News for 'Middle East'

Kim cites Iran war to justify North Korea's nuclear arsenal

Kim cites Iran war to justify North Korea's nuclear arsenal

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Speaking to North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly on Tuesday, Kim accused the United States of carrying out 'terrorism and invasions' across regions, referring to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

'Bitter defeat': Iran counters Trump over F-15 rescue

'Bitter defeat': Iran counters Trump over F-15 rescue

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

While Trump described the operation as the 'most daring' search and rescue mission in US military history, Iran termed it a victory, claiming it shot down a C-130-class aircraft involved in the operation.

Pakistan offers to host US-Iran talks after call with Saudi Crown Prince

Pakistan offers to host US-Iran talks after call with Saudi Crown Prince

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has offered to mediate between the US and Iran to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in West Asia, following a joint US-Israel attack on Iran. Sharif has been in contact with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other nations to promote dialogue and diplomacy.

Iran Rewrites Rules of War

Iran Rewrites Rules of War

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Iran is fighting a different war: Older, slower, and in some ways more dangerous. Iran doesn't need to shoot down an F/A-18. It only needs to make the Strait of Hormuz feel dangerous long enough for insurance markets, shipping companies, and oil futures traders to do the rest. Prem Panicker continues his must-read daily blog on the war in the Middle East.

Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader lauds India as 'land of humanity'

Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader lauds India as 'land of humanity'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India expressed gratitude towards Indians, calling India a land of 'loyalty and humanity'.

Drones fired at warship, US troops retreat, claims Iran

Drones fired at warship, US troops retreat, claims Iran

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Tensions escalate between Iran and the US following an attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Sea of Oman, with both sides trading accusations over maritime security and ceasefire violations.

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.

War to go on till US faces permanent humiliation: Iran refutes Trump

War to go on till US faces permanent humiliation: Iran refutes Trump

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Iranian military on Thursday issued a strongly worded response to remarks made by United States President Donald Trump, warning that the ongoing conflict will persist until Washington, DC faces what it described as 'permanent humiliation, regret, and surrender', as reported by Iranian state media Press TV.

After Hormuz, Iran to block Bab el-Mandeb strait? Top official drops hint

After Hormuz, Iran to block Bab el-Mandeb strait? Top official drops hint

Rediff.com4 Apr 2026

A senior Iranian legislator has suggested that Tehran could further escalate pressure on its adversaries by targeting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, raising concerns about global supply chain vulnerabilities.

Won't take life insurance policy for Mojtaba Khamenei: Netanyahu

Won't take life insurance policy for Mojtaba Khamenei: Netanyahu

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserts that the joint US-Israel campaign against Iran is progressing successfully, highlighting Israel's strengthened position and hinting at new regional alliances.

Despite talks, US may deploy 10,000 additional troops to West Asia

Despite talks, US may deploy 10,000 additional troops to West Asia

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The deployment could include infantry and armoured units, in addition to the 82nd Airborne Division, which is already stationed in the region.

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.

Israel Military on Verge of 'Collapse' Due to Troop Shortage: IDF Chief

Israel Military on Verge of 'Collapse' Due to Troop Shortage: IDF Chief

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

IDF chief stressed the urgent need for legislative measures, including a conscription law, a reserve duty law, and an extension of mandatory military service.

Stranded West Indies, South Africa players to leave India on Tuesday

Stranded West Indies, South Africa players to leave India on Tuesday

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The West Indies and South Africa cricket teams are scheduled to leave India after being stranded due to travel restrictions caused by the Middle East conflict following their T20 World Cup campaigns.

HCLTech Q4 net profit up 4.2% to Rs 4,488 crore, FY27 growth seen at 1-4%

HCLTech Q4 net profit up 4.2% to Rs 4,488 crore, FY27 growth seen at 1-4%

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

IT major HCLTech reported a 4.20 per cent year-on-year rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 4,488 crore for the January-March quarter of FY26, but projected a modest 1-4 per cent revenue growth for FY27, citing market volatility and reduced discretionary spending.

Behind The Runway: The Crisis Designers Are Facing Right Now

Behind The Runway: The Crisis Designers Are Facing Right Now

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Whether it's made-to-order fashion, reduced waste or tech-driven showcases, designers are being forced to slow down and think smarter.

Iran threatens to target US-Israeli universities in West Asia

Iran threatens to target US-Israeli universities in West Asia

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Sunday issued a stark warning that American and Israeli universities in West Asia could be treated as 'legitimate targets' in retaliation for alleged United States and Israeli strikes on Iranian academic institutions and cultural infrastructure.

US Army chief ousted amid war in Iran, former Hegseth aide takes charge

US Army chief ousted amid war in Iran, former Hegseth aide takes charge

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

The decision marks a significant leadership transition as the administration seeks a commander who 'will implement Donald Trump and Hegseth's vision for the Army'.

US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible attack within 48 hours

US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible attack within 48 hours

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

In a post on X, the embassy said such groups 'may intend to conduct attacks in central Baghdad in the next 24-48 hours', raising concerns over the safety of US citizens and installations in Iraq.

Trump backs Israel strike, says Hezbollah not part of ceasefire deal

Trump backs Israel strike, says Hezbollah not part of ceasefire deal

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday backed Israel's ongoing military operation in Lebanon, stating that Hezbollah "was not included" in the recent ceasefire deal between Washington and Tehran, which halted the conflict in West Asia for two weeks.

Day after Trump call, UK weighs 'Octopus' anti-drone shield in Gulf

Day after Trump call, UK weighs 'Octopus' anti-drone shield in Gulf

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

Specifically, military experts are assessing if the 'Octopus' interceptor anti-drone system, produced in the UK to support Ukraine in countering Russian threats, could be repurposed to strengthen British protections against Iran's Shahed drones.

Why Does US Want Pakistan To Mediate With Iran?

Why Does US Want Pakistan To Mediate With Iran?

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The United States' historical strategic alignment with Pakistan, dating back to the Cold War, has consistently aimed to create a political and military parity with India, despite India's significantly larger size and resources. This long-standing relationship continues to influence regional dynamics, particularly in West Asia and the Indo-Pacific.

Dubai most competitive in Middle East

Dubai most competitive in Middle East

Rediff.com30 Mar 2009

Dubai has the most competitive economy in the Middle East and ranked higher for its competitiveness than Japan, Germany, France and New Zealand, a new study released on Monday said.

Israel backs Iran ceasefire, refuses to halt ops against Hezbollah

Israel backs Iran ceasefire, refuses to halt ops against Hezbollah

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Israel will continue its offensive in South Lebanon aimed at neutralising the threat from Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran.

Two more Indian LPG tankers transit Hormuz with 94K tonne cooking gas

Two more Indian LPG tankers transit Hormuz with 94K tonne cooking gas

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Two more Indian-flagged LPG tankers have safely navigated the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring continued cooking gas supply to India amidst regional conflict. These tankers are expected to reach Indian shores soon, following the successful transit of previous vessels.

Time to change course in the Middle East: Romney

Time to change course in the Middle East: Romney

Rediff.com8 Oct 2012

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney plans pursue a more aggressive policy toward the Middle East, sharply different from that of United States President Barack Obama on Iran, Syria and Libya.

US President Biden In Middle East For First Time

US President Biden In Middle East For First Time

Rediff.com13 Jul 2022

POTUS is on a four-day visit to Israel and Saudi Arabia.

US intel report counters Trump on Iran's missile capability

US intel report counters Trump on Iran's missile capability

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Media reports based on intelligence sources say nearly half of Iran's missile launchers remain intact, while thousands of one-way attack drones are still part of its arsenal even after continuous strikes targeting military infrastructure over the past five weeks.

Report reveals White House role in Pak PM's peace plea

Report reveals White House role in Pak PM's peace plea

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

A media report indicates the White House was directly involved in crafting a social media post by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, requesting then-US President Donald Trump to extend the deadline on Iran.

Iran claims 'complete control' of Strait of Hormuz

Iran claims 'complete control' of Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claims control of the Strait of Hormuz and reports striking a US destroyer, escalating tensions in the Middle East following retaliatory strikes between Iran, the US, and Israel.

USS Tripoli enters West Asia combat zone with 3,500 marines

USS Tripoli enters West Asia combat zone with 3,500 marines

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The USS Tripoli, carrying around 3,500 US Marines, has entered the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility, marking the deployment of one of America's largest amphibious assault ships into an active combat theatre in West Asia amid the ongoing conflict.

More use of speciality fertilisers can help tide over supply shocks: Experts

More use of speciality fertilisers can help tide over supply shocks: Experts

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Despite significant price differences, Indian farmers are increasingly adopting non-subsidised speciality fertilisers, which are seen as a potential solution to the rising fertiliser subsidy burden exacerbated by global supply shocks.

India, Israel upgrade ties to 'strategic partnership'; Modi backs Gaza peace

India, Israel upgrade ties to 'strategic partnership'; Modi backs Gaza peace

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

India and Israel have elevated their relationship to a special strategic partnership, focusing on enhanced cooperation in trade, technology, and defense, while also addressing regional peace initiatives.

Iran's nuke programme would've gone 'immune within months': Netanyahu

Iran's nuke programme would've gone 'immune within months': Netanyahu

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel and the US struck Iran because Tehran had restarted its nuclear programme and it would have gone 'immune within months'. He claimed Iran was building new underground sites to shield its missile and nuclear programmes from attacks.

R. Vaishali's Candidates Triumph: The Making Of A Chess Champion Through Family And Perseverance

R. Vaishali's Candidates Triumph: The Making Of A Chess Champion Through Family And Perseverance

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

R. Vaishali, the newly-crowned Candidates champion, exemplifies quiet intensity and strong values, nurtured by a supportive family, as she prepares for the World Championship showdown against Ju Wenjun.

Pahalgam Terror Attack: Hard Lessons For India

Pahalgam Terror Attack: Hard Lessons For India

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

We, Indians, forgot that for Pakistan, Kashmir dispute and blood feud with India is the raison detre for its existence. It is also the excuse with which the Pak army keeps its grip over the state. Peace in Kashmir and between India and Pakistan is against the interests of the Pak army, points out Colonel Anil A Athale (Retd).

Iran rejects US 15-point plan, tables own demands

Iran rejects US 15-point plan, tables own demands

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Iran on Monday described the 15-point proposal from the United States to end the conflict in West Asia and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz as 'excessively demanding', stating that it has prepared its own set of demands to end hostilities, which have now entered their second month.

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.

Regime change in Iran was never our goal, claims Trump

Regime change in Iran was never our goal, claims Trump

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Trump emphasised that diplomatic discussions remain ongoing. At the same time, he issued a stark warning, saying that failure to reach an agreement could trigger military action.

Trump warns Iran of 'extremely hard' strikes as US nears endgame

Trump warns Iran of 'extremely hard' strikes as US nears endgame

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

In his first major national address since hostilities began, Trump said the ongoing military campaign, dubbed 'Operation Epic Fury', has delivered 'swift, decisive, overwhelming victories'.