News for 'The Diplomat'

Pak steps up US-Iran peace push with third ministerial visit to Tehran

Pak steps up US-Iran peace push with third ministerial visit to Tehran

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Tehran for the third time recently to mediate peace amidst rising tensions between the US and Iran. Pakistan is actively leading diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict in West Asia, which has impacted global energy markets and trade.

The Deadly Hotel Fire: The Day After

The Deadly Hotel Fire: The Day After

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Glimpses from the aftermath of the deadly hotel fire in New Delhi.

US Senate passes resolution to limit Trump's Iran war powers

US Senate passes resolution to limit Trump's Iran war powers

Rediff.com3 days ago

The US Senate passed a resolution directing then-President Donald Trump to withdraw American forces from the conflict with Iran. This bipartisan vote, though largely symbolic as a concurrent resolution, highlighted congressional concerns over potential escalation and a desire to limit presidential military authority without legislative approval.

India Secures Rs 6 Crore Grant To Host Asian Fencing Championships

India Secures Rs 6 Crore Grant To Host Asian Fencing Championships

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

India is set to host the 26th Asian Fencing Championships, which will also serve as a qualifier for the Asian Games. The Sports Ministry has sanctioned Rs 6 crore for the event, taking place at the Bharat Mandapam complex, featuring over 400 athletes from 30+ countries.

Iran blames 'shifting US positions' for stalled talks, demands Lebanon ceasefire

Iran blames 'shifting US positions' for stalled talks, demands Lebanon ceasefire

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei has accused the United States of frequently changing its positions and complicating efforts to reach an understanding, stating that these shifts disrupt diplomatic processes and prolong negotiations. He also linked any potential agreement with the US to an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, accusing Israel of escalating conflict to derail diplomatic efforts.

Trump announces Iran peace deal, to be signed in Switzerland on Friday

Trump announces Iran peace deal, to be signed in Switzerland on Friday

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have announced a landmark peace deal between the US and Iran, which includes the crucial reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and the immediate cessation of military operations in Lebanon.

Iran attacked 3 ships with Indians, alleges Trump; denies peace pact

Iran attacked 3 ships with Indians, alleges Trump; denies peace pact

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Trump further alleged that Iran was behind the attacks on three vessels carrying Indian seafarers near the Hormuz Strait, which resulted in the deaths of three, despite the US Central Command having confirmed that the strikes were carried out by American naval forces, calling the incident "totally unacceptable."

Trump calls off Iran strikes hours after threat; cites breakthrough in talks

Trump calls off Iran strikes hours after threat; cites breakthrough in talks

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Hours after warning that the United States could strike Iran "very hard tonight", President Donald Trump announced to halt planned military action, despite earlier threats to target Kharg Island and other key Iranian oil facilities.

How a single diplomatic headline triggers a 1,000-point swing?

How a single diplomatic headline triggers a 1,000-point swing?

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

In the present hyper-connected world, there are many domestic and global factors that affect financial markets. Of them, the most powerful and often least predictable are geopolitical events, which often boil down to one diplomatic headline.

Don't jeopardise Iran peace deal, Trump tells Israel after Beirut strikes

Don't jeopardise Iran peace deal, Trump tells Israel after Beirut strikes

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that the Israeli strikes on Lebanon's capital of Beirut "should not have happened", warning that such escalation could jeopardise the peace agreement with Iran to achieve a complete solution to the West Asia conflict, which, according to him, is within reach.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

How US State Department Is Leveraging UFC For Global Diplomacy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The US Department of State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to launch a public-private partnership aimed at advancing sports diplomacy worldwide. This initiative will leverage UFC's extensive global platform and athletes to engage international audiences, promote cultural exchange, and champion American values such as discipline and perseverance.

Tension escalates as US shoots down two Iranian attack drones in Hormuz

Tension escalates as US shoots down two Iranian attack drones in Hormuz

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

The United States military has intercepted and destroyed two Iranian attack drones that posed an immediate hazard to commercial shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, according to an official statement by the US Central Command late Saturday.

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

US Navy attacked 3 merchant ships, India lodges strong protest

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

India has strongly protested to the United States after three merchant ships with Indian crew members were attacked by the American military off the coast of Oman, resulting in the deaths of three Indian nationals.

Will Pakistan rethink its Israel policy after Rubio talks?

Will Pakistan rethink its Israel policy after Rubio talks?

Rediff.com29 May 2026

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar amid American demand that countries mediating the peace talks with Iran join the Abraham Accords and establish diplomatic and economic ties with Israel.

After 3 deaths in ship attacks, India summons US envoy for second time

After 3 deaths in ship attacks, India summons US envoy for second time

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

India has summoned the US charge d'affaires for the second time this week to protest American Navy strikes on three commercial vessels off the coast of Oman, which resulted in the deaths of three Indian crew members. New Delhi has demanded an end to these attacks, acknowledging that the US Navy targeted the ships, some of which were reportedly non-compliant with US sanctions.

Visa drama leaves Ghana star out of FIFA World Cup opener

Visa drama leaves Ghana star out of FIFA World Cup opener

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey was denied entry into Canada for a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Panama due to ongoing criminal proceedings in the UK, where he faces rape and sexual assault charges. Canada's Federal High Court upheld the visa refusal, despite Ghana's government calling the decision "extremely unfair" and questioning the reliance on unproven allegations.

'We have let Pakistan...': Sonia slams Modi govt's 'stony silence' on Gaza 'genocide'

'We have let Pakistan...': Sonia slams Modi govt's 'stony silence' on Gaza 'genocide'

Rediff.com8 hours ago

Sonia Gandhi criticised PM Modi's Israel visit, calling it a "bewildering strategic decision" amid the regional conflict.

Guwahati Misses Out On Hosting India-Japan Summit

Guwahati Misses Out On Hosting India-Japan Summit

Rediff.com3 days ago

The visit was expected to project Assam as the gateway to Southeast Asia and reinforce the state's emergence as a preferred investment destination.

India Owes Iran $7 Billion!

India Owes Iran $7 Billion!

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Formerly Iran's second-largest oil customer, Indian financial institutions were forced to withhold crude oil payments following the 2018 US sanctions.

If Zelenskyy is 'ready to speak'....: Russia on settling Ukraine war

If Zelenskyy is 'ready to speak'....: Russia on settling Ukraine war

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

The Kremlin on Tuesday said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy could travel to Moscow for talks if he is prepared for "responsible and serious" discussions aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict, while noting that no official communication channels currently exist between the two sides.

India summons US envoy, protests strike on ship with 24 Indians; 3 missing

India summons US envoy, protests strike on ship with 24 Indians; 3 missing

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

India has strongly protested a US military strike on the commercial vessel Settebello off the Oman coast, which left three of the 24 Indian crew members missing. The US Central Command stated it disabled the Palau-flagged vessel for violating a blockade of Iranian ports.

'USA-Iran Deal Is Not Enforceable'

'USA-Iran Deal Is Not Enforceable'

Rediff.com4 days ago

'Actual implementation of the 14-point agreement is proving hard to achieve let alone striking and sustaining a long-term treaty or deal.'

Nepal PM's 'encroaching' Indian land remark triggers controversy

Nepal PM's 'encroaching' Indian land remark triggers controversy

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah addressed parliament on the ongoing border dispute with India, stating both countries have agreed to seek resolution through diplomatic means and expert consultation. Shah's remarks about Nepal also encroaching on Indian territories have sparked controversy.

Can Dinesh Trivedi Reset India-Bangladesh Ties?

Can Dinesh Trivedi Reset India-Bangladesh Ties?

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Dinesh Trivedi's experience as a businessperson and his fluency in Bengali are expected to be crucial in strengthening India-Bangladesh relations, particularly in attracting Indian investments to Dhaka.

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Decline Amid US-Iran Tensions

Stock Markets Today: Sensex, Nifty Decline Amid US-Iran Tensions

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Indian equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade, driven by persistent concerns over the unresolved US-Iran situation and continued outflows from foreign institutional investors.

US, Iran to hold talks in Switzerland; Pak, Qatar to attend

US, Iran to hold talks in Switzerland; Pak, Qatar to attend

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The United States and Iran are scheduled to hold their initial round of talks in Switzerland on Friday, following a ceasefire agreement virtually signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

US Vice Prez Vance rejects claims of $24 bn sweetener for Iran deal

US Vice Prez Vance rejects claims of $24 bn sweetener for Iran deal

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

US Vice President JD Vance on Friday dismissed reports suggesting that Iran would receive financial incentives merely for signing the peace deal between Washington and Tehran aimed at ending the hostilities in West Asia, calling such claims "fake information".

Sometimes Trump and I don't see eye to eye: Netanyahu

Sometimes Trump and I don't see eye to eye: Netanyahu

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his actions amid growing resentment over an emerging US-Iran deal, asserting that Iran would never possess nuclear weapons. He faced criticism from opposition figures like Naftali Bennett and addressed concerns about Israel's security zones and relations with the US.

US, Iran move closer to historic agreement after Swiss summit talks

US, Iran move closer to historic agreement after Swiss summit talks

Rediff.com5 days ago

The US and Iran have agreed on a roadmap aimed at reaching a final agreement within 60 days after hours-long talks at the Swiss resort of Burgenstock, mediators Qatar and Pakistan said on Monday, describing the progress as "encouraging."

Bangladesh police hand over Indian official's body to high commission

Bangladesh police hand over Indian official's body to high commission

Rediff.com20 May 2026

The body of Naren Dhar, an Indian Assistant High Commission Protocol Officer, was handed over to the Indian High Commission after his death in Chattogram, Bangladesh. Local authorities suspect no foul play, and a postmortem examination has been completed to determine the cause of death.

US, Iran ink MoU to end hostilities, reopen Strait of Hormuz

US, Iran ink MoU to end hostilities, reopen Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

United States President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have virtually signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) to end hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and begin a 60-day negotiation process on sanctions and Iran's nuclear programme.

Make Iran pay: US weighs using frozen assets for Gulf reconstruction

Make Iran pay: US weighs using frozen assets for Gulf reconstruction

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

A source familiar with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's thinking revealed on Saturday that the department "intends to utilise all available authorities to make Iranian assets accessible for rebuilding and repair efforts related to any future damage inflicted by Iran."

'Not justified': Jaishankar to Rubio on killing of 3 Indian sailors

'Not justified': Jaishankar to Rubio on killing of 3 Indian sailors

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar lodged a strong protest with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio over US Navy attacks in the Gulf that killed three Indian mariners. India also summoned the US Charge d'Affaires in New Delhi regarding the incident.

India playing 'big role' in addressing West Asia crisis: Trump

India playing 'big role' in addressing West Asia crisis: Trump

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump has lauded India as an 'essential partner' and 'trusted ally' in addressing regional challenges, particularly its 'big role' in West Asia peace efforts, following discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 Summit.

West Asia Tensions Drive Crude Oil To Record Highs

West Asia Tensions Drive Crude Oil To Record Highs

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Crude oil prices reached a new record high in futures trade, both domestically and internationally, as escalating military tensions between the US and Iran in West Asia continue to fuel market volatility. Diplomatic efforts concerning the Strait of Hormuz are being closely watched for potential price stabilisation.

'Yoga for peace, warships for security': Modi commissions 3 naval vessels

'Yoga for peace, warships for security': Modi commissions 3 naval vessels

Rediff.com6 days ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday used two major public engagements in Kolkata to outline a broader vision for India's future -- one rooted in inner balance and collective well-being through yoga, and the other in national self-reliance and maritime strength.

Shehbaz Sharif Briefs Saudi Crown Prince on Pakistan's Diplomatic Efforts for Middle East Peace

Shehbaz Sharif Briefs Saudi Crown Prince on Pakistan's Diplomatic Efforts for Middle East Peace

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has briefed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman on Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation in West Asia. This follows Pakistan's offer to host talks between the US and Iran to resolve the ongoing conflict.

Iran vs NZ: Boos, cheers and a draw at politically charged game

Iran vs NZ: Boos, cheers and a draw at politically charged game

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran footballers faces cheers and jeers in their come-from-behind 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their FIFA World Cup final opener in Los Angeles on Monday.

Iran Seeks FIFA Clarification On World Cup Visas

Iran Seeks FIFA Clarification On World Cup Visas

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Iran's football federation has requested FIFA to clarify the timeline for issuing tournament visas after relocating their World Cup training camp from Arizona to Tijuana due to diplomatic friction and visa complications.