foreign policy

Josh Gruenbaum, formerly an adviser to Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff on Russia-Ukraine and Iran policy, will now exclusively focus on Gaza Strip issues through the independent Board of Peace. This shift follows internal concerns about his working style, reducing his responsibilities from key foreign policy matters.

The European Union was expected Monday to agree new sanctions on Israeli settlers over violence against Palestinians, the bloc's top diplomat said, as a change of government in Hungary ends months of blockage. "I expect political agreement on the sanctions on violent settlers, hopefully we will get there," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said ahead of a meeting of the bloc's foreign ministers.

Iran's foreign ministry has urged the US to abandon its "one-sided approach" and accept Tehran's "legitimate demands." These include ending hostilities, lifting blockades, and releasing frozen assets. Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated Iran's proposals are reasonable and aim for regional stability, accusing the US of "maximum pressure" and blaming its actions for disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to reduce fuel and edible oil consumption, citing the West Asia crisis and global supply chain disruptions. Opposition parties criticized the appeal, calling it an admission of failure and a shift of responsibility onto the public after elections. The BJP defended the PM's call as responsible leadership and national interest.

President Trump's China visit occurs amid a US-Iran stalemate, with analysts suggesting Xi Jinping holds more leverage. Many in Beijing view Trump as a symptom of liberal democracy's instability and American decline, validating Xi's "rise of the East" worldview. This perception of US weakness could lead China to miscalculate and test Washington.

PM Modi has called on citizens to adopt measures aimed at conserving foreign exchange, as the surge in oil prices triggered by the Iran conflict has intensified pressure on the rupee and strained India’s foreign exchange reserves.

India’s gold imports hit a record $71.98 billion in 2025-26, rising over 24% from $58 billion a year earlier. This was largely due to skyrocketing global gold prices, which have bumped up the value of imported gold.

If India and Bangladesh fail to revive momentum on Teesta, the dispute risks evolving into a far larger geopolitical contest — one which China would seek to exploit

Bihar's higher education sector is witnessing a significant surge in foreign scholars, with over 2,500 international students currently enrolled. The revival of Nalanda University and the establishment of new national institutions are key drivers. These institutions, including IIM Bodh Gaya and IIT Patna, are fostering international collaborations, attracting students from over 30 countries and enhancing Bihar's academic global footprint.

The FCC has extended the deadline for software and firmware updates for certain foreign-made Wi-Fi routers and drones until January 1, 2029. This decision aims to prevent millions of existing devices from becoming vulnerable to cyberattacks. The extension applies only to devices previously approved before restrictions were introduced, with the FCC citing public interest and consumer protection.

India has significantly increased import tariffs on gold and silver to 15% from 6% to curb imports and protect foreign exchange reserves. This move follows Prime Minister Modi's appeal for citizens to avoid gold purchases for a year, aiming to narrow the trade deficit and support the rupee amid global economic pressures.

A surge of legislative proposals in the US targets the H-1B visa program, proposing significant restrictions and even abolition. While some measures aim to protect American jobs, experts warn against blunt policies. The article suggests reforms like Australia's skilled occupation list and Canada's points-based system could offer better solutions for attracting global talent.

Prime Minister Modi urged Indians to halt gold purchases for a year to protect foreign exchange reserves, a call supported by GTRI which highlighted a surge in gold imports straining the trade balance. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw echoed the appeal, emphasizing reduced import spending amid Middle East conflict, leading to a sell-off in jewellery stocks.

Britain on Monday announced new sanctions targeting Russia's "information warfare campaigns" over its full-scale Ukraine invasion, alongside those behind the alleged forced deportation and indoctrination of Ukrainian children. Around a third of Monday's sanctions package took aim again at those involved in what London called "Russia's systematic campaign to forcibly deport and militarise Ukrainian children".

Persistent foreign fund outflows and the rupee sliding to record lows have further dampened sentiment, prompting investors to stay cautious and intensify selling across equity markets.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Indians to reconsider overseas travel and embrace domestic tourism due to rising global crude oil prices and geopolitical uncertainties. He emphasized that conserving foreign exchange reserves and supporting local businesses is a patriotic duty during challenging economic times, encouraging reduced use of imported products and increased reliance on public transport and EVs.