emir of qatar

The UAE sought a joint military response from Gulf nations against Iran after Tehran's attacks, but Saudi Arabia and Qatar refused, citing it as "not their war." This disagreement strained UAE ties with its neighbors and contributed to Abu Dhabi's growing frustration with regional partners.

Gulf allies UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar urged President Trump to pursue diplomacy with Iran, fearing renewed conflict would destabilize regional economies. Leaders argued military action wouldn't achieve US objectives, reflecting a shift for the UAE after recent hostilities. All three nations remain wary of further escalation.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has extended its psycho-social counselling and tele-support services for students, parents and schools until June 1 following the declaration of Class XII board results. The initiative aims to address examination stress, result-related anxiety and post-evaluation concerns after this year’s pass percentage dropped to 85.20%. Students can access a 24×7 toll-free IVRS helpline and tele-counselling support from trained professionals across India and abroad, along with digital well-being resources.

Taking a hard stance, Bahrain has issued life sentences to three men accused of colluding with Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Additionally, more than 20 others face up to 10 years behind bars for activities such as unauthorized filming and spreading banned statements. These sentences highlight Bahrain's intensified efforts to curb pro-Iran influences within the Gulf.

The recent drone strike near the UAE's Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, though causing no damage, has heightened regional tensions. Iran, accused by the UAE of numerous attacks, denies involvement but warns of limited patience. Meanwhile, reports suggest the UAE's covert operations in Iran just before the announcement of the ceasefire. The incident underscores the escalating conflict, with potential for greater UAE involvement if the ceasefire collapses.

Iran has responded to a US ceasefire proposal through Pakistani mediators, seeking a permanent end to regional conflicts and guarantees for maritime security. President Trump rejected Tehran's position, calling it "TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!" amid rising tensions and drone incidents in the Gulf.

Iran said it had demanded the release of its frozen assets and the end of a US blockade of its ports, after US President Donald Trump angrily rejected Tehran's terms for ending the Middle East war. The US leader did not say what had offended him in Iran's response, but Tehran's foreign ministry said it had called for an end to the US naval blockade and to the war "across the region" -- implying a halt to Israel's strikes targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Iran has criticized a US-backed UN Security Council draft resolution as politically motivated, stating it won't resolve the West Asian crisis. Tehran argues the only solution is ending the US naval blockade and restoring normal passage in the Strait of Hormuz, urging member states to reject the proposal.

The US State Department has fast-tracked over $8 billion in arms sales to Israel and Gulf allies, bypassing Congress via emergency powers. Citing regional threats, Secretary Rubio approved precision weaponry and missile defense systems. This move escalates a dispute over executive authority, with President Trump deeming war powers limits unconstitutional amid rising Iran tensions.

US President Donald Trump branded Iran's terms for ending the Middle East war "totally unacceptable", raising the possibility of fresh conflict and sending oil prices sharply higher in early Asia trade on Monday. The impasse unnerved global energy markets, with international benchmark Brent crude prices rising 4.65 percent to $99.95 a barrel during Monday morning trade in Asia.

Iran has presented a list of demands for a ceasefire with the US. These include lifting sanctions, compensation for damages, and the withdrawal of American troops. President Trump has rejected these terms as unacceptable. The standoff has impacted global oil markets and heightened regional tensions. Diplomatic efforts continue amidst ongoing clashes.

The US has approved over $8.6 billion in arms sales to Israel, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE amidst escalating regional tensions with Iran. Qatar will receive Patriot missile defense replenishment and precision weapon systems. President Trump defended the US military's campaign against Iran's nuclear program, asserting it has weakened Tehran's capabilities and that the US will not rush negotiations.

Air India’s losses in 2025-26 at Rs 27,000 crore are the highest ever recorded in its 94-year-old history. In all, Air India has lost Rs 55,000 crore since Tatas took over the airline. Will these complicate final years of N Chandrasekaran’s tenure as Tata Sons chairman?

Israel has reportedly sent its advanced 'Iron Beam' laser defence system and surveillance tech to the UAE to counter Iranian threats, marking a significant defence cooperation step. This deployment, alongside US military sales to regional allies, underscores escalating tensions and a bolstered regional security posture amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict.

The Pentagon estimates the war with Iran has cost $25 billion, though sources suggest the true figure could reach $50 billion due to unincluded repair costs. Officials defended the ongoing conflict, calling it an "existential fight" and dismissing concerns of it becoming a "quagmire."

Did you know? Parents can unlock free airline perks that can transform flights from stressful to serene when travelling with kids. Experts reveal major carriers that offer these complimentary amenities. Requesting these during booking a flight or at the gate of the carrier ensures a peaceful journey for the entire family.

The United Arab Emirates' exit from OPEC has stirred up a whirlwind of uncertainty in the oil sector, prompting analysts to ponder the future of the cartel. While the UAE boasts considerable production capabilities, the market's reaction has been surprisingly subdued, likely due to distractions from other geopolitical shifts. However, Opec is unlikely to collapse overnight.

India is developing four airport hubs, including Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport, to mirror international transit points like Dubai and Singapore. This hub-and-spoke model aims to streamline international-to-domestic transfers, allowing passengers to check baggage only once and clear customs and immigration at their initial or final Indian airport.

Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders approved an $81 billion sale to Paramount, a deal valued at $111 billion including debt. This mega-merger, if cleared by regulators, could significantly alter Hollywood, combining major studios, streaming services like HBO Max and Paramount+, and news outlets such as CNN and CBS.

Luxury labels are navigating uncharted waters in the Middle East, as recent regional conflicts have drastically shaken up sales and tourism trends. The bustling malls and airports of Dubai, once thriving hubs of luxury shopping, are now seeing a notable downturn in visitors and revenue.

Pakistan faces severe electricity shortages due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The ongoing Middle East conflict has impacted energy supplies, leading to extended power outages for homes and industries. Businesses are struggling with up to eight hours of loadshedding daily. Pakistan relies heavily on Qatar for LNG imports, and supply issues are intensifying.

Munir is using Pakistan's crypto deal with Trump's family as leverage to promote his fundamentalist Islamist ideology even as he regards India as an existential enemy

A nearly 50-day Iran war has crippled global oil markets, removing over 500 million barrels and costing $50 billion. This unprecedented energy shock, impacting Gulf producers severely, could have long-lasting effects. While the Strait of Hormuz has reopened and a ceasefire is anticipated, a full recovery for energy supplies is expected to be a slow, multi-year process.

Pakistan is set to receive $5 billion in financial support from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, easing pressure on its external position and foreign exchange reserves. This crucial aid comes as Islamabad prepares to repay $3.5 billion to the UAE this month, with Finance Minister Aurangzeb engaging in economic outreach at the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings.

Ongoing disruptions to energy flows from the Gulf linked to the US-Iran war continue to unsettle global oil and gas markets, and a ceasefire in place for about a week has done little to improve the availability of cooking gas.