Airfares across India have surged over 40% in April, driven by escalating tensions in West Asia that are disrupting global aviation operations. Key domestic routes like Delhi–Mumbai, Bengaluru–Delhi, and Mumbai–Chennai have seen steep fare increases, with ticket prices rising significantly compared to last year. Airlines are facing multiple pressures, including higher aviation turbine fuel (ATF) costs, flight cancellations to Gulf destinations, war-risk insurance premiums, and longer flight paths due to restricted airspace. These combined factors have sharply increased operational expenses, which are being passed on to passengers. As geopolitical instability persists, travellers are likely to face sustained high fares during the peak summer travel season. (PC: X)

An Iranian oil tanker carrying about 2 million barrels of crude has arrived near Gujarat without a declared buyer. The vessel, Derya, has stayed close to the coast with little movement since Tuesday, according to tracking data. Sources said Indian refiners are unlikely to buy the oil as it was loaded after the US waiver cut-off date. Buying it could risk fresh sanctions. The tanker is linked to Iran’s National Iranian Tanker Company. The US has also begun a blockade of Iranian ports after talks failed. Industry sources said the cargo may struggle to find buyers, except possibly in China. (PC: X)

A planned meeting between Sergio Gor and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu was abruptly cancelled by Malé in March, with the Maldivian side proposing a private meeting later, which Gor declined. The envoy left without meeting Muizzu despite engaging other officials. The no-show is reportedly linked to Muizzu’s opposition to US-Israel actions involving Iran and his reluctance to face external pressure. Domestically, Muizzu faces political setbacks after electoral losses and a rejected referendum. Meanwhile, the Maldives is grappling with financial strain, seeking loan relief from India amid growing strategic ties with China.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor stated that India can play a role in efforts to end the ongoing Iran–Middle East conflict, but emphasized that the decision rests entirely with New Delhi. The United States has welcomed involvement from any country willing to support peace, reflecting a broader push for global mediation. Donald Trump also supports inclusive diplomatic participation. The remarks come amid stalled US-Iran talks and tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, India continues diplomatic engagement with global partners, balancing neutrality while exploring avenues to contribute to de-escalation efforts. (PC: X)

Sergio Gor said, “It’s for India to decide,” on joining Middle East peace efforts. He added the US would welcome India’s role. Donald Trump supports wider global participation. Gor spoke after meetings in Washington with top officials. He also confirmed Marco Rubio will visit India soon. Meanwhile, Narendra Modi and Trump discussed the conflict and stressed keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. Tensions remain high after the US blockade of Iranian ports.

Narendra Modi and Donald Trump held a 40-minute phone call on Tuesday as the West Asia conflict remains in a stalemate. This was their third call this year. The leaders discussed the ongoing tensions after failed talks in Islamabad. India stressed the need for peace and de-escalation. Modi also highlighted the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and secure. The conflict began after US and Israeli strikes on Iran in February. A temporary truce is in place until April 22. Talks between the US and Iran may resume soon. (PC: HT)

India has resumed imports of Iranian crude for the first time in seven years, following a temporary waiver from the United States. Two tankers carrying oil from Iran have reached Indian ports, including the Iran-flagged Felicity at Sikka and the Curacao-flagged Jaya at Odisha. The shipments mark the first such delivery since May 2019, when US sanctions halted trade. The waiver, set to expire on April 19, has enabled refiners like Indian Oil Corporation and Reliance Industries to procure Iranian oil. The move reflects shifting energy dynamics amid global supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

S. Jaishankar and Israel Katz held discussions on escalating regional tensions, focusing on Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and the situation in Lebanon. The Israeli side stressed the need for a firm United States stance in negotiations to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, including restrictions on uranium enrichment and removal of existing stockpiles. Concerns were also raised over threats to maritime security in Hormuz, with emphasis on ensuring safe navigation for India and Gulf nations. The dialogue highlights growing diplomatic coordination amid rising geopolitical tensions and risks to global energy supply routes.

An exhibition titled “Angels of Minab” at the Iranian Embassy showcases drawings recovered from a girls’ school in Minab destroyed during February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The attack, reportedly caused by a Tomahawk missile targeting error, killed over 165 children and staff. The artwork, restored from debris by Red Crescent teams, highlights the human cost of conflict and lost innocence. The initiative aligns with Iran’s diplomatic messaging following failed US-Iran talks. A symbolic tribute by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf further underscored the tragedy, drawing global attention to civilian casualties.

Mohammad Fathali stated that Indian tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz have not paid any tolls and will continue to pass freely despite escalating tensions. He emphasised strong India-Iran ties and ongoing coordination to ensure safe passage. The statement follows Donald Trump’s warning to block vessels paying Iran. India’s government reiterated that no payments were made and no such discussions occurred. Around half of India’s crude oil and LPG imports rely on this route, with 15 Indian-flagged vessels currently stranded in the Persian Gulf amid the ongoing West Asia crisis. (PC: X)