Showing posts with label SHUBHDAYINI R. JANDEV. Show all posts

Friday, 1 March 2024

INR | WEST ASIA: WEEKLY UPDATES

Biden: Over 100 Palestinians by Israeli Troops Complicates Ceasefire Talks

Photo Credit: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/02/29/politics/biden-gaza-incidents-ceasefire-talks/index.html

Biden, en route to the US-Mexico border, acknowledged reports of Israeli troops shooting Palestinians seeking aid in Gaza.
The President stated that the incident would indeed complicate ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
Health authorities reported that the IDF's firing on aid seekers near Gaza City resulted in 104 deaths and 280 injuries.
Biden mentioned there are conflicting accounts of the incident, and investigations are ongoing.
He admitted that his previous hope for a temporary ceasefire by Monday is unlikely to materialize now, given the situation.

Oil Prices Surge Amid Supply Constraints and Middle East Tensions

Photo Credit: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/commodities/news/oil-heads-for-weekly-gain-as-middle-east-conflict-rages-unabated/articleshow/107573425.cms?from=mdr

Early in the Asia session, oil futures witness an uptick due to indications of limited supply and ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Extended output cuts by OPEC+ are bolstering oil prices, according to an analysis by the Saxo Strategy Team.
Israeli military actions against Palestinian civilians have heightened regional tensions, leading Hamas to halt ceasefire negotiations.
Front-month WTI crude oil futures climb by 0.3% to $78.46 per barrel, while front-month Brent crude rises by 0.4% to $82.25 per barrel.

Ramadan Looms as Deadline for Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions

Photo Credit: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/live-blog/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-rcna134989

The start of Ramadan serves as a pressing informal deadline for reaching a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Israeli leaders have warned of an offensive in Gaza's Rafah if a deal isn't reached before Ramadan, potentially endangering negotiations.
Hamas calls for mass protests during Ramadan, particularly at Jerusalem's Al Aqsa Mosque, intensifying concerns of escalating conflict.
Both sides continue to engage in negotiations mediated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, focusing on easing humanitarian crises and releasing hostages.
Tensions are heightened as Israel seeks to maintain security during Ramadan while Hamas pressures for concessions, increasing the risk of wider regional conflict.

Qatari Emir Condemns Gaza "Genocide" During France Visit, Calls for Ceasefire

Photo Credit: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/12/5/qatar-emir-condemns-genocide-in-gaza-urges-ceasefire-at-gcc-summit

Israeli government debates access for Muslim worshipers to Al Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan, with differing views on security measures.
Israeli War Cabinet member Benny Gantz announces plans for security measures during Ramadan, though specifics remain unclear.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir advocates for stringent measures to prevent West Bank Palestinians from accessing Al Aqsa, a stance rejected by other Israeli officials.
Emir of Qatar criticizes what he terms a "genocide" in Gaza during a state visit to France, against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
French President Emmanuel Macron seeks to enhance France's influence in the Middle East by strengthening ties with Qatar, a key mediator between Israel and Hamas.
Both leaders issue a joint statement calling for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, expressing opposition to potential Israeli offensive in Rafah, and discussing efforts to secure the release of hostages held since October 7, 2023.

A Second Day of Aid Airdrops Underscores the Urgency of Gazans’ Need

Photo credits: Ibraheem Abu Mustafa/Reuters

Jordan intensified cooperation with international partners for airdropping aid to Gaza amid growing restrictions on traditional supply distribution.
UAE, Egypt, and France joined Jordan in airdrop operations, addressing urgent humanitarian needs.
Despite limitations, France emphasized the urgency of aiding Gaza's dire situation, considering various delivery avenues, including Israel's Ashdod port.
Aid groups suspended food deliveries to northern Gaza due to safety concerns, making airdrops a crucial option for swift assistance.
Airdrops have become a critical precedent, with Jordan's efforts showcasing the feasibility of this approach amid escalating hunger and obstacles to aid distribution in Gaza.

China Wants to Weaken, Not Replace, the U.S. in the Middle East

Photo credits: MICHAEL M. SANTIAGO/GETTY IMAGES

China, despite brokering the Saudi-Iran peace deal, hasn't delivered on Middle East conflict resolution during the Gaza war.
China aims to create an alternative security architecture, displacing U.S. dominance without replacing it.
With significant oil imports from the region, China prioritizes stability but avoids direct involvement in conflicts.
President Xi Jinping proposed a new Middle East security architecture in 2018, emphasizing regional dialogues and UN principles.
China sees itself as a convener and potential mediator on issues like Israel-Palestine and Gulf tensions, promoting an idealistic vision.
Beijing criticizes U.S. destabilization but lacks details on its proposed security framework, leaving it to the region's decision.
China aims to capitalize on anti-U.S. sentiments without seeking to replace U.S. leadership, as seen in the Afghanistan case.

Parties to Cease-Fire Talks Offer Mixed Signals

Photo credits: Mohamed Azakir/Reuters

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh suggests flexibility in Gaza talks but reiterates commitment to defending Palestinians.
Egyptian President el-Sisi expresses optimism, foreseeing a cease-fire agreement in the next few days, aligning with President Biden's prediction.
Hamas and Israel maintain public stances; negotiations occur through mediators in Doha, Cairo, and Paris.
Haniyeh urges Palestinians to defy Israeli restrictions and march to Aqsa mosque at the start of Ramadan, raising potential for clashes.
Pressure mounts on Israel and the U.S. to secure a cease-fire as Gaza's death toll nears 30,000; Israel offers concessions in talks with mediators.

UN Syria envoy appeals for urgent de-escalation across the Middle East

Photo credits: OCHA/Bilal Al Hammoud

UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen highlights the worsening situation in Syria, including Israeli airstrikes, U.S. retaliatory strikes, and ongoing conflicts causing casualties and displacement.
Urgent calls for de-escalation in the region, starting with a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, are emphasized.
Concerns raised over the Constitutional Committee's hiatus; efforts to convene in Geneva in April announced.
Humanitarian situation in Syria remains dire, with 16.7 million people requiring assistance, marking the highest number since the conflict began.
UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths stresses the critical need for funding to address the escalating humanitarian crisis.

News bits proofread and compiled by:

Shubhdayini R. Jandev (M.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

Drafted by:

Deepanshi Pathak (B.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

Aita Dey (B.A. I.R., 3rd Year)

Published by:

Alithia Clemency Paul (M.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

Friday, 23 February 2024

INR | WEST ASIA: Weekly Updates

UN Security Council Meeting on Gaza Crisis

Date- 22/02/2024
Location for the meeting was UN Headquarters in New York
Issue discussed was the ongoing war and tensions in Gaza Strip
Duration of Conflict is approaching 140 days
Special Coordinator's Statement: Tor Wennesland highlighted no end in sight to the conflict, trauma, suffering, and desperation
Humanitarian Situation has been described as shocking, unsustainable, and desperate by Mr. Wennesland
As per the regional impact, tensions are spilling into wider Middle East region with no solutions in sight

Paris Hostage Talks Aim to Secure Cease-Fire in Gaza

Hostage talks set for Paris on Friday involving top U.S., Israeli, Egyptian, and Qatari officials
Aimed at securing a cease-fire and release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza
Follows meetings between U.S. envoy and Israeli officials
Escalating tensions and violence in the Middle East, including strikes in Gaza and a shooting near a West Bank checkpoint
Efforts gaining momentum, with both Hamas and Israel willing to negotiate over an interim deal involving hostage and prisoner exchange

Egypt Builds Wall and Clears Land near Gaza Border Amid Rising Tensions

Egypt has erected over 3km of wall along its border with Gaza, accompanied by extensive land clearance in the vicinity.
The construction surge follows Israel's warning of a potential ground offensive in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza experiencing a population surge.
While Egyptian authorities claim the project aims to establish a logistical hub for aid, aid workers doubt this explanation.
Satellite images reveal a significant clearing of approximately 16 sq km, with construction of the wall expanding rapidly.
Despite assertions of aiding displaced Palestinians, no provisions are reportedly made, raising suspicions about the true purpose of the endeavor.
Aid workers express skepticism, noting the lack of communication with humanitarian agencies about the supposed logistics hub.
Security experts speculate that the massive clearing and construction could be Egypt's preparation for a worst-case scenario, potentially hinting at conflict readiness.

China Criticizes US Veto on Gaza Ceasefire as Tensions Persist

China criticizes US veto of UN ceasefire resolution for Gaza, citing wrong message and continued violence.
US defends veto, citing potential harm to ongoing negotiations.
Israel's Prime Minister vows to continue war despite warnings of slaughter in Gaza.
Concerns rise over potential consequences of major ground offensive in Rafah.
Failure of UN resolution highlights challenges in diplomatic resolution.
Gaza remains in dire situation with millions displaced and lack of essential resources.

Escalating Tensions in the Middle East: Ship Attacked in Red Sea, Gaza Strip Bombardment Continues

British-owned ship MV Rubymar attacked in the Gulf of Aden by Houthi rebels with anti-ship missiles, prompting crew evacuation.
⁠Israeli bombardment of Gaza Strip persists, with concerns over potential ground offensive in Rafah, where over 1.5 million Palestinians seek shelter.
EU nations issue warning against Israeli offensive in Rafah, calling for humanitarian pause and lasting cease-fire.
Analysts foresee further escalation as Israel advances in Gaza and plans to push Hezbollah back into Lebanon, raising regional tensions.

Labour Party Narrowly Avoids Rebellion Over Gaza Ceasefire Vote

Speaker of the House of Commons allows vote on Labour amendment calling for immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Israel, avoiding rebellion from Labour MPs.
SNP motion for ceasefire prompts Labour's response; previous SNP motion saw 56 Labour MPs, including eight frontbenchers, quit party in support.
Speaker's decision to allow multiple amendments criticized for breaking precedent, but defended for considering widest range of options.
Keir Starmer faces pressure to take firmer stance on Israel's actions; Labour's amendment signals shift in party's position.
Israel threatens to expand operations in Gaza, Labour amendment opposes offensive in Rafah to prevent humanitarian catastrophe.
SNP welcomes Labour's shift, highlighting its role in influencing party's stance; Labour amendment addresses unbalanced language in SNP motion.
⁠Differences between SNP motion and Labour amendment include omission of "collective punishment" reference and acknowledgment of Israel's right to self-defense.

Israeli Knesset Supports Netanyahu's Opposition to Unilateral Palestinian State

Israeli Knesset overwhelmingly backs Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's stance against unilateral creation of Palestinian state.
⁠Position emphasizes necessity of direct negotiations between Israel and Palestinians for any permanent agreement.
⁠Critics argue Israel's stance gives it unilateral veto power over Palestinian statehood, hindering progress towards a two-state solution.
⁠Palestinian delegation cites Netanyahu's statements in International Court of Justice to challenge Israel's commitment to good-faith negotiations.
⁠Netanyahu's declarations affirm Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem, commitment to building and developing West Bank, and maintenance of Israeli military control over the territory.

Gold Prices Inch Up Amid Weaker Dollar and Middle East Tensions

Gold prices see slight increase, set for first weekly rise in three weeks, boosted by weaker U.S. dollar and rising tensions in the Middle East.
Spot gold up 0.1% at $2,025.7 per ounce, with U.S. gold futures also edging 0.2% higher.
Physical buying, especially from central banks, supports gold, along with stable dollar and geopolitical uncertainties.
Middle East tensions escalate as Yemen's Houthis claim attack on UK-owned ship and target Israel's Eilat with ballistic missiles and drones.
Weaker dollar index contributes to gold's appeal, making it less expensive for overseas buyers.
Data showing higher U.S. consumer and producer prices dampens hopes for early Fed interest rate cut, limiting gold's gains.
Fed Governor Waller suggests delaying rate cuts to assess inflation trend, with markets currently pricing in 62% chance of rate cut in June.
Spot platinum and palladium prices decline, while silver sees slight gain despite weekly decrease.

Read More At: https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/gold-set-weekly-gain-weak-dollar-middle-east-woes-lift-appeal-2024-02-23/

G20 Foreign Ministers Express Strong Support for Two-State Solution Amid Israel-Palestine Conflict

G20 foreign ministers unanimously back a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine during a meeting in Rio de Janeiro.
Despite Israel's parliament voting against unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, G20 nations emphasize the necessity of a two-state resolution.
Key diplomats, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, attended the meeting.
Israeli military campaign in Gaza Strip and Russia's war in Ukraine were central topics of discussion, highlighting global concerns over conflicts and polarization.
Pressure mounts on Israel for the creation of a Palestinian state, with growing international support, including from the United States.
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov criticizes the West's interference in internal affairs, while G20 fails to make diplomatic progress on Ukraine conflict.
G20's first high-level meeting of the year sets the stage for annual leaders' summit in Rio in November.

Indian diesel floods to Asia as Houthis imperil flows to Europe

Diesel shipments from India to Europe are at their lowest since 2022 due to Houthi attacks on shipping, diverting more cargoes to Asia.
EU and UK arrivals plunged over 90% in February, driven by higher freight costs and unplanned Asian refinery maintenance.
Flows to Asia increased as it became more economically viable amid Red Sea turmoil and elevated shipping risks to Europe.
Despite the drop, some vessels loaded in India are en route to Rotterdam, indicating potential future diesel shipments to Europe.
Diesel-type fuel arrivals from India to Asian destinations, including Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh, surged in the same period.
Analysts anticipate better arbitrage economics, expecting an increase in diesel exports from India to Europe in the coming weeks.

Bidding pipeline in West Asia remains strong: L&T

L&T shares declined due to reports of Saudi Aramco deferring $10 billion Safaniyah oilfield projects.
L&T's West Asia bidding pipeline remains robust, encompassing Blue Ammonia, Desulphurisation, petrochemical projects, Indian market opportunities, and ongoing Aramco projects.
Saudi Aramco decided to pause the expansion of its oil production capacity in line with a governmental directive.
Aramco aims for a maximum sustained production capacity of 12 million barrels per day (bpd), 1 million bpd less than the 2020 target.

EAM Jaishankar attends Munich security conference; bilateral talks with Antony Blinken

EAM S Jaishankar met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Munich on February 17 during the ongoing security conference.
Discussions focused on the situations in West Asia, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific region.
Both leaders reviewed the progress in bilateral ties between the United States and India.
Secretary Blinken highlighted the mutually reinforcing approaches of the US and India to maritime security in the Red Sea.
The meeting addressed ongoing efforts to ensure lasting peace and security in West Asia.
The interaction took place on the sidelines of the 60th Munich Security Conference, held as an in-person event from February 16-18, 2024.

Raisina Dialogue 2024: From Technology To Climate, War, Peace And Multilateralism

The 9th Raisina Dialogue in Delhi opened with Greece's Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the event.
Organized by Observer Research Foundation and Ministry of External Affairs, the conference focuses on geopolitics and geo-economics under the theme "Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate and Create."
Participants include former heads of state, ministers, military commanders, industry leaders, tech experts, academics, and youth from 100+ countries.
Six thematic pillars guide discussions, covering tech's impact on political stability, climate action, emerging warfare, multilateralism challenges, the post-2030 agenda, and defending democracy.
Over 2500 in-person participants from 115 countries, with global viewership on digital platforms.

Potential U.K. Labour Party rebellion averted as Parliament considers ‘immediate’ ceasefire in West Asia

Commons speaker allows Keir Starmer to hold a vote on Labour's amendment, avoiding a rebellion over Gaza.
Dozens of Labour MPs planned to vote for SNP's motion on an immediate Gaza ceasefire.
Unusual decision to allow both government and Labour amendments sparks anger and prompts criticism.
If Labour's amendment succeeds, it replaces the SNP motion, preventing Labour MPs from voting for a direct ceasefire.
Government's amendment calls for a ceasefire under specific conditions, including Hamas relinquishing control of Gaza and progress towards a two-state solution.
Vote on Labour's amendment scheduled for Wednesday evening; if it fails, MPs will vote on the unamended SNP motion and the government's amendment.

News bits proofread, compiled and drafted by:

Shubhdayini R. Jandev (M.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

Deepanshi Pathak (B.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

Aita Dey (B.A. I.R., 3rd Year)

Published by:

Alithia Clemency Paul (M.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

Friday, 16 February 2024

INR | WEST ASIA: Weekly Updates

India and UAE Forge Trade Corridor Agreement Amidst Regional Challenges

Photo Credit: https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20240213-india-uae-sign-pact-on-trade-corridor-from-india-to-europe-via-israel/amp/

India and the United Arab Emirates signed a trade corridor agreement to connect Europe with India via the Middle East by sea and rail.
The agreement was reached during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the UAE, aiming to foster regional connectivity.
The corridor extends from India through the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel to Europe.
⁠The agreement signals continued cooperation despite regional instability, including the war in Gaza and Yemen's Houthi attacks.
The UAE maintained relations with Israel while criticizing its actions in Gaza.
⁠The agreement also includes a bilateral investment treaty and cooperation in electrical interconnection, trade, and digital infrastructure.
Modi's visit strengthens ties with the UAE, one of India's top trading partners.

Efforts for Hostage Release Deal with Hamas Face Challenges, U.S. Secretary of State Urges Investigation into Palestinian Teen Deaths

Photo Credit:

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.telegraphindia.com/amp/world/us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-denounces-increasing-number-of-civilians-death-due-to-israel-hamas-scuffle/cid/1979158

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that reaching a deal on the release of hostages held by Hamas is challenging but remains possible.
⁠Talks involving intelligence chiefs from the U.S., Egypt, and Israel, along with the Qatari prime minister, ended without a breakthrough.
Hamas proposed a prisoner release in exchange for freeing hostages, but Israel rejected the ratio of prisoners to hostages and disagreed on the timing of a pause in fighting.
CIA director Bill Burns was in Israel for further discussions.
Blinken called for Israel to investigate the deaths of Palestinian American teenagers, Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour and Tawfic Abdel Jabbar, both killed by Israeli forces.
Defense for Children International - Palestine claimed evidence that Israeli forces shot Khdour, but Reuters couldn't independently verify the report.

Modi's Qatar Visit Bolsters India-Qatar Ties Amid Release of Former Navy Personnel

Photo Credit: https://english.mathrubhumi.com/amp/news/india/india-qatar-ties-growing-stronger-and-stronger-pm-modi-after-talks-with-emir-1.9326731

Prime Minister Modi expressed anticipation for a productive visit to Qatar, aiming to strengthen the friendship between India and Qatar.
⁠Modi's visit to Qatar followed a brief but eventful trip to the UAE, where he engaged in various activities, including addressing Indian diaspora, attending the World Governments Summit, and inaugurating the UAE's first Hindu stone temple.
India's announcement of Modi's visit to Qatar coincided with the return of seven out of eight former Indian Navy personnel who were jailed in Qatar, originally sentenced to death but later given jail terms ranging from three to 25 years.
The charges against the former Indian Navy personnel, reportedly related to espionage, were not made public by Qatari authorities or New Delhi.
Modi highlighted the substantial Indian community in Doha, emphasizing the robust people-to-people ties between India and Qatar.

Read More At: https://newsth.live/x6tnrJ

Iran's IRGC Displays Naval Might with Simulated Strike on Israeli Airbase Amidst Escalating Tensions

Photo Credit: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Islamic-Revolutionary-Guard-Corps

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) conducted a simulation of a strike on a major Israeli airbase, showcasing its naval capabilities.
Footage aired by state television depicted the IRGC firing munitions from ships and submarines, targeting a re-creation of the Palmachim airbase in Israel.
The IRGC commander-in-chief, Hossein Salami, highlighted the successful launch of long-range ballistic missiles from a warship, extending Iran's naval influence.
The display included various naval vessels, speed boats, submarines, and missile launches, demonstrating Iran's military prowess.
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian warned of "severe consequences" for Israel if it proceeds with a ground invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza, emphasizing Iran's stance on the conflict.

Israel Claims Capture of 'Dozens' of Suspects in Raid on Gaza Hospital Amid International Pressure

Photo Credit: https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/liveblog/2023/10/31/israel-hamas-war-live-israeli-air-attacks-continue-across-gaza

Israel's military claims to have captured "dozens" of terror suspects during a raid on southern Gaza's main hospital, alleging that Hamas held hostages there.
⁠Hamas denies the claim, calling it "lies," while the hospital director describes the conditions inside as "catastrophic and very dangerous."
⁠The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman stated that among those captured were individuals involved in attacks and members of armed groups.
⁠Images verified by the BBC show chaotic scenes of medical staff evacuating patients amid gunfire and explosions.
The hospital had been a site of intense fighting between the IDF and Hamas, with thousands of displaced people ordered to leave the day before.
⁠International pressure mounts on Israel to show restraint, with France's President Macron and the prime ministers of Australia, Canada, and New Zealand expressing concern.

Saudi Arabia Warns Of A "Humanitarian Catastrophe" If Israel Moves On Rafah

Saudi Arabia condemns Israel's planned operation in Rafah
Calls for UN Security Council intervention to prevent a "humanitarian catastrophe"
Rejects forced deportation of Palestinians, warns of dangerous repercussions
Saudi Arabia has not recognized Israel; considers normalization before recent conflict
Israel prepares to evacuate civilians from Rafah, Hamas warns of potential casualties
Saudi Arabia links normalization with Israel to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state
Gaza conflict triggered by Hamas attack, resulting in casualties and ongoing aggression
US expresses optimism for Saudi-Israeli normalization; Riyadh insists on Palestinian state recognition
Palestinian President Abbas's office condemns Israeli move, warns of regional security threats.

Middle East: Security Council meets on US strikes in Iraq and Syria

UN warns of escalating tensions in the Middle East, emphasizing risk of miscalculation.
US conducts airstrikes in Syria and Iraq, citing self-defense against Iranian-backed militias.
Iran condemns US actions as illegal and a violation of international law.
UK supports US right to self-defense, calls for countering Da'esh threat.
China urges calm, adherence to UN Charter, and cessation of illegal military operations.
Russia condemns US aggression, accuses it of destabilizing the region, and calls for international condemnation.

Israeli troops launch raid on Nasser hospital in southern Gaza

Israeli forces raid Nasser hospital in Gaza, causing casualties and forcing evacuations.
IDF claims Hamas militants used the hospital; Hamas denies.
UN warns of potential refugee exodus from Rafah due to threatened ground offensive.
International criticism grows; US President Biden urges Israel to avoid civilian harm.
Concerns about a collapse of Egypt-Israel peace treaty if Gazans flee to Sinai.
UK Prime Minister Sunak calls for a humanitarian pause and lasting peace.
Diplomatic efforts in Cairo continue, but progress is limited.
Israel's war in Gaza, ongoing for five months, has resulted in thousands of deaths, displacement, and severe humanitarian crises.
IDF airstrike kills Hamas commander linked to the October 7 offensive; ongoing clashes result in an Israeli soldier's death.

Biden-Netanyahu relationship at boiling point as Rafah invasion looms

Israeli military plans to invade Rafah strain relations between Netanyahu's government and the Biden administration.
Biden expresses frustration with Israel's military campaign and attempts to draw a line on the proposed operation in Rafah.
Distrust between Biden and Netanyahu evident despite 18 conversations since Hamas's October 7 assault.
Rafah, housing 1.1 million Palestinians, becomes a focal point in strained U.S.-Israel relations.
Biden seeks to influence Israel's military decisions in the ongoing conflict.

Oil settles little changed; demand concerns offset Middle East tensions

Oil futures steady after 6% jump last week due to Middle East tensions.
Brent futures falls, WTI rises slightly; market watches inflation, Fed interest rates increase by 2.5%.
IEA predicts peak oil demand by 2030, while OPEC expects demand to rise.
Refinery downtime boosts U.S. gasoline futures; Mideast tensions persist.
Saudi Arabia halts oil capacity expansion, citing energy transition; Iraq commits to OPEC cuts.
US shale output expected to rise to four-month high in March, according to federal energy outlook.

News bits proofread, compiled and drafted by:

Shubhdayini R. Jandev (M.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

Deepanshi Pathak (B.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

Aita Dey (B.A. I.R., 3rd Year)

Published by:

Alithia Clemency Paul (M.A. I.R., 2nd Year)

VIJIGISHU '24

Friday, 1 March 2024

INR | WEST ASIA: WEEKLY UPDATES

Biden: Over 100 Palestinians by Israeli Troops Complicates Ceasefire Talks

Oil Prices Surge Amid Supply Constraints and Middle East Tensions

Ramadan Looms as Deadline for Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions

Qatari Emir Condemns Gaza "Genocide" During France Visit, Calls for Ceasefire

A Second Day of Aid Airdrops Underscores the Urgency of Gazans’ Need

China Wants to Weaken, Not Replace, the U.S. in the Middle East

Parties to Cease-Fire Talks Offer Mixed Signals

UN Syria envoy appeals for urgent de-escalation across the Middle East

Friday, 23 February 2024

INR | WEST ASIA: Weekly Updates

UN Security Council Meeting on Gaza Crisis

Paris Hostage Talks Aim to Secure Cease-Fire in Gaza

Egypt Builds Wall and Clears Land near Gaza Border Amid Rising Tensions

China Criticizes US Veto on Gaza Ceasefire as Tensions Persist

Escalating Tensions in the Middle East: Ship Attacked in Red Sea, Gaza Strip Bombardment Continues

Labour Party Narrowly Avoids Rebellion Over Gaza Ceasefire Vote

Israeli Knesset Supports Netanyahu's Opposition to Unilateral Palestinian State

Gold Prices Inch Up Amid Weaker Dollar and Middle East Tensions

G20 Foreign Ministers Express Strong Support for Two-State Solution Amid Israel-Palestine Conflict

Indian diesel floods to Asia as Houthis imperil flows to Europe

Bidding pipeline in West Asia remains strong: L&T

EAM Jaishankar attends Munich security conference; bilateral talks with Antony Blinken

Raisina Dialogue 2024: From Technology To Climate, War, Peace And Multilateralism

Potential U.K. Labour Party rebellion averted as Parliament considers ‘immediate’ ceasefire in West Asia

Friday, 16 February 2024

INR | WEST ASIA: Weekly Updates

India and UAE Forge Trade Corridor Agreement Amidst Regional Challenges

Efforts for Hostage Release Deal with Hamas Face Challenges, U.S. Secretary of State Urges Investigation into Palestinian Teen Deaths

Modi's Qatar Visit Bolsters India-Qatar Ties Amid Release of Former Navy Personnel

Iran's IRGC Displays Naval Might with Simulated Strike on Israeli Airbase Amidst Escalating Tensions

Israel Claims Capture of 'Dozens' of Suspects in Raid on Gaza Hospital Amid International Pressure

Saudi Arabia Warns Of A "Humanitarian Catastrophe" If Israel Moves On Rafah

Middle East: Security Council meets on US strikes in Iraq and Syria

Israeli troops launch raid on Nasser hospital in southern Gaza

Biden-Netanyahu relationship at boiling point as Rafah invasion looms

Oil settles little changed; demand concerns offset Middle East tensions

Lankan Crisis: Jingoism to Jeopardy?