News for 'regional escalation'

Iran-Israel Conflict Halts Dubai Weddings

Iran-Israel Conflict Halts Dubai Weddings

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

With Gulf countries emerging as popular destinations for Indian weddings and pre-wedding shoots, the March-April season had seen a flurry of bookings.

Don't Expect Too Much From Islamabad Summit

Don't Expect Too Much From Islamabad Summit

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The core issues to be settled -- access to Hormuz, Israel's aggression in Lebanon, the question of Iran's nuclear programme, sanctions relief and compensation -- are thorny enough to require weeks of patient negotiation. The most likely outcome of the opening sessions is that both sides take the measure of each other, establish what is and is not negotiable, and return home without having broken anything. That would count as progress.

Protest over assault on pregnant tribal woman turns violent in Bengal

Protest over assault on pregnant tribal woman turns violent in Bengal

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

A protest march in Siliguri, India, concerning the alleged assault of a pregnant Adivasi woman, escalated into violence, prompting police intervention and multiple detentions.

Trump Won't Decide What Happens Next In The War

Trump Won't Decide What Happens Next In The War

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

'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.'

EaseMyTrip Co-founder Advises Flexibility Amid Flight Disruptions

EaseMyTrip Co-founder Advises Flexibility Amid Flight Disruptions

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

EaseMyTrip co-founder Rikant Pitti advises travelers to stay flexible and monitor airline updates due to airspace closures and route diversions following strikes on Iran.

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

The US Rescue That Raises More Questions Than It Answers

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The 'rescue' operation occurred within kilometres of Iran's underground tunnel complex at Isfahan, assessed by the IAEA and US intelligence as holding a substantial portion of the country's 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile. Retired senior US military officers have highlighted that the mission's footprint -- hundreds of special operators, multiple heavy-lift aircraft deep inside Iran -- appears outsized for recovering a single airman. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

LPG Crisis Threatens Closure of Mumbai Hotels: What's Behind the Shortage?

LPG Crisis Threatens Closure of Mumbai Hotels: What's Behind the Shortage?

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Mumbai hotels and restaurants are facing potential closures due to a critical shortage of commercial LPG cylinders, with similar disruptions reported across India. The crisis stems from revised government priorities for domestically produced natural gas, impacting the hospitality sector and potentially affecting tourism.

Has US Repeated Its Iraq Mistake?

Has US Repeated Its Iraq Mistake?

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Israel and the United States had a plan. Iran punched back. And now the Gulf is reeling, the world is beginning to feel the pain and, as on date, no one in Washington or Tel Aviv appears willing to admit that the punch has landed, notes Prem Panicker, continuing his must-read blog on the war in the Middle East.

Afghan Shelling Kills One, Injures Seven in Pakistan

Afghan Shelling Kills One, Injures Seven in Pakistan

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

One person was killed and seven others injured after Afghan forces allegedly carried out mortar shelling on civilian areas near the Afghanistan border in northwestern Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

How the Middle East crisis has affected sporting events and athletes

How the Middle East crisis has affected sporting events and athletes

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The escalating conflict involving the U.S. and Israel with Iran has led to widespread disruption in the world of sports, with events postponed, travel plans thrown into chaos, and athletes seeking asylum.

Iran has not closed Hormuz: Supreme leader's India representative

Iran has not closed Hormuz: Supreme leader's India representative

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Iran has not closed the Strait. It remains open; however, due to current conditions and circumstances, ships are unable to pass through the Hormuz. Otherwise, Iran never wanted the Strait to be closed or blocked, the supreme leader's representative said.

'We're safe, but there is a bit of worry': Sindhu's coach Irwansyahh

'We're safe, but there is a bit of worry': Sindhu's coach Irwansyahh

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Indonesian coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama, who trains P V Sindhu, had a narrow escape after an explosion occurred close to where they were stationed at Dubai Airport while travelling to Birmingham for the All England Championships.

Sindhu's Coach Safe After Dubai Airport Explosion

Sindhu's Coach Safe After Dubai Airport Explosion

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Indonesian coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama, who trains P V Sindhu, had a narrow escape after an explosion occurred close to where they were stationed at Dubai Airport while travelling to Birmingham for the All England Championships.

Centre to evacuate Indians from Gulf; IndiGo to operate 10 Jeddah flights

Centre to evacuate Indians from Gulf; IndiGo to operate 10 Jeddah flights

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi assures that the Indian government is prepared to bring back Indians stranded in the Gulf region due to the Iran-Israel conflict and disruptions in Dubai, emphasizing citizen safety as the top priority.

Karnataka CM Asks Modi to Ensure Safety of Indians in Middle East

Karnataka CM Asks Modi to Ensure Safety of Indians in Middle East

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take measures to protect Indian citizens in the Middle East due to escalating geopolitical tensions, including initiating evacuation plans and enhancing diplomatic efforts.

'Pakistan Can Only Disintegrate If Any External Power Intervenes'

'Pakistan Can Only Disintegrate If Any External Power Intervenes'

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

'If this region destabilises, then we are not far away. This region should not destabilise.'

'Any leader appointed by Iran's clerics will be eliminated'

'Any leader appointed by Iran's clerics will be eliminated'

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

Amid rising tensions, Israel's Defence Minister has issued a stark warning that any leader succeeding Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei will be considered a target, as reports suggest his son Mojtaba may be next in line.

'If I Go To Iran They Will Kill Me'

'If I Go To Iran They Will Kill Me'

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

India-based Iranian actresses Mandana Karimi and Elnaz Norouzi share their deep concerns and anxieties about the escalating crisis in Iran, and reveal the personal toll on their lives and the Iranian diaspora.

Understand govt's...: Tharoor back's India's Iran war stance

Understand govt's...: Tharoor back's India's Iran war stance

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor is urging the Indian government to take a more proactive role in mediating the escalating conflict between the US-Israel alliance and Iran, emphasising the impact on India's energy security and regional stability.

US-Iran Conflict Wipes Out Rs 70,000 Cr From LIC Portfolio

US-Iran Conflict Wipes Out Rs 70,000 Cr From LIC Portfolio

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

The BSE Sensex and the Nifty 50 declined around 4.5 per cent each since the start of the West Asia conflict.

Middle East on edge as Iran targets US military bases

Middle East on edge as Iran targets US military bases

Rediff.com28 Feb 2026

Residents across the Gulf region, including the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar, experienced fear and disruption following attacks, leading to flight suspensions and heightened security measures.

Deadly retaliation awaits: Iran on killing of IRIS Dena sailors

Deadly retaliation awaits: Iran on killing of IRIS Dena sailors

Rediff.com17 Mar 2026

Following the death of Iranian sailors in the Indian Ocean, Iran's navy has threatened 'deadly retaliation,' accusing the US of attacking its warship off the coast of Sri Lanka, escalating tensions in the region.

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.com2 Apr 2026

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

Iran renews threat to Gulf neighbours hours after 'apology'

Iran renews threat to Gulf neighbours hours after 'apology'

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Amidst ongoing conflict, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signals a potential de-escalation by apologising to neighbouring countries while firmly rejecting US President Donald Trump's demand for unconditional surrender.

ADB flags India's oil vulnerability amid rising West Asia tensions

ADB flags India's oil vulnerability amid rising West Asia tensions

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Friday warned that India's limited crude oil reserves of about 100 million barrels - sufficient for only 40-45 days of consumption - leave the country particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing war in West Asia.

Video shows female BLA fighter in clash with Pakistani forces

Video shows female BLA fighter in clash with Pakistani forces

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has released videos and images highlighting the involvement of female fighters in its ongoing campaign in Balochistan.

Wild Elephant Tramples Man to Death in Ranchi

Wild Elephant Tramples Man to Death in Ranchi

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

A man was killed by a wild elephant in Ranchi district, Jharkhand. The incident occurred in Chitrakota village. Forest officials provided immediate relief to the family of the deceased and are working to drive the elephant back into the forest.

Hormuz Crisis Threatens Global Economy

Hormuz Crisis Threatens Global Economy

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

When missiles fly in this region, they are never just aimed at military targets.

'Jag Laadki' carrying 80,886 MT of crude oil reaches Mundra port

'Jag Laadki' carrying 80,886 MT of crude oil reaches Mundra port

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Indian-flagged vessels are navigating the Strait of Hormuz safely despite ongoing tensions in the region, ensuring the continued flow of vital energy supplies to India.

Japan's High-Stakes Gamble In the Indo-Pacific

Japan's High-Stakes Gamble In the Indo-Pacific

Rediff.com10 Feb 2026

In the Indo-Pacific's new era -- where perception shapes reality faster than treaties -- the real entrapment is not of China or the United States. It is the test Japan has set for itself -- and whether partners like India, acting as balancers rather than accelerants, can help ensure that the story ends in stability, points out Varun Arya.

ESMA invoked to ramp up LPG production amid fuel crisis

ESMA invoked to ramp up LPG production amid fuel crisis

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

The Indian government has directed oil refineries to increase LPG production to ensure a stable supply of domestic cooking gas, amidst concerns over potential disruptions from the escalating Middle East conflict and its impact on imports.

Iran claims missile strike on US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln

Iran claims missile strike on US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

The USS Abraham Lincoln has been operating in the Arabian Sea since the end of January.

'Israeli Assassinations In Iran Will Continue'

'Israeli Assassinations In Iran Will Continue'

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

'Much will depend on the position of the United States.' 'It will have to be seen to what extent the US will be more interested in achieving some form of a deal and to what extent Israel will be allowed to continue to carry out both airstrikes and the killing of Iranian officials.'

Pakistan FM Mediates Between Saudi Arabia and Iran Amid Conflict

Pakistan FM Mediates Between Saudi Arabia and Iran Amid Conflict

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has been actively involved in mediating between Saudi Arabia and Iran following the outbreak of war, ensuring the safety of Pakistani citizens in affected regions.

One Killed, 19 Injured in Pakistan Suicide Bombing

One Killed, 19 Injured in Pakistan Suicide Bombing

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

A suicide bombing at a checkpost in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has resulted in one death and 19 injuries, including security personnel. The attack, claimed to be targeting civilians by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has prompted a security response and condemnation from the Chief Minister.

Gulf War: US, Israel Didn't Expect This To Happen

Gulf War: US, Israel Didn't Expect This To Happen

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The United States, which entered this war in expectation of a short, sharp win along the Venezuela model, is now preparing for deeper involvement in a conflict it does not fully control, without the allies it typically relies on, against an adversary that is not behaving as expected, in a global environment that is already absorbing economic shock. Prem Panicker continues his must read daily blog on the Gulf War.

'Khamenei's son unacceptable': Trump seeks role in Iran succession

'Khamenei's son unacceptable': Trump seeks role in Iran succession

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

He also criticised the possible succession of the son of the late supreme leader of the Islamic Republic, Mojtaba Khamenei, who is widely viewed as a leading contender for the position.

270 Taliban, 12 Pak soldiers killed as Islamabad declares open war on Kabul

270 Taliban, 12 Pak soldiers killed as Islamabad declares open war on Kabul

Rediff.com27 Feb 2026

Pakistan launched a retaliatory operation, 'Ghazab lil Haq,' against the Afghan Taliban following alleged border attacks, resulting in reported casualties and destruction of Taliban infrastructure.

Four of family among 6 killed in wild elephants' attack in Jharkhand

Four of family among 6 killed in wild elephants' attack in Jharkhand

Rediff.com13 Feb 2026

Six people, including four members of a family, were trampled to death by a herd of wild elephants in Hazaribag district, Jharkhand. The elephants had been roaming the area for days, and villagers were warned, but attempts to flee proved fatal. Compensation has been initiated for the victims' families.

'15 out of 10': Trump rates US war performance against Iran

'15 out of 10': Trump rates US war performance against Iran

Rediff.com5 Mar 2026

Trump claims the United States is performing exceptionally well in its ongoing conflict with Iran, citing weakened Iranian military capabilities and a strong US position.