The Middle East, a region of historical, cultural, and strategic significance, bridges the continents of Asia and Africa. It includes countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Yemen in Western Asia. Additionally, Egypt, in North Africa, is often considered part of the Middle East due to its cultural and geopolitical ties to the region.
This area is the cradle of civilization, home to the genesis of major world religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Its rich cultural heritage is a testament to millennia of human history, from ancient empires to modern-day nations.
Geographically, the Middle East is marked by its diverse terrains-ranging from the vast Arabian Desert to the fertile valleys of the Nile, Tigris, and Euphrates rivers, and including strategic maritime locations like the Red Sea and Persian Gulf. These natural resources have historically underpinned the region's economic and military significance.
Today, the Middle East is globally recognized for its substantial oil reserves, which play a pivotal role in the world's energy dynamics. Despite its wealth in resources, the region faces challenges, including political conflicts and social disparities.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the significant geopolitical shift in energy trade as US President Donald Trump announces that India will pivot its oil procurement strategy. According to the transcript, Trump stated, 'India will buy oil from Venezuela' and specifically noted that the nation will be 'buying from Venezuela, not Iran'. This development comes amidst changing dynamics in the global oil market and US-led initiatives regarding Venezuelan energy resources. The programme examines the implications of this shift for India's energy security and its diplomatic relations with both Caracas and Tehran. The report highlights Trump's assertion that India is actively 'coming in to buy oil' from the South American nation, marking a potential departure from previous reliance on other Middle Eastern suppliers.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran as US President Donald Trump issues a fresh warning to the Iranian leadership. Highlighting the military mobilization, Trump stated, 'We have a large armada, flotilla, call it whatever you want, heading toward Iran right now.' He further noted that this deployment is even larger than the one previously positioned near Venezuela. The transcript details how the US administration is closely monitoring the political turbulence within Iran, with Trump suggesting that the Iranian government should 'make a deal' to avoid further consequences. In response, Iran has maintained a firm stance, asserting that it will not take any potential attack on its territory lightly and will hold the United States accountable. The programme examines the implications of this 'larger than before' armada and the potential for significant political upheaval in the region as both nations refuse to back down amidst the ongoing diplomatic and military standoff.
On this special broadcast of India Today Global, the focus is on the India-Arab ministerial summit in New Delhi. Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabikian discusses the 'Board of Peace' document, noting that while it lacks specific mentions of Gaza or a two-state solution, Palestine welcomes it as a path toward statehood under UN Security Council Resolution 2803.
On this special broadcast of India Today Global, the focus is on the India-Arab Ministerial Summit in New Delhi. Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabikian discusses the 'Board of Peace' document, noting, 'We are not a menu. We have to be around the table on the decision-making level, because today for Palestinians it's enough that people are continuing to talk about us.' She addresses concerns regarding the 'Riviera' plan for Gaza, emphasizing that the land must remain Palestinian. The programme also features strategic expert Dr. Wael Awad, who analyzes the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran in the Persian Gulf. Dr. Awad highlights the potential impact of a military conflict on global trade and India's energy security. The report further explores Turkey's role as a mediator and the implications of the European Union's recent listing of Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation. Minister Aghabikian concludes by urging India to maintain its historic support for international law and the two-state solution.
On this special report, Palestine's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Varsen Aghabikian, discusses the 'Charter of Border Peace' and the path toward Palestinian statehood. Speaking on the sidelines of the India-Arab foreign ministers' meeting, she emphasizes the necessity of Palestinian inclusion in decision-making, stating, 'We need to be around the table. We're not a menu.' Aghabikian critiques Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s vision of a 'greater Israel' and his history of violating agreements. She acknowledges the Arab world as the 'backbone' of the Palestinian cause, highlighting the consensus against displacement and for a two-state solution. Addressing India’s role, she describes the nation as a 'two-stater' and the world's largest democracy, urging it to stand by international law. She clarifies that Palestine does not seek to delegitimize Israel but insists on the legitimization of the Palestinian state, suggesting India could serve as a bridge in the ongoing conflict.
On this Special Report, strategic affairs expert Dr. Wael Awad discusses the escalating tensions between Iran and the United States. Dr. Awad notes that with Donald Trump at the helm, 'he may be looking for a diplomatic outcome, but he's more keen on doing something, sabotaging any kind of tranquility in the region.' He highlights that the presence of Arab ministers in India for a summit after a decade signifies that these nations view India as a 'major stakeholder' capable of 'triangulizing the area without going into a war.' The discussion further explores the potential impact on Arab countries hosting American military bases, with Dr. Awad warning that Iran has identified such locations as legitimate targets if used for attacks. He also points to the movement of American warships toward Diego Garcia and the deployment of sophisticated weaponry as indicators of the intensifying military posturing in the Persian Gulf region.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran as military assets move into the Gulf region. US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Tehran, stating, 'Number one, no nuclear. Number two, stop killing protesters.' The American President highlighted the deployment of a 'very powerful ship' while demanding an end to Iran's nuclear ambitions and the domestic crackdown on dissent. In response, Iranian officials have categorically rejected any negotiations regarding their defense and missile capabilities, asserting that the security of the Iranian people is a sovereign matter. While nations like Turkey attempt to mediate and avoid military intervention, the threat of conflict remains high. The programme, reported by Preksha Jain for India Today, examines the geopolitical friction as the European Union designates Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation, further isolating the regime and increasing regional pressure.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran as President Donald Trump issues a stern warning to the Iranian leadership. Trump highlighted the deployment of 'very big, very powerful ships' currently sailing near Iran, expressing his hope that the United States would not be forced to use military force. He explicitly demanded that Iran must have 'no nuclear' capabilities and must 'stop killing protesters,' claiming he personally intervened to stop 837 hangings recently. Supporting this stance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed that the United States is prepared to act under the President's orders, stating the military will 'be prepared to deliver whatever this president expects of the War Department.' The transcript underscores a rigid US policy aimed at preventing Iranian nuclear armament and addressing human rights concerns regarding the treatment of protesters within the country. The programme examines the potential for a new deal versus military escalation in the Middle East.
On this India Today special report, the focus is on the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Tehran, stating, 'We have a lot of very big, very powerful ships sailing to Iran right now, and it would be great if we didn't have to use them.' Trump emphasized two primary demands: that Iran must not pursue nuclear weapons capability and must cease the killing of protesters. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Pentagon is prepared to deliver whatever the President expects to ensure Tehran does not achieve nuclear capabilities. Reporter Pranay Upadhyay highlights that the US is exercising 'maximum pressure' to force Iran to the negotiating table. The report also notes that the European Union has joined the US in imposing sanctions on the IRGC, further isolating the Iranian government as military options remain on the table.
In an India Today mega-exclusive, Geeta Mohan speaks with Kaja Kallas, the Vice President of the European Commission and High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy. Kallas discusses the successful conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement, noting that while democratic procedures take time, 'It is beneficial for both parties.' She addresses the geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the need to build partnerships with those who believe in free trade to diversify portfolios. Kallas responds to US criticisms regarding trade with Russia, highlighting EU sanctions on the Russian shadow fleet to end the war in Ukraine. On the Middle East, she asserts that the EU is the largest donor to Palestinians and is working on a Gaza Peace Plan to train Palestinian police. Kallas also touches upon transatlantic ties, the Greenland controversy, and the importance of the EU as a stable, predictable partner for India amidst global volatility and unpredictability.
On this special broadcast, European Council President Antonio Costa addresses the media alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a transformative phase in India-EU relations. Highlighting his personal connection to India, Costa stated, 'I'm very proud of my roots in Goa, where my father's family came from.' The President announced the conclusion of historic trade negotiations and the establishment of the first-ever overarching defence and security framework between the European Union and India. He emphasized that as the world's two largest democracies, both entities are committed to a rules-based global order and shared prosperity. The summit focused on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), clean energy cooperation, and a joint strategic agenda toward 2030. Costa also addressed global security, calling for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine through dialogue and diplomacy, while praising India's role as a strategic and reliable partner in a fundamentally reshaping global landscape.
On this India Today special report, the focus is on the escalating tensions in the Middle East as the United States increases its military presence near Iran. Reporter Sumit Chowdhury details the movement of the US aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln toward Iranian sea borders, noting that '47 types of US military aircraft have been landing in the Middle East' across various air bases over the last ten days. The broadcast highlights reports that Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, has moved to a bunker amid the buildup. The discussion covers Donald Trump's claims regarding the naval armada and Iran's subsequent warning of an 'all-out war' in response to any military action. The situation remains highly unstable as internal protests in Iran continue to face a regime crackdown, with the US warning of intervention if protesters are executed. Sumit Chowdhury explains that this massive deployment serves as psychological pressure following previous conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
This report highlights the significant escalation in West Asia as Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has reportedly moved into a fortified bunker in Tehran. The move follows assessments by senior officials of an increased risk of a potential military strike by the United States, with reports indicating that 'Massoud Khamenei, has taken over day-to-day operations in his father's office'. The transition occurs as the US moves significant military forces into the region, including an aircraft carrier near Iranian waters. The programme details how the Supreme Leader's bunker is equipped with interconnected tunnels to ensure safety during heightened tensions. While Khamenei remains in hiding, his third-born son, Massoud, is serving as the primary communication channel with government leaders. The report also references threats from Donald Trump and the deployment of US forces as key factors driving the Iranian leadership's decision to go underground amidst the anticipation of imminent conflict.
This report examines the escalating military tensions in West Asia as the United States intensifies its presence in the region. Following the deployment of a massive naval armada and the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, senior Iranian officials have issued a stern counter-warning to the Trump administration. An unidentified speaker emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, 'Iran will treat any attack on it as an all-out war and respond in the hardest possible way.' While the United States describes the surge of F-15 strike eagles and naval assets as a precautionary and defensive measure, Tehran maintains it is prepared for any infringement on its sovereignty. Despite both Washington and Tehran claiming they do not seek an outright conflict, the transcript highlights that neither side is willing to back down. The programme details the deployment of forces to bases in Jordan and the Persian Gulf, illustrating a significant brinkmanship that suggests the regional conflict is far from over.
This news report details an invitation from US President Donald Trump to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join the 'Board of Peace' for Gaza. The international body, established to oversee the reconstruction, governance, and demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, was reportedly formalized at the World Economic Forum. During the announcement, Donald Trump stated, 'Once this board is completely formed, we can do pretty much whatever we want to do and we'll do it in conjunction with the United Nations'. The board requires permanent members to contribute 1 billion dollars toward a 67 billion dollar rebuilding fund. While leaders from nations like Canada and Russia have been invited, India is currently evaluating its position. The report highlights India's long-standing support for a two-state solution and its strategic neutrality as key reasons for the invitation. Although PM Modi previously welcomed the initial phases of the peace plan, the Indian government is yet to clarify if he will formally join the board.
On this Special Report, journalist Pranay Upadhyaya analyzes the escalating military tensions between the United States and Iran. Following reports of a massive U.S. naval armada, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, heading towards the Gulf, senior Iranian officials have issued a stern warning. Pranay Upadhyaya notes that while Iran is not looking for war, the leadership has stated, 'We are ready also for everything' and will respond to any attack with full force. The discussion highlights the domestic anti-regime protests within Iran and the potential for foreign intervention. Upadhyaya further explores the historical context of U.S.-Iran relations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the impact of economic sanctions, and the strategic importance of Iran's oil resources. The report also mentions unconfirmed sightings of Chinese military aircraft in Tehran, suggesting a complex regional force accretion as President Donald Trump intensifies pressure on the Iranian regime's 'dark shadow fleet' through targeted oil sanctions.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran. Following reports of the US intensifying its military presence in the West Asian region, senior Iranian officials have issued a stern counter-warning to the Trump administration. An unidentified speaker noted that 'Iran will treat any attack on it as an all out war and respond in the hardest way possible.' The discussion highlights the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and its battle group into the CENTCOM region as an indicator of potential military contemplation by Washington. The transcript details how the US has demanded an end to the crackdown on protesters, threatening military strikes if demands are not met. While diplomatic channels remain mentioned, the force augmentation by the US military suggests a significant build-up. The programme explores the history of recent strikes and the potential for a full-scale conflict if tempers do not cool in the region.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the significant diplomatic breakthrough in Abu Dhabi where a trilateral meeting involving Ukrainian, American, and Russian delegations is underway. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, communicating via Platform X, emphasized the necessity of a definitive conclusion to the conflict, stating, 'The key is that Russia must be ready to end the war it started.' The talks, which have concluded their first day in the UAE, aim to establish parameters for ending the four-year-long conflict and achieving full security guarantees for Ukraine and its European partners. The discussion highlights the shift from bilateral engagements to a trilateral format, raising hopes for a potential ceasefire. While the Ukrainian diplomatic team provides hourly updates on the negotiations, the focus remains on territorial claims and security frameworks. The programme explores the significance of these talks and the role of international mediation in resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
This report examines the escalating military tensions between Washington DC and Tehran as a United States naval armada moves toward the Strait of Hormuz. The deployment follows reports that the Iranian regime considered the execution of over 800 protesters, a plan that was reportedly cancelled shortly before it was to be carried out. An unidentified speaker notes that while both nations claim to prioritize diplomacy, the US is building up a massive naval fleet in the region. The speaker quotes a warning regarding the consequences of harming protesters, stating, 'What we did to your Iran, cancelled it.' In response, the commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps has reportedly claimed that his forces have their 'finger on the trigger' and are prepared to utilize supersonic and hypersonic missiles if conflict arises. The situation remains volatile as the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and other military assets are diverted to the Gulf region.
This news report details the ban on the Sunny Deol starrer 'Border 2' in Gulf countries including Dubai and Kuwait. The speaker notes that the film is being 'perceived as anti-park by Gulf countries' and follows a trend where films presenting an Indian narrative face restrictions. The report highlights that despite the trailer receiving an 'extremely good response' and the film releasing across India today with positive word of mouth, makers were unsuccessful in their talks with Gulf officials. The bulletin draws parallels with previous films like 'Dhurandar', 'Article 370', and the 'Tiger' franchise, which faced similar bans in the region due to their themes involving Pakistan. While the film is described as looking 'absolutely amazing on screen' by the reporter, it will not see the light of day in the Gulf market.
