Category: Cover

Flight Chaos Grips Europe’s Busiest Airports as Over 500 Flights Affected in One Day

Staff ReporterGlobal, Cover, Travel 0

More than 300 flights were cancelled and delayed across three major European international airports — London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Paris Charles de Gaulle — on a day marked by widespread disruption. Global airlines including Air France, American Airlines, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, United Airlines, and Oman Air were among those affected by a fresh bout of operational turbulence. The disruptions were caused by a mix of staffing shortages, delays in gate allocation, ground handling problems, and tight aircraft rotations, which created a chain reaction of delays and cancellations from morning to night. These three airports, acting as major transatlantic and intercontinental gateways, served as the starting point for disruptions that quickly spread to Asia, the Middle East, and North America.

Though no single cause such as adverse weather or strikes was identified, airport authorities pointed to “mounting internal strain” as the primary reason behind today’s widespread interruptions.

Heathrow’s Travel Plans Thrown Off Course

At London Heathrow, passengers encountered significant disruptions. The airport reported 54 delayed flights and eight cancellations, impacting both long-haul and short-haul services. Among the airlines most affected, British Airways experienced ten delayed flights. Finnair cancelled three flights and had one delayed, representing one of the highest cancellation ratios of the day at the airport.

Air India, which operates several routes connecting India through Heathrow, reported two flight cancellations and seven delays — a delay rate of 50 percent for the day. WestJet cancelled both of its scheduled flights, equating to a full 100 percent cancellation rate. Meanwhile, American Airlines faced six delayed flights, and Emirates and United Airlines each reported two delays.

The disruption wasn’t confined to large carriers. Even regional and smaller airlines such as Brussels Airlines, Aegean, Eurowings, and Etihad Airways each had at least one delayed flight. This cascading effect across different airlines signaled broader operational instability.

Amsterdam Schiphol Hit Hardest by Delays

Amsterdam Schiphol reported the most extensive impact, logging 104 delays and 20 cancellations in total. KLM, the airport’s largest carrier, was at the center of the turmoil with 43 delayed and 16 cancelled flights, significantly affecting European and transatlantic operations.

Delta Air Lines experienced seven delays and one cancellation at Schiphol, while Finnair, Cathay Pacific, and China Cargo each had cancellations. Smaller and cargo airlines like Cargolux, Amelia, Kuwait Airways, Malaysia Airlines, and Bulgaria Air were also caught in the mess.

Low-cost giant easyJet faced 11 delayed flights, further illustrating how the disruptions reverberated across the European travel network.

Air France Bears the Brunt at Paris Charles de Gaulle

At Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Air France experienced the most significant disruptions. With 58 delayed flights and eight cancellations, it was the single most affected airline across all three hubs.

The airport itself tallied 104 delayed flights and 13 cancellations, closely matching Amsterdam’s totals. Finnair cancelled three flights, while Air India, Cathay Pacific, and Delta Air Lines each faced a combination of delays and cancellations.

Regional airlines such as KM Malta Airlines, Kenya Airways, Air Senegal, and HOP! were also affected, with varying degrees of delay. American Airlines, United Airlines, and Emirates each logged two delays, indicating that even major international carriers weren’t immune to the operational snags.

Total Disruptions Cross 500 Flights in a Day

The cumulative impact at Heathrow, Schiphol, and Charles de Gaulle added up to 283 flight cancellations and 262 delays, totaling 545 disrupted flights in just one day. Though no single trigger was officially cited, representatives from various airports described the cause as “operational challenges” — a broad term encompassing issues like air traffic control limitations, staffing shortages, rotation problems, and logistical slowdowns on the ground.

While not as disruptive as severe weather or airspace closures, these operational setbacks led to widespread chaos, especially for transatlantic routes. Flights connecting Europe and the U.S. were among the most impacted, with disruptions on both sides of the Atlantic.

Snapshot of the Day’s Turmoil

London Heathrow (LHR) reported 8 cancellations and 54 delays.

Notable disruptions included:

  • Air India: 2 cancelled, 7 delayed
  • British Airways: 1 cancelled, 10 delayed
  • Finnair: 3 cancelled, 1 delayed
  • WestJet: 2 cancelled, no delays
  • American Airlines: 6 delayed
  • Emirates and United Airlines: 2 delayed each
  • Other airlines such as Air France, Delta, Etihad, Eurowings, Gulf Air, and Qatar Airways also reported single-digit delays.

Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) saw 20 cancellations and 104 delays.

Heaviest impacted carriers:

  • KLM: 16 cancelled, 43 delayed
  • Delta Air Lines: 1 cancelled, 7 delayed
  • easyJet: 11 delayed
  • Additional delays were reported by carriers including German Airways, Transavia, Vueling, China Cargo, Kuwait Airways, and Air India.

Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) had 13 cancellations and 104 delays.

Air France led with:

  • 8 cancellations and 58 delays

Other disruptions included:

  • Finnair: 3 cancellations
  • Air India and Cathay Pacific: 1 cancellation each
  • American, Emirates, Delta, United, and Qatar Airways each logged multiple delays
  • Regional players like Air Senegal, HOP!, and KM Malta Airlines were also impacted.

Far-Reaching Global Effects

The chaos was not limited to Europe. Given that all three airports serve as crucial transit points for flights to Asia, North America, and the Middle East, the disruptions had far-reaching implications. Airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Oman Air, and Saudia were also caught in the ripple effect.

Even a single delayed flight on these long-haul routes can create a chain of disruptions across an entire airline network. “Passengers are being advised to check their flight status directly with their airline and allow extra time for travel,” said an airport spokesperson. The interconnected nature of global aviation means that a breakdown in one hub can affect flights as far away as Dallas, Delhi, or Dubai.

As airlines and airport authorities worked throughout the day to regain control of their operations, the situation remained fluid. Experts warned that the global air travel ecosystem is so tightly linked that even small local disruptions can escalate into large-scale delays. One airline official summed it up by saying, “The sheer scale of global airline interdependence means even a localized hiccup in one of Europe’s major airports can cause delays and missed connections as far afield as Delhi, Dubai, or Dallas.”

In conclusion, today’s events highlighted the fragility of international flight networks. Despite no single catastrophic trigger, the interplay of multiple operational challenges across Europe’s busiest hubs caused widespread disruption. The episode underscores the need for better contingency planning and enhanced ground and staff readiness as the global air travel industry continues to recover and expand.

India Marks Historic Global Yoga Milestone in Guatemala with Over 10,000 Participants

Staff ReporterCulture, Cover, Diplomacy 0

In a landmark celebration of the International Day of Yoga, the Indian Embassy in Guatemala, representing the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), hosted the largest yoga gathering ever seen in Central America—and possibly outside India—on June 13, 2025. Held in San Pedro Carchá, Cobán, this monumental event attracted more than 10,000 yoga enthusiasts, marking a significant milestone in the promotion of yoga on the global stage. The event was jointly organized with the Municipality of San Pedro Carchá, the Association of Don Bosco Center, and supported by Alta Verapaz Governor Ms. Dilia Margarita Co Coy.

To set the stage for this mega celebration, the Embassy had already hosted two large prelude yoga events on June 11. The first was held in Izabal with around 550 participants, and the second in Chalal with a turnout of 1,500 people. These lead-up events highlighted the growing popularity of yoga across Guatemala’s interior regions.

The June 13 event saw full-fledged collaboration from several government bodies and private organizations. The Ministry of Education, Ministry of Defense, the host municipality, Don Bosco Center, Talita Kumu, and a number of Indian companies such as HCL Tech, TCS, Grupo Uma, Caplin Point, 24X7 a.i., Lukham Pharma, Krishper Healthcare, Strikar Pharma, Lakshmi Capital, Pradilsha, Khushi Enterprises, and Sierra Textiles contributed significantly. Their involvement ranged from participant mobilization and logistical support to offering promotional and wellness materials, making the event seamless and inclusive.

Youth participation was a focal point of the event. A staggering number of over 10,000 students from educational institutions in the region formed the heart of the audience. This overwhelming turnout was a testimony to how yoga is resonating deeply with Guatemala’s younger generation.

This grand event wasn’t a standalone success but the culmination of years of sustained efforts by the Indian Embassy. Starting in 2022 with 2,500 participants in Mariscal Zavala, participation grew steadily to 3,500 in 2023 and then 5,000 in 2024. With the number surpassing 10,000 this year, Guatemala has emerged as a leading country in promoting yoga with extraordinary energy and commitment. These annual celebrations have also been instrumental in bringing yoga to remote areas through free workshops, community programs, and school-based activities.

The event commenced on a solemn note with a one-minute silence to mourn the tragic loss of 274 lives in the plane crash that occurred in Ahmedabad, India, on June 12, 2025. Local Guatemalan dignitaries joined in paying their respects and expressing solidarity with India.

Following the tribute, a moving performance of the national anthems of Guatemala, India, and San Pedro Carchá was carried out by the Don Bosco Center’s Music Band Symphony Orchestra, representing the Music School-Art and Culture section.

Mayor Erwin Alfonso Catún Maquín of San Pedro Carchá formally opened the event, extending a warm welcome to all attendees. Remarks were also delivered by Governor Dilia Margarita Co Coy, representatives of the Don Bosco Association, and Indian Ambassador to Guatemala, Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra. The Ambassador emphasized yoga’s universal relevance, calling it “a powerful tool for peace and wellbeing.” He also presented three busts of Mahatma Gandhi to the Don Bosco institutions to symbolize India’s enduring values of peace and nonviolence.

Key contributors to the event received special honors during the ceremony. Commemorative plaques were handed out to sponsors, municipal partners, and Indian business representatives in recognition of their support. In his heartfelt address, Ambassador Mohapatra said, “I thank the ICCR and all our stakeholders for their pivotal role in making this the largest yoga gathering outside India.” He specially acknowledged the efforts of the San Pedro Carchá Municipality, headed by Mayor Maquín, and the Association of Don Bosco for their dynamic youth outreach.

He also credited the Ministry of Defense for their crucial role in crowd management and safety. Local vendors and partners who provided t-shirts, nutritious food, and transportation were praised for fostering an inclusive and celebratory environment. Governor Dilia Margarita Co Coy, Mayor Maquín, and Father Antonio de Groot of Don Bosco were honored for their invaluable contributions.

A notable moment of appreciation came from Prof. Indrajit S. Saluja, Publisher and Editor of The Indian Panorama, a digital weekly published from New York. He presented Ambassador Mohapatra with a replica of the Golden Temple, describing it as “a symbol of honor and recognition from the global Sikh community.”

Mayor Maquín expressed his gratitude to the Embassy and ICCR, stating, “We are proud to have been part of this historic event and pledge to continue promoting yoga as part of our community’s everyday life.” Indian business sponsors echoed these sentiments, proud to be part of a movement that enhances wellness and fosters deeper India-Guatemala ties. Contributions like yoga mats, refreshments, t-shirts, and water bottles ensured the event was accessible and welcoming to all.

The yoga session itself, led by Embassy Yoga teacher Ms. Ruth Morales, followed the Common Yoga Protocol under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” Participants of all ages, from students and teachers to military officers and civilians, participated enthusiastically. Under Morales’ guidance, they practiced asanas, pranayama, and meditation focused on physical fitness, mental clarity, and ecological harmony.

The visual of over 10,000 people practicing yoga in unison under the morning sun at the Juan Ramón Ponce Guay Stadium was nothing short of breathtaking. As the session ended, Mayor Maquín encouraged attendees to join him in a dance, which they did with infectious enthusiasm. Youth participation remained high-spirited throughout, even during the impromptu dance session.

Earlier that morning, folk dancers performed an electrifying routine inside the stadium, which was met with loud applause and joy from the attendees. As participants headed home, they were given refreshment bags, adding a thoughtful touch to the event.

Later, Mayor Maquín hosted a lunch in honor of the Indian Embassy staff and their guests. Among them were senior journalist and novelist Baldev Singh Grewal and acclaimed photographer Jay Mandal, both from New York, who were present to witness and document the celebration.

Following the success of this historic gathering, the Indian Embassy is now preparing to host additional International Day of Yoga events in San Salvador and Tegucigalpa on June 21, 2025. These upcoming celebrations, supported by local authorities and sponsors, aim to further amplify India’s message of health, harmony, and peace through yoga.

India’s growing impact in Guatemala has not only strengthened bilateral ties but also demonstrated the power of cultural diplomacy. Through yoga, India has united thousands across borders in a shared pursuit of well-being and inner peace.

H-1B Techie’s Green Card Dreams Derailed by Suspected Fake Job Applicants

Staff ReporterImmigration, Cover, USA 0

An H-1B visa holder working in the United States was recently hit with an unexpected and troubling setback from his employer—one that had nothing to do with his performance or qualifications, but rather with a suspicious surge of job applications. This tech professional, who shared his story online, is currently in his second year of employment as an Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer at a financial technology firm. His journey toward permanent residency in the U.S. was progressing until it was suddenly halted under questionable circumstances.

The company had initially planned to sponsor his green card under the “Data Scientist II” role—the same designation under which he was hired back in 2022. Everything seemed to be on track until earlier this month when the company’s immigration team suddenly decided to pause the PERM labor market process. The reason? They had received over 400 applications for the job opening posted as part of the labor certification requirement. Surprisingly, not a single interview was conducted before this abrupt decision was made.

According to the employee, the company feared that the sheer volume of applications could potentially trigger an audit by the U.S. Department of Labor. Such audits are often lengthy and complex, and companies typically prefer to avoid them due to the bureaucratic complications they entail. The techie also acknowledged a flaw in the process, admitting that the job description provided for the PERM process was vague and didn’t accurately represent the kind of work he actually performs.

In the time since the original PERM application process began, the H-1B worker has even received a promotion. He now holds the position of AI/ML Engineer III. With this new role, his employer has opted to restart the green card process from scratch, which includes preparing a new job posting and going through the labor market testing phase again.

But what’s more alarming about this entire episode is what it reveals about an emerging and disturbing trend. The unusually high number of applications received for the Data Scientist II role may not be entirely genuine. In fact, another user on social media highlighted the presence of an account on the platform X (formerly Twitter) that has been actively urging individuals to flood PERM job postings with applications. The account even boasted about the outcome of the exact scenario that this tech worker experienced, sharing celebratory posts whenever companies were forced to pull back from the green card sponsorship process due to overwhelming applicant numbers.

There appears to be a coordinated effort among some individuals online to disrupt the green card processes of H-1B visa holders by artificially inflating the number of applicants for labor certification jobs. Some of these users are openly admitting that they are applying for positions under the PERM process for which they are not remotely qualified. Their objective is not to secure the job, but to sabotage the path to permanent residency for foreign workers.

“This is weaponizing a system that is already skewed against immigrants,” one observer noted. U.S. citizens who participate in these tactics face no legal repercussions. They are allowed to apply for any job, even if they do not meet the qualifications or do not intend to accept the position if offered. As a result, the real cost is borne by the H-1B visa holders, who are already navigating a complex and uncertain immigration landscape.

For many foreign workers, the PERM process is an essential step toward obtaining a green card, which in turn provides a sense of security and stability in the U.S. However, the system requires the sponsoring employer to demonstrate that there are no qualified U.S. workers willing and available to take the job. This is typically done by advertising the job and allowing a window of time for applicants to respond. If qualified U.S. workers do apply, or if the volume of responses is unusually high, the process may be paused or even abandoned entirely, as companies fear scrutiny or delays from federal audits.

In this particular case, the flood of over 400 job applications—none of which resulted in interviews—has raised serious questions about the legitimacy of those applications. The affected H-1B techie, who had followed all the legal and professional steps to advance his career and permanent residency in the U.S., finds himself back at square one.

The employer’s decision to pause the PERM process and start anew might appear as a procedural reset, but it represents a significant emotional and professional setback for the worker. Not only does it delay his green card timeline, but it also places his future in the U.S. in jeopardy, especially given the limited duration of H-1B visas and the uncertainty involved in annual renewals.

This growing trend of sabotaging PERM listings could have far-reaching implications for the broader immigrant community in the U.S. It exposes a vulnerability in the labor certification system—one that can be exploited without consequence to deliberately derail the aspirations of skilled foreign workers.

The techie’s story highlights how a system designed to balance opportunities for domestic workers and foreign talent can be manipulated to serve exclusionary agendas. While immigration processes have always been subject to regulatory checks, this new wave of deliberate disruption is unprecedented in its scale and intent.

As the techie’s experience circulates online, it has sparked broader conversations about the fairness and resilience of the current immigration system. Supporters of H-1B workers argue that reform is urgently needed—not only to streamline the green card process but also to safeguard it from bad-faith actors who misuse the system for political or personal motives.

In the meantime, individuals like the AI/ML engineer at the center of this story are left to pick up the pieces and start over. Despite his qualifications, promotion, and proven contributions to his employer, he now faces yet another uphill battle to secure his place in a country he has already begun to call home.

There is little legal recourse for H-1B workers in such scenarios. The immigration system allows domestic applicants to flood listings without accountability, while foreign workers face strict scrutiny at every stage. In essence, those looking to derail green card sponsorships can do so freely, but the consequences fall squarely on the shoulders of the immigrants affected.

As one observer succinctly put it, “There is no legal trouble for anyone who is applying for these jobs. But for an H-1B techie chasing a secure future in the US, he pays a heavy price.”

UAE Unveils Groundbreaking High-Speed Rail Linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Staff ReporterEnvironment, Cover, Travel 0

High-speed train systems are becoming a global phenomenon, with rapid developments underway across continents—from Europe to North Africa and East Asia. Now, the Middle East is entering the scene with an ambitious new high-speed rail service that will link two of its most prominent cities: Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The announcement came during a ceremonial event held at the Al Faya Depot in Abu Dhabi. At the heart of this development is Etihad Rail, the national railway company, which is spearheading the creation of a high-speed train connecting the Emirati capital with Dubai.

Already recognized as one of the most advanced cities in the world in terms of public transportation, Abu Dhabi is set to enhance its connectivity even further. This new train service is expected to significantly ease the commute between the two cities, creating a smoother experience for both residents and tourists.

One of the most striking aspects of this upcoming service is its speed. The train is designed to travel at a maximum speed of 350 kilometers per hour. With this, the journey time between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will be cut down to a mere 30 minutes. This dramatic reduction in travel time is expected to make daily life more efficient and convenient for many, especially for those who frequently travel between the two cities for work or leisure.

The rail project is not just about speed and convenience; it also plays a critical role in the United Arab Emirates’ broader sustainability goals. It is closely aligned with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy, a national plan aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by mid-century. A statement from the official press release underlined the environmental benefits, explaining that the new railway is expected to contribute significantly to a greener and more sustainable mode of transportation.

Additionally, the development of the high-speed service is being viewed as a major step forward for the UAE’s global standing in the realm of sustainable infrastructure. The release expressed optimism that the project would enhance the nation’s international competitiveness. In the words of the official statement, the hope is that this development will “bolster the UAE’s competitiveness internationally when it comes to sustainable transport.”

Economically, the implications of this infrastructure advancement are equally compelling. Analysts and government officials are forecasting significant financial benefits. One projection suggests that the railway will contribute a remarkable AED145 billion to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the next 50 years. That’s an eye-opening one hundred and forty-five billion dirhams in added economic value.

But this high-speed line is just one part of a broader plan to expand and modernize the UAE’s public transport infrastructure. During the same ceremony, officials also unveiled the country’s first fleet of passenger trains. These trains are set to operate at speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour, catering to longer distances within the country and possibly the broader Gulf region.

As if that weren’t enough, the event also marked the introduction of the UAE’s first four passenger rail stations. These new stations will be located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. Importantly, they’ve been designed to seamlessly integrate with existing metro and bus networks. This integrated approach reflects a growing emphasis on making public transport more efficient, connected, and accessible to the population at large.

The ceremony at Al Faya Depot thus served as more than just an announcement of a new train. It showcased a holistic vision for the future of mobility in the UAE. The inclusion of stations in different emirates also points to a long-term goal of fostering national unity and regional development, with rail travel acting as a catalyst for both.

With work now moving forward, residents and stakeholders alike are looking to the future with anticipation. Once operational, the high-speed train is expected to transform the way people travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. For daily commuters, it means spending less time on the road and more time at work or home. For tourists, it offers a faster, more scenic, and eco-friendly way to explore the region.

All of this is in line with the UAE’s broader ambitions to position itself as a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and infrastructure development. The unveiling of these projects reflects a national commitment to long-term progress that is both economically and environmentally responsible.

In summary, the UAE’s new high-speed rail link between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is much more than just a transportation upgrade. It’s a symbol of the country’s forward-thinking vision, one that encompasses environmental sustainability, economic growth, and improved quality of life for its citizens and visitors alike. With trains expected to zip along at 350 kilometers per hour and reach their destination in just 30 minutes, the project promises to be a game-changer for the region.

As the official press release noted, the initiative will “vastly improve connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai” while also reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to a more sustainable future. Furthermore, projections indicate that the project will “improve the country’s GDP by a staggering AED145 billion over the next five decades.”

During the event, attendees were also introduced to “the UAE’s first passenger train fleet,” capable of speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. Additionally, the presentation of “the country’s first four passenger rail stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah” highlighted how these stations have been “designed to integrate with metro and bus services.”

By combining rapid transit with environmentally conscious goals and substantial economic foresight, the UAE is laying down the tracks—both literal and figurative—for a more connected and sustainable future.

India Hopes for Early Trade Deal with U.S. Before Tariffs Kick In: Piyush Goyal

Staff ReporterEconomy, Cover, Diplomacy 0

As the deadline approaches for the U.S. to implement “reciprocal tariffs” on Indian goods beginning July 9, Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has voiced cautious optimism that both countries may sign an initial segment of a broader trade agreement before that date. Although hopeful, Goyal refrained from confirming whether a preliminary deal would indeed be finalized in time.

“We are in continuous dialogue. I have always been an optimist,” Goyal remarked during an interview with The Hindu on the sidelines of the India Global Forum 2025 conference held in London.

Expressing confidence in the partnership between the two countries, he added, “I’m very confident that, given that the U.S. and India are very friendly countries, trusted partners, both wanting to have resilient, reliable, trusted supply chains, both vibrant democracies, we will be able to come up with a win-win for the businesses of both countries.” Without a deal, Indian exports to the U.S. could face a steep 26% tariff starting in early July.

While there is urgency surrounding the negotiations, Goyal chose not to disclose whether the initial portion of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) under discussion would include sensitive sectors such as dairy and agriculture. When questioned on this, he stated, “I think negotiations are best left to the negotiators and the negotiating table. We will, of course, inform the media at the right time.”

He was similarly tight-lipped regarding the impact of the expiration of the U.S. Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) on the overall agreement. The TPA is a legislative mechanism allowing the U.S. President to expedite trade deals, especially those involving tariffs lower than the standard Most-Favoured Nation (MFN) rates offered under the World Trade Organization (WTO) guidelines.

Earlier in the day, Goyal shared a platform with his British counterpart, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, during a moderated session. Their appearance followed the recent conclusion of a free trade agreement between India and the United Kingdom on May 6. Goyal attributed the success of that deal to mutual respect for each other’s concerns and the willingness to set aside issues that were not immediately negotiable.

Turning attention to India’s ongoing trade discussions with the European Union, Goyal said that the aim was to wrap up a comprehensive trade pact by the end of the current calendar year. When asked whether the agreement would be finalized as a full-scale deal or as an interim arrangement, he responded by invoking a metaphor. “There’s that famous English phrase…since we are in Great Britain…‘the air is pregnant with possibilities,’” he said, emphasizing that the exact nature and form of the final deal remained undetermined at this stage.

On the question of whether the return of Donald Trump and his “America First” policy to the U.S. presidency had any bearing on India’s negotiations with the European Union, Goyal dismissed such notions, stating that bilateral talks are generally insulated from third-party influences. His comments came a week after European Union Foreign Minister Kaja Kallas called the EU a “reliable, predictable and credible partner for India” during a joint press briefing with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Since Trump’s return to power, various countries have been reevaluating their diplomatic and trade ties with Washington.

Goyal, however, maintained that bilateral negotiations operate independently of geopolitical shifts. “I don’t think there’s any impact of any other situation on a negotiation between two countries, because these negotiations are not a short-term arrangement. These are like long-term marriages you are negotiating after crystal-gazing … 25 years, 50 years, into the future,” he explained.

Commenting on the future of multilateral trade, Goyal reiterated India’s commitment to the World Trade Organization (WTO), despite growing skepticism in the global community about the body’s efficacy. He emphasized that the WTO still plays a significant role in maintaining global trade norms and frameworks, even as the U.S. steps back from multilateralism under the Trump administration.

“[India] believes we have to strengthen the WTO over the next few years through dialogue and discussions and will continue to play an increasingly important role to promote multilateralism,” Goyal stated. He underscored India’s belief in the importance of global cooperation through established institutions.

Meanwhile, India has also informed the WTO of its right to consider retaliatory tariffs in response to the U.S.’s decision to increase import duties on steel and aluminum. This move serves as a signal of India’s readiness to respond firmly when its trade interests are affected.

Addressing a specific issue involving Tata Steel, Goyal said that the Indian government had not raised the matter directly with British authorities. Tata Steel owns the Port Talbot steel plant in South Wales, which has faced operational adjustments, including sourcing raw materials from India and Europe, after its blast furnace was shut down last year. The plant is scheduled to transition to an electric arc furnace by 2027.

These adjustments may complicate matters if the U.S. insists on tighter rules regarding input materials before granting tariff reductions as part of any UK-U.S. agreement. According to a report by The Guardian, the Trump administration has warned that it may continue imposing a 25% tariff on British steel unless the UK can assure that Tata Steel’s inputs comply with American standards.

When asked whether India had intervened or planned to intervene on behalf of Tata Steel in negotiations with the U.K. or the U.S., Goyal replied bluntly, “That, the U.K., has to negotiate with the U.S.”

In summary, Goyal’s remarks convey a cautiously hopeful tone regarding an initial trade pact between India and the U.S. before the July 9 tariff deadline. While refraining from revealing specifics, his comments stress India’s readiness to pursue long-term, mutually beneficial agreements rooted in trust and democratic values. He emphasized the importance of resilience in supply chains, bilateral respect in negotiations, and the continued relevance of multilateral platforms such as the WTO.

Trump Considers Joining Israeli Strikes on Iran as Tehran Seeks Talks

Staff ReporterDiplomacy, Cover, USA 0

President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he is deliberating whether the United States should participate in Israeli military strikes on Iran. He also claimed that Iranian officials had approached the U.S. seeking negotiations to resolve the intensifying conflict.

Trump made these remarks while observing the installation of a new flagpole at the White House. Indicating growing impatience, he emphasized that his tolerance for Tehran’s actions had already worn thin and reiterated his demand for Iran’s complete and unconditional capitulation. “My patience had already run out,” he declared, adding once again his call for the Islamic republic’s “unconditional surrender.”

Addressing reporters from the South Lawn, Trump responded ambiguously when asked if he had made a final decision on launching American airstrikes. “I may do it, I may not do it. I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do,” he said, maintaining his characteristically unpredictable stance.

The escalating situation follows Israeli military actions targeting Iran, including reports that one of Israel’s drones was downed over Iranian territory. Despite the rising tensions, Trump pointed to Iran’s growing difficulties as a sign that the country was feeling pressure. “I can tell you this, that Iran’s got a lot of trouble, and they want to negotiate,” Trump stated.

According to the president, Iranian officials had even proposed dispatching envoys to the White House to open discussions focused on Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, hoping such talks could put an end to Israel’s continuing air campaign. However, Trump appeared dismissive of the proposal’s timing. “I said it’s very late to be talking. We may meet. There’s a big difference between now and a week ago, right? Big difference,” he remarked.

Still, Trump acknowledged the gravity of Iran’s overture, describing the offer as a bold move on Tehran’s part. “They’ve suggested that they come to the White House. That’s, you know, courageous, but it’s, like, not easy for them to do,” he said. Despite calling it “very late,” Trump did not rule out the possibility of engagement. When asked directly whether it was too late for negotiations, he replied, “Nothing is too late.”

This moment marks a significant shift in Trump’s approach to Iran. During his presidency, he initially favored a diplomatic strategy aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear program, seeking a new deal to replace the 2015 agreement he had withdrawn from in 2018. However, with Israel’s recent air assaults now in their sixth day, Trump appears to be aligning more closely with America’s key Middle Eastern ally, signaling a willingness to consider military measures.

In parallel, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed lawmakers on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, confirming that the Pentagon is supplying President Trump with potential strategies regarding Iran. However, he stopped short of revealing whether the U.S. military intended to participate directly in Israeli-led strikes.

Hegseth’s comments came during a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, the final installment in a series of sometimes confrontational sessions with legislators. Throughout the hearings, he has faced questions on a range of topics, including his controversial use of encrypted messaging app Signal for sensitive military communications earlier this year and the Pentagon’s policies on transgender troops.

During his testimony, Hegseth emphasized that the Pentagon was taking extensive precautions to safeguard American forces stationed in West Asia. “Maximum force protection” is being implemented, he confirmed. However, he made it clear that the decision to escalate militarily rested solely with President Trump.

One potential course of action under discussion is the provision of a powerful “bunker buster” bomb to Israel. Such a weapon would enable Israeli forces to strike deeply buried Iranian nuclear sites. However, deploying this bomb would necessitate the involvement of a U.S. B-2 stealth bomber and its pilot, a step that would bring the United States directly into the conflict. Hegseth offered no details about whether such an action was imminent or likely.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei publicly rejected the notion of surrender. In a stern warning aimed at Washington, he vowed never to capitulate and cautioned that U.S. intervention could lead to severe consequences. Khamenei stated that Iran would “never surrender” and warned of “irreparable damage” should the United States choose to get involved in the confrontation.

Trump’s rhetoric and the White House’s increased openness to military involvement underscore the shifting dynamics in U.S. foreign policy toward Iran. The administration, once focused on re-negotiating nuclear terms, is now appearing more inclined toward the use of force. Yet even as he threatens military options, Trump continues to leave the door to diplomacy ajar, albeit narrowly.

By highlighting Iran’s proposed diplomatic outreach, Trump portrays the regime as desperate and vulnerable, yet at the same time, he emphasizes that any resolution would come on America’s terms. This dual strategy of pressure and ambiguity—while maintaining a veneer of openness to negotiation—reflects a characteristic Trumpian approach to foreign crises.

The possibility of U.S. engagement in Israeli military actions represents a dramatic escalation in regional tensions. It would also mark a decisive turn from previous American positions that often aimed to avoid direct conflict in the Middle East. Now, as Israel intensifies its campaign and Iran signals a potential willingness to talk, the world watches closely to see whether Trump’s next move will be diplomatic, military, or—as is often the case with him—something entirely unpredictable.

-+=