges from this war in a dominant position. Pakistan's foreign minister then flew directly to Beijing and mooted a Chinese role as guarantor of any eventual agreement. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Fadnavis's big claim: Neighbour wanted to break Assam but...

Fadnavis's big claim: Neighbour wanted to break Assam but...

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday claimed India's neighbours wanted to "break up" Assam by taking advantage of the unrest in the state earlier, but their "dreams were shattered" as the Narendra Modi government brought peace to the region.

Iran fires 'swarm of drones' at US-Israeli positions

Iran fires 'swarm of drones' at US-Israeli positions

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Earlier, another state media outlet showed a display of part of the IRGC's drone arsenal inside a large tunnel. Coinciding with the release of these visuals, the IRGC confirmed the launch of the 48th phase of its retaliatory campaign.

'We were kept in jail for 50 days': Indian sailors recount escape from Iran

'We were kept in jail for 50 days': Indian sailors recount escape from Iran

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

A group of Indian sailors recount their harrowing experience of being detained in Iran on suspicion of smuggling, and their subsequent escape from the country as regional tensions escalated into open conflict.

Stock Market Today March 9, 2026: Sensex tanks 1,353 points

Stock Market Today March 9, 2026: Sensex tanks 1,353 points

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Indian equity markets experienced a significant downturn, with the Sensex and Nifty plummeting due to rising crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions in West Asia, and continuous foreign fund outflows.

No deal with Iran to release seized oil tankers: India

No deal with Iran to release seized oil tankers: India

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has refuted reports suggesting a deal with Iran involving the release of seized vessels in exchange for safe passage of Indian ships through the Strait of Hormuz.

Oil Prices Tumble as US Pauses Military Action Against Iran

Oil Prices Tumble as US Pauses Military Action Against Iran

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Crude oil prices experienced a sharp decline after US President Donald Trump announced a temporary halt to military strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure, easing geopolitical tensions and supply disruption fears.

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges LDF-BJP Alliance in Kerala

Priyanka Gandhi Alleges LDF-BJP Alliance in Kerala

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi has accused the ruling LDF in Kerala and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of being Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "B-team" and of secretly joining hands with the BJP, alleging a compromised leadership and lack of accountability.

Maharashtra Govt Launches Helpline for Stranded Residents in Middle East

Maharashtra Govt Launches Helpline for Stranded Residents in Middle East

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The Maharashtra government has launched an emergency WhatsApp helpline for state residents stranded in the Middle East due to airspace closures amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is monitoring the situation and coordinating with central agencies.

Iran blames US amid intensifying energy crisis

Iran blames US amid intensifying energy crisis

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Iran has blamed the US for disruptions in oil and gas shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, citing 'destabilising actions' as the cause amid the ongoing West Asia conflict and rising energy prices.

Rupee breaches 93/dollar for the first time, down 19 paise

Rupee breaches 93/dollar for the first time, down 19 paise

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Indian rupee weakened to a record intra-day low against the US dollar due to a strengthening greenback, continuous foreign capital outflows, and elevated global crude oil prices amidst the West Asia conflict.

Stock Market Crash: 4 Lakh Crore Wiped Out as Sensex Falls 800 Points, Nifty Near 23,000

Stock Market Crash: 4 Lakh Crore Wiped Out as Sensex Falls 800 Points, Nifty Near 23,000

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Indian stock markets tumbled sharply with the Sensex falling 800 points and nearly 4 lakh crore wiped out in a single session. Here are the 6 key factors, including rupee weakness and global cues, behind the crash.

Chess Federation FIDE Reassures Safety Measures for Cyprus Tournament

Chess Federation FIDE Reassures Safety Measures for Cyprus Tournament

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has sought to allay security concerns surrounding the upcoming Candidates Tournament in Cyprus, emphasising that safety measures and contingency plans are in place despite regional instability.

Stock Markets Today March 27, 2026: Sensex tanks 927 points, Nifty50 Falls To 23,025

Stock Markets Today March 27, 2026: Sensex tanks 927 points, Nifty50 Falls To 23,025

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty tumbled in early trade on Friday after a two-day rally, tracking a weak trend in global peers, as the US-Iran conflict continues to be a key overhang for the markets. Track Sensex, Nifty50 movement and key market drivers for March 27, 2026.

Maoist debate sparks fierce NDA-UPA war of words in Lok Sabha

Maoist debate sparks fierce NDA-UPA war of words in Lok Sabha

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

The Lok Sabha witnessed a heated debate between BJP and Congress members regarding the handling of Naxalism, with the BJP accusing the previous UPA government of failing to contain left-wing extremism and the Congress defending its efforts to curb the threat.

Iran allows 10 Pak-flagged ships through Hormuz Strait as a gift to US: Trump

Iran allows 10 Pak-flagged ships through Hormuz Strait as a gift to US: Trump

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Speaking to reporters during a cabinet meeting at the White House on Thursday, Trump said the US had engaged in 'very substantial talks' with Iranian officials and described the tanker movement as proof of seriousness in the discussions.

'They sought time': Trump extends pause on Iran strikes for 10 days

'They sought time': Trump extends pause on Iran strikes for 10 days

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed a request from the Iranian government and added that talks between the two sides were 'going very well'.

Modi speaks to UAE President over 'securing' Hormuz Strait

Modi speaks to UAE President over 'securing' Hormuz Strait

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The two leaders also emphasised the importance of ensuring safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

Uniform Civil Code, One Nation One Election BJP's unfinished agenda: Modi

Uniform Civil Code, One Nation One Election BJP's unfinished agenda: Modi

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the BJP's 47th Foundation Day, highlighting the Uniform Civil Code and 'One Nation, One Election' as key unfinished agendas. He also reaffirmed the party's commitment to implementing women's reservation in the 2029 elections and criticised dynastic politics.

Modi condemns Iran attacks on Bahrain, Saudi; calls for restoring peace

Modi condemns Iran attacks on Bahrain, Saudi; calls for restoring peace

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with the King of Bahrain and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, condemning recent attacks on both countries and emphasising the importance of regional peace and stability.

Dubai could be blown up if UAE enters Iran war: Top US economist

Dubai could be blown up if UAE enters Iran war: Top US economist

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Economist Jeffrey Sachs saw Gulf nations' decision to partner with the US through the Abraham Accords as an "invitation for disaster" as it made them more dependent on American protection.

Will Embracing Israel Prove Costly For India?

Will Embracing Israel Prove Costly For India?

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

By appearing to privilege ideological affinity over strategic balance, India risks eroding the trust painstakingly built across West Asia. Once the perception takes hold that India's friendship is conditional and transactional, rebuilding credibility will be difficult, warns Amberish K Diwanji.

Thane Police Seize Illegal LPG Cylinders Amid Shortage Concerns

Thane Police Seize Illegal LPG Cylinders Amid Shortage Concerns

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Police in Thane district seized 84 illegally stored LPG cylinders worth Rs 2.22 lakh from a private premises in Bhiwandi, leading to a case against three individuals under the Essential Commodities Act. The raid comes amid increased vigilance to prevent hoarding and black marketing of domestic gas cylinders.

Urmila, Mouni, Shalini At Shabana Azmi's Holi Party

Urmila, Mouni, Shalini At Shabana Azmi's Holi Party

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

It's a riot of colours at Shabana Azmi's Holi party.

Trump, Putin discuss Iran crisis as Hormuz disruption jolts global energy

Trump, Putin discuss Iran crisis as Hormuz disruption jolts global energy

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the Iran conflict and its impact on global energy supplies during a phone call.

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.

US Special Envoy Meets Sri Lankan President Amidst Regional Tensions

US Special Envoy Meets Sri Lankan President Amidst Regional Tensions

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

US Special Representative Sergio Gor met with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and Sri Lanka's stance on the Middle East crisis. The visit occurs amidst regional tensions and US efforts to secure trade routes in the Indo-Pacific.

India has adequate fuel stocks, commercial LPG restored to 70%: Govt

India has adequate fuel stocks, commercial LPG restored to 70%: Govt

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The ministry of petroleum and natural gas on Friday reiterated that India has sufficient stock of crude oil, petrol and diesel, while ensuring an uninterrupted supply of LNG and LPG despite disruptions caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict.

Ahmedabad Asian Weightlifting Championships rescheduled due to Middle East conflict

Ahmedabad Asian Weightlifting Championships rescheduled due to Middle East conflict

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The Asian Weightlifting Championships, originally scheduled for April in Ahmedabad, have been postponed to May due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, ensuring the safety and participation of all delegations.

Family of Rajasthani Sailor Missing After Tanker Attack Near Oman Gripped by Anxiety

Family of Rajasthani Sailor Missing After Tanker Attack Near Oman Gripped by Anxiety

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

The family of a Rajasthani sailor, Dalip Singh, is gripped by anxiety after he went missing following an attack on an oil tanker near Oman. The search continues as the family clings to hope amidst the escalating West Asia crisis.

Iran unveils vast underground missile base, counters US claim

Iran unveils vast underground missile base, counters US claim

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

In a clear message to international observers, the strategic site was pointedly "described as "the tip of the iceberg" regarding the nation's hidden arsenal.

Indian Scientists Pioneer DME Technology to Replace LPG Amid Supply Concerns

Indian Scientists Pioneer DME Technology to Replace LPG Amid Supply Concerns

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Researchers at CSIR-NCL have developed a technology for producing dimethyl ether (DME) as an alternative to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), potentially reducing India's reliance on imports and enhancing energy security.

No Iran deal except unconditional surrender: Trump

No Iran deal except unconditional surrender: Trump

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

United States President Donald Trump on Friday declared that there would be 'no deal with Iran except unconditional surrender' amid the escalating West Asia conflict, asserting that Tehran must capitulate before any diplomatic negotiations can proceed.

Do not cross borders without embassy nod, India tells citizens in Iran

Do not cross borders without embassy nod, India tells citizens in Iran

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued an advisory urging Indian citizens in Iran to coordinate with the embassy before attempting to cross any land borders, citing potential logistical and immigration difficulties.

US now begging India, world to buy Russian oil: Iran

US now begging India, world to buy Russian oil: Iran

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Saturday criticised the United States over its stance on Russian oil, claiming Washington was now "begging" countries across the globe, including India, to purchase Russian crude.

913 Indians exit Iran through Armenia, Azerbaijan: MEA

913 Indians exit Iran through Armenia, Azerbaijan: MEA

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the number of Indians exiting Iran through Armenia and Azerbaijan has increased since the previous update.

Iran naval commander leading closure of Hormuz killed, claims Israel

Iran naval commander leading closure of Hormuz killed, claims Israel

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced a series of military operations against US and Israeli targets in retaliation for earlier airstrikes. The IRGC claims to have launched multiple missile and drone strikes, and has warned against any potential ground operations within Iranian territory.

Haryana Government Takes Action Against LPG Black Marketing, Seizes Hundreds of Cylinders

Haryana Government Takes Action Against LPG Black Marketing, Seizes Hundreds of Cylinders

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Haryana government is taking strict measures to combat the black marketing of cooking gas cylinders, registering FIRs and seizing hundreds of cylinders. Officials assure citizens of sufficient LPG supply despite global concerns.

Passenger Vehicle Sales Surge to Record High in India, Driven by GST 2.0

Passenger Vehicle Sales Surge to Record High in India, Driven by GST 2.0

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Passenger vehicle sales in India reached a record high of 4.7 million units in FY26, boosted by strong performances from major automakers and the implementation of GST 2.0.

Trump signals winding down Iran ops as US sends more troops

Trump signals winding down Iran ops as US sends more troops

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

In a post on Truth Social, Trump outlined key goals of the campaign, including degrading Iran's missile capabilities, dismantling its defence industrial base, eliminating naval and air power, preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear capability, and protecting United States allies such as Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.