S. Korea in consultation with Iran, others to secure ship passage

IANS | March 21, 2026 3:35 PM

Seoul, March 21 (IANS) South Korea is in close talks with countries, including Iran, to ensure a swift normalisation of the Strait of Hormuz after Tehran said it is ready to allow Japan-bound vessels to pass through the sea route virtually closed in the wake of the Middle East crisis, a foreign ministry official said on Saturday.

Pakistan faces severe energy risk over West Asia conflict: Report

IANS | March 21, 2026 2:54 PM

New Delhi, March 21 (IANS) As geopolitical tensions in West Asia entered 22nd day -- with major oil fields reportedly damaged on both sides -- Pakistan, an energy-import dependent economy, is facing heightened risks of economic and financial instability, a new report has said.