News for 'The Diplomat'

Sri Lanka Sets Up Emergency Hotlines Amid West Asia Tensions

Sri Lanka Sets Up Emergency Hotlines Amid West Asia Tensions

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Sri Lanka has established emergency hotlines and is in close contact with its diplomatic missions in West Asia following escalating tensions in the region. The country is also preparing its airports for potential flight diversions and emergencies.

Why Kashmiris Are Donating Gold, Money For Iran

Why Kashmiris Are Donating Gold, Money For Iran

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

'Many have contributed in terms of gold and silver. Ladies in big numbers have contributed their home belongings and gold.' 'Some have donated their cars too.'

Foreign Nationals' Arrest Exposes Security Gaps on India-Myanmar Border

Foreign Nationals' Arrest Exposes Security Gaps on India-Myanmar Border

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Indian security agencies have arrested seven foreign nationals, including a US security analyst and six Ukrainians, for allegedly entering India illegally from Myanmar and suspected of training insurgent groups. The arrests have raised concerns about security vulnerabilities along the India-Myanmar border and triggered diplomatic friction.

Pakistan Claims Hundreds of Afghan Taliban Operatives Killed in Border Operation

Pakistan Claims Hundreds of Afghan Taliban Operatives Killed in Border Operation

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Pakistan claims significant casualties inflicted on Afghan Taliban operatives during a recent military operation along the border, while diplomatic efforts are reportedly underway to find a negotiated solution.

Trump's Pause Gives Iran NOTHING!

Trump's Pause Gives Iran NOTHING!

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The pause gives the US time to breathe, to regroup, to move its expeditionary force into position without risk of interception along the way. It gives Iran nothing -- on the ground, attacks against its infrastructure continue apace. Prem Panicker in his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Taking all steps to address LPG crisis: Centre to HC

Taking all steps to address LPG crisis: Centre to HC

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The Central government has assured the Bombay High Court that it is taking steps to address the LPG shortage caused by the conflict in West Asia. The court accepted the submission and disposed of a petition filed by LPG distributors.

Me and ayatollah will run Strait of Hormuz: Trump

Me and ayatollah will run Strait of Hormuz: Trump

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Trump said that the strait will be "open very soon" if ongoing negotiations with Tehran continue successfully.

Declare Pak atrocities against Hindus in 1971 as genocide: US lawmaker

Declare Pak atrocities against Hindus in 1971 as genocide: US lawmaker

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

A US Congressman has introduced a resolution urging the US government to recognise the 1971 atrocities committed against Bengali Hindus in Bangladesh by the Pakistani Army as a genocide, seeking justice and historical acknowledgement.

Karnataka CM Asks Modi to Ensure Safety of Indians in Middle East

Karnataka CM Asks Modi to Ensure Safety of Indians in Middle East

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take measures to protect Indian citizens in the Middle East due to escalating geopolitical tensions, including initiating evacuation plans and enhancing diplomatic efforts.

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.

Putin speaks with Iran Prez amid war, calls for de-escalation

Putin speaks with Iran Prez amid war, calls for de-escalation

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, Russian President Vladimir Putin is actively calling for de-escalation and political resolution, engaging with Iranian and US counterparts to navigate the complex conflict landscape.

IPL 2026: KKR Sign Blessing Muzarabani As Mustafizur's Replacement

IPL 2026: KKR Sign Blessing Muzarabani As Mustafizur's Replacement

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders have signed Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman for IPL 2026, which is scheduled to start on March 28.

Putin intervenes as crisis in West Asia escalates

Putin intervenes as crisis in West Asia escalates

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Russian President Vladimir Putin is actively working to de-escalate the escalating crisis in the Gulf, engaging with regional leaders following Iran's retaliatory strikes on US facilities after joint US-Israeli strikes against Iran.

75 Years Apart: Nehru's Caution Vs Modi's Conviction

75 Years Apart: Nehru's Caution Vs Modi's Conviction

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

India and Israel share a deep historical bond, and Prime Minister Modi's visit to the Knesset marked a bold shift from past diplomatic hesitation to open strategic partnership.

Iran vows to hit tourist destinations 'beyond' West Asia

Iran vows to hit tourist destinations 'beyond' West Asia

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

The threat has raised concerns about possible asymmetric attacks outside the region. Iran has also stepped up attacks on energy infrastructure in Gulf countries.

'Strait of Hormuz closed to Iran's enemies only'

'Strait of Hormuz closed to Iran's enemies only'

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Ali Mousavi stated that such cooperation is essential for maintaining stability in the strategic waterway.

Putin, UAE Prez step in, call for immediate ceasefire in West Asia

Putin, UAE Prez step in, call for immediate ceasefire in West Asia

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The US-Israeli military campaign, dubbed "Operation Epic Fury" by Washington, has entered its third day, with US President Donald Trump stating that operations would continue "until all of our objectives are achieved."

Pakistan Assures Saudi Arabia of Support 'Before It Is Needed' Amid West Asia Conflict

Pakistan Assures Saudi Arabia of Support 'Before It Is Needed' Amid West Asia Conflict

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

A senior Pakistani official has affirmed Pakistan's commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia, even before assistance is explicitly requested, amidst ongoing conflict in West Asia. This pledge underscores the close ties between the two nations and Pakistan's role in regional stability.

'Contact with Iran difficult': Jaishankar outlines India's position on Middle East war

'Contact with Iran difficult': Jaishankar outlines India's position on Middle East war

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the Rajya Sabha on India's position regarding the escalating conflict in West Asia, emphasising the need for peace, dialogue, and the safety of civilians, while also prioritising India's energy security and trade interests.

West Asia conflict: Modi urges states to guard supply chains, curb panic

West Asia conflict: Modi urges states to guard supply chains, curb panic

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting with chief ministers to review preparedness and plans in light of the West Asia conflict, emphasising the importance of national unity and enhanced security measures.

London Court Upholds Nirav Modi Extradition Based on Indian Government Assurances

London Court Upholds Nirav Modi Extradition Based on Indian Government Assurances

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The London High Court has rejected Nirav Modi's petition to reopen his extradition case, citing the Indian government's assurances regarding his treatment in India as a key factor in their decision.

The Inspiring Journey Of Sreeja, UPSC AIR 57

The Inspiring Journey Of Sreeja, UPSC AIR 57

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

'India is at a critical juncture in this century. I want to be a part of the diplomatic team that works to make India great.'

Talking with 'a top person' in Iran, not new supreme leader: Trump

Talking with 'a top person' in Iran, not new supreme leader: Trump

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The US President clarified that these negotiations do not involve the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.

'He is alive': Israeli envoy to India dismisses Netanyahu death rumours

'He is alive': Israeli envoy to India dismisses Netanyahu death rumours

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has refuted rumours circulating about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's death, attributing the disinformation to Iran and its allies.

Ahead of Carney visit, Canada says India no longer linked to violent crimes

Ahead of Carney visit, Canada says India no longer linked to violent crimes

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

The statement suggests that Canadian authorities do not see ongoing foreign interference or violent activity tied to India at present.

MEA reveals how India is responding to West Asia crisis

MEA reveals how India is responding to West Asia crisis

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar are actively engaged with world leaders to promote dialogue and diplomacy for peace in West Asia, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the Indian community in the region.

Zubeen Garg drowned accidentally, no evidence of foul play: Singapore court

Zubeen Garg drowned accidentally, no evidence of foul play: Singapore court

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

A Singapore coroner's inquest has officially ruled the death of Indian singer Zubeen Garg as an accidental drowning, concluding a thorough investigation that found no evidence of foul play and highlighting the role of alcohol intoxication.

India denies links to transnational violence in Canada amid Nijjar case

India denies links to transnational violence in Canada amid Nijjar case

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

India has categorically rejected allegations of its involvement in transnational violence or organised crime in Canada, following a media report linking Indian officials to the killing of Sikh extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

How Many Indians Live In The Middle East?

How Many Indians Live In The Middle East?

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Based on figures currently listed on the ministry of external affairs web site, a large number of Indians reside across West Asia.

Stand firmly with Saudi Arabia, Pak PM tells MBS in 'restricted meeting'

Stand firmly with Saudi Arabia, Pak PM tells MBS in 'restricted meeting'

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to express Pakistan's support for the Kingdom amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, reaffirming their mutual defence pact and commitment to regional stability.

India, UK to Enhance Cooperation on Counter-Terrorism

India, UK to Enhance Cooperation on Counter-Terrorism

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

India and the United Kingdom have agreed to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism and organized crime, including addressing pro-Khalistani extremists in Britain, during the sixth India-UK Home Affairs Dialogue.

Iran rejects Trump's talks claim, says US buying time for military plans

Iran rejects Trump's talks claim, says US buying time for military plans

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

"The US President's statements are within the framework of efforts to reduce energy prices and gain time to implement his military plans," the ministry stated.

'Blatant assault on public order': Court slams IYC protest at AI Summit

'Blatant assault on public order': Court slams IYC protest at AI Summit

Rediff.com22 Feb 2026

A Delhi court has criticized the conduct of Indian Youth Congress workers who protested at the AI Impact Summit venue, stating their actions were not legitimate dissent but a 'blatant assault on public order' that also harmed the country's diplomatic image.

Trump dials Modi, talks focus on keeping Strait of Hormuz open

Trump dials Modi, talks focus on keeping Strait of Hormuz open

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed the Middle East crisis, with a focus on the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran hits American embassy in Riyadh, US pulls staff

Iran hits American embassy in Riyadh, US pulls staff

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The US Embassy acknowledged the attack in a post on X, urging Americans to avoid the facility 'until further notice' and announcing that all appointments had been cancelled.

Does The US Plan To Continue This War For 'One Or Two Years'?

Does The US Plan To Continue This War For 'One Or Two Years'?

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

This weekend, Donald Trump has begun to say the quiet part out loud -- that he wants to take control of Iran's oil, a formulation more in line with his robber-baron style of international relations.

West Asia conflict: Jaishankar dials Iranian counterpart Araghchi

West Asia conflict: Jaishankar dials Iranian counterpart Araghchi

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

India on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict in Iran and the Gulf region, urging all sides to exercise restraint and prioritise civilian safety.

Gold, Silver Prices Poised for Rally Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty

Gold, Silver Prices Poised for Rally Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Analysts predict a surge in gold and silver prices as investors seek safe-haven assets due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. The impact on domestic prices will depend on the conflict's duration, with geopolitical factors and macroeconomic data also playing a role.

Gulf War: US, Israel Didn't Expect This To Happen

Gulf War: US, Israel Didn't Expect This To Happen

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The United States, which entered this war in expectation of a short, sharp win along the Venezuela model, is now preparing for deeper involvement in a conflict it does not fully control, without the allies it typically relies on, against an adversary that is not behaving as expected, in a global environment that is already absorbing economic shock. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Trump seeks allies' help in Strait of Hormuz; Japan, Australia say NO

Trump seeks allies' help in Strait of Hormuz; Japan, Australia say NO

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Amid escalating tensions with Iran, President Trump is urging nations dependent on Middle Eastern oil to deploy warships to the Strait of Hormuz to safeguard critical global energy supplies.