West Asia

Starmer blocks Trump from using RAF bases in Chagos Islands for strike on Iran amid tensions

Amid rising tensions between Iran and the United States, Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, blocked US President Donald Trump from using RAF bases to strike Iran.

Iran issues Notam for planned rocket launches amid piling US military pressure

Iran on Thursday issued a notice to airmen (Notam) that it is planning to launch rockets in areas across its south amid the looming threat of US airstrikes on the West Asian nation.

Why did Iran shut the Strait of Hormuz, and why does it matter?

Iran temporarily shut parts of the Strait of Hormuz during live-fire drills as tensions with the US escalated alongside nuclear talks in Geneva. The rare move revived fears of disruption to global oil flows, energy markets, and maritime security in one of the world’s most critical shipping routes

After Netanyahu-Trump meeting, US prepares second aircraft carrier for West Asia amid Iran tension

Amid the brewing tensions in West Asia, the Pentagon has directed a second aircraft carrier strike group to prepare for a possible deployment in the region.

Has Iran turned to crypto to beat sanctions? IRGC moved billions since 2023, US probes

As Tehran grapples with sanctions and a collapsing rial, US investigators are scrutinising whether crypto rails have become a backdoor for Iran’s state-linked actors and millions of ordinary citizens alike

India, 6 Arab countries move closer to free trade agreement: Terms agreed in Delhi-GCC talks

India and the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council signed Terms of Reference to start negotiations on a free trade agreement aimed at boosting the flow of goods, services, and investments

500 Palestinians, 4 Israeli soldiers killed: 3 reasons Gaza doesn't have peace despite ceasefire

Over 500 Palestinians and 4 Israeli soldiers have been killed ever since Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire. The figures now raise the question of when Gaza will witness peace, not on paper but in reality.

Saudi Arabia’s big plans meet a tighter purse: Riyadh turns to foreign investors as debt climbs

The kingdom’s outstanding debt is set to cross $600 billion. The surge in borrowing reflects both lower-than-expected oil revenues and the enormous funding requirements of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030

US, Iran likely to hold talks in Turkey on Feb 6 as Trump warns Tehran

An Arab official tsaid that the US and Iran are likely to hold talks in Turkey on February 6, following mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, Turkey and Oman

Trump says 'hopeful' of Iran deal after Khamenei warns of regional war

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said he was hopeful of agreeing on a deal with Iran after the country's supreme leader warned that any US attack on the Islamic Republic would trigger a regional war.