ali port

K. P. Noushad Ali of the INC has won the Ponnani seat, defeating CPM's Adv M. K. Sakkeer by 13,267 votes. Ali secured 80,674 votes compared to Sakkeer's 67,407. This victory marks a shift in Ponnani, historically an LDF bastion, highlighting the evolving political landscape of north Kerala.

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has admitted that Pakistan lacks even a day’s worth of strategic petrol reserves, as oil prices climb to $126 per barrel — the highest since 2022 — amid ongoing shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz

Kolkata witnessed a significant surge in voter turnout, nearly matching the state's average, a stark contrast to its historically low participation. This increase is largely attributed to the 'Systematic Voter's List Revision' (SIR) deletions, which motivated many to vote, alongside potential anti-incumbency sentiments.

Iran has seized two ships in the Strait of Hormuz. One vessel was heading to Mundra port in Gujarat. This action escalates tensions in the vital oil chokepoint. The seizures follow recent incidents involving Indian-bound ships. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has taken custody of the vessels. Tensions remain high despite a ceasefire.

US President Donald Trump stated that the war with Iran is "very close to being over" as new peace talks are set to begin. He believes Iran "wants to make a deal very badly," despite the US not being finished with its objectives. This comes after initial talks stalled over Tehran's nuclear program, leading to a US naval blockade of Iranian ports.

Iran reportedly used a Chinese-built spy satellite, TEE-01B, to monitor US military bases in the Middle East during recent conflicts. Leaked documents suggest the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps utilized the satellite for targeting and assessing strike success. China denies providing military support, calling the accusations fabricated.

The BJP has not nominated any Muslim candidates in the Bengal elections, a departure from previous polls despite a significant Muslim membership. Party leaders cited 'winnability' as the primary criterion for candidate selection, suggesting a disconnect between the BJP's platform and Muslim voting patterns. In contrast, Congress, TMC, and the Left Front have fielded a considerable number of Muslim candidates.

Iranian attacks have severely damaged US military bases across the Middle East. American troops are now operating from temporary locations, impacting warfighting capabilities. This shift forces the Pentagon to adapt its strategy. The conflict has also affected civilian areas and critical shipping routes. The US military continues its campaign despite these challenges.

In early 2026, a surge of fake news, amplified by global tensions, tested public discernment. From claims of Benjamin Netanyahu's death to misleading videos of dog escapes and fabricated political encounters, misinformation spread rapidly. Fact-checkers and official sources worked to debunk these viral stories, highlighting the challenge of verifying information in the digital age.

For decades, West Asia had learned to live with tension. Proxy battles, covert strikes, deniable operations and quiet escalations had defined the region’s uneasy equilibrium. But what unfolded in recent weeks broke that pattern. Iran did not just respond to the joint strikes by the United States and Israel, it widened the battlefield. In doing so, it dragged the Gulf into a conflict many believed would remain contained between Tehran, Washington and Tel Aviv. The shock was not limited to the region.

Dubai and Oman have launched a new green corridor for sea-air cargo. This initiative promises faster and more efficient trade between Asia and the Middle East. Goods will move seamlessly between sea ports and air cargo facilities. This collaboration aims to reduce transit times and streamline customs. It positions the UAE as a key hub for next-generation global trade routes.