Trump says Hormuz open, but Iran's blockade stays

IANS | April 17, 2026 7:28 PM

Washington, April 17 (IANS) The Strait of Hormuz has been declared “completely open” for commercial shipping during a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East, even as the United States signalled it would maintain a targetted naval blockade on Iran, underscoring the fragile and conditional nature of the breakthrough.

IPL 2026: Seifert replaces Allen as KKR elect to bat first against unchanged GT

IANS | April 17, 2026 7:21 PM

Ahmedabad, April 17 (IANS) Kolkata Knight Riders have won the toss and elected to bat first against Gujarat Titans in Match 25 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday. GT are coming into their home clash after consecutive wins, while KKR are in search of their first win in the competition.

India, Norway review trade growth, explore investment opportunities

IANS | April 17, 2026 7:09 PM

New Delhi, April 17 (IANS) India and Norway on Friday reviewed the global and domestic economic outlook, noting the need for resilient supply chains, energy security, climate transition, and stronger trade and investment linkages in a period of geopolitical uncertainty.

Courts must identify points for determination even in ex parte proceedings: SC

IANS | April 17, 2026 7:05 PM

New Delhi, April 17 (IANS) The Supreme Court has held that while framing of issues in an ex parte civil suit is not mandatory, courts are nevertheless obligated to identify and adjudicate the "points for determination" and deliver a reasoned judgment in conformity with the provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC).

China expanding in South China Sea as US remains distracted: Report

IANS | April 17, 2026 7:03 PM

Naypyidaw, April 17 (IANS) A global artery of commerce is slipping into the grips of Beijing as the US remains distracted with the ongoing conflict in West Asia, a report has highlighted. Antelope Reef in the South China Sea is being transformed into an artificial fortress by China - an example of what happens when the vigilance wavers, Linn Maung wrote in Mekong News.