External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired a Consultative Committee meeting on India’s relations with West Asia in New Delhi on Monday, September 7, 2026. The discussions covered Gulf partnerships, the welfare of 10 million Indians, energy security and regional concerns arising from the ongoing conflict. Jaishankar Highlights India’s Strategic Partnerships Across West Asia External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired a meeting of Parliament’s Consultative Committee on India’s relations with West Asia, outlining New Delhi’s economic, diplomatic and security priorities during a period of continuing regional instability. The minister highlighted India’s close and long-standing relations with countries in the Gulf and the wider West Asia and North Africa region. These partnerships cover trade, investment, energy, maritime cooperation and extensive people-to-people connections. Jaishankar told members that India continues to advance its trade and connectivity interests despite the conflict affecting the region. He also emphasised that New Delhi has strengthened its political engagement with several West Asian countries while maintaining communication with competing regional powers. In a social media post following the meeting, the minister said the discussions covered India’s efforts to protect its citizens and secure access to essential energy and fertiliser supplies. Diaspora Welfare Remains a Priority for India The safety and welfare of approximately 10 million Indians living and working in the Gulf formed a major part of the committee’s deliberations. The large Indian community in West Asia has an important economic and social role. Its members contribute to Gulf economies while supporting families in India through remittances. Any military escalation, interruption to air travel or disruption of essential services could therefore directly affect millions of people. Jaishankar underlined the government’s responsibility to monitor regional developments and maintain emergency support systems through Indian missions. Previous crises have required India to coordinate evacuations, establish helplines and work with local authorities to assist citizens. With instability continuing across parts of the region, the government is expected to remain focused on contingency planning, transport access and communication with Indian communities. Protecting workers, students, professionals and their families is likely to remain central to India’s West Asia policy. Energy Security and Trade Routes Face Regional Pressure Several MPs reportedly raised questions about the impact of the conflict on India’s energy requirements. Jaishankar informed the meeting that New Delhi was diversifying its energy supply chain while continuing to assess developments in major oil- and gas-producing countries. West Asia remains critical to India’s energy security as well as fertiliser supplies, shipping and commercial connectivity. Disruptions to production facilities or maritime routes could increase transportation costs and affect global commodity prices. The committee also discussed US sanctions affecting purchases of energy and other products from Iran, according to sources cited by PTI. Jaishankar reportedly noted that India maintains working relations with both Washington and Tehran, giving New Delhi an important but complex diplomatic position. India must balance its energy needs and regional partnerships with international restrictions and financial risks. Strengthening alternative suppliers and protecting maritime trade routes are therefore essential to reducing the impact of future disruptions. Makkah Defence Pact Draws Questions From MPs Some committee members also expressed concern about the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye on August 7, 2026. The agreement states that an armed attack against one participating country will be treated as an attack against all three. It was announced amid heightened security concerns and establishes a framework for closer political and military coordination. The pact is significant for India because it includes Pakistan alongside two countries with which New Delhi maintains important diplomatic and economic ties. However, the detailed defence obligations and circumstances in which the collective-security clause could be activated have not been fully explained publicly. MPs reportedly asked the government to clarify India’s assessment of the agreement and its possible security implications. No detailed official account of Jaishankar’s response was released. The meeting highlighted the challenge facing Indian diplomacy: protecting a large diaspora, maintaining energy supplies and expanding trade while navigating conflicts, sanctions and emerging security alliances across West Asia.

Iran has linked the opening of the Strait of Hormuz to an end to US threats and military attacks. Security chief Mohsen Rezaei also announced plans for a restricted maritime zone extending into parts of the Persian Gulf, increasing concerns over shipping and energy supplies. Strait of Hormuz Opening Linked to US Military Actions Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Tehran would commit to keeping the Strait of Hormuz

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and actor Pawan Kalyan turned 55 on Wednesday, receiving greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several film personalities. Chiranjeevi, Allu Arjun, Sujeeth and Buchi Babu Sana celebrated his public-service journey and influence on Telugu cinema. Pawan Kalyan Turns 55 Amid Political and Cinema Milestones Actor-politician Pawan Kalyan turned 55 on Wednesday, September 2, receiving a stream of birthday messages from political leaders, family members, filmmakers and fans. The celebrations highlighted his journey from one of Telugu cinema’s biggest stars to his current position as Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister. The occasion comes at an important stage in Pawan Kalyan’s career. Alongside handling responsibilities in the state government, he continues to generate strong interest through his upcoming film projects. His supporters marked the birthday through social-media messages, charitable programmes and special events across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Birthday tributes focused on both sides of his public identity. Political leaders praised his participation in governance and development programmes, while cinema personalities celebrated his screen presence, personal determination and influence on generations of Telugu film audiences. Modi Praises Pawan Kalyan’s Role in Andhra Pradesh Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended birthday greetings to Pawan Kalyan and acknowledged his contribution to the National Democratic Alliance’s governance agenda in Andhra Pradesh. He also wished the Deputy Chief Minister a long and healthy life dedicated to public service. Responding to the Prime Minister’s message, Pawan Kalyan expressed gratitude for his affection and encouragement. He said such support strengthened his commitment to serving the people of Andhra Pradesh. He also referred to Modi’s vision for a developed India as a source of inspiration and sought his continued guidance while carrying out his government responsibilities. Pawan Kalyan’s political profile has grown considerably since the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly election. As Jana Sena Party president and Deputy Chief Minister, he has been associated with portfolios and initiatives involving rural development, Panchayati Raj, environmental protection and the welfare of tribal communities. The exchange between Modi and Pawan Kalyan underlined their political partnership while presenting the birthday as an occasion to highlight the Deputy Chief Minister’s work beyond cinema. Chiranjeevi Shares Emotional Tribute to His Younger Brother Megastar Chiranjeevi posted a heartfelt message celebrating his younger brother’s journey in films and politics. He praised Pawan Kalyan for approaching his responsibilities with determination and remaining committed to causes connected with ordinary people. Chiranjeevi highlighted Pawan Kalyan’s efforts in village development, tribal welfare, environmental conservation and improving essential facilities. He also expressed pride in his brother’s relationship with the people of Pithapuram, the Assembly constituency that elected him as its representative. The message attracted widespread attention among fans because the bond between Chiranjeevi and Pawan Kalyan has remained an important part of their public lives. Supporters shared photographs and videos tracing Pawan’s rise from a young actor to a major political leader. Allu Arjun also joined the celebrations with a brief social-media message. The Pushpa actor wished Pawan Kalyan many happy returns and addressed him by his popular screen title, Power Star. Film Personalities Celebrate Power Star and Tease OG Update Filmmaker Sujeeth, who is directing Pawan Kalyan in the anticipated action film OG, shared a personal birthday tribute. He recalled growing up as a fan of the actor and described the experience of directing him as an emotional and memorable achievement. Calling Pawan Kalyan his first screen hero and now his OG, Sujeeth also indicated that fans would receive a special glimpse from the film’s universe at 4:05 PM. The announcement added a cinema-related attraction to the birthday celebrations and created fresh excitement around the project. Peddi director Buchi Babu Sana also praised Pawan Kalyan’s courage, journey and ability to inspire millions. He wished the actor-politician good health, strength and continued success in his public and professional life. The wide range of birthday messages demonstrated Pawan Kalyan’s unusual position at the intersection of cinema and politics. While his fans continue to celebrate him as Power Star, his responsibilities as Deputy Chief Minister have opened a new phase in his career. His 55th birthday therefore became both a celebration of his film legacy and recognition of his growing role in Andhra Pradesh’s public life.

US President Donald Trump claimed Washington had near-total control of the Strait of Hormuz in a Truth Social post reported Wednesday, September 2, 2026. The remarks came from Washington amid renewed US strikes, Iranian retaliation and rising concerns over shipping and global oil supplies. US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States has “almost total control” of the Strait of Hormuz as the military co

US forces struck two Iranian launchers near the Strait of Hormuz before Iran retaliated against American military sites in Jordan. US-Iran conflict resumes after month-long military lull Direct fighting between the United States and Iran resumed on Sunday after a pause of nearly one month, renewing concerns about a wider Middle East escalation and disruption to global energy supplies. US forces struck two launchers operated by Iran’s Is

Veteran Telugu actor and producer GV Narayana Rao passed away at the age of 73 after battling health issues for some time. Known for his work in films, television and production, he leaves behind a long career that spanned lead roles, supporting performances and successful collaborations with major stars. GV Narayana Rao Passes Away After Health Issues GV Narayana Rao breathed his last on Wednesday at

US sanctions target India-based firms and individuals The United States has imposed sanctions on four India-based companies and three Indian nationals over allegations linked to Iranian-origin oil and petrochemical trade. The measures are part of Washington’s wider campaign to restrict Iran’s access to overseas revenue and financial networks. According to the U.S. Treasury Department, the action covers transactions involving an estimated $119 million in Irani

Tehran, Iran — Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf criticised US sanctions threats as Iranian officials vowed to counter new economic pressure. Ghalibaf Mocks US Sanctions Threat With Frozen Economy Jibe Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has ridiculed the United States after President Donald Trump signalled a renewed economic pressure campaign against Tehran. In a post on

Washington, DC: The US is pressing allies and China to support President Donald Trump’s intensified economic campaign aimed at isolating Iran. The United States has stepped up pressure on its allies and China to support President Donald Trump’s new economic campaign against Iran, as Washington prepares additional measures designed to deepen Tehran’s financial isolation. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said countries maintaining economic links wit

Washington, DC: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned Iran of sweeping new sanctions while urging China and other countries to support Washington’s economic pressure campaign. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that Iran will face what he described as the “toughest sanctions in history” as Washington prepares a new phase of economic pressure against Tehran. Bessent said the United States intends to coordinate with other countries to isolat

U.S. President Donald Trump said no talks are under way or scheduled with Iran, while Tehran insisted the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to shipping, exposing a widening gap after a ceasefire expired. Iranian officials said the strategic waterway would stay shut until Washington met conditions linked to an interim agreement signed in June. Trump Rules Out Talks With Iran Trump’s statement reduced expectations of an immediate diplomatic breakthro

Paris: France will expel two Iranian diplomats after accusing Iranian authorities of detaining and physically intimidating two members of the French embassy in Tehran during a July incident. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said the expulsions would take place in the coming days, calling the episode intolerable and saying Paris had promised consequences. French officials say the two embassy staff members were detained for several hours on July 19 while carrying out professional dut

Donald Trump is weighing a possible compromise with Iran as negotiations move closer to reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Disagreements over Iranian control and transit fees remain key obstacles as economic, military and political pressure builds on Washington. US President Donald Trump is facing a difficult diplomatic choice as Washington and Tehran move closer to a potential agreement aimed at restoring commercial shipping through the Strait

Megastar Chiranjeevi is reportedly being considered for appointment as the official brand ambassador of Andhra Pradesh. The proposed role could see the veteran actor promote the state’s tourism destinations, investment opportunities, cultural heritage and major development projects.   Chiranjeevi Brand Ambassador Reports Create Buzz Reports suggesting that the Andhra Pradesh government may appoint Chiranjeevi as the state’s brand ambassador hav

Iran and Oman have agreed on coordinates for a proposed Strait of Hormuz route that could give Tehran oversight of ships entering the Gulf. The framework could reshape global energy shipping, but inspection powers, transit payments and outbound vessel controls remain unresolved. Iran-Oman Hormuz Route Reaches Crucial Stage Iran and Oman have reached an understanding on the geographical coordinates of a proposed shipping route through