News for 'United States Department of State'

Iran's World Cup team arrives in Tijuana amid US tensions

Iran's World Cup team arrives in Tijuana amid US tensions

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

For Iran's team, the FIFA World Cup has been marred by fraught politics at home, the war with the US, and tensions over whether they would actually be able to set foot on US soil to play their games.

TN CM Vijay carries forward DMK govt-initiated Rs 38,000-crore Hyundai project

TN CM Vijay carries forward DMK govt-initiated Rs 38,000-crore Hyundai project

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Tamil Nadu's new government, led by C Joseph Vijay, is committed to advancing the ~38,000 crore shipbuilding project with HD Hyundai in Thoothukudi, securing bipartisan support from the Opposition DMK, despite initial industry concerns about policy continuity after the change in leadership.

'Unlawful': US court strikes down Trump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee

'Unlawful': US court strikes down Trump's $100,000 H-1B visa fee

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

A US federal judge has ruled that the USD 100,000 fee imposed by former President Donald Trump for H-1B visa applications was unlawful, as it lacked congressional approval. The ruling states the fee was a tax, exceeding the administration's authority and impacting skilled global talent.

'Baseless': Iran dismisses Trump's claim on attacking Indian ships

'Baseless': Iran dismisses Trump's claim on attacking Indian ships

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Iran has dismissed US President Donald Trump's assertion that Iran was responsible for a drone attack on Indian ships in the Strait of Hormuz as 'simply baseless'. The Iranian embassy stated that Trump's comments were an attempt to deflect attention from recent US military strikes on merchant vessels in the Gulf of Oman, which resulted in the deaths of three Indian mariners.

US confirms firing 2 Hellfire missiles at Indian vessel

US confirms firing 2 Hellfire missiles at Indian vessel

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed striking the Guinea-Bissau-flagged oil tanker MT Jalveer, carrying 20 Indian seafarers, in the Gulf of Oman for allegedly violating the US blockade against Iran. This incident marks the third commercial vessel attacked by US forces in the region this week, with three Indian seafarers previously losing their lives in an attack on the MT Settebello.

US, Iran close to a 'very good deal', says Trump; signals tough action if...

US, Iran close to a 'very good deal', says Trump; signals tough action if...

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump indicated that a peace deal with Iran is possible, but stressed that military action remains an option if talks fail. He emphasised the need for guarantees against nuclear weapons in any agreement.

No H-1B visa caps for data localisation: US State Department

No H-1B visa caps for data localisation: US State Department

Rediff.com21 Jun 2019

International companies usually store data on global servers and the requirement to store data locally would require them to make an additional investment. But policymakers in India believe storing data locally would help monitor and conduct investigations if the need arises.

Kerala To End Political Parole, Focus On Inmate Rights And Reforms

Kerala To End Political Parole, Focus On Inmate Rights And Reforms

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala announced that parole would not be granted or extended on political grounds, assuring that eligible prisoners' legitimate rights would be protected. He highlighted ongoing prison reforms aimed at improving rehabilitation, welfare measures, and administration, including plans to amend the prison manual and strengthen security.

Lebanon ceasefire, asset release among Iran's conditions

Lebanon ceasefire, asset release among Iran's conditions

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Iran has reiterated that key preconditions must be met before negotiations with the United States can begin to resolve the conflict in West Asia, including a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of blocked Iranian assets.

Iran submits new proposal for talks with US via Pak

Iran submits new proposal for talks with US via Pak

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Iran has submitted its latest proposal aimed at advancing negotiations to end the ongoing West Asia conflict with the US, days after the Islamic Republic submitted a fresh proposal through regional intermediaries to cease its military operations in the Strait of Hormuz, which is likely to get rejected by Washington.

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."

Maharashtra CM Announces Medals for Anti-Naxal Unit, Focus on Digitisation

Maharashtra CM Announces Medals for Anti-Naxal Unit, Focus on Digitisation

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced medals for personnel in the C-60 anti-Naxal unit and outlined plans for police digitisation and technology adoption.

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Scorching days, restless nights: India battles intense heatwave

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Several parts of India are experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 44 degrees Celsius. States are issuing alerts and taking measures to protect people and animals from the extreme conditions.

India's men's hockey team can beat anyone in the world, says coach Fulton

India's men's hockey team can beat anyone in the world, says coach Fulton

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

India's men's hockey team head coach Craig Fulton believes the squad can defeat any country if they stick to their game plan, following confidence-boosting victories against Germany and the Netherlands in the FIH Pro League, despite finishing eighth overall. The team's improved performance and maturity are seen as crucial stepping stones for upcoming major tournaments like the World Cup and Asian Games.

Relief for India as US renews Russian oil waiver for 30 days

Relief for India as US renews Russian oil waiver for 30 days

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The United States has extended a waiver from sanctions to allow countries to buy petroleum products from Russia by a month, days after it ruled out renewal of the special measure.

Vance's departure to Islamabad put on hold as Iran fails to respond

Vance's departure to Islamabad put on hold as Iran fails to respond

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

US Vice President JD Vance's visit to Islamabad for peace talks with Iran has been put on hold after Tehran failed to respond to American negotiating positions, according to a New York Times report.

Vigilance Busts Kerala Doctor For Dual Practice

Vigilance Busts Kerala Doctor For Dual Practice

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Vigilance officials in Kerala have uncovered a case where a government doctor was allegedly engaged in private practice while also receiving a non-practising allowance. The doctor, an associate professor, was found earning an additional Rs 7 lakh monthly from a private hospital, alongside his Rs 3 lakh government salary. This discovery is part of a wider crackdown, with nearly 200 doctors under surveillance.

Maha makes free drinking water mandatory for customers at eateries

Maha makes free drinking water mandatory for customers at eateries

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has issued a comprehensive order mandating free drinking water for customers in all food establishments, banning food served in newspapers, and introducing rigorous operational standards. These new regulations aim to improve food safety, hygiene, and transparency across hotels, restaurants, and other food service providers in the state.

Visa Woes Hit Pakistan Hockey Team Ahead Of England Leg

Visa Woes Hit Pakistan Hockey Team Ahead Of England Leg

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Pakistan's national hockey team is facing significant challenges ahead of the final leg of the FIH Pro League in England, with captain Ammad Shakeel Butt's visa rejected and head coach Manzur-ul-Hasan also struggling to secure his travel documents. This comes amidst a dismal performance in the league and growing criticism over team management.

Why Samrat Choudhary Wants Rabri Out Of Her Bungalow

Why Samrat Choudhary Wants Rabri Out Of Her Bungalow

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

'Har haal mein ghar khali karna hoga, koi mai ka lal nahi hai jo sarkari ghar khali nahi karega'.

Bangladesh govt saves 'Donald Trump' from Eid sacrifice

Bangladesh govt saves 'Donald Trump' from Eid sacrifice

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Bangladeshi authorities intervened to save a rare albino buffalo named 'Donald Trump,' known for its blond hair resembling the US president's hairstyle, from being sacrificed during Eid celebrations. The buffalo will now be preserved at the national zoo in Dhaka.

Karnataka Leaders Laud RCB's Second IPL Title

Karnataka Leaders Laud RCB's Second IPL Title

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Karnataka's chief minister-designate D K Shivakumar and outgoing chief minister Siddaramaiah congratulated Royal Challengers Bengaluru on winning their second consecutive Indian Premier League title. Shivakumar criticised IPL organisers for moving the final match venue to Gujarat, calling it an injustice to Karnataka and alleging political motivation.

Iran refuses to send delegation for peace talks in Pakistan

Iran refuses to send delegation for peace talks in Pakistan

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Iran has denied sending a delegation to Islamabad for peace talks with the United States, contradicting Pakistan's claims of mediating the negotiations. The denial highlights a lack of confidence in Pakistan's ability to ensure security for high-level participants and underscores the fragile nature of diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran.

After 10-days, amputated arm of ITBP jawan's mother sent for testing

After 10-days, amputated arm of ITBP jawan's mother sent for testing

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

The amputated right arm of an Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) jawan's mother has been deposited at a medical college for examination after a 10-day deadlock between police and health authorities. The case has sparked outrage and an investigation into alleged medical negligence.

Why US Dropped Criminal Charges Against Gautam Adani

Why US Dropped Criminal Charges Against Gautam Adani

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The U.S. Department of Justice has permanently dropped all criminal charges against Indian tycoon Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar, bringing a high-profile securities and wire fraud case in New York to a close after prosecutors concluded they could not sustain the allegations.

Amputated Arm Of ITBP Jawan's Mother Sent For Examination: Here's Why

Amputated Arm Of ITBP Jawan's Mother Sent For Examination: Here's Why

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The amputated arm of an ITBP jawan's mother, which was stored at a police station after a hospital allegedly handed it to the family, has been sent for examination as part of a medical negligence investigation in Uttar Pradesh.

Iran slams US 'war scare', warns of decisive response

Iran slams US 'war scare', warns of decisive response

Rediff.com18 Jan 2026

Iran has rejected United States allegations that it is preparing attacks on American facilities, alleging that Washington, DC is attempting to escalate tensions in West Asia, Iranian state broadcaster Press TV reported.

Uttar Pradesh Man Arrested With Marijuana At Ahmedabad Airport

Uttar Pradesh Man Arrested With Marijuana At Ahmedabad Airport

Rediff.com22 May 2026

A man from Uttar Pradesh was arrested at Ahmedabad airport for allegedly possessing over 20 kg of marijuana after arriving from Bangkok.

Pak man with Iran ties convicted for plotting to kill Trump

Pak man with Iran ties convicted for plotting to kill Trump

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

A Pakistani man with ties to Iran has been convicted in a US court for plotting to assassinate former US President Donald Trump and other American politicians.

Croatia grab late win to beat Slovenia in World Cup warm-up

Croatia grab late win to beat Slovenia in World Cup warm-up

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Luka Modric scored to put Croatia ahead before they edged Slovenia 2-1 in the international friendly before the World Cup.

Trump turns 80, hosts UFC fight night at White House

Trump turns 80, hosts UFC fight night at White House

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The White House on Sunday is witnessing a "fight night" in an octagon-shaped cage as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fighters slug it out in the marquee event on the South Lawn on a day President Donald Trump turned 80.

US Justice Dept drops all criminal charges against Gautam Adani, case closed permanently

US Justice Dept drops all criminal charges against Gautam Adani, case closed permanently

Rediff.com18 May 2026

The US Department of Justice has permanently dropped all criminal charges against Indian tycoon Gautam Adani and his nephew Sagar, concluding a high-profile securities and wire fraud case in New York after prosecutors determined they could not sustain the allegations.

Raigad Revenue Officer Nabbed For Taking Bribe

Raigad Revenue Officer Nabbed For Taking Bribe

Rediff.com20 May 2026

A revenue department official in Raigad district, Maharashtra, has been arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 30,000 to facilitate a land record entry.

'Direct threat to US': Trump sanctions Indian firms

'Direct threat to US': Trump sanctions Indian firms

Rediff.com21 Nov 2025

The Trump administration has sanctioned entities and individuals from India involved in sales of Iran's petroleum and petroleum products, saying the funds from this trade support Tehran's regional terrorist proxies and procure weapons systems that are a direct threat to the US.

'Could take out Iran in one day': Trump issues stern warning to Tehran

'Could take out Iran in one day': Trump issues stern warning to Tehran

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Sunday expressed confidence that Tehran would eventually concede to American demands, while simultaneously issuing a stern warning regarding the potential for total military devastation.

IIT Madras Unveils Indigenous Pilot Plant For E-Waste Recycling

IIT Madras Unveils Indigenous Pilot Plant For E-Waste Recycling

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

IIT Madras researchers have developed an indigenous pilot plant in Tiruchirappalli capable of processing 100 tonnes of electronic waste annually. This zero-discharge, single-acid process recovers valuable metals like copper, lead, and tin from PCBs, addressing India's growing e-waste challenge and supporting circular economy initiatives.

IIT Madras Unveils Indigenous Pilot Plant For E-Waste Recycling

IIT Madras Unveils Indigenous Pilot Plant For E-Waste Recycling

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

IIT Madras researchers have developed an indigenous pilot plant in Tiruchirappalli capable of processing 100 tonnes of electronic waste annually. This zero-discharge, single-acid process recovers valuable metals like copper, lead, and tin from PCBs, addressing India's growing e-waste challenge and supporting circular economy initiatives.

US planning to drop charges against Gautam Adani: NYT report

US planning to drop charges against Gautam Adani: NYT report

Rediff.com15 May 2026

A New York Times report on Thursday (local time) has claimed that the US Justice Department is contemplating dropping charges against industrialist and Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani.

US to pause visa for Russia, Iran among 75 countries from Jan 21

US to pause visa for Russia, Iran among 75 countries from Jan 21

Rediff.com14 Jan 2026

The pause will begin on January 21 and will remain in effect indefinitely until the State Department completes a reassessment of visa processing, the report said.

US Seizes Oil Tanker Linked To Iran In Indian Ocean

US Seizes Oil Tanker Linked To Iran In Indian Ocean

Rediff.com20 May 2026

The US has seized an oil tanker, 'Skywave', linked to Iran in the Indian Ocean, as part of efforts to disrupt Iran's oil shipments and enforce sanctions. The vessel was part of a network transporting sanctioned Iranian crude oil, with the seizure occurring amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.