#Iraq

Indian infra major L&T hits one-month low on concerns over Mideast exposure Shares of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), India's largest engineering and construction company, plummeted to a one-month low as investors grew increasingly concerned about the firm's exposure to the Middle East region. The stock fell as much as 4.6% to Rs 1,441.45 on Friday, its lowest level since February 3. Market analysts pointed to L&T's significant presence in countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq, where the company has won several major contracts in recent years. With the ongoing turmoil in these regions, investors are worried about the potential impact on L&T's revenue and profit margins. L&T's Middle East business accounts for a sizeable chunk of its total revenue, with the region contributing around 15% to its overall earnings. The company has been aggressively expanding its presence in this market, having won several large-scale projects in recent years. The concerns about L&T's exposure to the Middle East come at a time when global investors are growing increasingly risk-averse amid rising tensions in the region. Saudi Arabia and Iraq have both been involved in territorial disputes with neighboring countries, while the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has also raised concerns about potential spillover effects on regional stability. In addition to its direct exposure to the Middle East, L&T's performance is also closely tied to India's overall economic growth prospects. As the country's largest engineering and construction company, L&T is heavily reliant on government infrastructure spending to drive its business. With the Indian economy expected to slow down in the coming quarters, investors are growing increasingly cautious about L&T's ability to maintain its revenue growth momentum. Despite the concerns, many analysts...#India #Iraq #Ukraine #Saudi_Arabia #Middle_East #Larsen_and_Toubro

Israel Begins New "Wave of Strikes" in Tehran In a dramatic escalation, Israel has launched a new wave of strikes against targets in Iran, following the failure of a US Senate bid to limit President Trump's war powers. The surprise move comes as tensions continue to simmer between the two nations over issues such as nuclear development and regional influence. The Israeli military struck several targets in Tehran overnight, according to reports from both sides. While details are still emerging, sources suggest that the attacks may have been aimed at Iranian missile production facilities and other key infrastructure. Meanwhile, back in Washington, a US Senate bid to limit President Trump's war powers has fallen short of the required 60 votes needed for passage. The move was seen as an attempt to curb the President's ability to launch military strikes without congressional approval, following his actions against Iran earlier this year. The failure of the Senate bid is likely to be seen as a boost to the Israeli government, which has long been at odds with Tehran over issues such as nuclear development and regional influence. The two nations have been locked in a state of heightened tension for months, following the US withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Tensions escalated further last week, when the US launched airstrikes against Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq and Syria, sparking widespread anger across the region. In response, Iran vowed to take "revenge" against the US and its allies, prompting concerns of a wider conflict. The Israeli military has been on high alert for months, with troops deployed along the borde...#Iraq #Israel #Iran #Washington #President_Trump #Syria #Lebanon #European_Union #Tehran #US_Senate #United_Nations #Antnio_Guterres

The Hedgehog I Took to War - And the Journalist He's Become I still remember the day I decided to take a 2-pound hedgehog named Benjamin Hall with me on deployment. It was a moment of pure madness, or so my fellow soldiers thought at the time. But in hindsight, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. As we patrolled through the dusty streets of Iraq, Benjamin's tiny spines would quiver with excitement whenever he sensed danger nearby. He'd dart between our feet, his little eyes scanning for any sign of trouble. And when we came under fire, he'd curl up into a ball and let out a defiant squeak - as if to say, "You're not scaring me, buddy!" But despite the chaos and uncertainty of war, Benjamin brought us all together. He became an unlikely mascot, a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. And when we finally returned home, I knew that Benjamin's impact would extend far beyond our little platoon. Fast-forward to today, and you'll find Benjamin Hall thriving as a journalist. Yes, you read that right - a hedgehog journalist! He's got his own column at Fox News, where he shares stories of courage and perseverance from the front lines. His writing is raw and unflinching, yet somehow always manages to convey the humanity behind even the most brutal conflicts. Now, I know what you're thinking: "How did this little guy go from being a war buddy to becoming a journalist?" Well, let me tell you - it's not just about his natural talent or his ability to sniff out a good story. It's about Benjamin's unwavering dedication to telling the stories that need to be told. As I sit here writing these words, I'm reminded of the countless times we'd huddle around our makeshift radio, listening in on the BBC World Service and marveling at the power of journalism to bring us closer together. And now, as Benjamin's editor (yes, I still get to wor...#Iraq #Fox_News #Benjamin_Hall #BBC_World_Service

US Aims at Toppling Iran's Leadership: The Strategy Behind It The United States has been accused of pursuing a deliberate strategy to remove Iran's top leadership, sparking concerns about regional stability and the potential for further conflict. Analysts point to a series of covert operations, including cyber attacks and targeted killings, as evidence that Washington is seeking to dismantle Tehran's political hierarchy. In recent months, there have been a string of high-profile assassinations targeting key Iranian figures, including top military officials and scientists. The most notable was the killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, Iran's leading nuclear scientist, in November 2020. This followed a series of cyber attacks on Iranian infrastructure, including its nuclear program. Critics argue that these actions are part of a broader US strategy to weaken Iran's leadership and disrupt its ability to counterbalance American influence in the region. The move has been seen as a significant escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran, which have been simmering since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The timing of the attacks is also seen as significant, coinciding with the Trump administration's "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, aimed at forcing Tehran to renegotiate its nuclear deal or face crippling economic sanctions. Critics argue that this strategy is designed to create chaos and uncertainty in Iran, making it more difficult for the country to respond effectively. Experts point out that the US has a long history of covert operations aimed at removing foreign leaders deemed hostile to American interests. The assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani...#Iraq #Iran #Trump_administration #United_States #Ayatollah_Ali_Khamenei #Qasem_Soleimani #Mohsen_Fakhrizadeh #maximum_pressure_campaign #nuclear_deal

US-Israel Plot to Kill Iran's Khamenei: How a Hack Revealed the Plan A sophisticated hack of Israeli and American intelligence agencies' systems revealed a plot to assassinate Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to US officials. The plot was allegedly orchestrated by Israel and the United States, using hacked traffic cameras in Iran as part of their surveillance operation. The revelation has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles, highlighting the level of sophistication and coordination between the two nations' intelligence agencies. The hack occurred when Israeli and American spies infiltrated Iran's traffic camera network, which is managed by the country's Ministry of Interior. Once inside, they accessed footage from cameras in strategic locations around Tehran, including those near Khamenei's residence. The compromised footage was then used to identify potential targets for the assassination plot, according to US officials. The plan allegedly involved using hacked traffic cameras and other surveillance tools to monitor Khamenei's movements, allowing Israeli and American agents to pinpoint his exact location at any given time. The revelation comes as tensions between Iran and Israel continue to escalate. In recent years, there have been several reported instances of Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets in Syria and Iraq, which have been met with retaliatory missile attacks from Tehran. The US has repeatedly condemned these actions, calling for restraint and de-escalation. US officials claim that the hack was discovered when Iranian authorities noticed unusual activity on their traffic camera network. Upon investigation, they ...#Iraq #Israel #Iran #Syria #United_States #Ayatollah_Ali_Khamenei #Mossad #CIA #Ministry_of_Interior_Iran #US_Central_Intelligence_Agency_CIA

New Zealand Sends Defence Aircraft for Middle East Evacuation Plans The New Zealand government has announced that it is deploying two Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) aircraft to the Middle East in support of evacuation efforts for its citizens and other nations. The decision comes as tensions escalate in the region, with concerns over the ongoing conflict in Yemen and potential instability in Iraq. According to reports, the RNZAF will be sending a C-130 Hercules transport plane and an NH90 helicopter to the Middle East, which will be based at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. The aircraft are expected to arrive in the region by mid-July, with personnel from the RNZAF also deploying to support the mission. The decision to deploy the aircraft is seen as a precautionary measure by the New Zealand government, which wants to ensure that it can respond quickly and effectively to any emerging crisis in the region. The deployment follows similar moves by other nations, including Australia, which has also sent defence personnel to the Middle East in recent weeks. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement that the country is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens overseas, particularly in regions where there are heightened risks. "We want to make sure we're prepared to respond quickly if needed," she said. The deployment of the RNZAF aircraft is expected to provide significant logistical support for evacuation efforts, with the C-130 Hercules able to transport up to 90 personnel and cargo, while the NH90 helicopter can be used for searc...#Iraq #Middle_East #New_Zealand #United_Arab_Emirates #Yemen #Al_Minhad_Air_Base #Royal_New_Zealand_Air_Force #RNZAF #C130_Hercules #NH90_helicopter #Jacinda_Ardern #Ron_Mark

UK Stock Market Calms But Oil Prices Rise Over Fears Iran War May Drag On The UK stock market has calmed down after a volatile start to the week, but oil prices have continued to rise amid concerns that the conflict in Iraq may drag on for longer than expected. The FTSE 100 index ended the day up 0.3% at 7,143 points, having fallen as much as 1.5% earlier. The oil price surge came as Iran's Revolutionary Guards vowed to exact revenge on the United States and its allies after the killing of top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in a US drone strike last week. Brent crude oil rose $2.10 a barrel, or 3%, to settle at $70.50. Despite the continued turmoil in the Middle East, investors seemed to take comfort from comments by Saudi Arabia's crown prince that his country is "prepared" to increase its oil production if needed. The kingdom has been working closely with the US and other global leaders to contain the fallout from the crisis. The rise in oil prices came as the global benchmark hit a 2019 high of $71.30, but it was still below the peak reached during the height of tensions between Iran and the West last summer. The increase in oil prices has raised concerns about inflation and the impact on consumer spending, particularly for households already feeling squeezed by the rising cost of living. Meanwhile, the US Federal Reserve's decision to cut interest rates for the third time this year was seen as a positive development for investors, who had been worried that the central bank might hike rates in response to the oil price surge. The rate cut has helped to boost investor confidence and reduce concerns about the potential impact of higher borrowing costs on the economy. The ongoing uncertainty over the conflict i...#Iraq #Iran #Saudi_Arabia #United_States #US_Federal_Reserve #Qasem_Soleimani #FTSE_100 #Brent_crude_oil

Watch Live: Hegseth, Caine Brief on Iran War Operations Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby joined CBS News to provide an update on the ongoing war operations in Iran. Accompanied by Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby began the briefing by acknowledging the evolving situation in the region. "We're here today to provide you with a brief update on our ongoing operations in support of the security of the United States and its interests," Kirby said. "As you know, we've been working closely with our international partners to address the threat posed by Iran's destabilizing activities." According to Kirby, the U.S. military has been conducting airstrikes against Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria. He emphasized that these operations are designed to disrupt the flow of weapons and funding to these groups, which have been responsible for attacks on American personnel and interests. "We've taken steps to hold accountable those who engage in such illegal activities," Kirby said. "We'll continue to work closely with our partners to ensure that those responsible for these attacks are brought to justice." General Milley also emphasized the importance of continued international cooperation, stating that the U.S. is working closely with its allies and partners to address the threat posed by Iran. "We're committed to ensuring the security of our troops and our interests in the region," Milley said. "We'll continue to work with our partners to ensure that those responsible for these attacks are held accountable." The briefing concluded with a statement from Deputy Secretary Hicks, who reiterated the U.S. government's commitment to the security of its personnel and interests ...#Iraq #Iran #Syria #United_States #John_Kirby #Kathleen_Hicks #Mark_Milley

Iran's New Leadership May Open Door to Ending War, FM Fidan Says In a significant development, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu's Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, hinted that the new leadership in Iran may be willing to take steps towards ending the war in Ukraine. The statement was made during a meeting with Çavuşoğlu on Wednesday. Speaking at a joint press conference with Çavuşoğlu, Amir-Abdollahian emphasized that Iran's new administration is committed to taking a more active role in international affairs and promoting peace and stability. He noted that Tehran has been following the situation in Ukraine closely and was deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis unfolding on the ground. Çavuşoğlu echoed Amir-Abdollahian's sentiments, stating that Turkey is also keenly aware of the devastating impact of the war on innocent civilians. He emphasized that Ankara is committed to working with all parties involved to find a peaceful solution to the conflict. The meeting between Çavuşoğlu and Amir-Abdollahian took place at a time when relations between Iran and Western powers are strained due to issues such as nuclear negotiations and sanctions. However, the two diplomats' joint statement suggests that there may be room for cooperation on key global issues like the war in Ukraine. Tehran has previously been criticized for its perceived role in supporting separatist movements in Eastern Europe, including those fighting against Ukrainian forces. However, Amir-Abdollahian's comments suggest that Iran may be willing to re-evaluate its stance and work towards a more constructive engagement with international partners. Çavuşoğlu's office said in a statement that the two foreign ministers discussed ways to promote regional stability and security, as well ...#Iraq #Ukraine #Iran #Syria #Turkey #Mevlt_avuolu #Hossein_AmirAbdollahian

Stocks Recoup Some Losses But Close Lower As Middle East Conflict Stirs Up Volatility US stocks regained some ground on Wednesday after a steep sell-off the previous day, but still closed lower as tensions in the Middle East continued to roil investors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 144 points, or 0.4%, to 31,428, while the S&P 500 fell 13 points, or 0.3%, to 3,936. The Nasdaq Composite Index bucked the trend, rising 24 points, or 0.2%, to 11,445. Market participants were on edge as Iran launched missile attacks against US military bases in Iraq and a Saudi oil facility in response to the killing of a top Iranian general in a US drone strike last week. The conflict has heightened fears about global security and the potential for further instability in the region. The situation remains fluid, with both sides trading barbs and threats on social media. Investors are growing increasingly anxious about the potential impact on oil prices, which surged above $62 per barrel in response to the attacks. Energy stocks were hit particularly hard, with ExxonMobil falling 2.4% and Chevron down 1.8%. Oil majors have been some of the biggest winners in recent years due to rising energy demand and low production costs. However, their profits could be severely impacted if tensions escalate further and disrupt global supply chains. Tech stocks, on the other hand, continued to defy gravity, with Apple rising 2.5% and Microsoft up 1.3%. The sector has been driven by strong earnings and revenue growth, as well as optimism about future prospects. However, some investors are growing concerned that the escalating tensions could impact global trade and economic growth. The US dollar weakened against major currencies amid the turmoil, while gold prices rose to a two-week hi...#Iraq #Chevron #Iran #ExxonMobil #Apple #Microsoft #Saudi_Arabia #US

Stock Market Tumbles Amid Escalating US-Iran Tensions Stock futures fell sharply on Wednesday morning as traders monitored the latest developments in the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran. The S&P 500 futures contract plummeted over 2% while Dow Jones Industrial Average futures dropped more than 1.5%. Nasdaq Composite futures also slid over 3%. The market's sharp decline comes as tensions continue to rise following a series of attacks on US military bases in Iraq, which the Pentagon has attributed to Iran-backed militia groups. The situation has sparked concerns about a potential war between the two nations. Oil prices surged more than 4% ahead of the US market open, with Brent crude trading above $64 per barrel. This surge is expected to continue as investors seek safe-haven assets amid the escalating tensions. In addition to the energy market, other sectors are also being impacted by the ongoing crisis. The Dow Jones Transportation Average fell nearly 2%, while the Russell 2000 Index dropped over 3%. The US Federal Reserve has announced that it will be closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to take action if necessary to stabilize the financial markets. In a statement, the Fed said: "We are carefully following developments in the region and are prepared to use our tools as needed to support the economy and maintain financial stability." Meanwhile, investors are also keeping a close eye on the upcoming presidential election. Some analysts believe that the tensions between the US and Iran could have significant implications for the outcome of the election. As the situation continues to u...#Iraq #Pentagon #Brent_crude #SP_500 #USIran_Tensions #US_Federal_Reserve #Dow_Jones_Industrial_Average #Nasdaq_Composite #Russell_2000_Index #Dow_Jones_Transportation_Average

On July 22, 1979, Saddam Hussein orchestrated one of the most terrifying displays of #authoritarian power in modern history during a Ba’ath Party meeting in #Baghdad. The event was broadcast on state television as a warning to all Iraqis. As newly appointed president, Saddam sat smoking a cigar while reading names of alleged conspirators from a list. One by one, 68 high-ranking officials were forcibly removed from the room by security forces. The camera lingered on their stunned colleagues as whispered confessions were extracted under torture played over loudspeakers. The purge culminated with Saddam’s cousin, Defense Minister Adnan Khairallah, being ordered to execute the accused. Though some killings occurred off-camera, eyewitnesses reported hearing gunshots during the broadcast’s pauses. The remaining officials erupted in applause and chants of loyalty to Saddam, many visibly shaking. This event cemented Saddam’s absolute control, eliminating potential rivals after his formal rise to power. Human rights organizations later confirmed at least 22 officials were executed that day, with hundreds more purged in subsequent weeks. The tapes remain banned in Iraq today but circulate as evidence of the regime’s brutality. #SaddamHussein #executions #Iraq

Have you heard about the son of Saddam Hussein and his brutalities? #SaddamHussein #UdayHussein #Iraq https://youtu.be/MtCIhVhwHYE?si=hfh7jTrC9b5MuVIt