The Economic Times
Elections 2026Top News / The Economic Times
India stepped up on the international stage by joining more than 130 countries at the UN Security Council, where a pivotal resolution denounced Irans military actions against Gulf nations and Jordan. It urgently urged an end to the conflict while cautioning Iran against the dangers of jeopardizing shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
The US has launched a trade investigation into excess industrial capacity in 16 countries, including India, under Section 301 of its Trade Act. This probe could lead to new tariffs as the US claims overproduction by trading partners displaces American manufacturing and hinders investment. Evidence suggests significant excess capacity in India's petrochemicals, steel, and solar module sectors.
Iran War: Enthusiasm for Middle East lending has significantly waned among Asian financial institutions following recent regional hostilities. This marks a sharp reversal from earlier optimism, with banks now reassessing ambitions and pausing transactions involving Asian balance sheets due to escalating risks.
Petrol, Diesel Price March 12: There has been no change in the prices of petrol and diesel on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata and other cities. This comes despite crude Brent jumping $100 per barrel amid the ongoing escalating tensions in the Middle East region. The government has said the fuel prices would remain stable for now.
Truck drivers on the Iran-Iraq border say the war and closure of key crossings have disrupted trade and daily life. Drivers who usually cross nearby borders are now taking long detours, waiting days at checkpoints and seeing far fewer trucks as imports slow due to the conflict and sanctions.
Archana Puran Singh son Pakistan match: Actor Archana Puran Singh's son, Aaryamann Sethi, shares his challenging journey. Once a promising international footballer, Aaryamann battled bullying and injuries. A severe leg fracture derailed his dreams, leading to depression and anxiety. With family support, he is now exploring music and content creation, advocating for mental health awareness.
Amidst fears of West Asian conflict disrupting gas supply, Uttarakhand government prioritizes commercial gas cylinders for hospitals and educational institutions. Preparations are underway for wood as an alternative fuel, while authorities assure no shortage of domestic cylinders and vow to curb black marketing and misinformation.
In a precautionary move amid rising tensions, Oman is reportedly shifting vessels away from its Mina Al Fahal oil terminal. This development, reported by Bloomberg News, signals a heightened state of alert in the region, with authorities taking steps to safeguard maritime operations and potential disruptions to oil exports.
IMD Kolkata rain prediction: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Kolkata might receive light showers along with thunderstorms on March 11 and 12. The weather in Kolkata is expected to remain cloudy for the next few days, according to the weather department. Other parts of Bengal such as Purulia, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Malda are also likely to receive showers.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defence intercepted multiple drone strikes targeting its eastern territories, including the Shaybah oil field. Amid escalating regional threats, diplomatic efforts intensified with Russia and the US discussing de-escalation and potential interventions in the Middle East crisis.
LPG shortage in India: Many cities and restaurants in India are facing shortage of LPG gas cylinders due to the escalating tensions in the West Asia region. Long queues have been seen outside gas distribution centres in Delhi, Noida, Lucknow and other places amid panic buying. In Delhi, a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder costs Rs 913 and in Patna the cost is Rs 942.50.
In a letter addressed to NCW Chairperson Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Punjab Assembly Partap Singh Bajwa urged the commission to take immediate cognizance of the matter and initiate action against the Chief Minister.
Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi sarcastically questioned the Jammu and Kashmir police about a potential third FIR following his pro-Iran and anti-Israel/US statements. He had previously faced two FIRs for allegedly circulating misleading content and making an inflammatory speech during pro-Iran protests.
Israeli forces struck Beirut's southern suburbs late Wednesday. This followed rocket fire from Hezbollah into northern Israel. The exchange intensified the ongoing conflict. Israeli strikes have caused significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon. Hezbollah stated its actions are part of ongoing operations. The situation remains volatile with potential for further escalation.
A notable meeting unfolded in Florida as a prominent Russian delegation engaged with their American peers. The discussions spanned numerous topics, reflecting a shared commitment to dialogue. Celebrated as a success by the Russian special envoy, the session featured key American figures such as special envoy Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and Josh Gruenbaum.
American forces have targeted 28 Iranian vessels involved in laying mines. This action comes as Iran attempts to disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The United States military confirmed the destruction of these boats. The operation aims to ensure the free flow of oil traffic in the crucial waterway amidst regional conflict.
A recent ruling by a US appeals court has ensured that financial support for the vital Hudson Tunnel project in New York will persist, despite opposition from the Trump administration. This landmark decision allows construction on the essential rail connection between Manhattan and New Jersey to move forward, restoring critical infrastructure that was ravaged by Hurricane Sandy.
Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Episode 10 release time and how to watch is now confirmed for March 12, 2026. The episode continues the Culling Game arc and focuses on Megumi Fushiguros fight. Here is the release time, streaming platform, story details, and recap of episode 9.
Heatwave in Gujarat: Gujarat is the hottest region in the country right now with temperatures in Rajkot reaching 42 degrees Celsius. The IMD has issued a heatwave alert for the state and said such weather conditions would persist till March 13. On the other hand, Ahmedabad recorded 41.4 degrees Celsius. Large parts of Gujarat have been experiencing extreme hot temperatures and residents have been advised to take necessary precautions.
The Pentagon is assembling a 30-person team of investment bankers from top firms like Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan to manage $200 billion in defense deals over three years. This initiative, pitched as a chance to serve your country, could align with past ambitions for a U.S. sovereign wealth fund.
An attack on two oil tankers near Iraq resulted in at least one crew member's death and 38 rescues, with the search for missing individuals ongoing. Iraqi authorities reported the vessels were subjected to sabotage, occurring approximately 50 kilometers offshore. The incidents follow Iran's campaign to disrupt global energy markets amid ongoing regional conflicts.
Taiwanese forces said three out of five sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), and added that they monitored the situation and responded.
An unexploded World War II bomb was successfully defused in the German city of Dresden on Wednesday, police said, after it caused a huge evacuation operation. The discovery caused officials to evacuate 18,000 people on Wednesday, the largest such operation ever in the eastern German city, emergency services said.
In a shocking turn of events, a thorough investigation by the US military has determined that a tragic missile strike on the Shajarah Tayyebeh elementary school in Iran can be attributed to the United States. Initially thought to be a calculated attack, it has now been revealed as a catastrophic targeting error due to outdated intelligence data.
Tragic news from south-east Queensland where two bodies were discovered. A man and a woman, believed to be missing Chinese backpackers, were found in floodwaters. Their vehicle was located after they failed to reach their destination. The discovery comes as severe floods inundate Bundaberg, impacting hundreds of homes and businesses. Boats are now the only transport in some areas.
In a dramatic escalation, airstrikes have pummeled both Beirut and Tehran, deepening the turmoil of the ongoing Iran war. With the U.S. expenditure surpassing $11.3 billion in just six days, the stakes have never been higher. Drones targeted checkpoints in Tehran, igniting panic among the populace.
An Iranian-linked hacking group, Handala, claimed responsibility for a destructive cyberattack on U.S. medical device provider Stryker, causing a global system outage. The attack, which wiped remote devices, is reportedly a response to an attack on a girls' school in Iran. Stryker confirmed a network disruption but stated no indication of ransomware or malware.
The war on Iran has cost the U.S. at least $11.3 billion in its first six days, with officials estimating a potential $50 billion funding request. The conflict, which began with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes, has killed approximately 2,000 people and disrupted global markets. Lawmakers are concerned about depleting military stocks and demand public testimony on the administration's war plans.
The State Department will permanently close its consulate in Peshawar, Pakistan, a key diplomatic mission near the Afghan border. This closure, part of a broader reorganization, is expected to save $7.5 million annually. Consular services will be transferred to the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, approximately 114 miles away.
The European Union faces a potential inflation surge above 3% this year. This scenario hinges on sustained high oil and gas prices due to the Middle East conflict. Economic growth in 2026 could also see a significant slowdown. EU economy chief Valdis Dombrovskis conveyed these concerns to finance ministers. The bloc's economic outlook is under scrutiny.
President Trump urged oil companies to use the Strait of Hormuz, asserting Iran is paying a heavy price for 47 years of global damage. He highlighted the US military's overwhelming success against Iran, stating their navy is largely gone. Meanwhile, Iran warned of retaliation if its ports are attacked, following a UN warning for civilians to avoid port facilities.
The administration of Donald Trump has launched a new trade investigation into excess industrial capacity across 16 major trading partners after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the core of Trumps global tariff programme last month. Jamieson Greer said the probe under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 could result in new tariffs on countries including China, European Union, India, Japan, South Korea and Mexico as early as this summer.
Iran war: The developments follow the closure of US diplomatic missions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after last week's attack near the US consulate in Dubai.
Lord Sear real name, cause of death, net worth, career and family details have drawn attention after the DJ and radio host died at 54. Steve Watson built his career in hip-hop radio, music collaborations, and SiriusXMs Shade 45. His death was confirmed online. Cause of death has not been revealed.
Atlassian layoffs affected employees severance package, changes in top management and total job cuts expenses explain why the software company is cutting about 1,600 jobs. The move aims to fund artificial intelligence and enterprise sales. The restructuring also includes leadership changes and severance payments for affected employees.
Why is Atlassian going to lay off 10% workforce, and will software provider's 1,600 jobs cut announcement push company's shares upwards or downwards? Atlassian announced about 1,600 job cuts as part of a restructuring plan. The company wants to focus on artificial intelligence and enterprise sales. Its shares moved higher in extended trading after the announcement.
Nancy Guthrie disappearance case crucial update from former FBI agent suggests investigators may be closer to solving the mystery. Former FBI officials, forensic experts, and legal analysts have raised questions about DNA evidence, blood traces, suspect behavior, and the timeline surrounding Nancy Guthries disappearance from her Arizona home.
Quote of the day by Douglas Adams: His insightful quote highlights the internet's ability to reveal our shared humanity. He suggests the perceived 'them' online is an illusion, urging us to recognize the commonalities among people. This perspective fosters empathy and understanding in digital communication. Adams, a celebrated writer, left a legacy of wit and wisdom.
Can Iran drones attack California on US West Coast or will it launch another cyberattack? A warning by the FBI says Iran may try a drone strike from a vessel near the US coast. The alert mentions possible targets in California. Officials say they have no details about timing or method.
Quote of the Day: Franz Kafka's quote, Beyond a certain point there is no return. This point has to be reached, highlights the necessity of decisive action and commitment in life. The article explores Kafka's life, his literary themes of alienation and uncertainty, and how his works, like The Metamorphosis, continue to resonate with readers.
3I/ATLAS comet new discovery: Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, observed by ALMA, revealed an unusually high methanol content compared to solar system comets. This unique chemical signature suggests it formed in a vastly different planetary system, offering insights into exoplanet formation. The comet's outgassing behavior also provided novel data on interstellar object composition.
What message did Handala put along with its logo in crushing cyberattack became a key question after Iranian-linked hackers wiped devices at Stryker. Employees logging into laptops and phones saw a message from the group after destructive wiper malware erased data and disrupted the companys global network.
Photos of Marco Rubio wearing seemingly oversized shoes fueled widespread discussion online after they spread across social media. The images gained additional attention following reports that Donald Trump had been gifting shoes to officials and political allies. According to reports, Trump sometimes estimates peoples shoe sizes before ordering them pairs of Florsheim shoes. While the exact reason for Rubios oversized shoes remains unclear, the incident sparked online debate and humor.
In a tense scene in Imphal, Manipur, police intervened to break up a protest led by activists advocating for the implementation of the National Register of Citizens prior to the upcoming census. The demonstration, spearheaded by a coalition known as Just Fair Delimitation, saw student activists locking down a government institution as a show of defiance.

22 C