US calls allies to secure Hormuz route

IANS | May 5, 2026 9:19 PM

Washington, May 5 (IANS) The United States on Tuesday urged its allies to step up and share responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a push towards a broader international role in safeguarding one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes.

Urgent need for intl response as persecution of Christians rises in Pakistan: Report

IANS | May 5, 2026 9:17 PM

Islamabad, May 5 (IANS) Even though the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) recently urged the US government to redesignate Pakistan as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), the persecution of Christians continues to rise in Pakistan, demonstrating the urgent need for an international response, a report has highlighted.

Pakistan talking peace while waging war with Afghanistan: Report

IANS | May 5, 2026 8:56 PM

Islamabad, May 5 (IANS) Pakistan is talking peace while waging war with Afghanistan. While portraying itself as a diplomatic actor committed to talks by attending formal and informal negotiations, backing Track 1.5 processes in Istanbul and indicating openness for de-escalation, Pakistan is also using coercion and pressure to influence Afghanistan, a report has detailed.

US launches mission to break Gulf blockade

IANS | May 5, 2026 8:11 PM

Washington, May 5 (IANS) The United States has launched a military mission to break what it calls Iran’s blockade of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, deploying warships and aircraft to escort vessels through one of the world’s most critical oil routes.