Home World
Category:

World

The United States is increasing its military presence in the Middle East amid reports that officials are preparing contingency plans for potential extended operations against Iran. According to a Reuters report citing two U.S. officials, military planners have outlined options for operations that could last several weeks if authorised by President Donald Trump. No final decision on military action has been announced. This increased focus underscores the strategic importance of the US in the region.

The Pentagon has ordered the redeployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, from the Caribbean to the Middle East. It is expected to join the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group already operating in the region. The move places two U.S. carrier strike groups within operational range of Iran, significantly increasing American air and naval capabilities, further establishing the role of the US in the strategic landscape.

This maneuver highlights the commitment of the US to maintain stability and deter threats in the area, reinforcing its pivotal role in regional security.

Growing Military Posture

Carrier strike groups typically include guided-missile destroyers, cruisers, fighter aircraft and logistical support vessels. The addition of a second carrier enhances surveillance capacity, air strike capability and layered defence systems.

The redeployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford follows its earlier assignment in the Caribbean, where it was part of operations connected to U.S. security objectives in the Western Hemisphere. Its shift to the Middle East signals a change in strategic focus amid heightened tensions with Tehran.

Officials cited in the Reuters report indicated that preparations involve planning for sustained operations rather than limited, single-target strikes. However, they did not confirm that any operation had been authorised.

Diplomatic Engagement Continues

Despite the military buildup, diplomatic channels remain active. U.S. and Iranian representatives recently held discussions in Oman aimed at exploring the possibility of renewed negotiations concerning Iran’s nuclear programme.

The talks are viewed as exploratory and intended to assess whether progress toward a broader agreement is possible. Differences remain over Iran’s ballistic missile programme and regional activities, which have long been sources of tension between Washington and Tehran.

When asked about reports of potential extended military operations, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that the President considers a range of perspectives before making decisions related to national security.

Strategic Context

Tensions between the United States and Iran have fluctuated over recent years, often centering on Iran’s nuclear activities and missile development. Washington maintains that preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon remains a core strategic objective.

The presence of two carrier strike groups is relatively uncommon and typically reflects heightened readiness. Dual-carrier deployments provide expanded operational flexibility, faster response times and increased strike capacity if required.

Defence analysts note that such deployments can serve multiple purposes: deterrence, reassurance of regional allies and preparation for contingency operations. At the same time, large-scale force movements may raise concerns about escalation.

Balancing Pressure and Negotiation

President Trump has maintained a firm public stance toward Iran, stating that all options remain under consideration. His administration has combined diplomatic engagement with visible military readiness.

Officials have emphasised that planning for potential operations does not equate to a decision to initiate conflict. Military contingency planning is a routine part of defence strategy, particularly in regions with longstanding geopolitical tensions.

Any sustained military campaign would likely have broader regional implications, including potential retaliatory actions and economic consequences affecting global energy markets.

Current Status

At present:

  • No military strike has been formally announced.
  • Diplomatic discussions are ongoing.
  • U.S. forces in the region have increased in strength and readiness.

The situation remains fluid, with developments likely to depend on both diplomatic progress and strategic assessments in Washington.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Milan anti-Olympics protest

A protest against the Winter Olympics in Milan turned violent on Saturday evening after hours of largely peaceful demonstrations, as Italian authorities simultaneously investigated a series of suspicious incidents on railway lines in northern Italy that officials fear may amount to coordinated sabotage.

The protest began in the afternoon with demonstrators marching peacefully through Milan, holding signs, chanting slogans, and moving arm-in-arm. The march was organised by the Unsustainable Olympics Committee, an activist group opposing the 2026 Winter Olympics, and drew participants from Milan, the Lombardy region, and other parts of northern Italy.

Protesters voiced opposition to the environmental impact of Olympic infrastructure projects and criticised what they described as the economic and social consequences of hosting the Games. The organisers brought together a broad coalition of grassroots sports organisations, civic and environmental movements, student groups, housing activists, trade unions, pro-Palestinian networks, and transfeminist collectives.

Demonstrators also raised broader concerns about what they described as an “authoritarian security drift” by the Italian government and its treatment of racial minorities.

Escalation near Olympic sites

The march set off from Piazza Medaglie d’Oro and proceeded toward areas near the Olympic Village, which was secured by a large police cordon. As protesters passed close to the athletes’ housing, some individuals threw firecrackers and smoke bombs in the direction of the site. Authorities said the objects could not reach the buildings due to distance and security measures.

Tensions escalated after the march diverted onto Via Benaco and reached Piazzale Corvetto. A smaller group of protesters began throwing fireworks at police officers, prompting a police charge. Protesters later targeted police vans with additional fireworks.

Police responded by deploying water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowd. Officials noted that not all demonstrators participated in the clashes, with many remaining in the main area of the square and not engaging in violence.

No immediate reports of serious injuries were released by authorities.

Olympic opening held amid unrest

The unrest came one day after the official opening of the 2026 Winter Olympics, which was marked by a high-profile ceremony at Milan’s San Siro stadium. The event celebrated Italy’s art and cultural heritage and featured performances by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and American singer Mariah Carey.

Security across Olympic venues has been heightened as Italy hosts the Games, with officials emphasising the need to ensure the safety of athletes, spectators, and infrastructure.

Railway incidents under investigation

Separately from the Milan protest, authorities are investigating a series of incidents affecting railway infrastructure in northern Italy, raising concerns about possible coordinated sabotage.

In Bologna, railway services were severely disrupted on Saturday after three separate incidents of damage were discovered. According to Italy’s rail network operator Ferrovie dello Stato and the Ansa news agency, investigators found a rudimentary explosive device placed on a switch along the Bologna-Padova line.

In addition, electrical cables were cut on a high-speed railway line, while a fire was reported at an electrical cabin in the Adriatic coastal town of Pesaro.

Italy’s transport minister said the incidents appeared to be a “premeditated attack” on the railway network. Investigators have not ruled out the involvement of anarchist groups, citing similarities to acts of sabotage carried out on French rail lines during the 2024 Paris Olympics, when high-speed train services were targeted by arson and other malicious acts.

Speaking from Bormio, where he was attending the men’s downhill ski race, Infrastructure and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini condemned the incidents, describing them as an “act of delinquency.”

Authorities have not officially linked the railway incidents to the Milan protest, but investigations are ongoing as security services assess potential threats linked to the Olympic Games.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
India US trade deal

The United States will remove the additional 25% Tariff on Indian goods from February 7, 2026, following commitments made by India on energy imports and defence cooperation, according to an executive order issued by the White House.

The order states that, effective 12.01 a.m. EST on February 7, products of India imported into the U.S. will no longer be subject to the additional ad valorem duty of 25% imposed earlier under Executive Order 14329.

The White House said India has committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian oil, to purchase U.S. energy products, and to enter into a framework with the United States to expand defence cooperation over the next 10 years.

In August 2025, the U.S. had imposed reciprocal tariffs of 25% and an additional 25% levy on Indian goods, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil. The move was linked to concerns arising from Executive Order 14066, under which the U.S. declared a national emergency related to Russia’s actions.

In the latest executive order issued on Friday local time, President Donald Trump said he had received additional information and recommendations from senior officials regarding India’s efforts to address the national emergency. He stated that India had taken “significant steps” to align with the U.S. on national security, foreign policy, and economic matters.

“Accordingly, I have determined to eliminate the additional ad valorem rate of duty imposed on imports of articles of India,” the President said, adding that the decision was necessary and appropriate to deal with the national emergency declared earlier.

The executive order also cautioned that the tariffs could be reimposed if India resumes directly or indirectly importing Russian oil. It stated that, if such imports are detected, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce would recommend whether additional action, including the reimposition of the 25% duty, should be taken.

The order authorises Secretary of State Marco Rubio to take necessary actions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to implement the decision. It also directs all executive departments and agencies to take appropriate measures within their authority to carry out the order.

The Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the Secretaries of State and the Treasury and other senior officials, will monitor India’s compliance with the commitments outlined in the executive order.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Iran is seeking to reach an agreement with the United States to avoid military action, as Washington increases military pressure in the region.

Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on January 29, Mr. Trump said the United States has deployed a large naval force toward Iran, describing it as an “armada” larger than the one used in a recent U.S. operation in Venezuela. He suggested the show of force was intended to push Tehran toward negotiations.

“We have a large armada, flotilla, call it whatever you want, heading toward Iran right now,” Mr. Trump said. “Hopefully, we’ll make a deal. If we do make a deal, that’s good. If we don’t make a deal, we’ll see what happens.”

Mr. Trump confirmed that he has set a deadline for Iran to reach a deal covering its nuclear program, ballistic missile development, and other issues. However, he declined to specify the timeline, stating that “only they know for sure” what the deadline is.

The U.S. president said he believes Tehran is prepared to comply with American demands, pointing to what he described as Iran’s decision to halt executions of protesters following a crackdown on demonstrations. Human rights groups have previously reported that more than 6,000 people were killed during the unrest.

“I can say this, they do want to make a deal,” Mr. Trump said, citing these actions as evidence that Iran is responding to pressure.

Tensions between the United States and Iran have remained high amid longstanding disputes over Iran’s nuclear activities, missile program, and regional influence. Washington has repeatedly warned that it will not allow Tehran to develop nuclear weapons, while Iran has accused the U.S. of using military threats to force concessions.

Mr. Trump declined to comment on whether the United States would carry out a military operation against Iran if negotiations fail. When asked whether a scenario similar to the recent Venezuela operation in which U.S. forces captured President Nicolás Maduro could be repeated, he said he did not want to discuss military plans.

“I don’t want to talk about anything having to do with what I’m doing militarily,” Mr. Trump said.

The comments reflect a strategy that combines diplomatic pressure with visible military deployments. U.S. officials have previously described such moves as deterrence aimed at preventing escalation while encouraging negotiations.

Iranian authorities have not publicly responded to Mr. Trump’s latest remarks. In past statements, Tehran has said it will not negotiate under military threats and has warned it would respond to any attack.

The situation remains uncertain, with both sides maintaining firm positions. While Mr. Trump has expressed confidence that a deal is possible, the lack of publicly confirmed talks and the continued military buildup suggest that tensions could persist in the coming weeks.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Visakhapatnam | India opted to bowl first in the fourth T20I against New Zealand at Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, with captain Suryakumar Yadav citing humidity and expected dew later in the evening as key factors behind the decision.

The hosts made one change to their playing XI, bringing back left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh in place of Ishan Kishan, who picked up a niggle in the previous match. The move signals a bowling-heavy approach, with India fielding a formidable attack featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, and spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi.

“We noticed a lot of dew during practice. It felt like a good wicket, and we want to repeat our good habits and entertain the crowd,” Suryakumar said at the toss.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner also admitted he would have preferred to bowl first, acknowledging that dew could make conditions tricky later on. The visitors made one change as well, drafting in Zak Foulkes for Kyle Jamieson, with James Neesham and Lockie Ferguson still unavailable due to fitness concerns.

India lead the five-match series 3–0 and have already sealed it, but the contest holds significance with the T20 World Cup 2026 in mind. The spotlight remains on explosive opener Abhishek Sharma, who has been in destructive form, while Bumrah’s return to action continues to be closely monitored.

The Vizag pitch has traditionally been a high-scoring one, with India having chased down 209 at the venue in their last T20I here. New Zealand openers Tim Seifert and Devon Conway will look to give their side a solid start against a potent Indian bowling lineup.

Short Summary

India chose to bowl first against New Zealand in the fourth T20I in Vizag, opting for a bowling-heavy XI as Ishan Kishan missed out due to a niggle.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

New Delhi | European Council President António Costa on Tuesday recalled his deep personal connection with India, saying the landmark India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) holds “special meaning” for him due to his Indian roots.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Costa revealed that he is an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) and proudly traces his family origins to Goa.

“I am the President of the European Council but I am also an overseas Indian citizen. For me, it has a special meaning. I am very proud of my roots in Goa, where my father’s family came from. The connection between Europe and India is something personal to me,” Costa said, while displaying his OCI card.

Calling the moment historic, he said the agreement marks a new chapter in India-EU relations across trade, security, and people-to-people ties. Costa also recalled that the trade negotiations were relaunched during the India-EU Leaders’ Meeting in May 2021, which he hosted in his previous role.

Costa has earlier spoken publicly about his Indian heritage. Addressing a Pravasi Bharatiya Divas event in 2017, he said his family hailed from Madgaon in Goa and that he still has relatives there.

Earlier in the day, India and the European Union formally sealed the long-awaited FTA, described as the “mother of all deals,” alongside two major agreements on security and defence cooperation and the mobility of Indian professionals to Europe.

The two sides also adopted a joint strategy document titled ‘Towards 2030 – A Joint India-European Union Comprehensive Strategic Agenda,’ aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation over the next decade.

Short Summary

European Council President António Costa recalled his Goan roots and OCI status as India and the EU sealed a historic free trade agreement in New Delhi.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

The European Union is on the verge of concluding a landmark free trade agreement (FTA) with India, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Tuesday (January 20, 2026), calling it “the mother of all deals” that could create a market encompassing nearly two billion people and about a quarter of global GDP.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, von der Leyen said negotiations are in their final stages and that Europe stands to gain a first-mover advantage with one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. “Right after Davos, I will travel to India. There is still work to do, but we are on the cusp of a historic trade agreement,” she said.

European Council President Antonio Costa and von der Leyen will visit India from January 25 to 27 to attend the Republic Day celebrations as chief guests and hold summit talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two sides are expected to formally announce the conclusion of FTA negotiations at the India-EU summit on January 27.

India is currently the EU’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade in goods touching $135 billion in FY2023–24. The proposed agreement is expected to significantly boost trade flows, deepen supply-chain integration and open new opportunities across manufacturing, services, technology and green energy sectors.

Beyond trade, the summit is also likely to deliver major strategic outcomes. India and the EU are expected to unveil a defence and security framework, along with a comprehensive strategic vision for the 2026–2030 period. A proposed Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) would enhance defence interoperability and enable Indian firms to participate in the EU’s SAFE programme a €150 billion financial instrument aimed at strengthening European defence readiness.

Negotiations for a Security of Information Agreement (SOIA) are also expected to be launched, which would facilitate deeper industrial defence cooperation. The developments come amid global trade disruptions driven by Washington’s evolving tariff policies, which have affected both India and the 27-nation EU bloc.

India and the EU have been strategic partners since 2004. FTA talks were first launched in 2007 but were suspended in 2013 due to differences in ambition, before being relaunched in June 2022. If concluded, the deal would mark one of the most significant trade agreements for both sides in recent decades.

📌 Short Summary

The European Union is close to finalising a landmark free trade agreement with India, described by Ursula von der Leyen as “the mother of all deals.” Expected to be announced during the India-EU summit on January 27, the agreement aims to deepen trade, defence and strategic cooperation at a time of global trade uncertainty.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Finland is steadily advancing research into wireless electricity transmission, a technology that aims to send power through the air without traditional cables or plugs conceptually similar to how Wi-Fi transmits data.

In controlled experiments, engineers have demonstrated that electricity can be transmitted wirelessly using highly controlled electromagnetic fields and resonant coupling techniques. While still far from large-scale commercial use, these experiments mark tangible progress in a field that could one day reshape how certain devices are powered.

Finnish researchers, including teams at Aalto University, have contributed significantly to both the theoretical and experimental foundations of wireless power transfer. Earlier studies showed that magnetic loop antennas can transfer electricity at relatively high efficiency over short distances, offering insights into how energy losses can be reduced and coupling optimised.

More recent demonstrations widely shared across global technology platforms have shown Finnish teams successfully powering small electronic devices through the air, indicating that the technology has moved beyond early laboratory proof-of-concept stages toward more practical experimentation.

However, experts caution that current wireless power systems work best only at short ranges and in controlled environments. Performance drops sharply with distance, and systems require precisely tuned electromagnetic fields and specialised receiver hardware. As a result, present-day applications are largely limited to charging small electronics, sensors, robotics, and potentially medical implants.

Research at Aalto University has also explored how wireless power interacts with real-world conditions, including how human tissue affects electromagnetic charging, a factor that could be crucial for biomedical uses such as charging implants without surgical intervention.

Despite growing interest, researchers emphasise that wireless electricity is not a replacement for conventional power grids. Wired infrastructure remains essential for high-power and long-distance transmission. Analysts note that widespread adoption for homes, vehicles, or cities would require years of further research, safety testing, efficiency improvements, and regulatory approval.

For now, Finland’s work highlights genuine scientific progress and reflects a broader global push to develop wireless power technologies that could complement existing energy systems and enable new use cases where wires are impractical.

Short Summary

Finnish researchers are making steady progress in wireless electricity transmission, demonstrating short-range power transfer through controlled electromagnetic fields, though large-scale use remains years away.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Trump Tariffs

US President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of 10 per cent tariffs on several European countries, including Denmark, the United Kingdom, and France, citing their opposition to his proposal for the United States to acquire Greenland.

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said the tariffs would take effect from February 1 and warned that the rate would be increased to 25 per cent from June 1 if negotiations fail to result in what he described as the “complete and total purchase of Greenland” by the United States.

The announcement came a day after Trump warned that countries opposing his Greenland plan could face economic measures. He has repeatedly argued that Greenland is strategically important for US national security due to its mineral resources and Arctic location.

European leaders have rejected the proposal, stating that Greenland’s future can only be decided by Denmark and the people of Greenland. Denmark recently confirmed that it would strengthen its military presence in Greenland, working in coordination with allies.

The White House said the increased European military presence would not affect the US position. France’s Armed Forces Minister Alice Rufo described the developments as a sign that Europe was prepared to defend sovereignty.

Trump has justified his position by claiming that US control of Greenland is necessary to prevent the region from falling under the influence of China or Russia. Earlier this week, he said that any outcome short of US ownership was “unacceptable.”

Following meetings in Washington, Danish officials said the two governments remained in fundamental disagreement over Greenland’s future. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen ruled out any US acquisition, stating that such a move would violate international law and infringe on sovereignty.

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reaffirmed the territory’s alignment with Denmark and Europe, saying Greenland would choose Denmark, NATO, and the European Union if forced to decide.

Public opposition has also grown in Denmark, where thousands of demonstrators marched in Copenhagen to support Greenland’s self-governance. Protesters carried signs stating “Greenland is not for sale” and “We shape our future.”

The dispute has added to diplomatic tensions between the United States and European allies, with no indication so far that negotiations will bridge the gap.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Makar Sankranti 2026

Makar Sankranti, also known as Uttarayana, Makara Sankranti, or simply Sankranti, is one of India’s most vibrant and auspicious festivals. Celebrated every year with immense joy and devotion, it marks the Sun’s transition into Capricorn (Makar Rashi), symbolizing the end of winter and the beginning of longer, warmer days.

In 2026, Makar Sankranti brings with it renewed hope, prosperity, and positivity, as farmers welcome a new agricultural season and families come together to celebrate abundance, gratitude, and unity.

Unlike many Indian festivals that follow the lunar calendar, Makar Sankranti is based on the solar cycle, making it one of the most consistent festivals, usually celebrated on January 14 or 15. This sacred transition of the Sun into the northern hemisphere, known as Uttarayana, is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition. It represents:

  • The victory of light over darkness
  • Knowledge over ignorance
  • Positivity over negativity
  • New beginnings and spiritual awakening
  • How Makar Sankranti Is Celebrated Across India
  • Makar Sankranti is celebrated in diverse ways across different regions:
  • Pongal in Tamil Nadu 🌾
  • Lohri in Punjab 🔥
  • Uttarayan in Gujarat with colorful kite flying 🪁
  • Magh Bihu in Assam 🌾
  • Khichdi Parv in Uttar Pradesh

Despite regional differences, the essence remains the same gratitude for nature, harvest, and life’s blessings.

Traditions and Rituals

  • Kite Flying: Filling the sky with vibrant colors, symbolizing freedom and joy
  • Holy Dips: Taking ritual baths in sacred rivers like the Ganga
  • Sesame & Jaggery Sweets: Tilgul, laddoos, chikkis signifying warmth, unity, and sweetness in relationships
  • Charity & Sharing: Donating food, clothes, and essentials to the needy

Why Sesame (Til) and Jaggery Are Important

The phrase “Til-gul ghya, god-god bola” beautifully captures the spirit of the festival take sweets and speak sweet words.

Sesame provides warmth during winter, while jaggery symbolizes sweetness, harmony, and goodwill.

Meaningful Makar Sankranti Wishes 2026

  • May this Makar Sankranti 2026 bring lasting peace, good health, and prosperity to your home, and may every new sunrise fill your life with hope and happiness.
  • As the Sun enters Makar Rashi, may your life move toward success, clarity, and positive growth in every direction. Happy Makar Sankranti!
  • May the warmth of the Sun God bless you with strength, wisdom, and the courage to overcome every challenge in the year ahead.
  • On this auspicious day of Uttarayana, may all negativity fade away and your life be filled with joy, harmony, and new opportunities.
  • May your hard work yield abundant results, just like a rich harvest, and may your days ahead be bright and fulfilling.
  • As kites rise high in the sky, may your dreams soar higher and your efforts lead you to great success. Wishing you a joyful Makar Sankranti 2026.
  • May sweetness of til and jaggery strengthen your relationships and fill your life with kindness, love, and understanding.
  • May this festival mark a fresh beginning, bringing stability to your career, happiness to your family, and peace to your heart.
  • With the Sun’s northward journey, may your life move toward prosperity, good fortune, and spiritual growth.
  • May Makar Sankranti bless you with good health, steady progress, and the fulfillment of your dreams throughout the year.
  • Wishing you and your loved ones a Makar Sankranti filled with laughter, togetherness, delicious sweets, and unforgettable memories.
  • May this sacred festival bring your family closer and your home overflow with warmth, respect, and happiness.
  • May every moment of Makar Sankranti strengthen bonds, spread smiles, and create beautiful memories with those you cherish.
  • May this Makar Sankranti inspire new goals, steady growth, and continued success in your professional journey.
  • Wishing you prosperity, progress, and positive outcomes in all your endeavors this Makar Sankranti 2026.
  • May this Makar Sankranti bring clarity, confidence, and consistent success into your life.
  • Wishing you a joyful Makar Sankranti filled with peace, purpose, and prosperity.
  • May the blessings of the Sun God guide you toward happiness and fulfillment this year.

Let this Makar Sankranti 2026 be a turning point where hope rises higher, efforts turn fruitful, and life moves toward lasting happiness. Happy Makar Sankranti!

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts

Our News Portal

We provide accurate, balanced, and impartial coverage of national and international affairs, focusing on the activities and developments within the parliament and its surrounding political landscape. We aim to foster informed public discourse and promote transparency in governance through our news articles, features, and opinion pieces.

Newsletter

Laest News

@2023 – All Right Reserved. Designed and Developed by The Parliament News

Are you sure want to unlock this post?
Unlock left : 0
Are you sure want to cancel subscription?
-
00:00
00:00
Update Required Flash plugin
-
00:00
00:00