News for 'regional escalation'

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.com5 Apr 2026

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.

Iran rejects US ceasefire proposal, presents 10-point plan to end war

Iran rejects US ceasefire proposal, presents 10-point plan to end war

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Iran on Monday formally rejected a US-proposed ceasefire deal amid the escalating conflict in West Asia, instead unveiling its own 10-point plan aimed at permanently ending the ongoing war, as reported by the Iranian state news agency Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

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.

Gunmen Kill Polio Worker In Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Gunmen Kill Polio Worker In Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

An unidentified gunman killed a polio worker on the outskirts of Peshawar, Pakistan, during an ongoing polio eradication campaign. This incident is part of a series of attacks targeting polio workers and security personnel in the region, highlighting the challenges in eradicating polio in Pakistan.

Iran claims its supertanker transited Hormuz despite US blockade

Iran claims its supertanker transited Hormuz despite US blockade

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Conflicting reports emerge regarding the effectiveness of the US blockade on Iranian ports, with Iran claiming successful transit of vessels and the US asserting complete maritime dominance.

IED Blast Targets Police in Northwest Pakistan, Injuring Five

IED Blast Targets Police in Northwest Pakistan, Injuring Five

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

An IED blast in Lakki Marwat district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan, injured five police officers. The attack, claimed by Fitna-al-Khawarij (a term used for TTP terrorists), involved an IED planted on a motorcycle. Security measures have been increased in the region following a surge in violence.

USS Tripoli enters West Asia combat zone with 3,500 marines

USS Tripoli enters West Asia combat zone with 3,500 marines

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

The USS Tripoli, carrying around 3,500 US Marines, has entered the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility, marking the deployment of one of America's largest amphibious assault ships into an active combat theatre in West Asia amid the ongoing conflict.

Oil tanker with 15 Indian crew members attacked near Oman; 4 hurt

Oil tanker with 15 Indian crew members attacked near Oman; 4 hurt

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

A Palau-flagged oil tanker with 15 Indian crew members was attacked off the coast of Oman, resulting in injuries. The incident occurred amidst rising tensions in the Middle East following attacks between Iran, the US, and Israel.

Russia warns US-Israeli strike on Iranian port risks Caspian conflict

Russia warns US-Israeli strike on Iranian port risks Caspian conflict

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Russia has expressed strong concern over a US-Israeli strike on the Iranian port of Bandar Anzali, a key transit hub on the INSTC, warning of the risk of drawing Caspian states into the ongoing conflict.

Pakistan Assures Saudi Arabia of Support 'Before It Is Needed' Amid West Asia Conflict

Pakistan Assures Saudi Arabia of Support 'Before It Is Needed' Amid West Asia Conflict

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

A senior Pakistani official has affirmed Pakistan's commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia, even before assistance is explicitly requested, amidst ongoing conflict in West Asia. This pledge underscores the close ties between the two nations and Pakistan's role in regional stability.

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.

Attacks on commercial, civilian ships unacceptable: India

Attacks on commercial, civilian ships unacceptable: India

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Addressing the 36th extraordinary session of the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) held on Thursday in London, the Indian envoy said, "India remains deeply concerned about the evolving situation and continues to call for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy, with utmost restraint and priority being given to the safety of civilians."

Strait of Hormuz on edge as Trump announces US naval blockade

Strait of Hormuz on edge as Trump announces US naval blockade

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Sunday announced that the American Navy will henceforth block all maritime traffic entering the Strait of Hormuz.

Indian National Killed in Riyadh; Embassy Offers Condolences

Indian National Killed in Riyadh; Embassy Offers Condolences

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

An Indian national has died in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under unclear circumstances following recent events. The Indian Embassy is providing assistance to the family and liaising with local authorities.

Stringent UAPA Applied in Pakistan Espionage Racket Case

Stringent UAPA Applied in Pakistan Espionage Racket Case

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Police have invoked the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against 21 people apprehended for alleged involvement in a Pakistan-linked espionage racket. The suspects are accused of passing sensitive information to a Pakistan-based handler through social media and other means.

Iran mines key oil island as US prepares to send troops

Iran mines key oil island as US prepares to send troops

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Iran has placed anti-personnel and anti-armour mines around the island, where US troops could potentially stage an amphibious landing.

2nd Iranian ship heads towards Sri Lanka after US submarine attack

2nd Iranian ship heads towards Sri Lanka after US submarine attack

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Amidst escalating regional tensions, Sri Lanka is carefully considering its response after a second Iranian ship requested entry into its waters following a reported US submarine attack on an Iranian frigate near Galle.

Next round of Iran-US talks expected soon: Pak

Next round of Iran-US talks expected soon: Pak

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated that further Iran-US negotiations are anticipated soon, following talks in Pakistan. Despite initial optimism, the previous round of negotiations did not result in a lasting peace agreement.

After Spain, Italy denies US aircraft access to military base

After Spain, Italy denies US aircraft access to military base

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Italy has denied the United States the use of the Sigonella military base for flights heading to West Asia, citing a lack of consultation and concerns over the nature of the flights. This decision reflects Italy's stance on avoiding escalation in the region, as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government emphasises its desire to stay out of war.

Property Dispute Turns Deadly in Kaushambi Clash

Property Dispute Turns Deadly in Kaushambi Clash

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

A violent clash over a long-standing property dispute in Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in one death and six injuries. Police are investigating the incident and have registered a case.

Trump keen to secure deal with Iran: Israeli officials

Trump keen to secure deal with Iran: Israeli officials

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Trump claimed on social media that recent US-Iran discussions were 'very good and productive' and aimed at a 'complete and total resolution' of the conflict.

CCS assesses West Asia crisis, orders steps to help stranded Indians

CCS assesses West Asia crisis, orders steps to help stranded Indians

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has reviewed the evolving situation in West Asia, directing departments to assist Indian nationals affected by recent developments and emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy.

Gulf War: 'Missiles Flew Past Us'

Gulf War: 'Missiles Flew Past Us'

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

'We are getting used to the constant alerts to take shelter, listening to sonic booms from jets flying above us, hearing news of neighbouring ports being targeted, and being the only ship in the terminal.'

Iran denies Trump's direct talk claims; confirms indirect US outreach

Iran denies Trump's direct talk claims; confirms indirect US outreach

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said that the country has held no "direct" talks with the United States as of now and added that it has received messages through some mediators regarding the US' desire for negotiations.

Do not cross borders without embassy nod, India tells citizens in Iran

Do not cross borders without embassy nod, India tells citizens in Iran

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued an advisory urging Indian citizens in Iran to coordinate with the embassy before attempting to cross any land borders, citing potential logistical and immigration difficulties.

Ali Larijani, Iran's Security chief killed in airstrike, claims Israel

Ali Larijani, Iran's Security chief killed in airstrike, claims Israel

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Reports are emerging that Ali Larijani, a key Iranian security official, was allegedly targetted in an Israeli airstrike, escalating tensions in the region.

JD Vance touches down in Pakistan; Munir welcomes him at airport

JD Vance touches down in Pakistan; Munir welcomes him at airport

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

High-level peace talks between the US and Iran, facilitated by Pakistan, aim to de-escalate the conflict in West Asia and potentially reshape regional stability.

Russia offers fertiliser aid to Global South, East amid Hormuz concerns

Russia offers fertiliser aid to Global South, East amid Hormuz concerns

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

A senior Russian official has stated that Russia is prepared to supply fertilisers and other agricultural products to countries in the Global South and East, following concerns about the closure of the Strait of Hormuz impacting global fertiliser exports and food security.

Stop mlitaryops in West Asia at once, says China

Stop mlitaryops in West Asia at once, says China

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, China is urging all parties to cease military operations, following Trump's appeal for help in securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Modi speaks to Iranian President, seeks to 'safeguard navigation'

Modi speaks to Iranian President, seeks to 'safeguard navigation'

Rediff.com21 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, condemning attacks on critical infrastructure in West Asia and emphasising the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring secure shipping lanes.

Gold poised for volatile week as West Asia crisis roils markets

Gold poised for volatile week as West Asia crisis roils markets

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

Gold prices are expected to remain volatile next week as investors track geopolitical developments in the Middle East and key macroeconomic data releases that could shape the sentiment in the domestic market, analysts said.

2 more Indian LPG carriers cross Hormuz safely amid tensions

2 more Indian LPG carriers cross Hormuz safely amid tensions

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

The vessels are carrying around 92,600 metric tonnes of LPG and have 33 and 27 Indian seafarers onboard, respectively. Visuals showed Pine Gas crossing the critical chokepoint.

Modi speaks to UAE President over 'securing' Hormuz Strait

Modi speaks to UAE President over 'securing' Hormuz Strait

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

The two leaders also emphasised the importance of ensuring safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

UK Calls for Negotiation After US-Israel Strikes on Iran

UK Calls for Negotiation After US-Israel Strikes on Iran

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

The British government has called for a negotiated solution to prevent further escalation of conflict in the Middle East following joint strikes by the US and Israel on Iran, emphasizing the safety of UK nationals and the need to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Ishaq Dar Urges Diplomatic Engagement to Resolve West Asia Crisis

Ishaq Dar Urges Diplomatic Engagement to Resolve West Asia Crisis

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has called for dialogue to address the ongoing conflict in West Asia, emphasising the importance of diplomatic engagement and sustained efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

Indian National Among Fatalities in Saudi Arabia After Projectile Strike

Indian National Among Fatalities in Saudi Arabia After Projectile Strike

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

An Indian national was killed in Saudi Arabia after a projectile struck a residential area in Al-Kharj Governorate. The incident also resulted in the death of a Bangladeshi national and injuries to twelve others.

Violence fails to dent massive turnout in Bengal Phase 1; BJP, TMC claim edge

Violence fails to dent massive turnout in Bengal Phase 1; BJP, TMC claim edge

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections was disrupted by EVM glitches and overnight violence in several districts. Polling was halted or delayed at multiple booths due to malfunctioning Electronic Voting Machines. Incidents of violence were reported in Murshidabad and Cooch Behar, with political parties trading accusations.

War reaches Lebanon, Israel strikes Hezbollah targets in Beirut

War reaches Lebanon, Israel strikes Hezbollah targets in Beirut

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

The escalating conflict in West Asia widened on Monday as Israel launched airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Beirut and other parts of Lebanon, following projectile fire from Lebanese territory into northern Israel. The Israeli Air Force (IAF) said in a series of posts on X that it carried out targeted strikes against senior members of Hezbollah in the Beirut area in response to the projectile fire launched toward Israel, particularly toward the north of the country.

PV Sindhu Stranded at Dubai Airport Amid Middle East Tensions

PV Sindhu Stranded at Dubai Airport Amid Middle East Tensions

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu was stranded at Dubai airport due to flight suspensions caused by escalating tensions in the Middle East, casting doubt on her participation in the All England Open.

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.