gulf shores

With US now increasingly disinterested in the quadrilateral grouping, does it serve India’s interests to hang on? As Trump & Xi summit today, New Delhi must take a hard call

Commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz faces immense risks despite remaining technically open, with Indian vessels experiencing significant disruptions and safety concerns. Seafarers exhibit hesitation due to past incidents, impacting normal traffic flow and leading to increased operational costs for shipowners.

An India-linked supertanker, Sarv Shakti, has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy corridor under intense pressure due to Middle East tensions. This passage marks a significant breakthrough for India, the world's second-largest LPG consumer, as it secures essential cooking fuel amid disrupted supply chains and a US blockade on Iran-linked shipping.

Operation Sindoor showcased India's potent military response to a terror attack, demonstrating its ability to strike deep into Pakistan and dominate escalation ladders against nuclear rivals. The 88-hour operation highlighted India's conventional superiority, while also spurring advancements in air defence, drone warfare, and joint military operations to counter evolving threats.

Dhanushkodi, a town ravaged by a 1964 cyclone, is slowly reviving with 200 families returning to its ruins. Despite improved connectivity, residents face challenges like no electricity or proper water supply. Environmental concerns and regulatory hurdles slow development, leaving the town suspended in time, awaiting a clear rebuilding plan.

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Blockade of Hormuz hurts world’s poor most, because cost of living has shot up, and food security is at risk. UAE envoy to India argues for a resolution that ensures Hormuz is never weaponised again

Iran knows it cannot compete with the US and its allies in a conventional naval contest. Instead, by deploying swarms of armed speedboats, it is turning the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint into leverage

Iran & America are both making access to a maritime route contingent on their politics, in violation of international codes. Those who depend on Hormuz and are maritime powers, like India, cannot endorse such discretionary access

The US has deployed sea drones known as GARC for patrol missions under ‘Operation Epic Fury’ against Iran — the first time Washington has confirmed using such vessels in an active conflict. But how effective are they likely to be?

Low-tech Iranian mines and drones are paralyzing commercial traffic in the Gulf, challenging the US Navy's dominance. This echoes WWI's Battle of Gallipoli, where mines hobbled Britain's mighty fleet. Iran's asymmetric tactics threaten global supply chains and could impact US elections.

India sees a cautious easing of maritime movement as three crude oil tankers successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, with two more LPG tankers preparing to follow. This comes after diplomatic engagements with Iran, ensuring safe passage for Indian vessels amidst regional tensions. The successful transits underscore India's commitment to securing unhindered movement for its fleet.

Hurricane Sally lumbered ashore near the Florida-Alabama line Wednesday with 105 mph (165 kph) winds and rain measured in feet, not inches, swamping homes and forcing the rescue of hundreds of people as it pushed inland for what could be a slow and disastrous drenching across the Deep South.

Generations of Indian workers and businesses have turned the Arab side of the Gulf into a vital appendage of their own country.