MIDDLE EAST SECURITY
Global Market: Japan's Nikkei falls for third straight session as chip stocks slide
Japan's Nikkei share average slipped for a third straight session on Monday, primarily due to declines in chip-related stocks. The Nikkei 225 saw a decrease of 0.43%, contrasted by a 0.48% rise in the broader Topix index. Despite a surge in energy stocks driven by rising oil prices, concerns over global market fluctuations left investors wary.
Ship attacks in Strait of Hormuz hit record high in October
Attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waterways reached a record high in October, according to a Washington-based think tank. More than 30 supertankers were damaged since the US-Israeli war with Iran began on February 28, threatening oil shipments and adding pressure to global energy markets.
On Iran war, Trump weighs two options: 'make a deal' or 'finish it off'
US President Donald Trump is weighing a deal with Iran against renewed military strikes, warning that a decision is approaching as Tehran escalates attacks on shipping near the Strait of Hormuz. Washington is reducing personnel in parts of the Middle East, while upcoming US midterm and Israeli elections add political uncertainty.
BlackRock stays cautious on Indian equities despite cheaper valuations
BlackRock Investment Institute has not yet adopted a bullish stance on Indian equities due to ongoing uncertainties. The firm anticipates greater clarity on corporate earnings and energy prices before changing its outlook. Despite elevated energy costs, India's economic resilience remains noteworthy amidst geopolitical tensions. Foreign investors have been net sellers of Indian equities for several months, impacting market performance.
Why the US is moving diplomats out of the Middle East as fears of Iranian attacks grow amid rising tensions with Tehran
The United States is cutting back on diplomatic staff in the Middle East amid increased threats from Iran. Recent intelligence assessments indicate potential plots against American representatives that have reached advanced stages. This decision follows warnings about renewed military action, which could escalate tensions further in the region. Non-essential personnel are being evacuated from various countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Air India and Air India Express extends Riyadh, Dammam flight suspensions until November 7
Air India and Air India Express have prolonged the suspension of flights to Saudi Arabia, with operations to Riyadh and Dammam on hold until November 7. Meanwhile, Jeddah flights are canceled until October 31. Passengers may elect to rebook flexibly or receive a complete refund, along with complimentary rebooking on available operational routes, adhering to specific timelines.
- Go To Page 1
Security forces deploy for Italy protests after clashes
Security forces have been deployed across Italy ahead of planned protests due to recent violent clashes. Policemen and military personnel have been seen in Milan, as citizens express concern about safety during the protests. Italy's government has approved strict measures targeting protestors, including detaining minors and imposing fines on parents. The protests involve various groups, including truck drivers and students demanding action on living costs.
Lulu Group loses Rs 1.64 crore in email fraud: How impersonators used Italian company’s identity to cheat retail giant
Lulu Group email fraud: Kochi City Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into an alleged email impersonation fraud in which unidentified persons posing as representatives of an Italian company cheated Lulu Group of around Rs 1.64 crore. According to the FIR, the fraudsters sent fake invoices and bank details for gaming equipment payments, prompting the group to transfer 150,500 euros to accounts provided by them.
'We may do another Epic Fury': Trump warns Iran of potential strike if deal not reached
Donald Trump issued a military warning to Iran during a campaign rally, suggesting possible future strikes. He highlighted the importance of diplomatic negotiations, implying that Iran's leadership may not be sufficiently strategic. Trump discussed the US Navy's presence in the Caribbean and noted Senator Marco Rubio's role in diplomacy. Additionally, he announced a federal investment of $250 million to hire new nurses for elder care facilities.
US is reducing staffing at 4 Middle East embassies over increased threats from Iran
The U.S. State Department is currently reducing the number of staff at four embassies in the Middle East. This decision follows intelligence reports indicating increased efforts by Iran to target American personnel. While the embassies remain operational, staffing changes are described as related to threats from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels. Unlike in Saudi Arabia, U.S. personnel in these embassies are not compelled to leave.
US Intel warns of threats to American diplomats in West Asia: Report
A recent intelligence report indicates that Iran is intensifying its attacks on American diplomats in the Middle East. The U.S. Department of State has ordered the departure of non-emergency personnel in Saudi Arabia. Security concerns have risen due to Iranian-backed Houthi forces targeting civilian infrastructure in the region. Additionally, President Donald Trump has warned Iran of potential military action if negotiations do not succeed.
IndiGo extends Saudi Arabia flight cancellations; Riyadh services suspended till Oct 31
IndiGo has extended the suspension of flights to several cities in Saudi Arabia amid ongoing security concerns. Other airlines, including Akasa Air and Air India, have also announced similar flight cancellations. The affected passengers are being notified through the contact details they provided during booking. Airlines are offering options for refunds or rescheduling without additional costs for affected passengers.
Netanyahu invites PM Modi to light torch together with Indian pilot Smit Machchhar on Israel's Independence Day
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in Independence Day celebrations. Modi expressed gratitude for the invitation and acknowledged the cooperation between India and Israel on terrorism. Both leaders emphasized the importance of their long-standing relationship over the years. Netanyahu shared this conversation on social media to highlight their collaboration.
India commercial insurance rates fall as capacity, competition rise
Commercial insurance rates in India decreased significantly in 2026 due to increased competition among insurers. Property and financial liability insurance rates fell for the fourth consecutive quarter, providing businesses with better terms. Cyber insurance also witnessed a decline, marking the twelfth consecutive quarter of reduced rates in the IMEA region. Insurers became more competitive, allowing businesses to negotiate premiums and coverage more effectively.
Global Market: Japanese bond yields fall to multiweek lows ahead of BOJ meeting
Japanese government bond yields fell to multiweek lows on Thursday as geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns boosted safe-haven demand. The 10-year yield dropped to 2.88%, while investors awaited the Bank of Japan’s policy meeting, with markets weighing potential rate hikes and global economic uncertainties.
Beyond the ballot: Why Israel's next leader may stick to Netanyahu's doctrine
Israel's upcoming election is unlikely to change its aggressive stance towards Iran and Palestinian statehood. Even if Benjamin Netanyahu retains power, he may escalate military actions and settlement expansions. The election reflects a broader trend of hardline politics, where consensus exists against Palestinian statehood. Regional policymakers expect continued confrontations while underlying issues remain unaddressed. The situation may lead to prolonged tensions in the Middle East with unresolved conflicts persisting.
Senior UAE diplomat Lana Nusseibeh enters race for UN chief
Lana Nusseibeh has announced her candidacy for the role of United Nations secretary-general. She aims to restore the organization as an effective diplomatic problem-solver in response to global challenges. Nusseibeh has garnered support from numerous countries during the recent UN General Assembly. Her experience includes leading UAE campaigns at the UN and dealing with complex geopolitical issues.
US Iran war: Ship attacked near Strait of Hormuz, as per maritime agency
A ship was struck on Wednesday by "an unknown projectile" off the coast of Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz, sparking a fire, a British maritime security agency said. The Strait of Hormuz carried 20 percent of the world's oil and gas prior to the Middle East war, which erupted with US-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February.
Dollar on back foot as US yields, crude prices dip; Aussie buoyed by hawkish RBA
The US dollar is facing downward pressure with both Treasury yields and crude oil prices on the decline. Meanwhile, the Australian dollar is nearing a three-week high, buoyed by supportive remarks from Reserve Bank of Australia Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser. Wall Street had a robust session as technology earnings began with results from SpaceX.
Iran says Saudi Arabia, Houthis have not answered mediation offer
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated there has been no response to Iran's mediation offer. This offer comes after intensified Houthi strikes against Saudi Arabia earlier this month. Egypt's involvement in the conflict could escalate tensions, but it has reassured Tehran of non-intervention. A vote in the Egyptian parliament regarding military action against the Houthis has been delayed until later in October.
Oil Price Today (October 20): Crude oil nears $110 again as fresh attacks outweigh easing Russian sanctions. What are experts saying?
Brent crude futures gained 21 cents, or 0.20, to $109.76 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures for November delivery, which expire on Tuesday, rose 0.11% to $104 a barrel. Brent had climbed to $110.70 a barrel in the previous session, its highest level since May 20.
Global Market Today: Asian stocks decline in break from US chip rally
Losses were led by a more than 2% drop in South Korea’s Kospi Index — a bellwether for artificial intelligence investments — as chip heavyweight SK Hynix Inc. headed for its lowest close since April. Data-center infrastructure company Elice Inc. plunged as much as 32% in its trading debut in Seoul.
Qatar plans local defence production
The Iran war has dealt a blow to Qatar. The country was forced to shut down much of its main LNG complex at Ras Laffan shortly after the start of hostilities and it suffered from restrictions on global shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Oil Price Today (October 19): Crude oil dips 2% to $108 after hitting its highest levels since May. Here’s why
Brent crude futures dropped $1.80, or 1.64%, to $108.06 a barrel after settling at their highest level since May 19 on Friday. US West Texas Intermediate crude declined 53 cents, or 0.52%, to $100.88 a barrel.
Gold edges higher as investors assess Fed rate-hike odds
In early Asian trading, gold prices saw a modest uptick as speculation swirled regarding the Federal Reserve's policy stance. Investors are closely watching remarks from Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh on the state of the U.S. economy and rising inflation concerns. As import costs climb, expectations for a rate hike this December are building. Furthermore, unrest in the Middle East is contributing to market volatility, influencing investor confidence.
Oil slips as Trump's sanction waiver may lead to more Russian fuel supplies
Oil prices took a tumble after US President Trump eased sanctions on Russia, prompting a surge in fuel exports. Brent crude futures fell to $108.43 a barrel, down from a peak of $110. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy warned that such actions would adversely impact Ukraine, while the US secured a deal to import diesel from Russia.
Akasa Air extends Saudi Arabia flight suspension until October 27
Akasa Air has extended the suspension of flights to Riyadh and Jeddah until October 27, 2026. This decision follows the ongoing security concerns in the Middle East and prioritizes passenger safety. Affected passengers will receive full refunds or can reschedule travel without extra costs. Other airlines, including Air India and IndiGo, have also suspended flights till October 24 due to similar issues.
Air India extends cancellation of Saudi Arabia flights till Oct 20
Air India has announced a further extension of its flight cancellations to Saudi Arabia, now lasting until October 20, amid escalating conflict. IndiGo has followed suit, halting services until October 24. Additionally, Akasa Air has suspended flights to Riyadh and Jeddah until October 24 and 21, respectively. These disruptions stem from recent Houthi drone and missile strikes on civilian areas.
Load More
