News for 'middle-east'

Trump dials Modi, talks focus on keeping Strait of Hormuz open

Trump dials Modi, talks focus on keeping Strait of Hormuz open

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed the Middle East crisis, with a focus on the Strait of Hormuz.

West Asia crisis: Govt mulls more relief packages for vulnerable sectors

West Asia crisis: Govt mulls more relief packages for vulnerable sectors

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The Indian government is considering additional relief packages for vulnerable sectors like MSMEs to mitigate the impact of the ongoing West Asia crisis on the economy and inflation.

Report reveals White House role in Pak PM's peace plea

Report reveals White House role in Pak PM's peace plea

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

A media report indicates the White House was directly involved in crafting a social media post by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, requesting then-US President Donald Trump to extend the deadline on Iran.

Trump backs Israel strike, says Hezbollah not part of ceasefire deal

Trump backs Israel strike, says Hezbollah not part of ceasefire deal

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday backed Israel's ongoing military operation in Lebanon, stating that Hezbollah "was not included" in the recent ceasefire deal between Washington and Tehran, which halted the conflict in West Asia for two weeks.

Budgam Man Faces Charges for Allegedly Inciting Unrest via Social Media Videos

Budgam Man Faces Charges for Allegedly Inciting Unrest via Social Media Videos

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

A man in Budgam district, Jammu and Kashmir, has been booked by police for allegedly circulating provocative videos on social media platforms, potentially inciting public unrest and disturbing communal harmony.

'Bitter defeat': Iran counters Trump over F-15 rescue

'Bitter defeat': Iran counters Trump over F-15 rescue

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

While Trump described the operation as the 'most daring' search and rescue mission in US military history, Iran termed it a victory, claiming it shot down a C-130-class aircraft involved in the operation.

More use of speciality fertilisers can help tide over supply shocks: Experts

More use of speciality fertilisers can help tide over supply shocks: Experts

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Despite significant price differences, Indian farmers are increasingly adopting non-subsidised speciality fertilisers, which are seen as a potential solution to the rising fertiliser subsidy burden exacerbated by global supply shocks.

2 more Indian-flagged LPG tankers set to cross Strait of Hormuz

2 more Indian-flagged LPG tankers set to cross Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Two more Indian-flagged LPG tankers have begun their journey from the Persian Gulf, navigating the Strait of Hormuz amidst regional conflict, following disruptions caused by recent tensions in the Middle East.

Why Trump Enforced A Naval Blockade In Strait Of Hormuz

Why Trump Enforced A Naval Blockade In Strait Of Hormuz

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

The US blockade on Iranian ports is aimed to curb Iranian energy exports, thereby crippling its economy to force Iran back to the negotiating table, points out Commodore Venugopal Menon (retd).

Iran names new security chief to replace Ali Larijani

Iran names new security chief to replace Ali Larijani

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Zolqadr's appointment comes through a presidential decree, endorsed by Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.

Campaign against Iran 'is not yet over': Netanyahu

Campaign against Iran 'is not yet over': Netanyahu

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Benjamin Netanyahu declares that the joint Israel-US campaign is successfully 'crushing' Iran, eliminating existential threats and weakening the regime's regional influence.

Israel backs Iran ceasefire, refuses to halt ops against Hezbollah

Israel backs Iran ceasefire, refuses to halt ops against Hezbollah

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Israel will continue its offensive in South Lebanon aimed at neutralising the threat from Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran.

Iran hits Israel's Haifa shortly after Trump says its missile program curtailed

Iran hits Israel's Haifa shortly after Trump says its missile program curtailed

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the missile launches in a statement on Telegram, noting that defensive systems were actively operating to intercept the threat.

Iran threatens to strike US energy infra, IT systems over fuel site attack

Iran threatens to strike US energy infra, IT systems over fuel site attack

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

According to Iranian state media, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), the threat was articulated by Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.

R. Vaishali's Candidates Triumph: The Making Of A Chess Champion Through Family And Perseverance

R. Vaishali's Candidates Triumph: The Making Of A Chess Champion Through Family And Perseverance

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

R. Vaishali, the newly-crowned Candidates champion, exemplifies quiet intensity and strong values, nurtured by a supportive family, as she prepares for the World Championship showdown against Ju Wenjun.

India, US review defence ties, key deals at policy meet

India, US review defence ties, key deals at policy meet

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Key discussions focused on major defence procurements, including India's plan to acquire six additional P-8I aircraft for anti-submarine warfare. The deal, estimated at around Rs 30,000 crore, is under advanced negotiations.

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.com4 Apr 2026

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.

'Worst Gulf Crisis For Migrants In 50 Years'

'Worst Gulf Crisis For Migrants In 50 Years'

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

'In India, there is this first generation migrant, say from a small village in UP. He didn't go to the Gulf to buy a big house but make the life of his family better.' 'He may have paid 1 lakh rupees to an agent to go to the Gulf. Imagine what will happen to him and his family if he has to come back. He and his family will become poor again.' 'He went to the Gulf to come out of poverty, but this war will make his family trapped in poverty once again.'

If Asha Bhosle Hadn't Become A Singer...

If Asha Bhosle Hadn't Become A Singer...

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Asha Bhosle, the legendary playback singer, had a lifelong passion for cooking, which she considered a stress reliever and a way to connect with loved ones.

Iran War: 'US Doesn't Depend On Strait of Hormuz For Oil'

Iran War: 'US Doesn't Depend On Strait of Hormuz For Oil'

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

'Neither do the Israelis. The two attacking parties have very little economic interest in Hormuz.'

Why Did India Not Stop The War?

Why Did India Not Stop The War?

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

India is one of the few nations, and perhaps the only nation, that has good relations with America, Israel and Iran. Knowing that a war in the Gulf would damage our economy, hurt supply of fertilisers and fuel, and cause general chaos, we should have tried to ensure this war did not begin, asserts Aakar Patel.

Pak pushes for talks even as Iran, Israel reject peace moves

Pak pushes for talks even as Iran, Israel reject peace moves

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in West Asia, offering to host talks between the US and Iran and engaging with regional leaders to promote peace and stability.

Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader lauds India as 'land of humanity'

Representative of Iran's Supreme Leader lauds India as 'land of humanity'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India expressed gratitude towards Indians, calling India a land of 'loyalty and humanity'.

India Missed Diplomatic Edge Against Pakistan

India Missed Diplomatic Edge Against Pakistan

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Iran was the chance to arrange a concert of nations, to actually be a Vishwaguru. Instead, we are watching from the sidelines as Pakistan, the same country that is apparently still at war with Afghanistan, hosts talks between US-Israel and Iran. The irony is hard to miss, points out Amberish K Diwanji.

War to go on till US faces permanent humiliation: Iran refutes Trump

War to go on till US faces permanent humiliation: Iran refutes Trump

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Iranian military on Thursday issued a strongly worded response to remarks made by United States President Donald Trump, warning that the ongoing conflict will persist until Washington, DC faces what it described as 'permanent humiliation, regret, and surrender', as reported by Iranian state media Press TV.

Iran rejects US 15-point plan, tables own demands

Iran rejects US 15-point plan, tables own demands

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Iran on Monday described the 15-point proposal from the United States to end the conflict in West Asia and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz as 'excessively demanding', stating that it has prepared its own set of demands to end hostilities, which have now entered their second month.

US Army chief ousted amid war in Iran, former Hegseth aide takes charge

US Army chief ousted amid war in Iran, former Hegseth aide takes charge

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

The decision marks a significant leadership transition as the administration seeks a commander who 'will implement Donald Trump and Hegseth's vision for the Army'.

India grapples with LPG supply crunch, but panic buying eases

India grapples with LPG supply crunch, but panic buying eases

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

India continues to face LPG supply challenges for the third consecutive week due to disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict, though panic buying is showing signs of easing. The government is prioritising domestic household supplies and encouraging alternative fuel sources.

How did India secure Hormuz passage for ships? Jaishankar reveals

How did India secure Hormuz passage for ships? Jaishankar reveals

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Amidst rising Middle East tensions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlights India's strategic dialogue with Iran to safeguard maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring India's energy security and continued oil trade.

Shehbaz Sharif invites US and Iran to Pakistan for ceasefire negotiations

Shehbaz Sharif invites US and Iran to Pakistan for ceasefire negotiations

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed the ceasefire between the US and Iran and invited delegations from both countries to Islamabad for peace negotiations.

US, Iran explore 45-day ceasefire as mediators push for deal

US, Iran explore 45-day ceasefire as mediators push for deal

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The United States and Iran, with regional mediators, are reportedly discussing a potential 45-day ceasefire to prevent further escalation of conflict, including strikes on Iranian infrastructure and retaliation against Gulf states' facilities.

Max Verstappen Hints at Shock F1 Retirement Amid Growing Frustration

Max Verstappen Hints at Shock F1 Retirement Amid Growing Frustration

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Max Verstappen says he is considering F1 retirement after a frustrating start to the season, saying all options are open despite his Red Bull contract till 2028.

Trump eyes end to Iran war before China visit: Report

Trump eyes end to Iran war before China visit: Report

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report said Trump believes the conflict is in its final stages and has urged aides to adhere to the four-to-six-week timeline he has outlined publicly.

IRIS Dena sinking: Navy sends Tarangini, Ikshak to assist Sri Lanka

IRIS Dena sinking: Navy sends Tarangini, Ikshak to assist Sri Lanka

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

The vessel sank on March 4, 2026, approximately 20 nautical miles west of Galle, after reportedly being struck by a torpedo from a United States submarine.

Iran imposes 'toll' in Hormuz; India calls it baseless

Iran imposes 'toll' in Hormuz; India calls it baseless

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The report said ships must submit full documentation, obtain clearance codes and accept IRGC-escorted passage through a designated corridor.

Trump, Iran Inch Closer And Closer To A Deal

Trump, Iran Inch Closer And Closer To A Deal

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trump has said he would be present at the signing ceremony in Islamabad. Don't be surprised if the Pakistani hosts make it a grand event in the geopolitics of the region. Trump would love that, notes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Behind The Runway: The Crisis Designers Are Facing Right Now

Behind The Runway: The Crisis Designers Are Facing Right Now

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Whether it's made-to-order fashion, reduced waste or tech-driven showcases, designers are being forced to slow down and think smarter.

US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible attack within 48 hours

US Embassy in Baghdad warns of possible attack within 48 hours

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

In a post on X, the embassy said such groups 'may intend to conduct attacks in central Baghdad in the next 24-48 hours', raising concerns over the safety of US citizens and installations in Iraq.

T20 WC: Zimbabwe finally head home after travel chaos

T20 WC: Zimbabwe finally head home after travel chaos

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The members of the Zimbabwe cricket team, who were stranded in India after the T20 World Cup due to international airspace closures amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East, headed home on Wednesday after the International Cricket Council (ICC) made alternative travel arrangements for their safe journey.

US intel report counters Trump on Iran's missile capability

US intel report counters Trump on Iran's missile capability

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Media reports based on intelligence sources say nearly half of Iran's missile launchers remain intact, while thousands of one-way attack drones are still part of its arsenal even after continuous strikes targeting military infrastructure over the past five weeks.