News for 'The Diplomat'

Delhi airport hold-up of Bangladesh PM adviser triggers diplomatic row

Delhi airport hold-up of Bangladesh PM adviser triggers diplomatic row

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Bangladesh summoned India's Deputy High Commissioner to convey "deep disappointment" after Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, an adviser to the Prime Minister, was stopped and questioned by immigration authorities at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. The incident led to Rahman's decision to return home despite being cleared to proceed.

Nepal seeks diplomatic solution to border dispute with India

Nepal seeks diplomatic solution to border dispute with India

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Nepal has reiterated its commitment to resolving the border issue with India through diplomatic channels, emphasising historical agreements and understanding.

No talks with Pakistan except on PoK: Rajnath Singh

No talks with Pakistan except on PoK: Rajnath Singh

Rediff.com2 days ago

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday slammed Pakistan for making terrorism a "part of its state policy", and said there will be no talks with the country other than on Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir, which is a "part of India illegally occupied" by it.

India summons Iran envoys, protests strikes on vessels in Hormuz

India summons Iran envoys, protests strikes on vessels in Hormuz

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

India has lodged a 'strong protest' with Iran over recent strikes on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, which resulted in the death of one Indian sailor and injuries to several others, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to diplomatic engagement.

You ever think it might be your last call to family? Iranian FM asked US envoy

You ever think it might be your last call to family? Iranian FM asked US envoy

Rediff.com6 days ago

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has revealed the intense psychological pressure faced by Tehran's diplomatic delegation during peace negotiations with the United States, recalling a direct exchange with US President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, where he questioned the envoy about the constant military threats.

Trump presses Netanyahu to withdraw troops from Syria, Lebanon

Trump presses Netanyahu to withdraw troops from Syria, Lebanon

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

US President Donald Trump has reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to withdraw Israeli military units from southern Syria and Lebanon, warning that Israel's continued presence could escalate regional tensions.

Misri holds key talks in Beijing, reviews India-China relations

Misri holds key talks in Beijing, reviews India-China relations

Rediff.com13 hours ago

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held extensive discussions with China's Vice Foreign Minister Hua Chunying and other senior officials in Beijing, reviewing bilateral relations, trade, cultural exchanges, and emphasising peace and tranquillity in border areas. His visit aims to advance the vision of both nations as development partners.

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Why Bangladesh Matters For India's Future

Rediff.com2 hours ago

For India, the guiding principle should remain clear: Engage Bangladesh as a sovereign nation and society rather than through the prism of any individual leader or political party, suggests Manoj Mohanka.

Islamabad likely to host next round of US-Iran technical talks on July 11

Islamabad likely to host next round of US-Iran technical talks on July 11

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Pakistan capital Islamabad is emerging as the leading venue for the next round of technical negotiations between the US and Iran, a media report said Sunday.

Indian killed in attack on vessel in Russian waters

Indian killed in attack on vessel in Russian waters

Rediff.com3 days ago

An Indian national was tragically killed in an attack on the commercial vessel MV OMORFI on July 18 while it was reportedly transiting Russian territorial waters in the Black Sea, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed, condemning the incident and calling for upholding international obligations for maritime safety.

'Certain elements' in Israeli govt want war to continue 'indefinitely': Vance

'Certain elements' in Israeli govt want war to continue 'indefinitely': Vance

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

US Vice President JD Vance has accused 'certain elements' within the Israeli government of attempting to manipulate American public opinion to prolong the conflict with Iran 'indefinitely', according to a Wall Street Journal report.

'They're scum': Trump says ceasefire with Iran is 'over'

'They're scum': Trump says ceasefire with Iran is 'over'

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

US President Donald Trump has declared the ceasefire agreement with Iran effectively concluded, stating he no longer wishes to engage in diplomatic dealings with Tehran and labelling Iranians as 'liars, cheats and sick people' following recent military actions.

Diplomatic century: Modi completes 100 foreign visits in 12 yrs as PM

Diplomatic century: Modi completes 100 foreign visits in 12 yrs as PM

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's week-long ongoing tour of France and Slovakia is his 100th foreign trip since he assumed the high office 12 years ago.

War Veterans Call For Football Focus Ahead Of Argentina-England Semi-Final

War Veterans Call For Football Focus Ahead Of Argentina-England Semi-Final

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

An Argentine war veterans federation has urged football fans to prioritise the World Cup semi-final against England as a sporting event, rather than using it to reignite sovereignty claims over the Falkland/Malvinas Islands. They emphasised diplomacy for territorial disputes and called for respect for fallen soldiers without promoting hatred.

Bangladesh pushes for India cricket tour in September to revive ties

Bangladesh pushes for India cricket tour in September to revive ties

Rediff.com6 days ago

Bangladesh is actively pursuing a cricket series against India in September, utilising sports diplomacy to mend strained bilateral ties following a controversy involving Mustafizur Rahman and Bangladesh's subsequent T20 World Cup boycott.

India lodges strong protest with Russia over 4 seafarers' killing

India lodges strong protest with Russia over 4 seafarers' killing

Rediff.com7 days ago

India has lodged a strong protest with Russia following the killing of four Indian seafarers aboard a Guinea Bissau-flagged merchant vessel off the coast of Ukraine. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack on the civilian ship, MV Golden Leo, which also left one Indian national critically injured.

Canadian PM Carney Jokes About Recruiting Haaland For World Cup

Canadian PM Carney Jokes About Recruiting Haaland For World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney playfully attempted to recruit Norwegian football star Erling Haaland for Canada's World Cup squad during a NATO summit meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, who humorously declined the offer.

Nothing to do with track 2 India-Pakistan dialogue: Govt

Nothing to do with track 2 India-Pakistan dialogue: Govt

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that the Indian government has no involvement or official support for Track 2 discussions on India-Pakistan ties, even when retired Indian officials participate. He clarified that such participants speak in their personal capacities and do not represent the government's views, and New Delhi does not take cognisance of these private events.

Inside Oval Office: What forced Trump to scrap Iran ceasefire

Inside Oval Office: What forced Trump to scrap Iran ceasefire

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

US President Donald Trump has abruptly withdrawn from a peace deal with Iran, citing fresh intelligence of Iranian assaults on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The decision, made just a fortnight after celebrating the deal, has led to a significant military escalation in the region, with the US launching extensive counter-operations against Iranian military infrastructure.

Jaishankar raises market access, trade imbalance in talks with Yi

Jaishankar raises market access, trade imbalance in talks with Yi

Rediff.com6 days ago

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Manila, reiterating that peace and tranquillity in border areas are prerequisites for normal India-China relations. He stressed the importance of mutual respect, interest, and sensitivity, while also raising concerns about market access, trade imbalance, and supply chain uncertainties.

'Focus On Things That Are In My Control': How Shubman Gill Handles Pressure

'Focus On Things That Are In My Control': How Shubman Gill Handles Pressure

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Indian cricket captain Shubman Gill shared his approach to handling pressure, focusing on controllable factors and avoiding external influences.

US launches fresh strikes on Iran after IRGC attacks Cyprus ship in Hormuz

US launches fresh strikes on Iran after IRGC attacks Cyprus ship in Hormuz

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

The United States on Saturday (local time) launched a third round of strikes against Iran after alleging that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked the Cyprus-flagged container vessel M/V GFS Galaxy in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump says US agrees to resume Iran talks; declares ceasefire 'over'

Trump says US agrees to resume Iran talks; declares ceasefire 'over'

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

As Qatari negotiators travel to Iran in an effort to ease tensions and create conditions for the resumption of US-Iran talks following the recent military escalation between them, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that Washington has agreed to continue talks with the Islamic Republic following Tehran's request but reiterated that the US still considers the ceasefire between the two sides to be "over".

'1,000 missiles locked and loaded': Trump's big warning to Iran

'1,000 missiles locked and loaded': Trump's big warning to Iran

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Donald Trump has issued a severe warning to Iran, threatening 'decimation' with '1,000 missiles' if the nation pursues alleged assassination plots against him, while Iranian officials accuse the US of violating a MoU amidst ongoing diplomatic talks.

If India Becomes A Doormat, The US Will Tread On It

If India Becomes A Doormat, The US Will Tread On It

Rediff.com5 days ago

The harsh truth is that the US is no longer a reliable partner, cautions Ramesh Menon.

Does India Want To Repair Iran Relationship?

Does India Want To Repair Iran Relationship?

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India is navigating a complex diplomatic landscape, attempting to balance its 'forever honeymoon' with the Israel-UAE-Bahrain axis against its historical ties with Iran, as evidenced by recent high-level visits and evolving geopolitical realignments in the Middle East, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

US and Iran agree to de-escalate strikes, reopen Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

US and Iran officials have reportedly agreed to de-escalate tensions and ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with technical talks scheduled to continue. This development follows months of conflict, rising gas prices, and strained diplomatic relations, marked by recent retaliatory strikes and threats from both sides. Further discussions on Iran's nuclear program are set to take place in Qatar, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts despite recent volatility.

No Indian link to Nijjar murder, says Canadian police, refutes Trudeau's claim

No Indian link to Nijjar murder, says Canadian police, refutes Trudeau's claim

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Canadian police have found no evidence linking Indian government officials to the 2023 killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, directly contradicting earlier allegations by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that strained bilateral ties.

Iran hatched fresh plot to kill Trump, Israel alerts US

Iran hatched fresh plot to kill Trump, Israel alerts US

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The latest development comes as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran continue despite renewed hostilities. CNN reported that US and Iranian officials are still working towards a nuclear agreement by mid-August, even as preparations for possible military action have continued in parallel.

MEA's Rare Toshakhana Auction Ends June 30

MEA's Rare Toshakhana Auction Ends June 30

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Items include luxury watches, jewellery, carpets, shawls, silverware and collectible artefacts with bidding prices reaching up to Rs 20 lakh.

Indian Equities Rebound as Oil Prices Soften, Global Cues Turn Positive

Indian Equities Rebound as Oil Prices Soften, Global Cues Turn Positive

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Indian stock markets, including the Sensex and Nifty, rebounded significantly, driven by a decline in crude oil prices and positive global cues stemming from hopes of diplomatic progress in US-Iran negotiations.

Zero trust on US, prepared for full-scale defence: Iran

Zero trust on US, prepared for full-scale defence: Iran

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stressed on Friday (local time) that Tehran remains prepared for "full-scale defence" should the US betray the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the two countries last month.

Israel doesn't need US aid, says Netanyahu, rejects Palestinian State

Israel doesn't need US aid, says Netanyahu, rejects Palestinian State

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a significant policy shift, declaring that Israel's robust economy no longer requires American financial assistance. He also reiterated strong opposition to Palestinian statehood, affirmed an aggressive national defence strategy, warned of pre-emptive strikes against Iran, and confirmed the continued military presence in southern Lebanon.

It's a shame! Meloni blasts Trump for saying 'she begged for a photo'

It's a shame! Meloni blasts Trump for saying 'she begged for a photo'

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has strongly rebuked former US President Donald Trump's claims that she 'begged' for a photo-op at the G7 summit, dismissing his remarks as 'utterly fabricated' and asserting, 'Italy and I never beg.'

'An Indian and a Pakistani': Who are the two key people in JD Vance's life?

'An Indian and a Pakistani': Who are the two key people in JD Vance's life?

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

US Vice President JD Vance on Sunday generated significant online traction after making a light-hearted reference to two "very, very important" Indian and Pakistani people in his life - his wife Usha Vance and Pakistani Army chief Asim Munir, on the sidelines of the US-Iran diplomatic deliberations in Switzerland.

US troops set to leave Iraq after 23 years

US troops set to leave Iraq after 23 years

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The United States military is scheduled to complete its withdrawal from Iraq by September 30, marking the end of a 23-year deployment that began with the 2003 invasion and later focused on combating the Islamic State group.

No plans to meet US at any level in coming days: Iran

No plans to meet US at any level in coming days: Iran

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Iran on Tuesday said that the Islamic Republic has "no plans" to hold any meetings with the United States in the coming days at any level, even as diplomatic engagements continue separately in Doha on the related implementation of the 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at ending the hostilities in West Asia.

Tension escalates in West Asia as IRGC announces Hormuz closure

Tension escalates in West Asia as IRGC announces Hormuz closure

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Saturday (local time) announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz "until further notice," stating that the strategic waterway would remain shut until the United States ends its "interference" in the West Asia region, Press TV reported.

Indian crew member missing after Iran attacks container ship in Strait of Hormuz

Indian crew member missing after Iran attacks container ship in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India has condemned the attack on the Cyprus-flagged container ship M/V GFS Galaxy in the Strait of Hormuz, which resulted in one Indian crew member going missing. The United States responded with a third round of retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets, further escalating tensions in the Gulf.

Iran invites Modi to Khamenei's funeral

Iran invites Modi to Khamenei's funeral

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

The Indian prime minister has been invited by President Pezeshkian to the burial ceremonies, the diplomatic sources said.