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Gold set for third weekly fall on hawkish US Fed, elevated dollar

March 21, 2026 9:28

Gold prices rose on Friday on technical buying, but were headed for ‌a third consecutive weekly decline, pressured by a firm US dollar and as a hawkish US Federal Reserve dampened hopes for near-term interest rate cuts. Spot gold rose 1.1% to $4,700.97 per ounce as of 0257 GMT, rebounding from a near two-month low hit in the previous session. US gold futures for April delivery rose 2.1% to $4,701.30. “Gold held some important technical supports in ⁠the weekly time frame and gold may see a recovery to the level where it broke down, around $4,800,” said Nicholas Frappell, global head of institutional markets at ABC Refinery. However, bullion has lost over 6% so far this week. Spot gold has fallen more than 10% since the US-Israeli strike on Iran on February 28. The dollar has emerged as one of the clearest “safe-haven” winners, strengthening over 2% so far this month. Meanwhile, the Fed kept rates steady on Wednesday, echoing major developed market central banks, and indicated that inflation could rise. Interest rate futures show traders see little chance of a ‌Fed ⁠reduction this year, according to the CME’s FedWatch tool. Gold is considered an inflation hedge, but high interest rates weigh on it by making yield-bearing assets more attractive, while a stronger dollar makes the bullion more expensive for holders of other currencies. “After notable underperformance during the Middle East conflict, participants were poised to sell rather ⁠than buy gold and were listening out for a reason to confirm their sentiments,” Frappell said. Oil prices stayed above $105 a barrel after touching $119 on Thursday, as Iran attacked energy targets overnight in the Middle East, following ⁠Israel’s attacks on Iranian natural gas facilities. US President Donald Trump has told Israel not to repeat its strikes, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent saying the US may soon remove sanctions from Iranian oil stranded ⁠on tankers. A further release of crude from the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve was possible, Bessent said. Spot silver gained 1.5% to $73.91 per ounce. Spot platinum rose 1.9% at $2,008.85 and palladium added 1.2% to $1,463.75. [...]

Dollar toppled as oil shock turns central banks hawkish

March 21, 2026 9:27

HONG KONG: The dollar slid from multi-month highs this week as soaring energy prices upended the outlook for global interest rates, with the US Federal Reserve left alone as the only major central bank that is not expected to hike rates this year. Before the US-Israeli war on Iran began at the end of February, investors expected two Fed rate cuts this ‌year and now think even one is a distant prospect. The euro, yen, sterling, Swiss franc and Australian dollar were all set for weekly gains against the greenback as policymakers laid the groundwork for higher interest rates in response to war in the Middle East choking oil and gas supplies. The euro , marginally softer at $1.1569 in the Asia morning, is up 1.4% for the week. The yen , which steadied around 157.88, has gained 1.2% and sterling , hovering at $1.3422, is up a bit more than 1.5%. Benchmark Brent crude futures are up about 50% since the US and ⁠Israel started their war on Iran last month, which has all but closed the sea lane for Middle East energy exports. Yen under pressure as BOJ and Fed hold rates steady The European Central Bank kept rates on hold on Thursday but warned of inflation driven by energy prices and sources told Reuters policymakers are likely to start discussing hikes next month - a contrast with the Fed’s wait-and-see approach. Investors swept away expectations for a long hold on European rates at 2% to price in a hike by June. “While the Fed is willing to display patience in the face of a shock generating two-sided risks to its mandate, the ECB seems unusually sensitive,” analysts at J.P. Morgan said. “There appears to be a genuine tilt towards a rate hike this year, even if it remains uncertain how quickly it will translate into action.” The Bank of England kept rates on hold as well, but set off one of the sharpest ever routs ‌in ⁠short-dated gilts by saying it was ready to act and markets, which had seen rates drifting lower, have priced 80 basis points of hikes by year’s end. Earlier on Thursday, the Bank of Japan left the door open to a hike as soon as April, wrongfooting investors who had bet on a further slide in the yen - and helping to lift the currency. The Australian dollar was trading just shy of 71 cents on Friday for a weekly gain of 1.5%, after the Reserve Bank ⁠of Australia hiked interest rates for the second time in as many months and investors expect there is more to come. Crude prices dipped slightly on Friday after U.S. President Donald Trump told Israel not to repeat attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure, after a round of tit-for-tat strikes that left a Qatari gas plant crippled. The Fed left ⁠rates on hold, as expected, earlier this week but Chair Jerome Powell said it was too soon to know the scope and duration of any economic fallout from the war. The dollar index was steady at 99.359, but was on track for a 1.1% weekly decline, its largest ⁠since late January. Still, many analysts think a prolonged decline is unlikely. “The longer the war drags on, the higher the U.S. dollar will go, because it will benefit from safe-haven demand arising from higher uncertainty (and) also from the U.S. being an energy exporter,” said Carol Kong, currency strategist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia. [...]

Refiners in India, elsewhere in Asia look to buy Iranian oil after US waives sanctions

March 21, 2026 8:01

NEW DELHI/SINGAPORE: Indian refiners plan to resume buying Iranian oil while refiners elsewhere in Asia are examining such a move after Washington temporarily removed sanctions ‌to alleviate an energy crunch caused by the US-Israeli war on Iran, traders said on Saturday. Three Indian refining sources said they will buy Iranian oil and are awaiting government directions and clarity from Washington on details such as payment terms. Refiners in India, which has much smaller crude stockpiles than other big Asian oil importers, rushed to book Russian oil after the US recently lifted sanctions temporarily. The Indian government could not be immediately reached for comment outside office hours. Russian oil set to regain top spot in India after February dip Other Asian refiners are making checks to see if they can ⁠purchase the oil, several people with knowledge of the matter said. The Trump administration on Friday issued a 30-day sanctions waiver for the purchase of Iranian oil already at sea, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. The waiver applies to oil loaded on any vessel, including sanctioned tankers, on or before March 20 and discharged by April 19, according to the Office of Foreign Assets Control. It is the third time the U.S. has temporarily waived sanctions on oil since the start of the war. Unlocking millions of barrels of oil About 170 million barrels of Iranian crude are at sea, said Emmanuel Belostrino, Kpler’s senior manager for crude oil market data, on ships scattered from the Middle East Gulf to the waters near China. Consultancy Energy Aspects on March 19 estimated 130 million to 140 million barrels of Iranian oil on water, equivalent ‌to less ⁠than 14 days of current Middle East production losses. Asia relies on the Middle East for 60% of its crude supply and the near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz this month is forcing refineries across the region to run at lower rates and cut fuel exports. Trump re-imposed sanctions on Iran in 2018 over its nuclear programme. Since then, China has become Iran’s main client with its independent refiners buying 1.38 million barrels per day (bpd) last year, Kpler data showed, ⁠attracted by deep discounts as most countries shunned the crude due to the sanctions. Other issues complicate buying Potential complications for buying Iranian oil include uncertainty over how to pay for it and the fact that a large share of it is aboard aging shadow fleet ships, traders said. Also, some former purchasers of ⁠Iranian oil were contractually obligated to buy from National Iranian Oil Co., two refining sources said. However, since the US re-imposed sanctions in late 2018, Iranian oil has been sold in significant part by third-party traders. US allows 30-day sale of Iran oil at sea in bid to tame prices “It usually takes some time to work through compliance, administration and ⁠banking, etc., but I guess people will try to work ASAP,” a Singapore-based trader said. The sources declined to be named due to company policy. Other than China, major buyers of Iranian crude before sanctions were re-imposed included India, South Korea, Japan, Italy, Greece, Taiwan and Turkey. [...]

US allows 30-day sale of Iran oil at sea in bid to tame prices

March 21, 2026 4:26

The Trump administration waived sanctions on the purchase of Iranian oil at sea for 30 days on Friday in its latest attempt to ease oil prices that have been driven up by the US-Israeli war on Iran. The waiver ‌will bring some 140 million barrels of oil to global markets and help relieve pressure on energy supply, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent posted on X. The move reflects White House worries that the surge in oil prices after nearly three weeks of US and Israeli strikes on Iran will hurt US businesses and consumers ahead of the November midterm elections, when President Donald Trump’s fellow Republicans hope to retain control of Congress. Third sanctions waiver during iran war The license, posted to the Treasury Department’s website after market hours, says Iranian oil can be imported into the United States under the waiver when necessary to complete its sale or delivery. The US has not meaningfully imported Iranian oil since Washington imposed measures ⁠after the 1979 revolution. It was unclear whether any Iranian oil would end up in the country as a result of the waiver. Cuba, North Korea and Crimea are among regions excluded from the license, which will remain in effect until April 19. The move is expected to benefit China, the top buyer of Iranian oil. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said supplies could get to Asia within three or four days and hit the market after being refined over the coming month and a half. It was the third time the Treasury Department has temporarily waived sanctions on oil from U.S. adversaries in a little more than two weeks. Israeli military says it is striking Hezbollah targets in Beirut The moves are part of the administration’s attempts to tame energy prices that have soared above $100 a barrel to the highest levels since 2022. The US previously eased sanctions on Russian oil and on Friday issued a general license allowing the sale of Iranian crude oil and petroleum products loaded on vessels by Friday. “In essence, we will be using the Iranian barrels against Tehran to keep the price down as we continue Operation Epic Fury,” Bessent said. Bessent had telegraphed the move in an interview with ‌Fox Business ⁠on Thursday, saying the release of the sanctioned Iranian oil into global supplies would help keep oil prices down for 10 to 14 days. He said on Friday that Iran will have difficulty accessing any revenue generated by the move and Washington will maintain maximum pressure on Iran and its ability to access the international financial system. ‘Running out of options’ Oil prices have jumped about 50% since the US and Israel launched their attacks on February 28. Tehran has responded with attacks on Israel and Gulf states that host US bases. Vital energy infrastructure in Iran and neighboring Gulf states has been attacked, and Iran has effectively ⁠closed the Strait of Hormuz, conduit for some 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas. In its effort to tame oil prices, the Trump administration on Wednesday announced a 60-day waiver of the Jones Act shipping law, temporarily allowing foreign-flagged vessels to move fuel, fertilizer and other goods between US ports. Energy analysts including Brett Erickson, a managing principal at Obsidian Risk Advisors, have said the administration’s efforts to control ⁠prices will not have a meaningful impact until the strait is opened to vessels. “The easing of sanctions raises concerns about the rapid depletion of Washington’s economic toolkit,” to dampen oil prices, Erickson said. “If we’ve reached the point of loosening sanctions on the country we are at war with, we’re really running out of options.” The US issued a 30-day waiver for countries to buy ⁠sanctioned Russian oil stranded at sea after a 30‑day license on March 5 specifically for India to buy Russian oil. Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, a nonprofit research institute considered hawkish on Iran, praised the decision. “We’ve worked on sanctioning Iran’s oil industry for years. This is a smart move … to help win the fight against the regime,” Dubowitz said on X. [...]

United Airlines to cut more flights as it eyes oil above $100 through 2027

March 21, 2026 3:40

CHICAGO: United Airlines is cutting more unprofitable flights over the next two quarters as it prepares for a prolonged period of high jet fuel prices due to the Iran war, ‌even as strong travel demand has allowed U.S. carriers to raise fares. Chief Executive Scott Kirby said in a staff memo on Friday the airline is preparing for oil to rise as high as $175 a barrel and remain above $100 until the end of 2027. At those levels, United’s annual fuel bill would rise by about $11 billion, more than twice the profit it earned in its “best year ever,” he said. The war in Iran has pushed airlines into a fresh fuel shock. Jet fuel prices have nearly doubled since late February, raising costs across the industry and disrupting global flying patterns through reroutings and airspace restrictions. Still, US carriers have so far been able to ⁠push through fare increases, helped by resilient travel demand and tighter capacity. “There’s a good chance it won’t be that bad,” Kirby wrote of the airline’s fuel assumptions. “But…there isn’t much downside for us to preparing for that outcome.” Cutting marginal flying United had already begun trimming less profitable flights, including some midweek, Saturday and overnight service. In the staff memo, shared by the company, Kirby said the airline would cancel about three percentage points of off-peak flying in the second and third quarters, targeting routes and periods with weaker demand. US flight delays, cancellations accelerate as air traffic controller shortages surge during shutdown It will also pull about one percentage point of capacity from Chicago O’Hare and keep service to Tel Aviv and Dubai suspended, bringing the total reduction to about five percentage points of this year’s planned capacity. Kirby said United currently expects to restore the full schedule in the fall. The latest cuts build on Kirby’s comments earlier this week that the airline would rather leave some demand unmet than keep flying routes that lose money if fuel stays high. Fares help soften the hit Big U.S. airlines have said strong demand is giving them room to raise ‌fares, helping ⁠soften the impact of higher fuel costs. Capacity cuts such as United’s are also expected to support the industry’s pricing power. Rival Delta Air Lines, which raised its first-quarter revenue forecast this week, has also said it has flexibility to trim capacity if fuel prices remain elevated. U.S. carriers are particularly exposed because most do not hedge fuel costs, unlike some European and Asian airlines that use hedging to cushion price shocks. Instead, they have been relying on fare increases and capacity discipline to recover part of the added expense. Soaring fuel costs are piling additional pressure on low‑cost carriers, compounding strains ⁠on business models already challenged by rising labor expenses. Airline executives, however, have so far voiced confidence in fare strength and demand, even as operating costs continue to climb. United has said the first 10 weeks of the year were the strongest booking weeks in its history, a trend echoed by other large U.S. carriers reporting robust spring bookings. A strong demand environment has already allowed airlines to push through ⁠two fare increases of about $10 each way, and could support a further 5% to 7% rise, according to Melius Research. Kirby said earlier this week United aimed to fully offset higher fuel costs this year, noting that fares booked over the past week had risen 15% to 20%. Long-term growth intact Even as it pares back flying in the near term, Kirby ⁠told employees that United was not backing away from its broader growth strategy. The Chicago-based carrier will continue taking delivery of about 120 new aircraft this year, including 20 Boeing 787s, with another 130 aircraft due by April 2028, he said. United also will not respond the way it did in past downturns by furloughing staff or delaying future investments, Kirby wrote in the memo. [...]

Wall St slips as Middle East turmoil clouds Fed outlook

March 20, 2026 2:51

Wall Street’s main indexes slipped on Friday as the Iran war approached its fourth week, roiling energy markets and prompting investors to aggressively reprice bets on the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate cuts. The conflict in the Middle East showed no signs of easing as Iran attacked an oil refinery in Kuwait and a report said that the Trump administration is planning to occupy or blockade Iran’s Kharg Island to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Investors also weighed major nations’ efforts to ease energy supplies. Brent prices wobbled throughout the day and were last at $108 a barrel. Offering some comfort, FedEx, often seen as a barometer of business activity, issued upbeat forecastsand said global demand was holding steady despite geopolitical tensions, sending its shares up 3.4%. Rival United Parcel Service added 0.6%. Still, investors are weighing the impact of higher oil prices on corporate earnings, as the first quarter comes to an end. “The longer this goes on, you’re going to start to see companies report in earnings that they’ve had price pressures and it could be all through the chain,” said Joe Saluzzi, co-head of equity trading at Themis Trading. A flurry of central bank decisions this week along with the Fed acknowledged how the conflict had complicated policymaking. Fed Governor Christopher Waller said he was planning to dissent in favor of a rate cut at the central bank’s meeting due to unexpected job losses until a developing oil shock raised inflation risks. While U.S. policymakers are still penciling in at least one quarter-point interest rate cut this year, markets are less convinced. Traders have pushed their bets for a rate cut to sometime in 2027, from December 2026 earlier this month, according to LSEG-compiled data. At 9:58 a.m. ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 110.31 points, or 0.24%, to 45,911.12, the S&P 500 lost 46.58 points, or 0.71%, to 6,559.91 and the Nasdaq Composite lost 259.01 points, or 1.17%, to 21,831.68. Wall Street’s fear gauge, the CBOE volatility index, spiked 1.25 points to 25.31. Seven of the 11 S&P 500 sector indexes were in the red, led by consumer discretionary’s 1.2% drop. Friday also marks the once-in-a-quarter simultaneous expiry of derivatives contracts tied to stocks, index options and futures, also known as “triple witching,” which can boost trading volume and aggravate volatility. All three main indexes were heading for their fourth straight week of losses and were below their 200-day moving average, a technical indicator reflecting long-term momentum. The small-cap-focused Russell 2000 index slipped 0.7% and had briefly touched a 10% drop from all-time highs earlier this week. Super Micro Computer tumbled 28.6% after three people associated with the artificial intelligence server maker were charged with smuggling at least $2.5 billion of AI technology to China. Rival Dell advanced 4.3%. Gains have been strong in energy stocks, with the S&P 500 sector index set for its 13th straight weekly winning streak, the longest on record, as geopolitical events in Venezuela and the Middle East dominated much of the first quarter. Halliburton was up marginally and Cheniere Energy added more than 1%. Amazon slipped over 1%. Reuters reported that the megacap introduced its first smartphone, hoping to take on Apple and Samsung. Declining issues outnumbered advancers by a 3.22-to-1 ratio on the NYSE and by a 2.48-to-1 ratio on the Nasdaq. The S&P 500 posted eight new 52-week highs and 15 new lows, while the Nasdaq Composite recorded 21 new highs and 98 new lows. [...]

Sri Lankan shares close higher, but post weekly losses

March 20, 2026 12:10

Sri Lankan shares closed higher on Friday, but recorded their fourth straight weekly decline. The CSE All-Share index settled 1.85% higher at 20,639.73 points. An International Monetary Fund staff mission will visit Sri Lanka from March 26 to April 9 to discuss the combined fifth and sixth reviews of the country’s reform program under its extended fund facility. Trading volume on the index rose to 215.2 million shares from 176.5 million shares in the previous session. The equity market’s turnover rose to 4.39 billion Sri Lankan rupees ($14.08 million) from 3.95 billion rupees in the previous session, according to exchange data. Foreign investors were net sellers, offloading stocks worth 892.9 million rupees, while domestic investors were net buyers, purchasing shares worth 4.28 billion rupees, the data showed. [...]

Gujarat clears new Tata Power deal to resume long-term supply

March 20, 2026 12:03

NEW DELHI: India’s western Gujarat state has approved a revised power supply pact with Tata Power, clearing the way for the company to resume long-term supply from its 4-gigawatt Mundra plant, according to a government document seen by Reuters. The imported coal-fired plant has not operated for the past six months after the government last year withdrew the emergency clause that compensates companies for generating power using expensive imported coal. The deal comes as a relief to India, which is looking to maximise power output from its coal plants amid an escalating Middle East conflict that is expected to lead to a gas shortage during summer. India weighs rule to maximise output at imported-coal plants, sources say The deal needs approval from the federal power regulator and would take effect retrospectively from April 2025. The document did not have details on the exact pricing of the power supply but Gujarat has mandated that the price must not exceed that paid by other states, as per the document. Tata Power and the Gujarat government did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment. The power producer’s shares were up 3.3% in early trade at 411 rupees at 0400 GMT in Mumbai. [...]

Indian asset managers dump government bonds at record pace on oil shock

March 20, 2026 11:58

MUMBAI: Mutual funds have sold Indian government bonds at a record pace in March so far, as the Iran war drove up oil prices, heightening inflation risks, pushing the rupee to record lows and prompting a broad selloff across the debt market. This has led some asset managers to shift to short-duration corporate debt where they see greater value. Mutual funds have net sold government bonds worth 356 billion rupees ($3.82 billion) so far this month, a record for any month, clearing house data showed. Brent crude’s surge to near $120 per barrel has intensified inflation concerns and pushed the rupee to a record low beyond 93 per dollar, prompting investors to demand higher yields on both government and corporate bonds. Corporate bonds have come under greater pressure than sovereign bonds, in line with broader risk-off sentiment. LSEG AAA-rated corporate bond yield with 2-5 year maturity has jumped 20-25 basis points, while its government bond counterpart is up less than 10 bps. As corporate-government bond spreads widen, some investors see value in the former. Corporate bonds have become “more attractive from a risk-reward perspective”, said Basant Bafna, head of fixed income at Mirae Asset Investment Managers (India). Mutual funds’ selling of government bonds reflect heightened caution due to the Iran war, alongside improving relative value in corporate bonds, Bafna said. Fund managers are adjusting strategies to take advantage of current market conditions. “The strategy is largely to shift towards segments offering better carry and relative value,” said Anurag Mittal, senior executive vice president and head of fixed income at UTI AMC. Moderate-duration funds were favouring 1–3 year accrual, while active duration strategies are selectively investing in longer-end state debt and money market securities, Mittal added. Mutual fund managers said wider corporate bond spreads were creating an opportunity to rebalance portfolios before the financial year-end. Rajeev Radhakrishnan, CIO-fixed income at SBI Mutual Fund, the nation’s largest fund manager in terms of assets under management, said some investors may opt to switch to other asset categories in hybrid schemes. “Apart from tactical positioning to potentially benefit from market dislocations and supply pressures (on government bonds) in the current stage of the cycle, moderate duration and credit risks strategies are preferred.” [...]

Oil up despite efforts by US, allies to boost supply and open Strait of Hormuz

March 20, 2026 11:51

LONDON: Oil prices gained on Friday despite leading European nations, Japan and Canada offering to join efforts to secure safe passage for ships through the Strait of Hormuz and the U.S. outlining moves to boost oil supply. “The potential for a quick reversal in energy prices is unlikely because damage has been done to production,” said Ole Hansen, the head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank. “The fact on the ground remains that we have a tight market.” Brent futures rose $1.67, or 1.5%, to $110.32 a barrel at 1030 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude added 33 cents, or 0.3%, to $96.47. For the week, benchmark Brent was on track to rise nearly 7%, while WTI was set to fall about 2% in its first weekly decline in five weeks. Israel and Iran traded fresh attacks on Friday, following a hit on an oil refinery in Kuwait. In a joint statement on Thursday, after earlier hesitating, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Japan expressed “our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait”, through which 20% of the world’s oil and LNG transit. Looking to curb soaring oil prices, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the U.S. may soon remove sanctions from Iranian oil stranded on tankers, and said a further release of crude from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve was possible. Brent jumped higher than $119 a barrel on Thursday, coming close to a March 9 peak, after Iran responded to an Israeli attack on a major gas field by ?knocking out 17% of Qatar’s LNG capacity, causing damage that will take up to five years to repair. U.S. President Donald Trump said he told Israel not to repeat attacks on Iranian gas infrastructure. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country had acted alone in the attack and Iran no longer has the capacity to enrich uranium or make ballistic missiles. Earlier in the Friday session, both benchmarks had shed some of their “war premiums” as world leaders started to acknowledge a need for restraint and de-escalation, said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova. She added that markets will remain sensitive to the critical Hormuz chokepoint. “The damage has been inflicted, and even if safe passage for tankers is somehow negotiated through Hormuz, reviving logistics fully fledged can take an awfully long time,” Sachdeva said. In a boost to U.S. supply, North Dakota’s crude output is expected to rise this month and in the following months as operators in the third-largest oil-producing state restart inactive wells and winter restrictions are eased, the state’s regulator said on Thursday. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources said, however, the pace of activity would depend on how long oil prices stay high ?and that oil majors’ budgets have already been set. [...]

Aluminium recovers as market weighs disruptions and weaker demand

March 20, 2026 11:40

LONDON: Aluminium prices steadied on Friday as investors balanced the competing impacts of the Iran war and lower supply from disrupted operations in the Middle East against weaker demand from a spike in oil prices. Benchmark three-month aluminium on the London Metal Exchange was up 0.5% at $3,269 a metric ton by 1030 GMT, having closed down 4.4% in the previous session after sliding as much as 8.4% as speculators scrambled to liquidate positions. “The tone in base metals is cautious after yesterday’s session that left aluminium at the centre of attention,” said Neil Welsh, head of metals at broker Britannia Global Markets. Aluminium prices had rallied in recent weeks on fears of supply disruptions after the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran. The Gulf accounts for 8% of global production. Aluminium Bahrain said on Thursday it is exporting metal via the Saudi port of Jeddah as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively shut. High oil prices, however, spur inflation, erode global economic growth and dampen metals demand. “That combination has traders balancing the risk of regional supply disruption against the risk that higher energy prices will slow manufacturing demand,” Welsh added. Metal prices briefly got support on Friday when oil eased during Asian trading on Western efforts to secure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, but oil later recovered, eroding that buffer. LME copper was slightly firmer in Asian trading, but later went into the red, giving up 0.3% to $12,115 a ton. It was headed for a 5.5% weekly loss, the biggest since April 2025. The most active copper contract on the Shanghai Futures Exchange ended daytime trading 1.1% lower at 94,780 yuan ($13,751.18), down 6.1% for the week. Among other metals, LME zinc rose 0.3% to $3,080 a ton and lead gained 0.6% to $1,899.50 while nickel shed 0.6% to $16,890 and tin dropped 2.4% to $42,490. [...]

Indian rupee sinks past 93 per dollar to record low as Iran war risks deepen

March 20, 2026 11:37

MUMBAI: The Indian rupee fell past 93 per dollar for the first time on Friday and logged its worst single-day drop in over four years, on worries over the hit to Asia’s third-largest economy from the Iran war-led disruptions to global energy supplies. The rupee fell more than 1% to 93.7350 against the U.S. dollar, eclipsing its previous record low of 92.63 touched on Wednesday. It closed at 93.71 and was down about 1.3% on the week, the steepest decline since late 2022. A prolonged spike in crude prices could slow growth and stoke inflation in the world’s third-biggest oil importer and consumer. The oil shock has prompted foreign investors to pull out more than $8 billion from Indian equities this month, the largest outflow since January 2025 which adds to strain on the local unit. With no sign of the conflict easing, the rupee looks increasingly vulnerable and could weaken to 95 per dollar. The rupee “could be more vulnerable if the conflict drags on, which mainly reflects its exposure to higher energy prices,” said Vivek Rajpal, Asia macro strategist at JB Drax Honore. Oil prices surged to nearly $120 per barrel this week, before retreating on Friday to about $110 as some countries offered to join efforts to secure safe passage for ships through the Strait of Hormuz. On Friday, traders also pointed to persistent dollar demand from local oil marketing companies in recent sessions, adding pressure on the rupee, which has slumped nearly 3% since the Iran war broke out. One battle after another For over a year now, the rupee has been pummelled by headwinds ranging from trade frictions with the U.S. to conflicts in key energy-producing regions and heavy foreign selling of stocks, pushing investors to raise short bets on the currency. The rupee has depreciated about 8% against the dollar over the last year and has also weakened sharply against the euro, the British pound, and the Chinese yuan. The latest oil shock has dragged Indian shares to the weakest level in about a year, lifted bond yields and triggered worries over widening fiscal and current account deficits. However, frequent market interventions by the Reserve Bank of India has helped slow the rupee’s decline, helping the currency weather the shock better than peers such as the South Korean won and Thai baht. [...]

Iran war, HDFC Bank offset value buying as Indian shares log weekly losses

March 20, 2026 11:33

Indian shares climbed on Friday, helping limit steep weekly losses, as investors sought bargains following a sharp selloff triggered by concerns over the Iran war and a decline in heavyweight HDFC Bank. The Nifty 50 rose 0.49% to 23,114.50 and the BSE Sensex gained 0.44% to 74,532.96, on Friday. The rupee breached the 93 per dollar mark for the first time to an all-time low against the U.S. dollar on Friday. The Nifty and Sensex fell 3.3% each on Thursday, their worst session since June 4, 2024. However, they ended the week down only 0.16% and 0.04%, helped by value buying earlier and a partial rebound on Friday. Brent crude traded at $111 a barrel on Friday after leading European nations and Japan offered to join efforts to secure safe passage for ships through the Strait of Hormuz. It rose to $119.13 a barrel in the previous session. “Investors remain wary of tensions in the Middle East, as even an immediate end to the war would leave energy supplies taking months to normalise,” said Vivek Shukla, regional head at Emkay Global Financial Services. “Still, the recent correction is beginning to draw value buyers, with more attractive valuations and entry points cushioning the markets from steep losses, as seen this week,” Shukla said. Ten of the 16 major sectors posted weekly losses. Small-caps fell 1.1%, while mid-caps rose 0.2%. HDFC Bank, the benchmarks’ top weight, lost 4.5% this week after the abrupt exit of its part-time chairman. The stock pulled financials and private banks down 1.4% and 1%, respectively. The auto index rose 2.2% this week after its worst weekly showing in six years last week. On the day, IT index gained 2.2% after U.S. peer Accenture posted better-than-expected quarterly earnings. [...]

Hyundai to recall over 61,000 Palisade SUVs in US after fatal incident, NHTSA says

March 20, 2026 9:34

Hyundai Motor is recalling 61,093 Palisade SUVs in the US following a fatal accident linked ‌to a power seat issue, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said on Friday. Hyundai said last week that it would stop sales of ⁠some new Palisade SUVs in the U.S. and Canada, and would recall them over the issue with power seats following an incident in which a two-year-old girl was killed in Ohio on March 7. The NHTSA said ‌the ⁠second- and third-row power seats in the 2026 model year Palisade SUVs may not detect contact with an occupant or ⁠object as intended. The recall affects certain Palisade and Palisade Hybrid vehicles, the regulator said, ⁠adding that a remedy was under development and that Hyundai will ⁠update the power seat control software in the interim. [...]

Gold price drops by Rs8,100 per tola in Pakistan

March 20, 2026 8:11

Gold prices in Pakistan decreased on Friday in line with their loss in the international market. In the local market, gold price per tola reached Rs491,362 after a decline of Rs8,100 during the day. Similarly, 10-gram gold was sold at Rs421,263 after it fell by Rs6,945, according to rates shared by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA). On Thursday, gold price per tola reached Rs499,462 after a decrease of Rs24,300 during the day. The international rate of gold declined by $81 to reach $4,686 per ounce (with a premium of $20). Meanwhile, the price of silver also decreased by Rs50 to reach Rs67,684 per tola. [...]

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Iran says ready to help Japan ships through Hormuz Strait

March 21, 2026 4:47

TOKYO: Tehran is willing to help Japanese ships transit the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint for global oil supplies, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Kyodo News in an interview published Saturday. Japan depends on crude oil imports from the Middle East, most of which transits the strait, located in the Gulf. Iran has effectively closed the strait in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes, sending countries reliant on the shipping lane scrambling for alternative routes and tapping reserves. In a telephone interview with Kyodo News on Friday, Araghchi denied the passage was closed, insisting instead that countries attacking Iran face restrictions, while others were being offered assistance. “We have not closed this strait. From our perspective, the strait is open,” Araghchi said according to a Farsi transcript of the interview posted on his Telegram channel. READ MORE: US military says Iran threat to Hormuz ‘degraded’ “It is only closed to ships belonging to our enemies – countries that attack us. For other countries, (their) vessels can pass through the strait.” He added that Iran was prepared to ensure safe passage for Japan. “They only need to contact us so we can discuss how this transit can take place,” Araghchi added. Japan, the world’s fourth-ranking economy is the fifth-biggest importer of oil, with 95 percent of it coming from the Middle East and 70 percent passing through the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday, Tokyo said it was beginning the release of its strategic oil reserves, among the world’s largest. The country holds reserves equivalent to 254 days of domestic consumption. Members of the International Energy Agency agreed on March 11 to tap oil stockpiles to cushion the surge in prices caused by the war in the Middle East – by far the largest-ever response of its kind. [...]

Iran’s president says immediate cessation of US-Israeli aggression needed to end war

March 21, 2026 4:46

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Saturday that there needs to be an “immediate cessation” of what he described as U.S.-Israeli aggression to end the war and wider regional conflict, Iran’s embassy in India said in an X post on Saturday. Pezeshkian spoke with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi by phone earlier in the day. Pezeshkian told Modi that there should be guarantees to prevent a recurrence of such “aggression” in the future. He also called on the BRICS bloc of major emerging economies to play an independent role in halting aggression against Iran. READ MORE: US military says Iran threat to Hormuz ‘degraded’ The Iranian president proposed a regional security framework comprising West Asian countries to ensure peace without foreign interference, according to the country’s embassy in India. In a separate post on X earlier on Saturday, Modi said he condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the Middle East in the discussion with Pezeshkian. The Indian Prime Minister further reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring shipping lanes remain open and secure. [...]

US military says Iran threat to Hormuz ‘degraded’

March 21, 2026 4:23

WASHINGTON: The US military said Saturday that Iran’s ability to threaten the Strait of Hormuz has been “degraded” by the bombing this week of an underground facility where it stored cruise missiles and other weaponry. With Iran mostly closing off the Strait, the gateway for one-fifth of the world’s oil, the US military has brought out some of the heaviest bombs in its arsenal to penetrate adjacent missile sites. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), said it had dropped multiple 5,000-pound bombs on a “hardened” underground facility located along Iran’s coast that it used to store anti-ship cruise missiles, mobile missile launchers and other equipment. “We not only took out the facility, but also destroyed intelligence support sites and missile radar relays that were used to monitor ship movements,” Cooper said in video message posted on X. READ MORE: Trump says US considering ‘winding down’ Iran war “Iran’s ability to threaten freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz is degraded as a result, and we will not stop pursuing these targets,” he added. CENTCOM had revealed its use of the bunker-busting bombs on Tuesday, but in his message Saturday, Cooper elaborated on their impact – as Washington comes under growing pressure to address the repercussions of the war on Iran on oil prices and global commerce. The standoff in the Strait has sent crude oil prices soaring, with a barrel of North Sea Brent crude up more than 50 percent over the past month and now more than $105 a barrel. On Friday, Trump slammed NATO allies as “cowards” and called on them to secure the Strait. He also said that the United States was close to meeting its military objectives and considering “winding down” its military efforts in the Middle East. Cooper said that the US military has so far struck over 8,000 military targets, including 130 Iranian vessels, in the past three weeks. The 5,000-pound (2,268-kg) bombs – which according to an Air Force Times report in 2022 cost an estimated $288,000 each – are less powerful than the 30,000-pound (13,600-kg) bombs dropped by the United States on Iranian nuclear sites last year. [...]

Iran state-linked hospital ordered shut in Dubai: sources to AFP

March 21, 2026 4:23

DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates has ordered the closure of an Iranian state-linked hospital in Dubai, three employees at the facility told AFP, as ties between the two neighbours deteriorate amid Tehran’s aerial campaign against Gulf states. Since the United States and Israel began striking Iran on February 28, Tehran has launched waves of missiles and drones at Gulf states, with more than 2,000 attacks on the UAE alone. The strikes have strained ties between the countries, prompting Abu Dhabi to recall its ambassador to Iran and close its diplomatic mission. Iran-linked entities, including schools, have been shut despite longstanding economic and community links. READ MORE: Trump says US considering ‘winding down’ Iran war “The government asked all of us to leave,” an employee at the hospital told AFP, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. “The hospital management told us it was because of Iran’s attacks on the UAE,” he added. The Iranian hospital, which employs more than 700 people, is run by the Iranian Red Crescent Society. It is one of the oldest healthcare facilities in the UAE. A UAE official told AFP “certain institutions directly linked to the Iranian regime and IRGC will be closed under targeted measures” after being found to violate UAE laws. “These measures are administrative in nature and will be implemented in an orderly manner to ensure continuity of essential services,” they added. READ MORE: Iranians mark Eid as Tehran reports strike on nuclear plant At least three staff members said they were informed of the decision last Saturday during a staff meeting and asked to vacate in the coming days. “We never expected it to happen so quickly,” one doctor told AFP. “There were officials and security personnel inside the compound when I came to work on Tuesday.” Patients have been transferred to other facilities in Dubai, staff said, while the hospital’s website has been removed. At least four Iranian schools have also been shut in Dubai, according to members of the Iranian community. Signage at the Towheed Iranian School in Dubai has been removed, and a security guard at the site told AFP the school was closed. The Iranian Club in Dubai, also linked to Tehran, said it suspended activities in a statement on Instagram on Monday, citing “current circumstances”. On Friday, the UAE arrested at least five members of an Iran- and Hezbollah-linked network that sought to “infiltrate the national economy” and threaten UAE financial stability. Iran and the UAE share deep cultural and historical ties as neighbouring countries across the Gulf, with centuries-old links between coastal communities, trade routes and family networks. Some Iranian hospital staff said they feared their lives were being upended as the conflict pitted their homeland against their adopted home. “We came here to escape the situation back home,” said a doctor who has worked at the hospital for more than a decade. “It is heartbreaking that our lives are affected like this.” [...]

India blocks release of Oscar-nominated Gaza film

March 21, 2026 4:22

NEW DELHI: India has blocked the release of “The Voice of Hind Rajab”, a film about the killing of a five-year-old Palestinian girl by Israeli forces, the movie’s distributor told AFP on Saturday. The Oscar-nominated docudrama by French-Tunisian director Kaouther Ben Hania recounts the real-life death of Hind Rajab in Gaza last year as her family attempted to flee during Israel’s war with Hamas. Manoj Nandwana of Jai Viratra Entertainment, the film’s Indian distributor, said a member of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) told him that the film’s theatrical release would “hamper India’s relations with Israel”. “After screening it for the board it was clear to me that they would not clear it for release in India,” Nandwana told AFP on Saturday, adding that he was not officially notified of the denial. “The film has been released all over the world including in Israel. Why is it bad or sensitive for Indians?” Nandwana asked. “It’s strange.” READ MORE: Filmmakers defend Berlin festival chief in Gaza row The film was, however, screened at an international film festival in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata in November last year, Nandwana said. New Delhi has expanded ties with Israel in defence, agriculture, technology and cybersecurity while balancing diplomatic interests in the Middle East and historically supporting Palestinian statehood. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Israel for two days – the first trip by an Indian premier in over two decades – just days before Israel and the United States began a campaign of airstrikes on Iran. Parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor from the opposition Congress party said blocking the film was “disgraceful”. “In a democracy, screening a film is a reflection of our society’s freedom of expression and has nothing to do with government to government relations,” he said in a post on X. “This practice of banning films or books because of the offence they might cause to foreign countries must stop immediately. It’s unworthy of a mature democracy.” “The Voice of Hind Rajab” was nominated for Best International Feature at this year’s Oscars but lost to the Norwegian family drama “Sentimental Value”. Last year, the film won the Silver Lion grand jury prize at the Venice Film Festival where it left audiences in tears at its premiere. [...]

Fuel conservation vital as global oil prices may rise further: Tarar

March 21, 2026 3:29

Warning that international oil prices may rise further in the coming days, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Saturday emphasised the need for a collective national effort for fuel conservation. Addressing a news conference in Lahore, while flanked by Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, the information minister stated that a price hike of Rs150 for petrol and Rs250 for diesel has been averted overall, since inception of the US-Israel-Iran war, which might not be sustainable for a longer period. On behalf of the government, Tarar called on the general public to play an active role in fuel conservation in view of the current evolving global situation. The federal ministers appealed to the citizens to implement austerity measures in letter and spirit, such as avoiding unnecessary travel, promoting carpooling, work from home, and adopting e-learning in educational institutions. The petroleum minister said the saving these resources will make it easier to manage fuel imports and help the government redirect funds toward supporting the poor. He said oil refineries have been instructed to continue purchasing crude oil regardless of the cost to ensure its smooth supply in Pakistan. Ali also highlighted the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in securing oil supplies from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. In his remarks, Tarar said adequate oil reserves are currently available in the country because of the proactive government measures. However, the masses should still avoid unnecessary fuel consumption, he added. He pointed out that global fuel prices have hit 158 dollars per barrel and the government is working and making all out efforts to protect the public from the financial burden of surging oil prices. “While global oil price hikes have inevitably impacted Pakistan, the government has shielded the public from a second consecutive price increase,” he said. To manage the energy crisis and preserve foreign exchange, the minister said the government itself has taken some austerity measures, including grounding 60% of government vehicles to reduce fuel consumption. “A 50% reduction in petrol usage has been mandated across all government departments,” he said, as efforts are being made to protect current petroleum stocks and save precious foreign exchange reserves. Minister Tarar urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and adopt austerity, emphasising that the government is leading by example through these strict internal cuts. Meanwhile, four vessels laden with gasoline, crude oil, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) arrived at Karachi’s ports over the past 24 hours, providing critical support to the country’s energy supplies as the Gulf region reels from a rapidly escalating conflict that has taken a direct aim at energy infrastructure across multiple countries, Business Recorder reported on March 20. The arrivals come at a particularly tense moment, as the Gulf conflict has shifted into what analysts are describing as a direct “Energy War” between Iran and regional Gulf states, following a series of attacks on energy installations in Iran, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, raising alarm over the security and continuity of global fuel supplies. READ MORE: Oil tanker sails to Pakistan after crossing tense Strait of Hormuz: report Despite the volatile regional backdrop, Pakistan’s port authorities have confirmed the safe arrival of all four vessels, signalling the country’s continued ability to secure its energy imports through the turbulence. [...]

CDF Munir vows action against cross-border terrorism

March 21, 2026 2:35

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Saturday said terrorists operating from cross-border sanctuaries in Afghanistan would not be allowed to destabilise Pakistan. The remarks came during his visit to Kurram, where he celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr with troops and officers, according to a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The CDF offered Eid prayers alongside soldiers and prayed for the country’s peace, stability and prosperity. During his interaction with officers and troops, he extended Eid greetings and lauded their high morale, professionalism and unwavering commitment to defending the nation. Read More: COAS Munir affirms unwavering support for Southern Balochistan’s development He also appreciated the performance of troops in Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq, noting that the operation aims to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure durable peace in border areas. Reiterating Pakistan’s position, the CDF emphasised that Afghan soil must not be used by hostile elements to launch activities against Pakistan, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to regional peace and stability. Paying tribute to the martyrs, he said the success of ongoing operations is anchored in the sacrifices of fallen soldiers and the resolve of officers and jawans. He expressed confidence in the troops’ steadfastness and reiterated the armed forces’ determination to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Upon arrival, the CDF was received by the Corps Commander Peshawar, the ISPR added. [...]

More than 20 countries say want to contribute to efforts for safe passage in Hormuz strait

March 21, 2026 1:45

DUBAI: More than 20 countries on Saturday said they would contribute to efforts ensuring safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz, condemning Iran’s closure of the vital waterway. “We condemn in the strongest terms recent attacks by Iran on unarmed commercial vessels in the Gulf, attacks on civilian infrastructure including oil and gas installations, and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces,” said the 22 countries, mostly European but also including the UAE and Bahrain. “We express our readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through the Strait. We welcome the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning,” they said in a joint statement. READ MORE: Iraq declares force majeure on foreign-operated oilfields over Hormuz disruption, sources say After the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28, Tehran has retaliated with strikes on its Gulf neighbours but also on vessels in the strait. From March 1 to 19, commodities carriers made just 116 crossings, according to analytics firm Kpler – a decrease of 95 percent from peacetime averages. Iran’s de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 percent of the world’s oil and gas normally flows, and the numerous attacks on oil and gas infrastructure in the Middle East, have sent energy prices soaring. “We call for an immediate comprehensive moratorium on attacks on civilian infrastructure, including oil and gas installations,” the countries added. [...]

Trump says US considering ‘winding down’ Iran war

March 21, 2026 1:04

DUBAI/WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump said the U.S. was considering “winding down” its military operation against Iran, as Iran and Israel traded attacks on Saturday and Iranian media said the nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz had been attacked. In a social media post, Trump said the U.S. was close to meeting its goals but insisted that other countries should take the lead in policing the vital shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz, whose near-closure threatens a global energy shock. Trump and his administration have sent mixed messages about U.S. goals throughout the war, now entering its fourth week, leaving traditional U.S. allies struggling to respond. In less than 24 hours, Trump suggested the war could wind down as the Iranian threat was being eliminated, while at the same time U.S. Marines and heavy landing craft were headed to the region on a mission whose goals were not immediately clear. READ MORE: US sending Marines and amphibious assault ship to Middle East, officials say “We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the Terrorist Regime of Iran,” Trump said on Truth Social. “The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it — The United States does not!” he added. “If asked, we will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated.” Iran reports attack on Natanz nuclear enrichment plant More than 2,000 people have been killed in Iran since the U.S. and Israel attacked on February 28, while Americans appear increasingly concerned at signs the war could expand further. Vital energy infrastructure in Iran and neighbouring Gulf states has been attacked, sending oil prices up 50% and threatening a global economic shock. READ MORE: Iran targeted but did not hit Diego Garcia base with missiles, WSJ reports Trump had also accused NATO allies, which have not been consulted about the war, of cowardice over their reluctance to help open the Strait of Hormuz. As the fighting continued, the Iranian media said U.S.-Israeli forces had attacked the Shahid Ahmadi-Roshan Natanz enrichment complex on Saturday morning. Technical experts found that no radioactive leaks had occurred and nearby residents were not at risk. Israel said it was unaware of such a strike. Israel also attacked Beirut, saying it was targeting Hezbollah as it steps up airstrikes targeting the Iran-backed Lebanese militia in the deadliest spillover from the war on Iran since Hezbollah fired on Israel in support of Tehran on March 2. Israel said Saturday’s attacks on Iran included Tehran, Karaj, west of the capital, and the central city of Isfahan. Three members of a family were killed in a strike on a residential building in the city of Ramsar, Iranian media quoted a local governor as saying. READ MORE: US allows 30-day sale of Iran oil at sea in bid to tame prices Before its strikes on Lebanon, the Israeli military said it had issued evacuation warnings for seven neighbourhoods in the southern suburbs of Beirut. Four Hezbollah fighters were killed in southern Lebanon, one in a “ground engagement” and three using tank fire, it said. More than 1,000 people have been killed in Lebanon and over 1 million displaced in the Israeli attacks. Air raid sirens in Israel warned of incoming missiles from early morning, sending millions to shelters as the blasts of interceptions rang out from above. There were no immediate reports of casualties. Israel’s military said search and rescue teams were headed to impact sites in central Israel. READ MORE: Putin tells Tehran: Russia stands by Iran Iran fired two ballistic missiles at the U.S.-British military base Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean but did not hit the base, the Wall Street Journal reported. European gas prices surge Natural gas prices in Europe surged as much as 35% this week as Iran and Israel hit some of the region’s most important gas infrastructure. The European Union urged members to lower gas-storage targets and start refilling reserves gradually to curb demand, the Financial Times reported on Saturday. The Strait of Hormuz, conduit for around a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, has been effectively closed to most shipping. READ MORE: European gas prices jump 35% after strikes on Qatar LNG hub Leading allies of the U.S. from Europe as well as Japan and Canada have pledged to join “appropriate efforts” to ensure safe passage through the strait, but Germany and France have spelled out that fighting must stop first. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told Kyodo news agency that Iran was ready to let Japan-related vessels pass through the narrow waterway. Japan gets around 90% of its oil shipments via the strait. The White House, in an effort to increase supply and lower prices, said it would waive sanctions on Iranian oil for 30 days to allow the sale of 140 million barrels on tankers. The administration had previously eased sanctions on a similar amount of Russian oil. As Muslims celebrated Eid al-Fitr on Friday to end the fasting month of Ramadan and Iranians marked Nowruz, the Persian New Year, Iran’s new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a message of defiance. Khamenei - who did not appear at Eid prayers and has not been seen in public since the initial Israeli attack that killed his father and predecessor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei - said in his statement that Iranians had responded with unity and resistance and “dealt a disorienting blow to the enemy”. Russian President Vladimir Putin also sent Nowruz greetings to Iran’s leaders, using the occasion to say Moscow remained a loyal friend and reliable partner. The extent of Moscow’s support for Iran is in dispute though. Some Iranian sources say they have had little real help from Moscow in the biggest crisis for Iran since the U.S.-backed shah was toppled in the 1979 Islamic Revolution. [...]

Mbappe 100 percent, Bellingham fit, says Real Madrid’s Arbeloa

March 21, 2026 1:00

MADRID: Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa said Saturday he has “maximum confidence” in French superstar Kylian Mbappe ahead of the derby clash against Atletico Madrid. Mbappe returned from a knee sprain as a substitute against Manchester City on Tuesday after missing five games and Arbeloa said he was excited to have the forward back at 100 percent, along with fit-again England international Jude Bellingham. The duo will be in Madrid’s squad for Sunday’s La Liga game against Diego Simeone’s Atletico at the Santiago Bernabeu. “I already told you that the day (Mbappe) came back would be when he was at 100 percent,” Arbeloa told reporters. READ MORE: Injured Salah out of Liverpool’s Brighton trip and Egypt’s game with Spain, says Slot “I think that in the minutes we saw him in Manchester, with the two or three bursts of pace he made, every one of those actions showed he’s in great shape and, above all, (it’s about) his own feelings… “We have maximum confidence, maximum security, maximum excitement to have a player like him back, so decisive and at 100 percent.” Mbappe is Madrid’s top goalscorer this season with 38 goals in 34 games across all competitions. Arbeloa said he was happy that the French national team have called up Mbappe for matches against Brazil and Colombia next week in the United States. “I think it’s fantastic. He’s a player who’s available to the coach, who has already played with us, who’s definitely going to play tomorrow, so I don’t see any problem with him going with his national team,” added Arbeloa. England coach Thomas Tuchel called up Bellingham for international duty even though the midfielder has not played since February 1 because of a hamstring injury. “He’s now available, he’ll be in the squad tomorrow. We’ll see if he plays. I think he will, he’s available and I’m really looking forward to seeing him out on the pitch,” said Arbeloa. “From there it’s normal that he can go with his national team. “It’s clear that Jude Bellingham is a very intelligent player, he knows especially well what he’s doing at every moment and the situation he’s in, but from my side I’m very happy that he’ll be available tomorrow and ready to help us.” Madrid will be without goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who is set to miss several weeks with a thigh injury, but Arbeloa said he had faith in his replacement Andriy Lunin. “The best goalkeeper in history gets injured, and we have another outstanding goalkeeper who will once again show how good he is,” said Arbeloa, adding he has “utmost confidence” in the Ukrainian. [...]

Iranians mark Eid as Tehran reports strike on nuclear plant

March 21, 2026 12:59

TEHRAN: Thousands of Iranians held Eid al-Fitr prayers on Saturday to mark the end of the Ramadan fast, as Tehran reported a strike on its nuclear enrichment plant and Israel threatened intensified bombardment. Iran’s supreme leader traditionally leads Eid prayers but Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who came to power earlier this month after his father was killed in a US-Israeli strike, has remained out of the public eye. Instead, the head of the judiciary, Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei, attended prayers at central Tehran’s Imam Khomeini grand mosque, which was filled to overflowing, with worshippers flooding the streets outside. The previous evening, airstrikes had darkened the mood as the city celebrated Nowruz, the Persian New Year. “The atmosphere of the New Year was spreading through the city. Places like Tajrish or Golestan Shahrak, where I went, were full of well-dressed and beautiful women buying flowers,” said Farid, an advertising executive, reached by AFP through an online message. READ MORE: US sending Marines and amphibious assault ship to Middle East, officials say “The Israeli attacks happening exactly at the moment of the New Year were deeply upsetting. The thought that some people could be dying right at the New Year dinner table was painful.” Iran’s key ally Russian President Vladimir Putin sent greetings to Khamenei, “wished the Iranian people strength on overcoming these severe trials and emphasised that during this difficult time, Moscow remained a loyal friend and reliable partner of Tehran”. According to Iran’s atomic energy organisation, the US and Israel targeted a plant at Natanz in Isfahan province, which hosts underground centrifuges to enrich uranium for Iran’s disputed nuclear programme and was already damaged in last year’s June war. Nuclear plant “Following the criminal attacks by the United States and the usurping Zionist regime against our country, the… Natanz enrichment complex was targeted this morning,” the organisation said, in a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency. No leakage of nuclear materials was reported, it added. READ MORE: Iran targeted but did not hit Diego Garcia base with missiles, WSJ reports The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, called for “military restraint to avoid any risk of a nuclear accident”, but the UN watchdog confirmed that no increase in off-site radiation levels had been reported. Asked about Natanz, the Israeli military said it was “not aware of a strike”. After three weeks of a conflict that has sent world energy prices soaring, blocked the Strait of Hormuz oil export route and strained Washington’s ties with its closest allies, US President Donald Trump said once again that he was thinking of pulling back. “We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great military efforts in the Middle East,” Trump posted on social media. The White House press secretary said the Pentagon was looking at four to six weeks to complete its mission. READ MORE: US allows 30-day sale of Iran oil at sea in bid to tame prices Nevertheless, according to US media reports, Washington is deploying thousands more marines to the Middle East, in a possible sign of a ground operation, and Iran continues to carry out strikes on both Israel and its oil and gas-rich Gulf neighbours. After Iranian missile fire at Israel overnight, the Israeli military said it had carried out strikes on what it called “regime targets” in Iran’s capital, which has been under bombardment since a US-Israeli attack started the war on February 28. “This week, the intensity of the strikes to be carried out by the IDF and the US military against the Iranian terror regime and the infrastructure on which it relies will rise significantly,” Defence Minister Israel Katz said. As concerns grow over oil prices and global supply shortages, the US Treasury said it was temporarily lifting sanctions on Iranian oil already loaded onto vessels. The authorisation allows for the delivery and sale of Iranian crude oil and other petroleum products loaded onto ships before March 20 and will last through April 19. Trump demands allies act As energy analysts and consumers count the cost of attacks on oil and gas facilities in the Gulf, including the world’s largest liquefied natural gas hub, Trump slammed NATO allies as “cowards” and called on them to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has choked the channel, which is crucial for around a fifth of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas during peacetime. “The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it – The United States does not!” Trump said. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran had imposed restrictions on vessels from countries involved in attacks against Iran but would offer assistance to others. The standoff has sent crude oil prices soaring, with a barrel of North Sea Brent crude up more than 50 percent over the past month and now comfortably more than $105 a barrel. [...]

President, PM extend Eid-ul-Fitr greetings, urge unity and compassion

March 21, 2026 11:56

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Pakistan and Muslims around the world on the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, urging them to carry forward the spirit of Ramazan in their daily lives. In his message on Eid-ul-Fitr (1st Shawwal 1447), the president said the festival was a reward for the prayers, patience, piety and sacrifice observed during the holy month of Ramazan. He said the occasion marked a new beginning of spiritual renewal through Allah’s mercy and forgiveness, coupled with a deepened sense of servitude to the Almighty. Quoting a verse from the Holy Quran, he highlighted that fasting was prescribed to attain righteousness, adding that the core message of Eid revolved around piety, self-accountability and moral purity. He also referred to a saying of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), noting that those who fast with faith and hope for reward are granted forgiveness. The president emphasised that the true success of Eid lay in translating the teachings of Ramazan into practical life. He stressed that values such as patience, tolerance, compassion, justice and brotherhood were essential for building both an ideal individual and a strong, united nation. Calling Eid-ul-Fitr a day to promote love, harmony and social cohesion, he urged people to share their happiness with the needy, orphans and underprivileged segments of society. He also called for renewed commitment to national unity, constitutional supremacy and the rule of law, terming the country’s development and stability a shared responsibility. He prayed for peace in the region and unity within the Muslim Ummah, expressing hope that Pakistan would continue to move forward with stability, consensus and prosperity. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his Eid message, described the occasion as a manifestation of Allah’s special mercy and boundless blessings. He said Muslims express gratitude to the Almighty for granting them the joy of Eid after a month of prayers and devotion, and prayed for the acceptance of their worship. He noted that Eid-ul-Fitr symbolized the reward for patience and perseverance, while also renewing the spirit of sacrifice, unity, service to humanity and collective responsibility. The prime minister urged the nation to share the joys of Eid with the less fortunate, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and social care. He also mentioned the government’s efforts during Ramazan, including the successful implementation of a digital wallet system to provide dignified financial assistance to vulnerable groups. Emphasizing unity and cooperation as the foundation of national progress, he said collective responsibility was key to ensuring Pakistan’s prosperity. Reflecting on global challenges, the prime minister expressed solidarity with the people of Gaza and other conflict-affected regions in the Middle East, saying their suffering underscored the urgent need for unity within the Muslim Ummah to promote justice, dignity and lasting peace. He concluded with prayers for global peace, stability and harmony, expressing hope that the spirit of Eid would strengthen values of justice, tolerance and brotherhood across the world. [...]

UK approves US use of British bases to strike Iran missile sites targeting ships

March 21, 2026 9:32

LONDON: The British government gave authorisation on Friday for the United States to use military bases in Britain to carry out strikes on Iranian missile sites that are attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz. British ministers met on Friday to discuss the war with Iran and Iran’s blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Downing Street statement. “They confirmed that the agreement for the US to use UK bases in the collective self-defence of the region includes U.S. defensive operations to degrade the missile sites and capabilities being used to attack ships in the Strait of Hormuz,” the statement said. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said this week Britain would not be drawn into a war over Iran. He initially rejected a US request to use British bases for the strikes on Iran, saying he needed to be satisfied that any military action was legal. But Starmer modified his stance after Iran conducted strikes on British allies across the Middle East, saying that the United States could use RAF Fairford and Diego Garcia, a joint U.S.-UK base in the Indian Ocean. READ MORE: Six allies ready to help ‘efforts to ensure safe passage’ through Hormuz Strait President Donald Trump has repeatedly attacked Starmer since the conflict started, complaining he was not doing enough to help him. On Monday, Trump said there were “some countries that greatly disappointed me” before he singled out Britain, which he said had once been considered “the Rolls-Royce of allies”. The Downing Street statement on Friday called for “urgent de-escalation and a swift resolution to the war”. Opinion polls in Britain suggest widespread scepticism about the war, with 59% of those surveyed by YouGov saying that they were opposed to the U.S.-Israeli attacks. [...]

Cuba refuses to negotiate president’s term in talks with United States

March 21, 2026 9:29

HAVANA: Cuba on Friday rejected any suggestion that its political system or the term of its president were subject to negotiation in talks with the United States, following reports that Washington sought ‌to remove Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel from power. “I can categorically confirm that … the political system of Cuba is not up for negotiation, and of course neither the president nor the position of any official in Cuba is subject to negotiation with the United States,” Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio told a press conference. Cuba said a week ago that it had entered talks with the U.S. government as an oil blockade imposed by US President Donald Trump pushes the Communist-run nation deeper into economic crisis, and as Trump has said he can do “anything I want” ⁠with Cuba, a sovereign neighbor. Speaking later to a group of foreign activists bringing humanitarian aid to Cuba, Diaz-Canel said Cuba was preparing for a possible US “aggression.” “We’re not just crossing our arms. In the first place, we recognize that there could be aggression against Cuba,” said Diaz-Canel, who has struck a more defiant tone recently. He said on social media on Tuesday that “any external aggressor will face an impenetrable resistance.” USA Today, citing two sources with knowledge of the Trump administration’s plans, reported before Cuba’s announcement that Trump was preparing an economic deal with Cuba that would relax trade restrictions but include an “off-ramp” for Diaz-Canel. The New York Times, citing four people familiar with the talks, later reported that the Trump administration was seeking to push Diaz-Canel from power with two years remaining on his term as president and five years left as leader of the Communist Party. Both reports said the US proposal would leave untouched the family ‌of former ⁠presidents Fidel and Raul Castro. Fidel Castro died in 2016 but Raul Castro, 94, remains highly influential eight years after handing the presidency over to Diaz-Canel, 65. Such a deal would resemble what has happened in Venezuela, where the United States deposed President Nicolas Maduro on January 3. Rather than attempt to install an opposition government, the U.S. has cooperated with acting President Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro’s former vice president who took power when US forces whisked away Maduro in an early morning raid. Authority spread widely Authority in ⁠Cuba is spread widely among senior Communist Party leaders, other government officials and the armed forces, unlike the concentration of power that characterized the Castro years from the start of the 1959 revolution until Diaz-Canel’s term began in 2018. De Cossio, who has led the foreign ministry’s office on US relations, declined to offer further details of the ⁠bilateral discussions, leaving unanswered the questions of where and when they are taking place. Cuba says 32 of its citizens killed in Maduro extraction But he did say there were plenty of topics of mutual interest, including trade between the two countries that has been severed by the comprehensive US economic embargo against Cuba. He also mentioned longstanding economic compensation that each country ⁠seeks. Cuba has claims against the United States for damages caused by the embargo, while there are 5,913 claims from Americans whose properties were nationalized in Cuba after the 1959 revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power. “These are very complex issues that can be discussed, but they require dialogue,” de Cossio said. “They require sitting down and are legitimate matters.” [...]

Pentagon’s limits on press access unconstitutional, US judge rules

March 21, 2026 9:25

NEW YORK: A federal judge on Friday blocked the Trump administration’s restrictive Pentagon press access policy, which threatens journalists with being branded security risks if they seek information not authorized for public release. The lawsuit by the New York Times in Washington, D.C., federal court alleged that policy changes ‌by the Defence Department last year gave it free rein to freeze out reporters and news outlets over coverage the department did not like, in violation of the Constitution’s protections for free speech and due process. The government disputed that characterization and said the policy is reasonable and necessary for national security. US District Judge Paul Friedman said in his ruling that he recognized the importance of protecting troops and war plans but that it was “more important than ever that the public have access to information from a variety of perspectives about what its government is doing” in light of President Donald Trump’s recent “incursion” into Venezuela and war with Iran. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said on social media that ⁠the government disagrees with the decision and will seek an immediate appeal. Israeli military says it is striking Hezbollah targets in Beirut New York Times spokesman Charlie Stadtlander said the ruling enforces constitutionally protected rights for the free press and “reaffirms the right of The Times and other independent media to continue to ask questions on the public’s behalf.” “Americans deserve visibility into how their government is being run, and the actions the military is taking in their name and with their tax dollars,” Stadtlander said in a statement on Friday. Most news outlets did not sign on to new policy The changes approved under Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in October 2025 state that journalists can be deemed security risks and have their press badges revoked if they solicit unauthorized military personnel to disclose classified, and in some cases unclassified, information. Of the 56 news outlets in the Pentagon Press Association, only one agreed to sign an acknowledgment of the new policy, according to the Times’ lawsuit. Reporters who did not sign surrendered their press passes. The Pentagon assembled a new press corps consisting of pro-Trump outlets and media personalities after the exodus of reporters, which the Times said was evidence that the policy ‌was aimed ⁠at stifling unflattering coverage. OpenAI hardware leader resigns after deal with Pentagon The policy states that publishing sensitive information “is generally protected by the First Amendment” but says soliciting that information could be considered by officials when determining whether a reporter poses a “security or safety risk.” In its lawsuit, the Times said the policy unlawfully restricts essential newsgathering techniques and gives the Pentagon “unfettered” discretion to revoke passes, permitting it to impose the type of “viewpoint-based” press restrictions forbidden by the Constitution. Justice Department lawyers acknowledged the policy was partly subjective but said press credentialing decisions were still governed by neutral, objective criteria. The government also said soliciting military personnel to commit a crime by disclosing unauthorized information ⁠was not legally protected speech. Germany’s Merz faces second state election test on Sunday In his ruling on Friday, Friedman said the policy violated the First and Fifth Amendments because it was vague, overly expansive and “makes any newsgathering and reporting not blessed by the Department” a possible basis for revocation of a journalist’s pass. He also rejected the government’s argument that the policy is aimed at preventing criminal solicitation of defense secrets by journalists, saying it was impossible for ⁠reporters to know whether information they seek is authorized for release. The policy change was criticized by journalism advocates, who called it another attack on the free press by Trump and his administration. Freedom of the Press Foundation advocacy chief Seth Stern praised Friday’s ruling in a statement, saying it was “shocking” that the government had argued that “journalists asking questions of the government is criminal.” The Associated ⁠Press has a pending lawsuit against Trump administration officials over its removal from the White House press corps after the news agency decided to continue using the Gulf of Mexico’s established name, while acknowledging Trump’s executive order calling on US institutions to refer to it as the Gulf of America. Iran tells world to get ready for $200 a barrel The AP said the decision was illegal viewpoint-based discrimination, while the government countered that it had wide discretion over press access decisions for non-public spaces. [...]

Punjab by-polls: Notices served on minister, SAPM for 'violating' election code of conduct

November 21, 2025 1:33

This collage of pictures show Federal Minister of Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Huzaifa Rehman. —APP/NA website/FileShow-cause notices have been issued to Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Special Assistant to the... [...]

27th Amendment empowers FCC to hear all constitutional cases: minister

November 20, 2025 7:59

Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik addressing an event on December 21, 2024. — Facebook@BarristerAqeelMalikState Minister for Law Aqeel Malik said on Thursday that the 27th Amendment has vested authority to hear constitutional matters in the Federal Constitutional... [...]

JF-17 attracts strong attention at Dubai Airshow as friendly country inks procurement MoU

November 20, 2025 5:25

Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder fighter jet during World Defence Air Show 2024 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, February 7, 2024. — PPI Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder garnered significant attention at the Dubai Airshow 2025, leading to the signing of a memorandum of understanding with a... [...]

US lawmakers laud Punjab govt's initiative to modernise brick-kiln

November 20, 2025 4:39

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz attends ceremony in this undated image. — Facebook/@MaryamNSharifISLAMABAD: The Congressional Pakistan Caucus has applauded Punjab’s drive to modernise its brick-kiln sector, saying the reforms could serve as a pilot for eliminating bonded labour and... [...]

Security forces gun down 30 terrorists in multiple IBOs in KP: ISPR

November 20, 2025 4:38

Frontier Constabulary and army personnel gather stand guard in Kurram, January 17, 2025. — AFPSecurity forces killed 30 Indian proxy Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists during multiple intelligence-based operations carried out by security forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa , the military's media wing... [...]

MQM-P calls for new province in Sindh

November 20, 2025 3:56

Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan Convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui addresses a press conference in Karachi, November 20, 2025. — Screengrab via YouTube/Geo NewsKARACHI: With discussions on the 28th Amendment gaining momentum, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement–Pakistan has once again... [...]

US report validates Pakistan military edge over India: PM

November 20, 2025 3:55

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addresses ceremony in Azad Jammu and Kashmir on November 20, 2025. — X/@GovtofPakistanPrime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said a recent US report endorsing Pakistan’s downing of Indian aircraft stands as formal validation of the country’s... [...]

Banned TTP poses serious threat to Pakistan security: UNSC panel

November 20, 2025 10:24

Denmark’s Deputy Permanent Representative to United Nations and chair of UNSC's ISIL, Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee Sandra Jensen Landi. — Screengrab via UN WebTV websiteThe chair of the United Nations Security Council's Daesh and Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee has cautioned that the... [...]

CM Afridi clarifies remarks on by-poll after ECP requests army deployment

November 20, 2025 10:01

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Khan Afridi addresses a gathering at Havelian, Abbottabad on November 19, 2025. — Facbook@ImMuhammadSohailAfridiISLAMABAD: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Thursday issued a clarification concerning his remarks on the NA-18 by-poll,... [...]

Dubai sees 3.2m Pakistani passengers in 2025 as airport sets new milestone

November 20, 2025 6:16

People sit at a coffee shop as they wait for their flight at the Dubai International Airport, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 17, 2024. — ReutersDUBAI: Dubai International Airport handled 3.2 million passengers travelling from Pakistan in the first nine months of 2025, making the... [...]

Security forces kill 23 Indian proxy terrorists in KP's Kurram

November 20, 2025 5:08

Security forces are seen taking position during an operation. — ISPR/FileRAWALPINDI: Amid country's ongoing fight against the menace of terrorism, security forces have neutralised 23 Indian proxy Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists in separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Kurram... [...]

Pakistan to construct island to boost oil exploration: report

November 19, 2025 6:26

Pump jacks operate in front of a drilling rig in an oil field in Midland, Texas United States. — Reuters/FilePakistan's state-owned energy company, Pakistan Petroleum Limited , has announced plans for an artificial island to boost its oil exploration efforts.Islamabad has intensified its... [...]

Russia ready to mediate Pakistan's issues with India, Afghanistan: envoy

November 19, 2025 6:14

Russia's ambassador to Pakistan has extended his country's offer to mediate Islamabad's conflicts with India and Afghanistan, amid strained relations with its neighbouring countries.Islamabad's relations with India have remained tense since the four-day war in May, while the Afghan Taliban regime... [...]

Security forces neutralise four terrorists in KP IBOs

November 19, 2025 5:12

Soldiers ride on a Pakistan Army vehicle in this undated image. — AFP/FileFour terrorists affiliated with Indian proxy, Fitna al-Khawarij, were killed in a series of operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from November 17 to 18, the Inter-Services Public Relations said on Wednesday.An... [...]

Reclassification of 41 candidates on reserved seats goes beyond SC mandate: Justice Mandokhail

November 19, 2025 4:38

Supreme Court's Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail addresses an event related to Labour Day in Islamabad on May 1, 2025. — Screengrab/YouTube/Geo NewsISLAMABAD: Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail has released a detailed dissent in the reserved seats case, stating that the ruling on 41 candidates... [...]

Dennis Quaid calls out Hollywood's duality about political views

March 21, 2026 2:54

Photo: Dennis Quaid calls out Hollywood's duality about political views Dennis Quaid has made bold statements about the US politics and how Hollywood perceives it.In a new confessional with Fox News Digital, Quaid expressed that there is a "double standard" in Hollywood when it comes to... [...]

US allows 30-Day sale of Iran Oil in bid to curb rising global energy prices

March 21, 2026 8:56

US allows 30-Day sale of Iran's Oil in bid to curb rising global energy pricesA recent update informs that the U.S. will allow a limited-time sale of Iranian oil to tame prices.The Trump administration waived sanctions on the purchase of Iranian oil at sea for 30 days on Friday in its latest... [...]

Billy Idol reflects on possible 'ADHD' diagnosis as he embraces sobriety

March 20, 2026 6:57

Photo: Billy Idol reflects on possible 'ADHD' diagnosis as he embraces sobrietyBilly Idol has been reflecting on his past behaviour and has questioned if he has undiagnosed ADHD.For those unversed, the Rebel Yell singer has years of excess and struggles with addiction are documented in new... [...]

Nasa prepares Artemis Moon rocket for April launch as SLS returns to pad after earlier issue

March 20, 2026 6:24

Nasa has rolled its Artemis Moon rocket back to the launch pad in Florida as preparations continue for a possible launch in early April.The Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft are making the four-mile journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Pad 39B at the Kennedy Space Center.... [...]

Benjamin Netanyahu loses major American supporter with Chuck Norris death

March 20, 2026 4:21

As thousands of people took to social media to mourn the death of Chuck Norris, his political affiliations also became a topic of discussion online.Norris, the former martial arts champion and 1980s action-film hero who fought the bad guys in "Code of Silence," "Missing in Action" and "The Delta... [...]

Trump administration releases new AI policy to pre-empt state rules

March 20, 2026 4:08

Trump administration releases new AI policy to pre-empt state rulesIn a latest update from an artificial intelligence policy on Friday, March 20, that aims to pre-empt state rules to ensure protections for children ‌and shield communities from prohibitive energy costs.The Trump administration... [...]

Jeffrey Epstein lookalike speaks out on conspiracy theories

March 20, 2026 1:43

A man whose video recently sparked conspiracy theories about Jeffrey Epstein due to his resemblance to the late sex offender has finally addressed the rumors regarding his identity.The Florida resident was filmed due to his uncanny resemblance to the late sex offender as he drove his car on a... [...]

El Nino set to arrive: What does it mean for Wisconsin weather?

March 20, 2026 11:56

El Nino set to arrive: What does it mean for Wisconsin weather?El Nino refers to the periodic warming of central and eastern Pacific ocean surface temperatures. These patterns commonly last 9 to 12 months and recur every two to seven years or an irregular schedule. El Nino brings warmer,... [...]

Savannah Guthrie mother Nancy's kidnapping plot finally exposed

March 20, 2026 11:52

Kidnappings for ransom are actually pretty uncommon, and have “really decreased over the years.”US TV anchor Savannah Guthrie’s mother Nancy, who was abducted on February 1, search continued on 48th day by the authorities.According to a report by the Mirror US, a chilling new... [...]

UK meningitis outbreak: Vaccine confirmed effective against deadly strain

March 20, 2026 11:19

UK meningitis outbreak: Vaccine confirmed effective against deadly strainHealth authorities in Britain have provided a critical update regarding the meningitis outbreak in southeast England. According to laboratory analysis, it has been confirmed that the outbreak is caused by a group of... [...]

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shares rare public moment with daughter on tank ride during military display

March 20, 2026 7:50

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shares rare public moment with daughter on tank ride during military display North Korean Kim Jong Un and his teenage daughter recently participated in military exercises involving tank units and infantry. Notably, photos showed them riding together in an... [...]

Canada, and allies vow action to restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz

March 20, 2026 7:07

Canada and its allies say they are prepared to act to restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as the key shipping route faces disruption amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran.In a joint statement released Thursday, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands... [...]

Trump 24-karat gold coin wins approval from hand-picked federal panel: How the treasury bypassed currency law?

March 20, 2026 6:15

Trump 24-karat gold wins approval from hand-picked federal panel: How the treasury bypassed currency law?A federal arts commission has approved the design for a 24-karat gold commemorative coin featuring the image of President Donald Trump. The coin is part of the United States Mint program... [...]

Donald Trump's Pearl Harbor comment to Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi draws attention

March 20, 2026 5:44

A meeting between Donald Trump and Japan’s prime minister has drawn attention after remarks referencing Pearl Harbor during a press exchange in the Oval Office.While hosting Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday, Trump was asked by a Japanese reporter why allies were not... [...]

Did they ever find Nancy Guthrie? Popular burglary theory 'blown apart'

March 20, 2026 2:21

Nancy Guthrie burglary gone wrong theory questioned by crime expertNancy Guthrie has been missing from her home near Tucson, Arizona, for nearly 50 days. Several theories floated about what happened to the 84-year-old.One of them was the burglary gone wrong.But Morgan Wright, a crime expert who... [...]

گوجرانوالہ: گھر میں فائرنگ سے خاتون جاں بحق

March 21, 2026 5:03

علامتی فوٹوگوجرانوالہ کے علاقے افتخار کالونی میں گھر میں فائرنگ سے خاتون جاں بحق ہوگئی۔پولیس کا کہنا ہے کہ خاتون کے بیٹے نے پہلے... [...]

شہباز شریف اور بلاول بھٹو کے درمیان رابطہ

March 21, 2026 5:03

فوٹو: فائل وزیراعظم شہباز شریف اور پیپلز پارٹی کے چئیرمین بلاول بھٹو زرداری کے درمیان ٹیلیفونگ رابطہ ہوا ہے۔اس موقع پر وزیراعظم... [...]

کوٹ رادھا کشن: کرکٹ میچ کے دوران فائرنگ، دو نوجوان زخمی

March 21, 2026 5:03

فوٹو: فائلکوٹ رادھا کشن میں کرکٹ میچ کے دوران فائرنگ سے دو نوجوان زخمی ہو گئے۔ ریسکیو ٹیم نے زخمیوں کو جنرل اسپتال لاہور منتقل کر... [...]

وزیراعظم کا شاہ حمد بن عیسیٰ سے رابطہ، بحرین پر حملوں کی مذمت کی

March 21, 2026 2:03

وزیراعظم شہباز شریف نے عیدالفطر کے موقع پر بحرین کے شاہ حمد بن عیسیٰ الخلیفہ سے ٹیلیفونک رابطہ کیا اور بحرین پر حملوں کی مذمت کرنے... [...]

بانی پی ٹی آئی عید کے دن بیٹوں سے بات کرکے خوش ہوگئے

March 21, 2026 2:03

فائل فوٹو اڈیالہ جیل میں قید بانی پاکستان تحریک انصاف کی عید کے دن بیٹوں سے بات کروا دی گئی۔ جیل ذرائع کا کہنا ہے کہ بانی پی ٹی آئی... [...]

وزیراعظم شہباز شریف کا فیلڈ مارشل عاصم منیر سے ٹیلیفونک رابطہ، عید کی مبارکباد دی

March 21, 2026 1:03

وزیراعظم شہباز شریف نے فیلڈ مارشل سید عاصم منیر سے ٹیلیفونک رابطہ کرکے انہیں عید کی مبارکباد دی ہے۔ وزیراعظم نے ائیر چیف مارشل ظہیر... [...]

سیالکوٹ: پارک میں جھولا چلتے ہوئے گر گیا، 4 بچے زخمی

March 21, 2026 11:03

فائل فوٹو سیالکوٹ کے گلشن اقبال پارک میں بی رائیڈ جھولا چلتے ہوئے ٹوٹ گیا، جس کے نتیجے میں 4 بچے زخمی ہوگئے۔اسسٹنٹ کمشنر رانا صفدر... [...]

اس ہفتے پیٹرول کی قیمت میں 150 اور ڈیزل میں 250 روپے اضافہ روکا گیا، عطا تارڑ

March 21, 2026 11:03

اسکرین گریب/ یوٹیوب جیو نیوز وزیر اطلاعات عطاء اللّٰہ تارڑ کا کہنا ہے کہ اس ہفتے پیٹرول کی قیمت میں 150 اور ڈیزل میں 250 روپے اضافہ روکا... [...]

وزیراعظم کی ترکمان صدر، قیادت اور عوام کو عیدالفطر کی مبارکباد

March 21, 2026 11:03

وزیراعظم شہباز شریف نے ترکمانستان کے صدر سردار بردی محمدوف سے ٹیلیفونک گفتگو کی، ترکمان صدر، قیادت، برادر عوام کو عید الفطر کی مبارک... [...]

افغانستان سے سرگرم دہشت گردوں کو ملکی سلامتی کو نقصان پہنچانے کی اجازت نہیں دی جائے گی، فیلڈ مارشل

March 21, 2026 9:03

تصویر بشکریہ آئی ایس پی آرفیلڈ مارشل سید عاصم منیر نے کہا ہے کہ افغانستان سے سرگرم دہشت گردوں کو ملکی سلامتی کو نقصان پہنچانے کی... [...]

ایران کی لیڈرشپ کو خراجِ تحسین پیش کرتے ہیں: حافظ نعیم الرحمٰن

March 21, 2026 8:03

امیرِ جماعت اسلامی حافظ نعیم الرحمٰن---فائل فوٹو امیرِ جماعتِ اسلامی پاکستان حافظ نعیم الرحمٰن نے ایران کی لیڈرشپ کو خراجِ تحسین پیش... [...]

بورے والا سے اغواء کی گئی بچی ملتان سے بازیاب، ملزمان کراچی فرار

March 21, 2026 8:03

---فائل فوٹو تین روز قبل صوبۂ پنجاب کے شہر بورے والا سے اغواء کی گئی کمسن بچی کو پولیس نے کامیاب کارروائی کرتے ہوئے ملتان سے بازیاب... [...]

سیکیورٹی وجوہات کے باعث بانی پی ٹی آئی نمازِ عید ادا نہیں کرسکے: جیل ذرائع

March 21, 2026 7:03

فائل فوٹوراولپنڈی اڈیالہ جیل میں بھی عید الفطر کی نماز ادا کردی گئی۔جیل ذرائع کے مطابق عام قیدیوں نے عید کی نماز جیل کی جامع مسجد اور... [...]

کراچی میں آج ہونے والی بارش کے اعداد و شمار جاری

March 21, 2026 5:03

— فائل فوٹومحکمہ موسمیات نے کراچی میں آج ہونے والی بارش کے اعداد و شمار جاری کردیے۔محکمہ موسمیات کے مطابق جناح ٹرمینل پر سب سے... [...]

مریم نواز کی عید سادگی سے منانے کی اپیل

March 21, 2026 4:03

وزیرِ اعلیٰ پنجاب مریم نواز---فائل فوٹو وزیرِ اعلیٰ پنجاب مریم نواز نے خطے کے حالات کے پیشِ نظر عید سادگی سے منانے کی اپیل کرتے ہوئے... [...]

ایران نے بیلسٹک میزائل داغ دیا، 2 درجن کے قریب اسرائیلی زخمی

March 21, 2026 5:03

فوٹو: پریس ٹی وی ایران نے اسرائیل پر بیلسٹک میزائل داغ کر 2 درجن کے قریب اسرائیلوں کو زخمی کردیا۔اسرائیل پر ایران نے نئے میزائل حملے... [...]

اسرائیل نے ایران میں بیلسٹک میزائل ذخیرے کی تنصیب کو نشانہ بنانے کی ویڈیو جاری کردی

March 21, 2026 3:03

اسکرین گریب / ایکس اسرائیلی فوج اسرائیلی فوج نے ایران میں فضائی حملوں کے دوران پاسداران انقلاب کے کمپاؤنڈ اور میزائل بنانے و ذخیرہ... [...]

پاسداران انقلاب کا اسرائیلی جنگی طیارہ ایف 16 گرانے کا دعویٰ

March 21, 2026 3:03

فوٹو: پریس ٹی وی ایران کی پاسدارانِ انقلاب نے دعویٰ کیا ہے کہ ملک کے وسطی علاقے کی فضاؤں میں ایک اور دشمن طیارے کو مار گرایا گیا... [...]

ایران پر امریکا و اسرائیل کے حملوں کیخلاف ہزاروں افراد کا سینٹرل لندن میں احتجاج

March 21, 2026 3:03

فوٹو: اے ایف پیایران پر امریکا و اسرائیل کے حملوں کے خلاف ہزاروں افراد نے دوسرے ہفتے بھی سینٹرل لندن میں احتجاج کیا۔ میڈیا رپورٹس کے... [...]

شیخ محمد بن زايد النہیان نے یو اے ای میں بسنے والے تمام افراد کو موبائل پر عید مبارک کا پیغام بھیجا

March 21, 2026 1:03

شیخ محمد بن زاید آلنہیان : فائل فوٹو متحدہ عرب امارات کے صدر شیخ محمد بن زاید النہیان نے عیدالفطر پر یو اے ای میں بسنے والے تمام... [...]

امریکی جج نے خبر رساں اداروں پر پابندی کو غیر آئینی قرار دے دیا

March 21, 2026 1:03

پنٹاگون کی طرف سے خبر رساں اداروں پر پابندی امریکی آئین میں دی گئی بنیادی آزادیوں کے خلاف ہے، ڈسٹرکٹ کولمبیا کے جج نے پابندیوں کو غیر... [...]

ایران میں رہائشی مکان پر امریکی و اسرائیلی حملہ، ماں باپ بچے سمیت شہید

March 21, 2026 12:03

فوٹو: اے ایف پی ایران میں رہائشی مکان پر امریکی و اسرائیلی حملے سے ماں باپ بچے سمیت شہید ہوگئے۔ایران کے شہر رامسر میں امریکا اسرائیل... [...]

اسرائیل کا ایران کی جوہری تنصیب نطنز پر حملے سے لاعلمی کا اظہار

March 21, 2026 12:03

فوٹو: اسرائیلی میڈیا اسرائیل نے ایران کی جوہری تنصیب نطنز پر حملے سے لاعلمی کا اظہار کردیا۔ اسرائیلی فوج کا کہنا ہے کہ ایران کی... [...]

آج ایران کے 3 بیلسٹک میزائل، 8 ڈرون حملے ناکام بنائے، اماراتی وزارت دفاع

March 21, 2026 11:03

متحدہ عرب امارات کا کہنا ہے کہ آج ایران کے فائر کیے گئے 3 بیلسٹک میزائل اور 8 ڈرون حملے ناکام بنائے گئے ہیں۔اماراتی وزارت دفاع کا ایک... [...]

پاسدارانِ انقلاب کے ترجمان علی محمد نائینی کی نمازِ جنازہ ادا

March 21, 2026 10:03

— اسکرین گریبپاسدارانِ انقلاب اسلامی کے ترجمان علی محمد نائینی کی نمازِ جنازہ ادا کر دی گئی۔ ان کی میت قُم منتقل کر دی گئی جبکہ ان... [...]

اسرائیل نے فلسطینی قیدیوں کو غیر انسانی حالات میں رکھا: رپورٹ

March 21, 2026 10:03

فوٹو بشکریہ بین الاقوامی میڈیا اقوامِ متحدہ کی خصوصی نمائندہ فرانچیسکا البانیز نے انکشاف کیا ہے کہ اسرائیل غزہ جنگ کے آغاز کے بعد... [...]

ایرانی صدر نے اسلامی اور ہمسایہ ممالک کے نام پیغام جاری کردیا

March 21, 2026 9:03

فائل فوٹوایران کے صدر مسعود پزشکیان نے اسلامی اور ہمسایہ ممالک کے نام پیغام جاری کردیا۔اپنے پیغام میں ایران کے صدر مسعود پزشکیان نے... [...]

امریکی برطانوی فوجی اڈے ڈیگو گارشیا پر داغے گئے ایرانی میزائل ہدف تک پہنچے یا نہیں؟

March 21, 2026 9:03

ڈیگو گارشیا پر پلانٹ لیب — تصویر بشکریہ عالمی میڈیاامریکی اخبار کی ایک رپورٹ کے مطابق ایران نے بحر ہند میں واقع مشترکہ امریکی... [...]

امریکا اور اسرائیل کا ایران کی جوہری تنصیب نطنز پر حملہ

March 21, 2026 9:03

— فائل فوٹوامریکا اور اسرائیل نے ایران کی جوہری تنصیب نطنز پر حملہ کردیا۔ایرانی میڈیا رپورٹس کے مطابق ایران کے وسطی علاقے میں واقع... [...]

لگتا نہیں کہ امریکا اپنی جارحیت ختم کرنے کیلئے تیار ہے: عباس عراقچی

March 21, 2026 9:03

عباس عراقچی — فائل فوٹوایرانی وزیر خارجہ عباس عراقچی کا کہنا ہے کہ لگتا نہیں کہ امریکا اپنی جارحیت ختم کرنے کے لیے تیار ہے۔ جاپانی... [...]

پاکستان میں مٹی کا تیل 70.73 روپے فی لیٹر مزید مہنگا ہوگیا

March 21, 2026 12:03

عالمی منڈی میں تیل کی بڑھتی قیمتوں کے باعث پاکستان میں آج سے مٹی کا تیل 70 روپے 73 پیسے فی لیٹر مہنگا کر دیا گیا۔مٹی کے تیل کی نئی... [...]

ملک میں سونے کی قیمتیں گراوٹ کا شکار

March 20, 2026 8:03

---فائل فوٹوپاکستان بھر کی صرافہ مارکیٹوں میں سونے کی قیمتیں گراوٹ کا شکار ہیں۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوسی ایشن کے... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج: ہفتہ وار بلند ترین سطح 154684 رہی

March 20, 2026 7:03

—فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج کی ہفتہ وار اپ ڈیٹ سامنے آ گئی۔پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں اس کاروباری ہفتے میں منفی رجحان رہا... [...]

سونے کی قیمتوں میں بڑی کمی، فی تولہ کتنے کا ہو گیا؟

March 19, 2026 8:03

---فائل فوٹوپاکستان بھر کی صرافہ مارکیٹوں میں سونے کی قیمتوں میں بڑی کمی ریکارڈ کی گئی ہے۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوسی... [...]

آبنائے ہرمز کی بندش: عالمی غذائی بحران کا خدشہ، کھاد کی قلت، قیمتوں میں اضافہ

March 19, 2026 6:03

---فائل فوٹوعالمی سطح پر جاری ایران جنگ کے دوران آبنائے ہرمز کی بندش کے بعد تیل کی قیمتوں میں اضافے کے ساتھ ساتھ اب ایک نیا بحران سر... [...]

ایرانی گیس فیلڈ پر اسرائیلی حملہ: تیل کی قیمتوں میں شدید اضافہ، عالمی مہنگائی کا خطرہ بڑھ گیا

March 19, 2026 6:03

---فوٹو بشکریہ بین الاقوامی میڈیاایران کی سب سے بڑی گیس فیلڈ ساؤتھ پارس پر اسرائیلی حملے کے بعد عالمی منڈی میں تیل کی قیمتوں میں تیزی... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں مندی

March 19, 2026 4:03

—فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے چوتھے دن منفی رجحان دیکھا جا رہا ہے۔پی ایس ایکس بینچ مارک 100 انڈیکس کاروبار... [...]

عالمی اور مقامی مارکیٹس میں سونے کی قیمتیں برقرار

March 18, 2026 10:03

---فائل فوٹوعالمی و مقامی گولڈ مارکیٹس میں سونے کی قیمتیں سابقہ سطح پر برقرار ہیں۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ جیولرز ایسوسی ایشن کے... [...]

اے ڈی بی کی نئی 5 سالہ حکمت عملی لانچ، معیشت میں بہتری اور روزگار کے مواقع بڑھانے کا اعلان

March 18, 2026 9:03

---فائل فوٹوایشیائی ترقیاتی بینک نے پاکستان کے لیے 2026ء سے 2030ء تک کی نئی کنٹری پارٹنرشپ اسٹریٹیجی لانچ کر دی، جس میں آئندہ 5 سال کے... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں مثبت رجحان

March 18, 2026 5:03

---فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے تیسرے دن مثبت رجحان دیکھا گیا۔پی ایس ایکس بینچ مارک 100 انڈیکس کاروبار کے... [...]

مشرقِ وسطیٰ جنگ کے اثرات پاکستان میں روئی کی قیمتوں پر بھی پڑنے لگے

March 18, 2026 5:03

---فائل فوٹو مشرقِ وسطیٰ میں جاری جنگ کے اثرات پاکستان میں روئی کی قیمتوں پر بھی پڑ رہے ہیں۔کے جی ایف کے چیئرمین احسان الحق نے کہا ہے... [...]

ایران جنگ کے باوجود سونے کی قیمتیں کیوں نہیں بڑھ رہیں؟

March 18, 2026 4:03

—فائل فوٹوایران کے خلاف جاری جنگ اور مشرقِ وسطیٰ میں بڑھتی کشیدگی کے باوجود عالمی منڈی میں سونے کی قیمتوں میں نمایاں اضافہ دیکھنے... [...]

فروری میں کرنٹ اکاؤنٹ سرپلس، ترسیلات زر اور غیرملکی سرمایہ کاری میں اضافہ: وزارت خزانہ

March 17, 2026 12:03

ایمیج: فائلوزارت خزانہ نے پاکستان کے معاشی اعشاریے مثبت ہونے کی نوید سنا دی۔ وزارت خزانہ کے مطابق فروری میں ملکی کرنٹ اکاؤنٹ سرپلس،... [...]

پاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں مثبت رجحان

March 17, 2026 9:03

---فائل فوٹوپاکستان اسٹاک ایکسچینج میں کاروباری ہفتے کے دوسرے دن مثبت رجحان دیکھا گیا۔پی ایس ایکس بینچ مارک 100 انڈیکس کاروبار کے... [...]

سونے کی قیمتوں میں ایک بار پھر اضافہ

March 17, 2026 7:03

---فائل فوٹوپاکستان بھر کی صرافہ مارکیٹوں میں سونے کی قیمتوں میں ایک بار پھر اضافہ ریکارڈ کیا گیا ہے۔آل پاکستان صرافہ جیمز اینڈ... [...]

Retirees, steel yourselves: Global crises might rattle the markets, but they don’t have to ruin your retirement

March 21, 2026 12:10

The economic shock from the Iran conflict can take on outsize importance for those close to or in retirement [...]

Financial markets are responding to the Iran conflict in unexpected ways — leaving some investors puzzled

March 21, 2026 12:00

Gold, often a haven during times of stress, has been falling. Meanwhile, stocks are down, but not as much as many expected. [...]

Here’s the exact oil price that would tip the U.S. into a recession — and we’re getting closer as the Iran conflict drags on

March 21, 2026 11:30

A bulletproof U.S. economy has shot past a series of shocks since the 2020 pandemic and grown for five straight years, but soaring oil prices tied to the Iran war have emerged as a potential trigger for recession. [...]

Software stocks are in bargain territory — and that’s reviving an age-old debate

March 21, 2026 11:30