News for 'gulf countries'

Middle East conflict: 2 Indians killed, 10 hurt by drone debris in Muscat

Middle East conflict: 2 Indians killed, 10 hurt by drone debris in Muscat

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Two expatriate workers were killed after debris from a downed drone fell in an industrial area in the Sohar province of Oman.

Israel strikes 200 targets, Iran warns of retaliation

Israel strikes 200 targets, Iran warns of retaliation

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) said it struck several targets in Tehran, Shiraz and Ahvaz simultaneously over the past 24 hours, targeting sites linked to Iran's ballistic missile programme, air defence systems and military headquarters.

Iran war: Fiscal pressures on govt may mount next FY, say experts

Iran war: Fiscal pressures on govt may mount next FY, say experts

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Revenue collection next financial year may be affected, and, along with this, subsidies on food and fertilisers can go up if the war in West Asia drags for long, according to experts.

Iran hits American embassy in Riyadh, US pulls staff

Iran hits American embassy in Riyadh, US pulls staff

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The US Embassy acknowledged the attack in a post on X, urging Americans to avoid the facility 'until further notice' and announcing that all appointments had been cancelled.

CIA station in Saudi Arabia hit in drone attack

CIA station in Saudi Arabia hit in drone attack

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The US embassy in Saudi Arabia and the US consulate in Dubai were reportedly targeted by suspected Iranian drone attacks amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

'Iran's supreme leader wounded, likely disfigured': US war secretary

'Iran's supreme leader wounded, likely disfigured': US war secretary

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday claimed that Iran's new supreme leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, is "wounded and likely disfigured" in strikes by the US on the country.

Iran rejects Trump's talks claim, says US buying time for military plans

Iran rejects Trump's talks claim, says US buying time for military plans

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

"The US President's statements are within the framework of efforts to reduce energy prices and gain time to implement his military plans," the ministry stated.

West Asia conflict: 170 Indians cross into Armenia from Iran, says govt

West Asia conflict: 170 Indians cross into Armenia from Iran, says govt

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Indian embassy in Tehran has earlier stated that it is facilitating the safe movement of nationals who wish to leave Iran.

Trump's War Has Crossed Energy Rubicon. And There's No Turning Back

Trump's War Has Crossed Energy Rubicon. And There's No Turning Back

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

For weeks, the war skirted the edge of catastrophe without tipping over. Missiles flew, there was much destruction, commanders were assassinated, cities across the Gulf and even in Israel struggled to absorb the shock. But one line held: Energy infrastructure, the arteries of the global economy, remained largely untouched. That is no longer true. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

Pakistan's Offensive Against Afghan Taliban Continues, Ammunition Depot Destroyed

Pakistan's Offensive Against Afghan Taliban Continues, Ammunition Depot Destroyed

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Pakistan's military operation against the Afghan Taliban continues with the destruction of an ammunition depot, following attacks on multiple locations along the border.

'Today will be yet again our most intense day of strikes inside Iran': US

'Today will be yet again our most intense day of strikes inside Iran': US

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Despite the escalation in US military action, the War Secretary noted that Iran's missile response has declined in the last 24 hours.

Over 1.7 million tonnes of India's fuel stuck in Strait of Hormuz

Over 1.7 million tonnes of India's fuel stuck in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Hundreds of Indian seafarers are stranded on vessels carrying crude oil, LPG, and LNG in the Persian Gulf due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, causing disruptions to India's energy supplies.

Iran launches 5 multi-warhead missiles, hits Tel Aviv

Iran launches 5 multi-warhead missiles, hits Tel Aviv

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

After the Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars Gas Field on Wednesday night, in retaliation, Iran struck Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City, resulting in extensive damage, as per the country's Ministry of Defence.

Fighting 'existential war' against US, Israel: Iran

Fighting 'existential war' against US, Israel: Iran

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Amid escalating tensions, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh declares Iran's unwavering commitment to a 'heroic nationalist defence' against perceived American and Israeli aggression, vowing to resist what he calls an 'invasion' to the very end.

Iran rejects US proposals, puts 5 tough conditions to end conflict

Iran rejects US proposals, puts 5 tough conditions to end conflict

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

The urgency for a resolution is underscored by the military situation, as joint operations by Israel and the US have consistently been "targeting Iran's missile systems, launch sites and other critical infrastructure" since the onset of the conflict.

US warns of 'largest strike package' against Iran, says...

US warns of 'largest strike package' against Iran, says...

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Hegseth said the military campaign, code-named Operation Epic Fury, against Iran is "laser focused" and "decisive," with objectives set directly by the US administration remaining unchanged since the start of operations.

War In The Strait Of Hormuz Has Landed On A Tawa In Mumbai

War In The Strait Of Hormuz Has Landed On A Tawa In Mumbai

Rediff.com6 days ago

The LPG squeeze on India's restaurant sector is the quotidian face of a deeper crisis.

BJP Blames Kerala Govt for Water Crisis Ahead of Attukal Pongala

BJP Blames Kerala Govt for Water Crisis Ahead of Attukal Pongala

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Kerala BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar criticizes the state government for the water crisis in Thiruvananthapuram ahead of the Attukal Pongala festival, alleging negligence and failure to utilize funds. He also addressed the Gulf conflict and political alliances in the state.

Saudi Arabia intercepts drone targeting oil-rich eastern region

Saudi Arabia intercepts drone targeting oil-rich eastern region

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

The targeted eastern area is of immense strategic importance, as it is where the "majority of the country's oil resources are located."

Pete said, 'Let's do it': Trump puts onus of Iran war on Pentagon chief

Pete said, 'Let's do it': Trump puts onus of Iran war on Pentagon chief

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Donald Trump claims a senior defence official urged military action against Iran, revealing escalating tensions and ongoing negotiations in the Middle East.

Sri Lanka Establishes Emergency Hotlines Amid West Asia Crisis

Sri Lanka Establishes Emergency Hotlines Amid West Asia Crisis

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Sri Lanka has established emergency hotlines and is closely monitoring the situation in West Asia following escalating tensions, urging restraint and de-escalation from all parties involved.

Trump Won't Decide What Happens Next In The War

Trump Won't Decide What Happens Next In The War

Rediff.com5 days ago

'The next two to three weeks will not be decided in Washington.' 'They will be decided in Tehran, in whatever calculation Iran makes about the costs of continued resistance against the costs of appearing to have yielded.'

Who Sleeps The Least? 7 Countries With Sleep Defecits

Who Sleeps The Least? 7 Countries With Sleep Defecits

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

Barely 45.45 per cent of South Koreans achieve the recommended nightly rest, highlighting a growing wellness concern. Data from PlushCare places South Korea and several nations in the Middle East among seven nations where people consistently fall short of the expert-advised 8-9 hours of sleep each night, reflecting how modern routines are reshaping global rest patterns.

Downed US pilot hid in mountain crevice, hiked 7,000 feet to evade Iranians for 48 hours

Downed US pilot hid in mountain crevice, hiked 7,000 feet to evade Iranians for 48 hours

Rediff.com2 days ago

A US Air Force officer was rescued from deep inside Iran after his jet was shot down, following a two-day mission involving US Special Operations forces. The officer evaded Iranian forces for over 24 hours, hiding in a mountain crevice and hiking to high altitudes before being rescued.

913 Indians exit Iran through Armenia, Azerbaijan: MEA

913 Indians exit Iran through Armenia, Azerbaijan: MEA

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the number of Indians exiting Iran through Armenia and Azerbaijan has increased since the previous update.

Conflict and Ramzan Reduce Foreign Participation at Para Athletics Grand Prix

Conflict and Ramzan Reduce Foreign Participation at Para Athletics Grand Prix

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The World Para Athletics Grand Prix in New Delhi has been significantly affected by the conflict in West Asia and the month of Ramzan, leading to a sharp decline in international participation.

PM Modi Reassures Support for Indians Amidst West Asia Conflict

PM Modi Reassures Support for Indians Amidst West Asia Conflict

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed an NDA rally, assuring that the Indian government is providing assistance to Indian citizens stranded in West Asia due to the ongoing conflict. He criticised the Congress party for allegedly making provocative statements and spreading rumours regarding the crisis.

BJP Leader Mithun Chakraborty Criticises West Bengal's Fuel Taxes and Law & Order

BJP Leader Mithun Chakraborty Criticises West Bengal's Fuel Taxes and Law & Order

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

BJP leader Mithun Chakraborty has criticised the West Bengal government over high fuel taxes and alleged security lapses, particularly concerning women's safety and border control.

French soldier killed, several injured in attack in Iraq

French soldier killed, several injured in attack in Iraq

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

A French soldier was killed while several others were injured in an attack in the Erbil region of Iraq, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed. Macron, in a post on X, confirmed that Chief Warrant Officer Arnaud Frion of the 7th Battalion of Chasseurs Alpins lost his life in the attack.

Iran hits over 10 sites in Israel's Haifa; 2 killed

Iran hits over 10 sites in Israel's Haifa; 2 killed

Rediff.com1 days ago

An Iranian missile strike on Haifa has resulted in casualties and intensified conflict between Iran and Israel, prompting search operations and ceasefire discussions.

India shifts majority of Indian students out of Tehran

India shifts majority of Indian students out of Tehran

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

India has relocated the majority of its students from Tehran due to the escalating conflict in West Asia. The Indian embassy has arranged for their transportation, food, and accommodation outside of Tehran. An advisory remains in place for other Indian nationals in Iran to stay indoors and exercise caution.

Indian Navy ships escorting tankers through Strait of Hormuz: Rajnath

Indian Navy ships escorting tankers through Strait of Hormuz: Rajnath

Rediff.com5 days ago

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assures India's energy security amidst West Asia tensions, highlighting naval protection of tankers and readiness to counter cross-border terrorism.

Iran wanted to talk, I said 'too late': Trump

Iran wanted to talk, I said 'too late': Trump

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Trump said that Iran's leadership, along with its air defence, Air Force, and Navy are 'gone'.

Iran war: Centre announces Rs 497 crore export relief package

Iran war: Centre announces Rs 497 crore export relief package

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

In view of the disruptive situations, the Central government has also announced a financial relief package of Rs 497 crores aimed at helping exporters affected by disruptions in West Asia.

After Hormuz, Iran to block Bab el-Mandeb strait? Top official drops hint

After Hormuz, Iran to block Bab el-Mandeb strait? Top official drops hint

Rediff.com3 days ago

A senior Iranian legislator has suggested that Tehran could further escalate pressure on its adversaries by targeting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, raising concerns about global supply chain vulnerabilities.

No need to panic, enough LPG supply for homes, says govt

No need to panic, enough LPG supply for homes, says govt

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The government has assured citizens that there is no need to panic book LPG cylinders, as uninterrupted supply to households is being ensured despite the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Does The US Plan To Continue This War For 'One Or Two Years'?

Does The US Plan To Continue This War For 'One Or Two Years'?

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

This weekend, Donald Trump has begun to say the quiet part out loud -- that he wants to take control of Iran's oil, a formulation more in line with his robber-baron style of international relations.

Pak PM offers to host US-Iran talks, Trump shares post

Pak PM offers to host US-Iran talks, Trump shares post

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has offered to host talks between the US and Iran to help resolve the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, following reports of Pakistan's involvement in backchannel diplomacy.

Three killed, two hurt in US-Israeli air strike on Iran's Black Mountain

Three killed, two hurt in US-Israeli air strike on Iran's Black Mountain

Rediff.com3 days ago

An air strike conducted by US and Israeli forces on the Black Mountain has resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals, Al Jazeera reported, citing Iranian state media.

Modi's ill-advised...: Cong slams PM on Pak mediation reports

Modi's ill-advised...: Cong slams PM on Pak mediation reports

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The Congress party has criticised the Indian government's diplomatic strategy, claiming a 'severe setback' if reports of Pakistan mediating between the US-Israel and Iran are accurate. The party alleges Pakistan's diplomatic engagement has surpassed India's, despite military successes.