News for 'West Asia'

Why RBI Should Stop Defending Rupee

Why RBI Should Stop Defending Rupee

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The measures announced by it risk backfiring, disrupting the foreign exchange market, and intensifying the very pressures they seek to contain, with broader consequences for the economy points out Rajeswari Sengupta.

Iran FM arrives in Russia, calls his Pak visit 'very productive'

Iran FM arrives in Russia, calls his Pak visit 'very productive'

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his trip to Islamabad was "very productive" and involved "good consultations" with Pakistan's top leadership amid uncertainty over the second round of peace talks to resolve the war in West Asia.

Pak gets 2nd tranche of $1bn loan from Saudi Arabia

Pak gets 2nd tranche of $1bn loan from Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Pakistan has received the second and final tranche of USD 1 billion from Saudi Arabia, completing a USD 3 billion aid package aimed at boosting its foreign reserves, the state bank said.

What's Delcy Rodriguez Doing In Delhi?

What's Delcy Rodriguez Doing In Delhi?

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Venezuela's Interim President Delcy Rodriguez is in New Delhi on her sixth visit to India.

Oil Price Tumbles as US-Iran Ceasefire Eases Geopolitical Tensions

Oil Price Tumbles as US-Iran Ceasefire Eases Geopolitical Tensions

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Crude oil prices experienced a significant drop following the announcement of a US-Iran ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, leading to heavy selling by traders.

Sensex tumbles 931 points, Nifty plunges to 23,775 amid fading confidence on ceasefire

Sensex tumbles 931 points, Nifty plunges to 23,775 amid fading confidence on ceasefire

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Indian equity benchmarks, Sensex and Nifty, ended lower after a spectacular rally, with the Sensex tumbling 931 points, as renewed tensions in West Asia, particularly the risk to the ceasefire deal after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, dampened investor optimism.

Nepal Undertakes Rescue Operations for Citizens in Gulf Amid Rising Tensions

Nepal Undertakes Rescue Operations for Citizens in Gulf Amid Rising Tensions

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Nepal is actively involved in rescuing its citizens from Gulf countries due to escalating tensions in West Asia, with thousands registering to return home. The government is committed to ensuring the safety of Nepalese citizens in the region and has formed an Emergency Response Team to manage the crisis.

ICICI Bank's Q4 consolidated net profit rises 9.28% to Rs 14,755 crore

ICICI Bank's Q4 consolidated net profit rises 9.28% to Rs 14,755 crore

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

ICICI Bank reported a 9.28 per cent increase in its consolidated net profit to Rs 14,755 crore for the March quarter of FY26, primarily driven by a nearly 90 per cent reduction in provisioning. The bank's executive director, Sandeep Batra, noted strong asset growth but expressed caution regarding the geopolitical situation in West Asia.

Is The World Moving Towards De-Dollarisation?

Is The World Moving Towards De-Dollarisation?

Rediff.com2 May 2026

India should not stay on the margins of this initiative. There should be a serious debate about what would be in India's best interests asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

LPG cylinder price hiked by Rs 60 amid Iran war

LPG cylinder price hiked by Rs 60 amid Iran war

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Domestic LPG and commercial cylinder prices in India have seen a significant increase, driven by rising global energy costs linked to the conflict in West Asia. This marks the second price hike in less than a year, impacting households and businesses.

As Iran Tensions Surge, India Leans On UAE

As Iran Tensions Surge, India Leans On UAE

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

For India, much is at stake: Crucial energy supplies traversing the Strait of Hormuz, the fate of its 10 million citizens living and working in West Asia -- who send generous remittances home -- and its major trade links with the region.

Passenger vehicle dispatches rise 10.6% in Feb to 4,17,705 units: SIAM

Passenger vehicle dispatches rise 10.6% in Feb to 4,17,705 units: SIAM

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Domestic passenger vehicle dispatches in India rose 10.6% in February, driven by utility vehicles and two-wheelers, but the industry remains cautious due to geopolitical tensions.

Govt restricts bulk petrol, diesel purchases from retail pumps

Govt restricts bulk petrol, diesel purchases from retail pumps

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

The Indian government has restricted industrial, commercial, and institutional users from purchasing petrol and diesel from retail petrol pumps, directing them to bulk sale points instead. This move, which can last up to 90 days, aims to address abnormal demand growth and prevent localised shortages caused by a significant price difference between retail and bulk fuel prices.

Iran Allows 'Friendly Nations' to Use Strait of Hormuz Amid War: India, Pakistan Among Few

Iran Allows 'Friendly Nations' to Use Strait of Hormuz Amid War: India, Pakistan Among Few

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Iran has reportedly allowed select "friendly nations" including India and Pakistan limited access to the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing conflict, easing some energy supply concerns. Here's what the move means for global trade and oil routes.

How Fuel Price Hikes Are Impacting Kerala's Economy

How Fuel Price Hikes Are Impacting Kerala's Economy

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Kerala is facing increased inflationary pressure due to recent hikes in petrol and diesel prices, according to Chief Minister V D Satheesan. The state's economy is also impacted by the decline in remittances from the Gulf and higher oil prices.

India launches emergency mission to pull 13 ships out of Hormuz

India launches emergency mission to pull 13 ships out of Hormuz

Rediff.com29 May 2026

India on Friday launched a highly coordinated, priority operation to safely guide 13 Indian-flagged commercial vessels out of the volatile Strait of Hormuz, the ministry of ports, shipping, and waterways announced on Friday.

'Economically, nobody is winning this war'

'Economically, nobody is winning this war'

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

'Markets never fully lose hope. But an important shift could come if the Strait remains closed -- moving from high prices to no prices.'

No petrol, diesel price hike after assembly polls: Govt

No petrol, diesel price hike after assembly polls: Govt

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The government has dismissed speculation of an imminent increase in petrol and diesel prices, assuring citizens that there are no plans for a hike despite rising crude oil costs.

Mojtaba Khamenei's face disfigured but 'mentally sharp': Report

Mojtaba Khamenei's face disfigured but 'mentally sharp': Report

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Iran's Supreme Leader, is reportedly recovering from injuries sustained in an attack. Reports indicate he is participating in meetings and decision-making despite his condition.

Middle East conflict: Indian airlines cancel 278 flights

Middle East conflict: Indian airlines cancel 278 flights

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Due to airspace restrictions resulting from the conflict in the Middle East, Indian domestic carriers have cancelled 278 international flights. Some airlines are operating limited services and special flights to assist stranded passengers.

No Stopping For Retail Investors In Equity Markets

No Stopping For Retail Investors In Equity Markets

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

In April alone, they snapped up shares worth Rs 19,664 crore, recording their biggest buy since October 2024.

French officer's fitness app leaks aircraft carrier's location

French officer's fitness app leaks aircraft carrier's location

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

A French sailor's use of a fitness app has exposed the location of France's aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean, raising serious security concerns amid rising tensions in the West Asia region, a report from a French newspaper said.

Chandrasekaran addresses Air India staff, stresses transformation & safety

Chandrasekaran addresses Air India staff, stresses transformation & safety

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran addressed Air India employees, acknowledging the airline's challenging phase while reaffirming the Tata Group's commitment to its long-term transformation, focusing on service quality, safety, and operational improvements.

India 'well stocked' with crude oil to meet supply disruptions: Puri

India 'well stocked' with crude oil to meet supply disruptions: Puri

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

India is well-stocked with inventories of crude oil and key petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, and aviation turbine fuel (ATF), to deal with short-term disruptions as the war intensifies in West Asia, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri said on Tuesday.

Pune Gas Agency Under Scrutiny for Illegally Stocking LPG Cylinders Amid Shortage Fears

Pune Gas Agency Under Scrutiny for Illegally Stocking LPG Cylinders Amid Shortage Fears

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

A gas agency in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune, is under investigation after authorities discovered 57 illegally stocked LPG cylinders, amidst concerns about potential shortages due to the West Asia crisis.

Airspace curbs hit Indian aviation, 10,000 flights cancelled since Feb

Airspace curbs hit Indian aviation, 10,000 flights cancelled since Feb

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Indian carriers have cancelled over 10,000 flights since the onset of the West Asia conflict, as escalating tensions and airspace restrictions disrupted international operations, a senior government official said.

LS fails to take up resolution against Speaker Birla amid Oppn protests

LS fails to take up resolution against Speaker Birla amid Oppn protests

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

The Lok Sabha faced repeated adjournments due to opposition demands for a debate on the West Asia situation, preventing a resolution seeking the removal of Speaker Om Birla from being taken up. The government and the Chair criticised the opposition for disrupting House proceedings.

Indian Markets Extend Losses as Crude Oil Breaches $100 Amid US-Iran Standoff

Indian Markets Extend Losses as Crude Oil Breaches $100 Amid US-Iran Standoff

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Indian stock markets experienced a second consecutive day of losses, with the Sensex tumbling 852 points, as crude oil prices surpassed USD 100 per barrel due to stalled US-Iran negotiations and escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

Delhi govt mandates WFH, Metro rides for ministers, officials to save fuel

Delhi govt mandates WFH, Metro rides for ministers, officials to save fuel

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The Delhi government has announced a series of measures to conserve fuel, including work from home for government offices, increased use of public transport, and reduced fuel quotas for officers.

'India's airline industry on verge of stopping ops'

'India's airline industry on verge of stopping ops'

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet have told the government that the country's airline industry is under extreme stress and on the verge of "stopping operations", as they sought revision in ATF pricing and financial support.

Why India's Football Is Relegated To AFC Challenge League

Why India's Football Is Relegated To AFC Challenge League

Rediff.com22 May 2026

India's football faces a setback as it receives only one play-off slot for the 2027-28 AFC Challenge League, the third tier of Asia's club structure, due to administrative issues and declining performance.

Pakistan intensifies efforts for US-Iran talks after ceasefire extension

Pakistan intensifies efforts for US-Iran talks after ceasefire extension

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Pakistan has intensified its efforts to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table to end the war in West Asia, following President Trump's extension of the ceasefire. Pakistani officials have engaged with Iranian, Turkish, and British counterparts to promote dialogue and diplomacy for a peaceful resolution.

Costs could rise...: Skoda India director on shipping disruptions

Costs could rise...: Skoda India director on shipping disruptions

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

'So far our production is not affected. But every day the situation prolongs, it does bring risks in terms of shipments getting delayed.'

Indian national killed in Iranian attack on US oil tanker

Indian national killed in Iranian attack on US oil tanker

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

An Indian national has reportedly been killed in an attack carried out by Iran using a 'suicide' boat against a US-owned oil tanker near Iraq. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of seafarers in the region.

US, Iran 'very close' to peace deal, Strait of Hormuz in focus

US, Iran 'very close' to peace deal, Strait of Hormuz in focus

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The United States and Iran are engaged in indirect talks aimed at developing a framework for a possible agreement, according to Iran's ISNA News Agency. Intensive mediation efforts are underway, but it remains uncertain whether a final agreement is within reach.

Trump, Xi hold talks in the 'biggest summit ever'

Trump, Xi hold talks in the 'biggest summit ever'

Rediff.com14 May 2026

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing to discuss a range of issues, including trade frictions and the war in Iran.

 Weakness Unlikely To Trigger RBI Rate Hike

Weakness Unlikely To Trigger RBI Rate Hike

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

'The MPC is likely to prioritise the key mandate, which is inflation, while relying on other instruments to stabilise the currency and bond markets.'

Stock markets today: Sensex, Nifty tank as US-Iran uncertainty, crude oil prices weigh on investor sentiment

Stock markets today: Sensex, Nifty tank as US-Iran uncertainty, crude oil prices weigh on investor sentiment

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Indian equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty experienced a significant tumble in early trade, with the Sensex tanking nearly 700 points, driven by uncertainty surrounding US-Iran negotiations, a fresh spike in crude oil prices, and persistent foreign fund outflows.

Man Charged With Attempted Murder After London Anti-Semitic Attack

Man Charged With Attempted Murder After London Anti-Semitic Attack

Rediff.com1 May 2026

A Somalia-born British man has been charged with attempted murder following an anti-Semitic stabbing attack in north London. The investigation, led by Counter Terrorism Policing London, revealed the accused targeted two Jewish men in Golders Green and another man in south-east London.

Will the Iran War Disrupt IPL 2026?

Will the Iran War Disrupt IPL 2026?

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The ongoing Iran-US conflict is casting a shadow over global cricket, potentially disrupting the IPL 2026 due to travel disruptions and logistical challenges.