US in ‘serious discussions’ with Iran; sidelines China-Pakistan call for ceasefire

Washington: The White House has said it is engaged in “serious discussions” with Iran’s leadership and is optimistic about reaching a deal soon, even as China and Pakistan have jointly called for an immediate halt to hostilities…

Trump Open to Ending Iran War Even If Hormuz Strait Stays Closed: Report

Washington: Donald Trump has reportedly indicated to his aides that he is willing to bring an end to the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran even if the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains largely shut, according to a report by The…

Pakistan’s Inaction Under Saudi Defence Pact Raises Credibility Questions: Report

Pakistan’s decision not to deploy significant military support to Saudi Arabia amid recent tensions in West Asia has sparked debate over the reliability and scope of its defence commitments, according to a report published by Atalayar.

Despite…

India’s Industrial Growth Picks Up to 5.2% in February

New Delhi — India’s industrial activity showed stronger momentum in February, with growth rising to 5.2%, up from 4.8% in January, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

The uptick…

Iran War Raises Economic Risks for Bangladesh, Pakistan: S&P Report

New Delhi — The ongoing tensions in West Asia could pose serious economic challenges for South Asian countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, mainly due to their heavy reliance on imported energy, according to a report by S&P…

Israel Defense Forces says strikes on Iran’s military industry nearing completion

Jerusalem — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has said it expects to complete strikes on key components of Iran’s military industry within the next few days, as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East.

IDF spokesperson…

Iran conflict highlights limits of China’s geopolitical reach in Middle East: Report

Brussels — The ongoing conflict involving Iran has exposed the limitations of China’s strategy in the Middle East, showing that economic engagement alone may not translate into geopolitical influence, according to a report.

The…

IAEA says strikes hit Iranian facilities, no radiation risk detected

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that Iran reported fresh strikes on key facilities, including the heavy water production plant at Khondab, but said no radiation risk has been detected. 

In a post on X, the agency…

India’s Pragmatic Middle East Policy Strengthens Strategic Ties with Israel

Washington: India’s balanced and pragmatic approach to the evolving geopolitical situation in the Middle East is expected to further strengthen its strategic partnership with Israel, according to a report by the US-based think tank Middle East…

18 bodies retrieved after bus plunges into river in Bangladesh

Dhaka: At least 18 bodies have been recovered after a passenger bus plunged into the Padma River from a pontoon at a terminal in Rajbari District, about 125 km south of Dhaka.

The accident occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time on Wednesday when…