Friday, March 13, 2026

Hormuz miscalculation? Trump sideswiped by Iran's closure of Strait March 13, 2026 at 12:28AM

Washington underestimated Iran's threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, causing global oil market jitters. Despite planning, economic fallout wasn't fully accounted for, leaving the US scrambling. While officials claim preparedness, limited options and high risks for naval escorts are evident. Iran signals the strait's closure remains a pressure tool.

Afghanistan hits Pakistan's Kohat military fort in retaliatory drone strikes March 12, 2026 at 10:52PM

Afghanistan retaliated against Pakistani strikes that killed four in Kabul and Kandahar. Afghan forces claimed to have targeted Pakistani military centers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including a fortress and command center, following alleged "night-time violations" along the disputed Durand Line. This escalation intensifies existing tensions between the two nations.

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Citibank temporarily shuts most UAE branches from March 12–14, shifts staff to remote work March 12, 2026 at 12:27AM

Citibank has temporarily closed most of its branches and financial centers across the UAE from March 12-14 as a precautionary measure due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Mall of the Emirates branch will remain open, and digital services are fully operational. Other global banks are also implementing similar safety measures.

“Run completely by Indians?”: Canadian Chairman faces backlash for calling out Indian-origin members in government agency March 11, 2026 at 11:31PM