global shipping routes

India has strongly condemned an attack on an Indian-flagged ship near Oman, deeming it 'unacceptable' and expressing deep concern over ongoing threats to commercial shipping. All Indian crew members aboard the vessel are reported safe, with thanks extended to Omani authorities for their rescue.

Global oil prices surged as President Trump expressed impatience with Iran, fueling fears of Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Brent and WTI crude saw significant weekly gains amid uncertainty over the Iran conflict and supply concerns. Despite claims of increased vessel crossings, the Strait remains a critical choke point, with maritime incidents further heightening market anxieties about tight supply.

India is preparing to send ships through the Strait of Hormuz to secure vital crude oil and energy cargoes amid ongoing disruptions. The government is finalizing plans for Indian vessels to navigate the waterway, which handles a significant portion of global oil flows, as shipping activity has slowed due to the Iran conflict.

In a groundbreaking operation, India's Narcotics Control Bureau has successfully dismantled an extensive international drug trafficking network, seizing an astonishing 227.7 kg of captagon, a dangerous psychotropic substance often referred to as the 'jihadi drug'.

Iran's intention to levy tariffs on the undersea internet cables crossing the Strait of Hormuz has sparked concerns about the stability of global digital networks. This approach may hinder crucial data exchanges, adversely influencing key technology players and the lives of millions across the Gulf, including a large population of Indian expatriates.

NATO is considering deploying forces to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz if the blockade persists into July, a move that would significantly alter the alliance's stance on the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Growing economic pressure from soaring energy prices is driving this reconsideration, with leaders set to discuss the issue at an upcoming summit.

Iran's IRGC has warned of a "heavy assault" on US military assets and ships if Iranian oil tankers or commercial vessels are attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. This follows US forces disabling two Iranian oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman and an earlier exchange of fire near the strait.

The Indian government has launched a $1.5 billion Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool, backed by a $1.4 billion sovereign guarantee, to offer risk cover for Indian vessels on international routes, including war zones. This initiative aims to reduce shipping insurance premiums and guarantee coverage even when global insurers withdraw due to rising risks.

Indian markets brace for a volatile week, with the US-Iran conflict and soaring crude oil prices dominating investor sentiment. A weakening rupee, coupled with inflation concerns, adds to the pressure. Analysts anticipate heightened sensitivity to geopolitical developments, especially concerning the Strait of Hormuz, and will closely watch foreign investor activity and upcoming economic data.

Britain is recalibrating its approach to Russian oil imports by introducing restrictions on refined products at a measured pace. This strategy, driven by escalating energy market volatility linked to conflicts in the Middle East and climbing fuel prices, seeks to mitigate the risk of abrupt supply shortages.

Fuel prices in India have surged by approximately ₹3 per litre, impacting travellers with rising costs for road trips and daily commutes. This hike is attributed to global crude oil price increases driven by West Asian geopolitical tensions. Travellers are advised to plan smarter by opting for trains, metros, EVs, carpooling, and shorter trips to mitigate increased fuel expenses.

US President Trump revealed Chinese President Xi Jinping desires the Strait of Hormuz reopened to stabilize global energy markets. Both leaders reportedly agreed on the necessity of this crucial shipping route's resumption. Discussions also touched upon potential increased Chinese purchases of American oil and agricultural products, alongside ongoing tensions regarding Taiwan.

A Marshall Islands-flagged LPG carrier carrying nearly 20,000 tonnes of fuel safely docked in Kandla, having crossed the Strait of Hormuz. This marks a crucial energy supply movement amidst ongoing Middle East conflict, which has disrupted India's crude reserves by nearly 15%.

Analysts believe that if supply disruptions persist for an extended period, refiners may eventually have to scale back refinery runs or reduce crude processing activity. They say this could partly explain Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging citizens to conserve fuel.

Improved Infrastructure, GST Changes Shift Trade From Mumbai

Wall Street's market sentiment has shifted from 'TACO' (Trump Always Chickens Out) to 'NACHO' (Not A Chance Hormuz Opens), reflecting growing pessimism about the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Investors now anticipate a prolonged period of elevated oil prices and shipping risks, moving away from assumptions of a quick resolution.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar criticized "unilateral coercive measures" and sanctions, stating they disproportionately harm developing nations and cannot replace diplomacy. He also voiced concern over the West Asia crisis, emphasizing the need for uninterrupted maritime traffic and a sustained ceasefire in Gaza, advocating for a two-state solution.

A rare hantavirus outbreak at sea has sparked worldwide concern after multiple deaths and emergency evacuations from a luxury cruise liner. Doctors, however, say the chances of a Covid-like global spread remain extremely low.

India has successfully navigated the Middle East crisis, ensuring stable fuel supplies and uninterrupted maritime operations. Despite global price surges, consumers are shielded through excise duty cuts and increased domestic production. State-run oil companies are absorbing significant daily losses to maintain current prices, while Indian seafarers in the Gulf remain safe and maritime operations at Indian ports are normal.

Evacuees from the hantavirus-hit MV Hondius cruise ship have landed in the Netherlands, with passengers disembarking in good spirits. Authorities have begun quarantine procedures for the 26 individuals, including eight Dutch nationals, who arrived on a flight from Tenerife. The ship experienced a hantavirus outbreak, leading to three passenger deaths.

According to the government, India has around 60 days of petroleum supplies in various forms including strategic reserves. But if 20% of the world’s crude supply remains disrupted over 2.5 months of the war, where is India getting its oil from?

A remarkable geological discovery beneath Bermuda, a massive, unique rock layer, may finally explain the island's unusual elevation. Scientists used earthquake waves to reveal this 'life raft' structure, which has kept Bermuda afloat for millions of years, unlike other volcanic islands. While not solving Triangle myths, this real, measurable anomaly offers a fascinating new perspective.

A new global survey reveals a significant drop in America's international image under President Trump, now trailing behind Russia and China. Concerns over his foreign policy, tariffs, and military actions have unsettled allies and created global unease. This decline marks the second consecutive year of falling perceptions for the US.

During their discussions, President Trump and Xi Jinping placed Taiwan at the forefront of their diplomatic agenda. Trump perceives arms sales to Taiwan as a way to gain leverage, whereas Taiwan insists on its importance for regional harmony. Given its strategic significance in the technology sector, especially in chip manufacturing, any tension involving Taiwan could disturb the global economy.

Fuel prices have seen their second hike in less than a week, with petrol and diesel increasing by approximately 90 paise per litre. This follows a nearly four-year freeze by state-run oil companies, with prices now reaching their highest levels since May 2022. Opposition parties allege the freeze was timed to end after state elections.