India participated as an observer in the inaugural meeting of United States President Donald Trump’s newly announced Board of Peace initiative focused on Gaza, according to official participant records. The meeting was held at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, DC, where India was represented by Chargé d’Affaires Namgya Khampa from the Indian embassy. New Delhi has not formally joined the Board of Peace but attended in a limited observer capacity as international discussions around Gaza reconstruction and regional stability continue to evolve. During the launch event, Trump announced a pledge of $10 billion toward the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, positioning the initiative as a major international effort following the recent ceasefire. Several Muslim-majority countries also committed financial and security support. Leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates each pledged at least $1 billion, according to officials present at the gathering. The White House Press Secretary later stated that total commitments from participating nations had crossed $6.5 billion, a figure that appeared to exclude the separate US contribution. The Board of Peace was convened in the aftermath of a ceasefire agreement reached in October following negotiations facilitated by the United States in coordination with Qatar and Egypt. The ceasefire aimed to halt nearly two years of intense conflict in Gaza. Under the proposed second phase of the framework, Hamas is expected to be disarmed as part of broader stabilisation measures. The current war was triggered by Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which led to a large-scale Israeli military response in the Gaza Strip. In a notable development, Morocco announced its readiness to contribute police personnel and officers to the newly proposed International Stabilisation Force, marking what officials described as a first-of-its-kind commitment by an Arab nation in the context of the Gaza peace initiative. The move is seen as part of wider efforts to establish security arrangements alongside reconstruction planning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among several global leaders invited by the US President to be associated with the Board of Peace, which was formally announced as part of the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire framework. India, however, had not been present at the earlier January 22 ceremony in Davos where Trump first unveiled the initiative aimed at fostering long-term peace in Gaza and potentially addressing other global conflicts. The Board of Peace has drawn attention in diplomatic circles due to perceptions that it could emerge as an alternative multilateral platform. Trump has previously suggested that the body “might” replace the United Nations, arguing that existing global institutions have not fully delivered on their mandates. Observers note that the structure, scope, and long-term objectives of the Board of Peace remain under discussion as participating countries evaluate their roles. India’s decision to attend as an observer reflects its cautious diplomatic approach to the evolving Middle East situation. Officials have not indicated any immediate plan to formally join the initiative, but New Delhi continues to monitor developments closely as international stakeholders shape the future framework for Gaza’s reconstruction and regional stability.

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has issued a stark warning about the narrowing window for diplomacy between the United States and Iran, emphasizing the urgent need for an agreement to prevent further military escalation. His remarks come as concerns grow over Iran’s enriched nuclear material, which he said remains largely intact despite US strikes on key facilities last year. Speaking in an interview with French broadcaster TF1, Grossi stressed tha

Oil prices climbed sharply on Wednesday, rising more than 4% as investors reacted to escalating tensions between the United States and Iran following the latest round of nuclear negotiations. Market sentiment shifted after U.S. Vice President JD Vance indicated that Tehran had failed to address key American demands and warned that military options remain under consideration. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude settled up $2.86, or 4.59%, at $65.19 per barrel, while global benchmark B

Iran has indicated it is prepared to allow verification of its nuclear activities following the conclusion of a second round of US-Iran negotiations mediated by Oman. Speaking on Tuesday, February 17, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Tehran has no intention of developing atomic weapons and expressed openness to international scrutiny aimed at confirming that position. In remarks reported after the Geneva talks, Pezeshkian stated that Iran’s stance on nuclear weapons rema

Tensions between the United States and Iran intensified this week as both sides exchanged sharp rhetoric ahead of renewed diplomatic efforts over Tehran’s nuclear program. Former US President Donald Trump highlighted America’s military strength while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a pointed warning, underscoring the fragile atmosphere surrounding the latest round of nuclear deal talks. The war of words escalated even before the second round of negotiations, which were mediat

The second round of talks between the United States and Iran concluded in Geneva on Tuesday, with both sides signaling cautious optimism about the path forward. The Geneva meet, facilitated through Oman mediation, comes at a sensitive moment in US Iran relations, with diplomatic and military signals unfolding simultaneously across the Middle East. Speaking at the Conference on Disarmament, Iran FM Abbas Araghchi described the latest engagement as a potential turning point. He said a

The tragic death of actress Pratyusha, one of the most debated incidents in Telugu cinema history, has finally reached legal closure after 23 years. The Supreme Court delivered its long awaited verdict, ruling out allegations of rape and murder while upholding the conviction of Siddharth Reddy for abetment of suicide. The judgment marks the end of a prolonged legal battle that has remained a topic of public discussion since 2002. Pratyusha, who was just 20 years old at the time, was

Fresh satellite imagery indicates that Iran is strengthening an underground complex near its main nuclear installation at Natanz, a development that analysts say could complicate diplomatic efforts and heighten regional security concerns. The activity has been observed at a mountainous site known as Pickaxe Mountain, located roughly 1.6 kilometres south of the uranium enrichment facility in central Iran, and appears to involve new concrete structures and expanded tunnel protections. The construction comes at a time of renewed friction between Tehran and Washington. Former US president Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of possible military action if Iran does not reach an agreement over its nuclear programme, while Iranian officials have vowed to respond to any strike. The exchange of threats has added to fears of escalation across West Asia, where US forces have increased their presence and longstanding rivalries continue to shape the strategic landscape. Images reviewed by analysts from the Institute for Science and International Security, a Washington-based think tank that tracks nuclear proliferation risks, show what appears to be fresh concrete poured over at least one tunnel entrance. Equipment consistent with a boom pump used for concrete delivery is visible at the site, suggesting active reinforcement work. Nearby, rock and soil appear to have been cleared and levelled, and additional concrete-reinforced structures have been erected close to the entrances. Researchers who have monitored the area for several years say the scale of excavation and the amount of construction material suggest the site could support more than routine maintenance. The depth of the tunnels, estimated to be between 79 and 100 metres underground, may offer significant protection from aerial attacks and surveillance, potentially making the facility more resilient than other known installations. Such characteristics have drawn scrutiny from non-proliferation experts, who view hardened underground sites as capable of hosting sensitive operations such as centrifuge assembly or uranium enrichment. Iran has previously said that Pickaxe Mountain could be used for manufacturing and assembling centrifuges, devices required for nuclear fuel production. Tehran maintains that its nuclear activities are intended solely for peaceful purposes, including energy generation and medical research, and has repeatedly denied pursuing a nuclear weapon. However, the limited access granted to international inspectors has raised questions among watchdog groups and foreign governments about transparency and compliance. The site was not among those reportedly targeted during earlier US strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure, which officials described at the time as severely damaging key facilities. Analysts now suggest that any reconstruction of centrifuge capacity in protected locations like Pickaxe Mountain could allow Iran to restore or expand operations more quickly if other sites are disrupted. International observers emphasize that the situation underscores the importance of oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency. Experts argue that greater disclosure and inspections are essential to clarify the purpose of the new construction and to reduce the risk of miscalculation. Without verifiable information, they warn, suspicion could deepen and diplomatic efforts may face additional obstacles. As tensions persist, the developments at Pickaxe Mountain have become another focal point in the broader debate over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, regional stability, and the fragile balance between deterrence and diplomacy.

US President Donald Trump met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday to discuss a range of strategic issues, with the Iran nuclear deal emerging as a central topic of conversation. The meeting, held amid heightened regional tensions, underscored ongoing diplomatic efforts and disagreements surrounding Tehran’s nuclear programme and its broader military capabilities. Following the talks, Trump took to Truth Social to reiterate his administration’s position on nego

A senior Iranian security official has issued a sharp warning to the United States ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, underscoring escalating rhetoric between Tehran and Tel Aviv as diplomatic efforts around Iran’s nuclear program continue to shape regional politics. Ali Larijani, a prominent figure in Iran’s political and security establishment, addressed the matter in a post on social media on Tuesday, urging American policymakers and citizens to exercise caution. He said the United States should “think wisely” and remain alert to what he described as the “destructive role of the Zionists,” signaling Tehran’s deep distrust of Israeli influence over Washington’s foreign policy decisions. Larijani criticized Netanyahu’s planned trip, suggesting that the Israeli leader intended to sway the United States’ stance on negotiations related to Iran’s nuclear activities. In his remarks, Larijani argued that Netanyahu might attempt to frame the direction of nuclear negotiations before arriving in the United States. He warned that such messaging could mislead American officials and complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts. The comments reflect broader concerns in Tehran that Israel seeks to derail talks that could ease tensions between Iran and the United States or lead to a new agreement governing Iran’s nuclear program. Separately, Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, reinforced the government’s hardline posture. Speaking publicly, he said the Islamic Republic had demonstrated “compassion” since its founding but stressed that authorities would not hesitate to confront individuals or groups deemed disloyal. Ejei warned that the judiciary would take action against those acting “in tandem with Israel and other enemies of the Islamic revolution,” a statement widely interpreted as a message to domestic critics and alleged collaborators. Meanwhile, Netanyahu confirmed that discussions about Iran’s nuclear ambitions would be a central part of his agenda in Washington. Before departing for the US capital, the Israeli prime minister told reporters that he intended to present Israel’s approach and core principles regarding negotiations with Tehran. He described these principles as essential not only for Israel’s security but for any country seeking peace and stability in the Middle East. Netanyahu also emphasized the close relationship between Israel and the United States, highlighting frequent meetings with former US President Donald Trump as evidence of strong diplomatic and personal ties. According to the Israeli leader, this partnership plays a critical role in shaping policy on issues ranging from nuclear talks to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He indicated that a range of regional security concerns would be discussed during the visit. The exchange of pointed statements from both sides illustrates the persistent tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and the broader geopolitical rivalry between Iran and Israel. As Washington prepares to engage with Israeli leadership while weighing its approach to Tehran, the coming discussions are likely to influence not only bilateral US-Israel relations but also the future trajectory of diplomacy and security across the Middle East.

An Iranian man has reportedly taken his own life after recording and sharing a video message in which he appealed directly to former US President Donald Trump to halt any diplomatic engagement with Iran’s current leadership. The man, identified by activists and Iranian media as Pouria Hamidi, was from the southern port city of Bushehr. His death has drawn renewed attention to ongoing political tensions inside Iran and the wider international debate surrounding Tehran’s relations with Wash

Syria and Saudi Arabia have signed a series of major economic and infrastructure agreements aimed at accelerating Syria’s post-war reconstruction and strengthening bilateral ties, marking one of the most significant rounds of cooperation between the two countries in recent years. Officials said the deals span aviation, telecommunications, energy, and development projects, with billions of dollars expected to flow into key sectors of the Syrian economy. The agreements include the l

The United States announced a new round of sanctions on Friday targeting Iran’s oil and petrochemical trade, hours after indirect diplomatic talks between Tehran and Washington concluded in Oman, underscoring the fragile balance between pressure and engagement as both sides attempt to manage tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme. The measures, unveiled by the US State Department, apply to 15 entities and 14 vessels that officials say are linked to Iran’s so-called shad

Saudi Arabia is deploying significant political influence and billions of dollars in financial support in an effort to stabilize Yemen and consolidate control over areas held by the internationally recognized government, marking a renewed regional focus after years of concentrating on domestic reforms. Officials familiar with the strategy say Riyadh aims to unify fragmented armed groups, strengthen state institutions and create conditions that could eventually pressure Houthi rebels into nego

Tensions between Iran and the United States intensified this week after the US military shot down an Iranian drone that it said approached the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in an aggressive manner in the Arabian Sea. The incident came as both sides exchanged sharp warnings and cautious signals about a possible return to nuclear diplomacy, underscoring the fragile balance between confrontation and negotiation in the region. According to US officials, the drone was intercepted

A United States Navy fighter jet shot down an Iranian drone after it approached an American aircraft carrier operating in the Arabian Sea, according to US Central Command, marking the latest escalation in a period of heightened military tensions across the Middle East. The incident occurred as the unmanned aircraft moved toward the USS Abraham Lincoln with what officials described as unclear intent, despite attempts by US forces to deter it. Military authorities said the drone “ag

Uncertainty continues to surround Washington’s approach toward Tehran as President Donald Trump sends conflicting signals on whether the United States is moving closer to military action or renewed diplomacy with Iran. Speaking ahead of his first Cabinet meeting of 2026, the president indicated he was open to communication with Iranian leaders, even as the US expanded its military presence in West Asia and senior defense officials stressed readiness to act on presidential orders.

With renewed calls for peace, reconstruction, and an end to prolonged conflict, Dr. Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine, is on her first official visit to India. Speaking to journalists in New Delhi on Thursday, she stressed the urgency of achieving Palestinian statehood, arguing that lasting peace in West Asia cannot be realised without ending occupation and restoring sovereignty to the Palestinian people. Dr. Shahin highl

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to travel to Turkey on Friday for high-level talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, as the two neighboring countries seek to strengthen cooperation across security, economic and regional issues. The visit comes amid heightened regional tensions and renewed diplomatic efforts to manage sensitive developments affecting the Middle East. According to Turkish Foreign Ministry sources cited in media reports, Fidan is expected

India has reiterated its firm support for Israel and renewed its condemnation of terrorism in all forms, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri drawing clear parallels between the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, and India’s long experience with cross-border violence. Speaking at an International Holocaust Remembrance Day commemoration hosted by the Israeli Embassy in New Delhi, Misri underscored India’s position that acts of terror cannot be justified under any circumstances and must be co