News for 'Gulf'

Sensex tanked 2,497 points, its biggest single-day plunge since June 2024

Sensex tanked 2,497 points, its biggest single-day plunge since June 2024

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Indian stock market indices Sensex and Nifty experienced a significant drop in early trade, reversing a three-day rally. The decline was triggered by a sharp increase in crude oil prices, weak global market trends, and continuous outflows of foreign funds.

West Asia War Pushes RBI into Growth-Inflation Dilemma

West Asia War Pushes RBI into Growth-Inflation Dilemma

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra is now confronting the classic growth-inflation tradeoff, a situation exacerbated by the West Asia war, which threatens to end the 'goldilocks period' of low inflation and robust growth.

Middle East conflict: Telangana man hurt in attack near Abu Dhabi airport

Middle East conflict: Telangana man hurt in attack near Abu Dhabi airport

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Rao, who works in the housekeeping section at the airport, informed his parents that he and several others escaped with minor injuries.

Fighting 'existential war' against US, Israel: Iran

Fighting 'existential war' against US, Israel: Iran

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Amid escalating tensions, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh declares Iran's unwavering commitment to a 'heroic nationalist defence' against perceived American and Israeli aggression, vowing to resist what he calls an 'invasion' to the very end.

P V Sindhu Stranded at Dubai Airport After US Attacks Iran

P V Sindhu Stranded at Dubai Airport After US Attacks Iran

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu was stranded at Dubai airport en route to the All England Open badminton tournament due to flight suspensions caused by escalating tensions in the Middle East.

What Happens When Trump's Deadline Expires?

What Happens When Trump's Deadline Expires?

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Trump may strike. He may announce productive talks and extend again. He may do both at the same time. Iran will not open the Strait on someone else's terms, so no matter what happens, that problem will remain unsolved. And the IRGC will still be collecting its $2 million toll from every ship bold enough to ask permission to pass.

CIA station in Saudi Arabia hit in drone attack

CIA station in Saudi Arabia hit in drone attack

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The US embassy in Saudi Arabia and the US consulate in Dubai were reportedly targeted by suspected Iranian drone attacks amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

US-Iran: The Weekend Has Left The World In A More Dangerous Place

US-Iran: The Weekend Has Left The World In A More Dangerous Place

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The ceasefire is still technically holding, to the extent that no overt hostilities have been reported yet, but the rhetoric has hardened dangerously. The week ahead will also clarify whether the Islamabad failure was a negotiating tactic or whether Washington has genuinely locked itself into a position from which the only exits are climb-down, escalation, or the slow bleed of a new status quo that nobody chose and nobody controls. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

Kerala Elections 2026: Can An 80-Year-Old Marxist Score A Hat-Trick?

Kerala Elections 2026: Can An 80-Year-Old Marxist Score A Hat-Trick?

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Kerala's 2026 assembly election will see a three-cornered contest where religion and communalism have emerged as central themes for the first time, challenging the state's long-celebrated secular fabric.

MEA voices concern over situation in West Asia, silent on Khamenei killing

MEA voices concern over situation in West Asia, silent on Khamenei killing

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, India voices strong concerns over the safety of its nationals and the potential disruption to energy supplies, urging dialogue and diplomacy for a swift resolution.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

MF launches taper off in March in the midst of West Asia flare-up

MF launches taper off in March in the midst of West Asia flare-up

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Uncertainty stemming from the US-Iran conflict has significantly impacted India's mutual fund industry, leading to a sharp decline in new fund offers (NFOs) in March, despite numerous regulatory approvals. This geopolitical tension, coupled with existing market strain and distributor hesitation, has dampened investor sentiment and affected overall inflows.

The Rediff Podcast: Stay Invested When Markets Fall: Swati Khemani

The Rediff Podcast: Stay Invested When Markets Fall: Swati Khemani

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

'Portfolios built in these phases often deliver the strongest outcomes over time.'

'Just reading statement without...': Oppn demands debate on Iran war

'Just reading statement without...': Oppn demands debate on Iran war

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Opposition parties are demanding a full Parliament discussion on the West Asia conflict, criticising the government's silence and calling for a contingency plan to protect India's energy security and citizens.

Strait of Hormuz opens to ships but marine covers to stay pricey

Strait of Hormuz opens to ships but marine covers to stay pricey

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Despite Iran allowing 'non-hostile vessels' through the Strait of Hormuz, marine insurance premiums are expected to remain elevated due to persistent high-risk classifications and ongoing geopolitical tensions, with experts cautioning that the threat of attacks and collateral damage still exists.

'Great surprise' awaits Trump: Iran warns against ground attack

'Great surprise' awaits Trump: Iran warns against ground attack

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

As the security situation continues to evolve in West Asia and the Gulf region, an Iranian military source has warned the United States against any ground aggression on Iran, calling it a red line and saying a 'surprise' would await US President Donald Trump, Tasnim News Agency reported on Saturday.

Iranian cluster bomb attack damages kindergarten in Israel

Iranian cluster bomb attack damages kindergarten in Israel

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Initial reports suggested that shrapnel caused significant damage to the structure; however, no direct missile impact was reported.

Islamabad Talks: Look Out For Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf

Islamabad Talks: Look Out For Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Trump seems to have estimated that Ghalibaf is a pragmatic politician who is receptive to close relations with the US and is enthusiastic about fostering business and economic ties in particular, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

4 South Africa players depart; 9 West Indies stars leave for home

4 South Africa players depart; 9 West Indies stars leave for home

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The ICC said the South African contingent had begun departing for home on Wednesday with "four players and five family members having boarded the flight".

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.

Modi to interact with chief ministers over West Asia conflict

Modi to interact with chief ministers over West Asia conflict

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a video conference with chief ministers of most states to assess their preparedness and strategies in response to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Modi, Macron Discuss West Asia Situation, Stress Diplomacy

Modi, Macron Discuss West Asia Situation, Stress Diplomacy

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed the escalating situation in West Asia, emphasising the need for dialogue and diplomacy to restore peace and stability in the region.

The Rediff Podcast: Stay Invested When Markets Fall: Swati Khemani

The Rediff Podcast: Stay Invested When Markets Fall: Swati Khemani

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

'Portfolios built in these phases often deliver the strongest outcomes over time.'

Is The Dubai Dream Over?

Is The Dubai Dream Over?

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Dubai's core promise -- that it is an oasis untouched by regional storms -- has been tested in full public view. The coming months will show whether investors view the attacks as a short-lived disruption or a deeper signal of lasting risk, points out Asif Ullah Khan.

'War Is Brutal. At Sea, Even More Brutal'

'War Is Brutal. At Sea, Even More Brutal'

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

'India was not obliged to protect the Iranian ship.' 'Once the Iranian ship left Indian waters, she was on her own.' 'Guilt tripping India is wrong.'

Trump urges countries to send warships to open Hormuz Strait

Trump urges countries to send warships to open Hormuz Strait

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Trump also called upon China, France, and Japan, among others, to send ships to the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran War: Truce Is A Bitter Pill For Trump To Swallow

Iran War: Truce Is A Bitter Pill For Trump To Swallow

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The logic of war plus the gathering storms in US politics as the midterms loom large leave him with no real alternative but to negotiate, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

IndiGo stock may face more downgrades due to Middle East crisis

IndiGo stock may face more downgrades due to Middle East crisis

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

IndiGo operator InterGlobe Aviation had a mildly encouraging third quarter in financial year 2026 (Q3FY26).

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.

Modi reviews fuel, power, fertiliser supply amid West Asia tensions

Modi reviews fuel, power, fertiliser supply amid West Asia tensions

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a meeting with senior ministers to assess the impact of the evolving situation in West Asia on India's crude oil, gas, petroleum, power, and fertiliser sectors, focusing on ensuring uninterrupted supply and stable logistics.

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.

'Urge all sides...': India reacts as US-Israel attack Iran

'Urge all sides...': India reacts as US-Israel attack Iran

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Following a joint attack by the US and Israel on Iran, India is calling for restraint and de-escalation to avoid further military confrontation in the Middle East.

Is US-Israel-Iran War Entering Endgame?

Is US-Israel-Iran War Entering Endgame?

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

To be sure, Trump is furious, as the trajectory of the war is in a state of Zugzwang, as chess players call it. Trump and Netanyahu stare at two choices -- retreat in humiliation and concede Tehran's demands -- recognition of its rights, reparations, and binding security guarantees -- or perish in a quagmire, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

US urges citizens to leave 12 Middle East nations; 6 American troops killed

US urges citizens to leave 12 Middle East nations; 6 American troops killed

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged its citizens to immediately depart from several Middle Eastern countries, citing "serious safety risks."

West Asia crisis: Govt mulls more relief packages for vulnerable sectors

West Asia crisis: Govt mulls more relief packages for vulnerable sectors

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The Indian government is considering additional relief packages for vulnerable sectors like MSMEs to mitigate the impact of the ongoing West Asia crisis on the economy and inflation.

Indian national killed in Iranian attack on US oil tanker

Indian national killed in Iranian attack on US oil tanker

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

An Indian national has reportedly been killed in an attack carried out by Iran using a 'suicide' boat against a US-owned oil tanker near Iraq. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of seafarers in the region.

Iranian missile hits Israeli town, 9 killed

Iranian missile hits Israeli town, 9 killed

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

An Iranian missile strike targeted the town of Beit Shemesh, located west of Jerusalem, resulting in significant casualties and structural devastation, as reported by Al Jazeera. The strike caused extensive damage earlier Sunday to several buildings, with one structure completely collapsing under the impact.

How Long Can India Absorb Rising Fuel Costs?

How Long Can India Absorb Rising Fuel Costs?

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

India's net oil import bill could rise by $56 billion to $64 billion annually assuming global crude averages $110 to $115 per barrel in FY27.

Russia warns US-Israeli strike on Iranian port risks Caspian conflict

Russia warns US-Israeli strike on Iranian port risks Caspian conflict

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Russia has expressed strong concern over a US-Israeli strike on the Iranian port of Bandar Anzali, a key transit hub on the INSTC, warning of the risk of drawing Caspian states into the ongoing conflict.

Muzychuk Steps In as Humpy Withdraws from Candidates Tournament Over Safety Fears

Muzychuk Steps In as Humpy Withdraws from Candidates Tournament Over Safety Fears

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Anna Muzychuk of Ukraine will replace Koneru Humpy in the Candidates Tournament in Cyprus after Humpy withdrew due to safety concerns related to the region's proximity to the West Asia conflict.