News for 'West Asia'

Mojtaba Khamenei 'pulled from rubble' after US strikes: Report

Mojtaba Khamenei 'pulled from rubble' after US strikes: Report

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Reports from the New York Post, citing Mohsen Heydari, reveal that Mojtaba Khamenei was "pulled from the rubble" of a Tehran hospital after alleged US and Israeli strikes. This occurred before his secret selection as Iran's new Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts, which was also reportedly targeted. Conflicting accounts from Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have further shrouded Khamenei's health in mystery, with some suggesting severe injuries while others claim he is "completely" healthy.

Iran threatens 'painful attacks' on US bases if military action resumes

Iran threatens 'painful attacks' on US bases if military action resumes

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters has threatened "continuous, effective and painful" attacks on US bases and interests across the region if Washington resumes military action against Tehran, amid escalating tensions and a US naval blockade on Iranian ports.

'Worst Phase For Equities Appears To Be Behind Us'

'Worst Phase For Equities Appears To Be Behind Us'

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

'Healthy double-digit returns are still possible, though a sharp rally is unlikely.'

Rupee stabilises in H1FY27 amid RBI interventions, global pressures persist

Rupee stabilises in H1FY27 amid RBI interventions, global pressures persist

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

After a significant 9.9% depreciation in FY26, the Indian rupee has shown comparative stability in the first half of FY27, depreciating by only 1.1%, attributed to regulatory interventions and measures to attract foreign capital, despite ongoing global pressures from rising crude oil prices and foreign investor outflows.

Shipping firms asked to avoid sending Indian sailors on vessels through Hormuz

Shipping firms asked to avoid sending Indian sailors on vessels through Hormuz

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has instructed shipping companies to avoid deploying Indian sailors on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, following recent attacks on two vessels carrying Indian seafarers.

Google's Vizag AI Hub: Construction by '28, Full Ops in 5 Years

Google's Vizag AI Hub: Construction by '28, Full Ops in 5 Years

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Google aims to complete the first phase of its 1 gigawatt artificial intelligence (AI) data centre hub in Visakhapatnam by late 2028, with full operations across all phases expected within five years, according to Alexander Smith, Principal of Global Infrastructure and Energy for Asia Pacific at Google.

The Prince And The Driver

The Prince And The Driver

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A Kishore Kumar song, a birthday cake, a prince's break from protocol to thank his driver, a Persian painting on the ceiling of the presidential residence -- the BRICS Summit had many memorable moments.

West Bengal Pledges Full Support For India-Brazil Football Clash

West Bengal Pledges Full Support For India-Brazil Football Clash

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has assured the All India Football Federation of full government support to host India's biggest-ever international football fixture against five-time World Cup champions Brazil in Kolkata on October 3. This historic match will be India's first against a top-five FIFA-ranked nation, offering crucial exposure to the national team despite initial concerns over crowd management.

In-form India women eye T20I series whitewash against Zimbabwe in Raipur

In-form India women eye T20I series whitewash against Zimbabwe in Raipur

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Indian women's cricket team is set to complete a 3-0 T20I series sweep against Zimbabwe in the final match in Raipur, buoyed by strong performances from captain Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and debutant Niki Prasad.

Exports to Asia, Africa bolster India's trade balance

Exports to Asia, Africa bolster India's trade balance

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

India's latest trade data reveals a significant geographical realignment, with trade surpluses growing decisively with Asian and African nations, even as surpluses with traditional partners like the US and Netherlands narrow.

Modi calls for freedom of navigation after US-Iran truce

Modi calls for freedom of navigation after US-Iran truce

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed the understanding between the United States and Iran to end the conflict in West Asia, expressing hope that the pact will restore peace, stability, and ensure freedom of navigation in the region. The deal, aimed at ending a 107-day war that caused a global energy crisis, is set for signing on June 19.

Modi most beautiful looking man, like an angel: Trump

Modi most beautiful looking man, like an angel: Trump

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "very tough negotiator" and hinted at a future visit to India during their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, where they discussed trade, defence, and the West Asia crisis.

China, US should be 'partners, not rivals', says Xi as Trump rolls out red carpet

China, US should be 'partners, not rivals', says Xi as Trump rolls out red carpet

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping's arrival in Washington marks a pivotal moment for global diplomacy, as he advocates for a "partners, not rivals" approach to US-China relations amidst high-stakes discussions on trade, technology, and international stability.

11 India-bound vessels transit Hormuz after US-Iran pact to end conflict

11 India-bound vessels transit Hormuz after US-Iran pact to end conflict

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Following a Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran to resolve the West Asia conflict, eleven India-bound vessels have successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz. This development signals a positive shift for maritime trade, with more Indian-flagged ships expected to pass through the crucial waterway soon.

Shehbaz present as Modi warns SCO: No double standards on terror

Shehbaz present as Modi warns SCO: No double standards on terror

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the SCO summit in Bishkek, called for a united front against terrorism and its financing, rejecting double standards. He emphasised resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy, not battlefields. Modi also highlighted that connectivity projects must respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity, a veiled reference to China's Belt and Road Initiative. India's vision for SCO rests on security, connectivity, and opportunity.

5 suspects arrested for terror plot at UK air base are British nationals

5 suspects arrested for terror plot at UK air base are British nationals

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Five British nationals arrested on suspicion of terror charges related to an explosives threat near RAF Fairford have been released on police bail. The Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) investigation is ongoing, with stringent conditions placed on the suspects. Iran has denied any involvement, while former US President Donald Trump claimed US intelligence assisted in the arrests.

India, US Equity Markets Less Attractive on FCF Yields; Real Estate Sales Moderate

India, US Equity Markets Less Attractive on FCF Yields; Real Estate Sales Moderate

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

A Goldman Sachs report indicates that US and Indian equity markets are becoming less attractive due to lower free cash flow (FCF) yields as valuations rise, while European markets offer significantly higher yields. Concurrently, India's top-listed residential real estate developers experienced a moderation in pre-sales in Q1FY27, attributed to delayed project approvals, limited launches, and high year-ago bases, though underlying housing demand remains healthy.

Gulf war simmers again: Houthi advance puts Saudi on edge

Gulf war simmers again: Houthi advance puts Saudi on edge

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Fighting in Yemen has intensified as Houthi rebels advance on strategic government-held areas like Marib and Taiz, putting pressure on Saudi Arabia to respond. The conflict is also linked to wider US-Iran tensions affecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with former US President Trump commenting on the situation.

India's Forex Kitty Soars to New All-Time High of $740.8 Billion

India's Forex Kitty Soars to New All-Time High of $740.8 Billion

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

India's foreign exchange reserves surged by USD 11.475 billion to a new record high of USD 740.803 billion for the week ended August 28, driven by the RBI's concessional forex swap initiatives.

The Hotspot For Indian Weddings In 2025 Was...

The Hotspot For Indian Weddings In 2025 Was...

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Indian wedding bookings to Sri Lanka are projected to grow 20-25 per cent annually over the next few years.

Is Oil Price Spike Derailing FPI Comeback?

Is Oil Price Spike Derailing FPI Comeback?

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

FPIs have already withdrawn Rs 2.6 trillion from Indian equities in 2026, exceeding the outflows recorded in any previous full calendar year.

MEA condemns attack on Indian crew in Strait of Hormuz

MEA condemns attack on Indian crew in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India has condemned an attack on a Cyprus-flagged commercial vessel off the coast of Oman, which resulted in one Indian crew member going missing. The incident occurred amidst escalating hostilities between Iran and the US in West Asia, prompting India to call for immediate de-escalation and an end to targeting commercial shipping in the region.

Xi outlines four-point formula to reset India-China ties

Xi outlines four-point formula to reset India-China ties

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

During the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting, outlining a four-point approach for the steady and long-term development of China-India relations. The leaders stressed strategic understanding, win-win cooperation, mutual respect, and inclusive multilateral engagement, reaffirming their commitment to resolving the boundary question and addressing economic concerns. They also discussed global challenges and strengthening people-to-people ties.

Dabur delivers steady Q1 performance, but volume growth and monsoon worries persist

Dabur delivers steady Q1 performance, but volume growth and monsoon worries persist

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Dabur India reported a steady performance in Q1 FY27 with 10.6 per cent year-on-year revenue growth, a 12-quarter high, driven by broad-based gains across India and international businesses. However, volume growth, particularly in beverages due to unseasonal rains, and concerns over monsoon impact on rural demand remain key challenges.

'Positive progress' in US-Iran talks in Doha, says Pakistan

'Positive progress' in US-Iran talks in Doha, says Pakistan

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Pakistan and Qatar have successfully mediated separate meetings between US and Iranian negotiators in Doha, reporting positive progress on a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at West Asian peace. Further discussions are planned after the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Trump backs India-Middle East-Europe corridor amid Iran war

Trump backs India-Middle East-Europe corridor amid Iran war

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

US President Donald Trump has expressed strong support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), citing the necessity to move energy infrastructure away from Iranian checkpoints following attacks in West Asia. He made these remarks during a multilateral meeting with the Gulf Cooperation Council at the UN General Assembly, emphasising the corridor's role in overcoming regional challenges.

India's Trade Deficit Widens to $31.98 Billion in July Amid Import Surge

India's Trade Deficit Widens to $31.98 Billion in July Amid Import Surge

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India's trade deficit reached a six-month high of $31.98 billion in July, driven by a sharp increase in imports, particularly crude oil, electronic goods, coal, and fertilisers. Both merchandise exports and imports recorded their second-highest levels during the same period.

UAE to Invest Additional $25 Billion in India, Deepening Economic Ties

UAE to Invest Additional $25 Billion in India, Deepening Economic Ties

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expressed intent to invest an additional $25 billion in India, with an ultimate goal of reaching $100 billion in investments, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced. This comes as both nations plan to enhance cooperation in shipping, ports, energy, and emerging technologies, against a backdrop of expanding bilateral trade.

What Modi's Chintan Shivir Is About

What Modi's Chintan Shivir Is About

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

The Chintan Shivir is expected to discuss the progress of government schemes, policy implementation, time management, inter-ministerial coordination, and public service delivery, among others.

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.

India's Growth Pace May Dip as Global Economy Slows, Warns Moody's Analytics

India's Growth Pace May Dip as Global Economy Slows, Warns Moody's Analytics

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Moody's Analytics predicts India will remain the fastest-growing major economy in 2026 and 2027, but its pace will moderate due to a global slowdown, geopolitical risks, and financial market volatility, despite the boost from AI demand.

Citron Targets 75% Sales From Smaller Cities In 5 Years

Citron Targets 75% Sales From Smaller Cities In 5 Years

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Citron, a brand under Stellantis, anticipates that three-fourths of its sales in India will originate from Tier-II, Tier-III, and smaller cities within the next five years, a significant increase from its current 55 per cent, as it expands its retail network beyond major urban centres.

Envoy reveals why US rejected Iran's Hormuz offer

Envoy reveals why US rejected Iran's Hormuz offer

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The US rejected Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, citing Tehran's demands for sanctions relief and access to frozen assets before nuclear program negotiations. US Ambassador Mike Waltz called the offer a "cynical attempt," while Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi disputed Waltz's account and reiterated Iran's readiness for both diplomacy and renewed hostilities. President Trump expressed confidence in winning the conflict soon and keeping all options, including military strikes, on the table, with denying Iran a nuclear weapon as the primary objective.

How India Can Achieve A USD 55 Trillion Economy By 2047

How India Can Achieve A USD 55 Trillion Economy By 2047

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Former Chief Economic Adviser Krishnamurthy V Subramanian outlines India's strategy to become a USD 55 trillion economy by 2047. The plan hinges on leveraging its young demographic in AI, dominating sunrise sectors like space and defence tech, attracting FDI, and achieving sustained 8% GDP growth.

Despite rain disruptions, Shreyas & Co stay focused for Asian Games semifinal

Despite rain disruptions, Shreyas & Co stay focused for Asian Games semifinal

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Sanju Samson discusses how the Indian cricket team is maintaining focus and team spirit despite incessant rains disrupting their training and matches in Japan ahead of the Asia Games semifinal. He highlights the team's constant meetings and gym sessions to stay "switched on" and ready for the crucial match against Sri Lanka, while also acknowledging the depth of Indian cricket talent.

'Our Bodies Are Wild Beings'

'Our Bodies Are Wild Beings'

Rediff.com5 days ago

'Growing up in Bangladesh, I always felt that I was a piece of meat. As soon as I walked down the street, I could be the president of Bangladesh and I would still be a piece of meat because I am a woman.'

Moody's upgrades India's FY27 GDP growth to 7%, warns of crude, El Nino inflation

Moody's upgrades India's FY27 GDP growth to 7%, warns of crude, El Nino inflation

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

Moody's Ratings has sharply increased India's GDP growth forecast for fiscal 2026-27 to 7 per cent, making it the fastest among G20 economies, driven by economic resilience despite the Middle East conflict. However, the agency flagged significant inflation risks stemming from elevated oil prices and potential El Nino disruptions.

Indian crew member killed, 6 injured in Iranian missile strike on UAE tankers

Indian crew member killed, 6 injured in Iranian missile strike on UAE tankers

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

An Indian crew member was killed and six other Indian nationals were among eight injured when Iranian cruise missiles struck two UAE tankers, Mombasa and Al Bahiyah, in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating regional tensions and drawing strong condemnation from the UAE.

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

'It is a blunt and dangerous attempt to pressure India to sign BTA on one-sided terms.'

Nayara slashes petrol, diesel prices; jet fuel price cut

Nayara slashes petrol, diesel prices; jet fuel price cut

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Nayara Energy, India's largest private fuel retailer, has reduced petrol prices by Rs 5 per litre and diesel by Rs 3 per litre nationwide, marking the first such cut in over two years. This reduction follows easing tensions in West Asia and stabilised international crude oil prices, though public sector retailers have not yet followed suit.