Pakistan appears increasingly caught in a difficult position as the conflict involving Saudi Arabia and Iran-backed Houthi forces intensifies.

The Mecca Pact between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey has added another layer of pressure, with the agreement committing the countries to treat an attack on one as an attack on all. Islamabad is now facing questions over whether the escalating Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia could eventually force it to respond.

At the same time, the Houthi push toward Yemen’s Red Sea coastline is raising fresh concerns over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, one of the world’s key maritime trade routes. Any major disruption could further threaten global shipping and energy supplies, particularly as the wider Hormuz crisis continues to affect oil markets.

Pakistan has long sought to balance its relationships with both Saudi Arabia and Iran. With tensions rising across West Asia, that balancing act is facing one of its biggest tests yet.

Watch the full report for the latest developments, Pakistan’s dilemma and the growing risks to regional and global energy security.

Mecca Pact Traps Pakistan in Its Most Dangerous War | GRAVITAS 

Saudi Arabia is creating an alternative oil export route through the Red Sea as security threats disrupt shipping around the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

The kingdom is using tankers to transport crude from its Red Sea port of Yanbu to Ain Sokhna in Egypt. From there, the oil can travel north through Egypt's SUMED pipeline to Sidi Kerir on the Mediterranean coast, allowing Saudi crude to reach international markets without relying entirely on vulnerable maritime routes.

The alternative route has gained importance after Yemen's Houthi forces announced a blockade targeting vessels loaded at Yanbu.

Saudi Arabia Creates New Red Sea Oil Route As Houthi Threats Disrupt Shipping

Welcome to Beyond World with Rhythm Sharma. Here are the latest international, national and regional headlines.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged that Iranian citizens are facing numerous problems as the United States imposes a new wave of sanctions aimed at further isolating Iran's economy.

Tensions remain high around the Israel-Gaza conflict as deadly air strikes in Gaza raise fresh questions over whether US diplomatic efforts can advance a proposed long-term ceasefire in the Palestinian territory.

In Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy welcomes Nordic and Baltic leaders in Kyiv as the country marks National Flag Day.

India-China relations are also in focus, with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval scheduled to visit China for a meeting of the Special Representatives on the boundary issue with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

In Indian politics, BJP president Nitin Nabin holds an intensive meeting with party office-bearers to discuss organisational matters and strategy ahead of high-stakes assembly elections expected in seven states next year.

Delhi has stepped up health vigilance amid a rise in swine flu cases, with the city's health minister issuing directives to hospitals and officials.

In Belgium, around 700 people gathered near Bernes-sur-Oise following a call by organisations focused on bird protection and environmental concerns.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is facing challenges in exporting oil through the Red Sea as Houthi threats disrupt shipping. Riyadh has shifted some crude exports north via Yanbu, while Egypt is using alternative routes to bypass the disruption and maintain oil exports.

Watch the full bulletin for the latest developments in global politics, West Asia, India-China relations, Indian politics, health alerts, environmental protests and the international energy market.

Iran Sanctions | Gaza Strikes | India-China Talks | Ukraine Crisis | Delhi Swine Flu | Saudi Oil

Saudi Arabia's Red Sea oil shipments are increasingly disappearing from tracking systems as tanker operators reportedly switch off their Automatic Identification Systems amid growing fears of Houthi attacks.

The development comes as the Houthis intensify threats against Saudi-linked shipping and oil infrastructure, putting a key route for global energy supplies under mounting pressure.

Recent Houthi attacks have targeted commercial shipping in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, while the group has also claimed attacks involving Saudi oil infrastructure, including the Yanbu oil hub and Aramco facilities in Jazan.

The disruption is making it harder for traders and energy agencies to determine how much Saudi crude is actually being shipped. Estimates of recent Yanbu loadings have reportedly varied significantly between shipping-data providers.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia appears to be moving more crude north through the Red Sea, while risks around the Suez Canal, Bab al-Mandab and Strait of Hormuz continue to complicate global energy flows.

Saudi Oil Tankers Go Dark Amid Houthi Attacks | Houthi Attacks Shake Red Sea Energy Route

Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels are escalating their campaign against Saudi Arabia, targeting Saudi interests and threatening critical energy and maritime infrastructure.

The latest escalation comes after Saudi Arabia signed a new defence pact with Türkiye and Pakistan, raising questions over how the new alliance could respond to attacks from the Houthis. Reuters reported that a Houthi drone attack targeted Saudi Aramco’s Jazan refinery, with the fire subsequently extinguished and no casualties reported.

Yemen's Houthis Attack Saudi Targets, Ally Pakistan Watches on 

The Strait of Hormuz crisis is emerging as one of the biggest challenges for global energy security, with Iran claiming it now holds the upper hand over the vital waterway.

Iranian officials say Washington may have to accept Tehran’s terms for managing maritime traffic through the strait. The development comes after months of disruption and growing tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel.

The Strait of Hormuz has historically carried roughly 20 million barrels of oil per day, representing around a fifth of global oil consumption. Any prolonged disruption could therefore have major consequences for energy markets, shipping and the global economy.

At the same time, Gulf countries are exploring alternative routes. Saudi Arabia is considering expanding its east-west pipeline toward Yanbu on the Red Sea, while Kuwait is discussing expanded pipeline connections through Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The UAE already operates the Habshan-Fujairah pipeline, allowing crude to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.

Iraq is also examining alternative routes toward the Red Sea and Mediterranean, while Iran itself has developed infrastructure intended to reduce its dependence on Hormuz.

But experts warn that existing alternatives can absorb only a portion of the oil normally transported through the strait, while constructing major new pipelines could take years.

Iran Tightens Grip on Hormuz | Trump Faces Tough Choices as Gulf States Seek Alternative Oil Routes

The Houthi rebels are expanding their role in the West Asia conflict by targeting Saudi oil tankers and tightening their maritime blockade in the Red Sea. Yemeni authorities accuse the Iran-backed group of copying Tehran's strategy in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.

With attacks on energy infrastructure, threats to global shipping, and reports that the Houthis may seek to charge vessels for safe passage, concerns are growing over the security of one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes.

Houthis Copy Iran’s Strategy? Red Sea Blockade Threatens Global Shipping

West Asia remains on edge as Iran launched a major retaliatory strike targeting a key U.S. military base in Kuwait after Washington paused fresh attacks. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claims it targeted fighter jet shelters, satellite communications, and military infrastructure, while Kuwait says its air defenses intercepted the incoming drones.

The conflict is expanding across multiple fronts. Iran also claims to have intercepted oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, while the Iran-backed Houthis continue to threaten shipping in the Red Sea, prompting Saudi Arabia and regional allies to form a new maritime security coalition.

Iran Strikes U.S. Base in Kuwait as Trump Faces Growing Pressure Over West Asia War

The conflict in West Asia has intensified once again as the United States launched a fresh wave of military strikes against Iran, following Tehran's missile attacks targeting American bases in Jordan. The renewed escalation comes after nearly a week-long pause in hostilities, raising fresh concerns over regional stability. According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes were carried out in response to attempted Iranian attacks on US forces stationed across the region. Iran confirmed launching ballistic missiles toward US positions in Jordan, while the US said all incoming missiles were successfully intercepted.

US-Iran Conflict Escalates: Fresh Strikes, Missile Attacks and Rising West Asia Tensions

The war in West Asia is entering a dangerous new phase as the conflict spreads beyond Iran and Israel, drawing more countries into the escalating crisis. Egypt has reported a drone attack near its strategic Mediterranean port of Damietta, while the United States and Saudi Arabia have jointly launched airstrikes against Iran-backed armed groups in eastern Iraq. The latest developments come after Washington resumed military strikes on Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate with fresh attacks across the region.

According to reports, Jordan intercepted missiles fired from Iran, while Kuwait reported that an Iranian strike hit a building belonging to a Chinese company, resulting in casualties. Meanwhile, Egypt's Damietta Port, a key energy and shipping hub, was targeted in a drone attack that damaged gas-related infrastructure, raising fresh concerns over the security of global energy supply routes.

West Asia War Expands as Egypt Hit, US-Saudi Strikes Iraq and Iran Launches Fresh Attacks

US President Donald Trump has issued a fresh warning to Iran after Tehran launched missile attacks targeting American military assets in the Gulf region. The escalation comes after a three-day pause in hostilities between Washington and Tehran, with fighting now spreading to new fronts.

Iranian state media released footage claiming to show missile launches targeting US air bases in Jordan. Jordan's military said its air defence systems intercepted several missiles before they reached their targets.

In response, the United States, alongside Saudi Arabia, carried out joint air strikes against positions linked to Iran-backed groups in eastern Iraq. The strikes reportedly killed members of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces and injured dozens more.

Trump Warns Iran After Missile Attacks On US Forces | US-Iran War Expands Across Middle East

The conflict in West Asia has intensified after joint US-Saudi airstrikes in Iraq reportedly killed at least 20 members of a former paramilitary alliance linked to pro-Iran groups. The strikes came as Iran launched ballistic missiles targeting US military positions, while the US military claimed all incoming missiles were successfully intercepted.

Meanwhile, Iran says it struck oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz and has proposed a temporary maritime arrangement with Oman to manage shipping routes through the strategic waterway. Saudi Arabia also reported intercepting drones targeting key oil facilities, while Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for attacks on a Saudi oil tanker in the Red Sea.

US-Saudi Strikes Kill 20 in Iraq | Iran Fires Missiles, Targets Oil Tankers | Hormuz Crisis Deepens

Iran has warned that any renewed US military strikes, especially alongside Israel, could trigger a wider regional conflict across West Asia. The warning comes ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, as tensions continue to rise. Meanwhile, Yemen's Houthi rebels launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi Aramco facilities in Jazan and Yanbu, threatening key global energy routes. The conflict has raised concerns over the security of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and global oil supplies, while Iran insists that diplomacy—not military escalation is the only path forward.

Iran Warns of Wider West Asia War | Houthi Strikes Saudi Aramco |US, Israel, Saudi Tensions Escalate

Iran has issued a fresh warning against the United Kingdom, threatening to target RAF Fairford after accusing Britain of assisting US military strikes on Iranian territory. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared that any military base used to launch attacks on Iran is now a legitimate target. The warning comes after reports that a US Air Force B-1 bomber departed from RAF Fairford, a major American forward operating base in England, fueling speculation over Britain's role in the escalating West Asia conflict.

Iran threatens UK airbase after US Strikes | RAF Fairford faces warning as Middle East war escalates

Get the latest global headlines, breaking news updates, and major developments from India and around the world.

In today's bulletin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announces fast-track courts for paper leak cases, assuring strict action against those affecting the future of India's youth amid ongoing student protests and political tensions.

Meanwhile, China-India relations take a diplomatic turn as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi says Beijing is ready to handle sensitive issues with New Delhi and strengthen cooperation during talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.

In the Middle East, US forces continue strikes on Iran, targeting military facilities, missile sites, drone systems, maritime assets, and air defense networks as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalate.

Other top stories include:

Saudi vessel hit in Red Sea as Houthi rebels claim tanker attack
US defense spending bill moves forward amid Iran war debate
Ukraine peace efforts continue with US diplomatic talks
Deadly attacks in Nigeria and Thailand raise security concerns
France wildfires force thousands to evacuate
Samsung semiconductor bonus dispute sparks worker tensions
Global climate, economy, technology, and geopolitical updates

Watch the full episode for the latest world news, international affairs, geopolitics, breaking news, economy, technology, and current affairs updates.



PM Modi's Paper leak crackdown | US-Iran war escalation | China-India talks & global Crisis

The world's biggest stories in one bulletin! In today's Breaking World News, the US military launched another wave of strikes on Iranian military targets, marking the 12th consecutive night of attacks as tensions in the Middle East continue to rise. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia confirmed a tanker was hit in the Red Sea, while Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for attacks on shipping.

In Asia, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, reaffirming Beijing's commitment to strengthening China-India ties and resolving sensitive issues through dialogue.

Back in India, security remains tight at Delhi's Jantar Mantar as the CJP-led protest continues, with 16 Delhi Metro stations closed amid fresh tensions.

This bulletin also covers:

US-Iran conflict latest updates
China-India diplomatic talks
Saudi tanker attack in the Red Sea
Ukraine peace negotiations
Deadly attacks in Nigeria
France wildfire forces mass evacuations
Google parent Alphabet beats earnings expectations with AI-driven growth
Global political, military, business, and climate updates

Stay tuned to Beyond World Is One for the latest international news, geopolitical developments, and breaking headlines from around the globe.

CJP Protest | China-India Talks |  US Strikes Iran | Ukraine Peace Talks | Nigeria Attack | Wildfire

The Middle East conflict has entered another dangerous phase as the United States launched its 12th consecutive night of strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure. President Donald Trump declared that Iran is "not ready to make a deal," while insisting Tehran will eventually agree under mounting military pressure.

Meanwhile, Yemen's Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, intensifying fears over global shipping routes and energy security. Kuwait reported intercepting hostile drones, while the US House approved a $95 billion budget package supporting operations linked to the Iran conflict. The United States and Saudi Arabia also signed a landmark civil nuclear cooperation agreement. In South America, mass protests erupted in Argentina against President Javier Milei's austerity measures, while Tesla missed Wall Street expectations despite billion-dollar profits.

US hits Iran for 12th night | Trump says Iran not ready for deal | Houthis strike Saudi tankers

The US-Iran conflict has entered a dangerous new phase as American forces carried out their 11th consecutive night of strikes on Iranian military targets. Iran responded with fresh regional attacks while tensions spread across Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump warned that Washington is "not finished" with Iran and threatened further strikes on fortified nuclear facilities. Meanwhile, the Houthis' blockade threats and disruptions to global shipping continue raising fears of a wider regional war and an energy crisis.


US-Iran war escalates: Trump warns more strikes as Hormuz Crisis deepens | West Asia War

The US-Iran conflict has entered a dangerous new phase as both countries exchanged heavy strikes overnight, escalating tensions across the Middle East. The United States reportedly targeted key infrastructure inside Iran, while Tehran responded with attacks on American military installations and strategic assets across the Gulf region. According to reports, Iran claimed strikes on US military facilities in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain, while also targeting critical infrastructure linked to American operations. The conflict has also intensified around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes, raising fears of a wider regional war and disruptions to global energy supplies.

US-Iran war escalates | Iran strikes US bases in gulf after American airstrikes | Strait of Hormuz 

Yemen's Houthi rebels claim they have shot down a Saudi-operated reconnaissance drone over Al Bayda Governorate, marking another escalation in regional tensions. The announcement comes after the Houthis accused Saudi Arabia of targeting Sana'a International Airport and vowed retaliation.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council has extended its monitoring of Houthi attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The United States urged stronger enforcement of the arms embargo, accusing the Houthis of acting as an Iranian proxy, while China criticized Washington's role in fueling regional instability

Houthis shoot down Saudi drone | Red Sea crisis deepens | UN extends Houthis ' shipping monitoring 

The US isn’t just defending ships, it’s waging an escalating war in West Asia. With airstrikes in Yemen, a naval standoff in the Red Sea, and a direct confrontation with the Houthis, Washington’s so-called “defensive” operations now look like open warfare.
It’s an undeclared, open conflict spanning Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen, pulling West Asia into deeper chaos.

Trump's First War: US intensifies strikes against Houthis in Yemen

The US has launched a new airstrike campaign against Yemen's Houthi rebels, targeting ranking personnel and urban areas. Watch this report for more details!

US launches new wave of strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen

<p>The Red Sea is one of the world's most critical trade routes, connecting continents through the Suez Canal. The transit accounts for 12 per cent of global trade and 40 per cent of Asia-Europe trade. However, this route has been under severe strain amid Houthi attacks. Major firms are now avoiding the route, forcing ships to reroute to Africa's Cape of Good Hope, which has increased shipping time by 10 to 12 days.</p>
<h2>Impact on the shipping industry</h2>
<p>This prolonged crisis has had a paradoxical effect on the shipping industry. Profits are boosted despite increasing costs due to disruptions. Reduced capacity has led to higher freight rates, helping the company's bottom lines. Maersk, for example, indicated that Red Sea closures could drive higher earnings.</p>
<h2>Impact on global oil trade</h2>
<p>Oil &amp; Gas shipments have been under siege all along the Red Sea route. Till last year, around 6.2 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products transit through the route daily. This number has been reduced by half, severely impacting Europe's energy supply.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The market has seen constant price fluctuations. Insurance costs have also surged, rising to as high as 2 per cent, adding millions in expenses per voyage. Cargo insurance rates have also spiked, making the Suez Canal route financially unviable for many shipping lanes.</p>
<h2>Impact on consumers &amp; climate</h2>
<p>Global importers have absorbed rising costs so far, but prolonged instability could fuel inflation. European businesses, heavily reliant on Red Sea trade, face delays and higher shipping costs. Rising costs of essentials are already reshaping consumer preferences. Continued Red Sea attacks can deepen this crisis.</p>
<p>Climate costs are also mounting amid rising tensions. Rerouted ships travelling up to 60 per cent farther are burning more fuel. Carbon emissions have also increased by an estimated 40 per cent voyage.&nbsp;</p>
<p>With no immediate solution in sight, Global shipping continues to navigate uncertainty in the Red Sea.</p>

Business Economy, This prolonged crisis has had a paradoxical effect on the shipping industry. Profits are boosted despite increasing costs due to disruptions.

The Red Sea is one of the world's most critical trade routes, connecting continents through the Suez Canal. The transit accounts for 12 per cent of global trade and 40 per cent of Asia-Europe trade. However, this route has been under severe strain amid Houthi attacks. Major firms are now avoiding the route, forcing ships to reroute to Africa's Cape of Good Hope, which has increased shipping time by 10 to 12 days. Impact on the shipping industry This prolonged crisis has had a paradoxical effect on the shipping industry. Profits are boosted despite increasing costs due to disruptions. Reduced capacity has led to higher freight rates, helping the company's bottom lines. Maersk, for example, indicated that Red Sea closures could drive higher earnings. Impact on global oil trade Oil & Gas shipments have been under siege all along the Red Sea route. Till last year, around 6.2 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products transit through the route daily. This number has been reduced by half, severely impacting Europe's energy supply. The market has seen constant price fluctuations. Insurance costs have also surged, rising to as high as 2 per cent, adding millions in expenses per voyage. Cargo insurance rates have also spiked, making the Suez Canal route financially unviable for many shipping lanes. Impact on consumers & climate Global importers have absorbed rising costs so far, but prolonged instability could fuel inflation. European businesses, heavily reliant on Red Sea trade, face delays and higher shipping costs. Rising costs of essentials are already reshaping consumer preferences. Continued Red Sea attacks can deepen this crisis. Climate costs are also mounting amid rising tensions. Rerouted ships travelling up to 60 per cent farther are burning more fuel. Carbon emissions have also increased by an estimated 40 per cent voyage. With no immediate solution in sight, Global shipping continues to navigate uncertainty in the Red Sea.

Red Sea crisis: What it means for the shipping industry, consumers, and climate

US airstrikes targeted several locations under the control of the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The strikes hit the rebel-held capital, Sanaa, as well as their stronghold of Saada in the country's northwest. Watch in for more details!

Trump vows to 'annihilate' Houthis, Iran next?

US-Houthis Conflict: Trump threatens Houthi rebels that they'll be 'completely annihilated'

US-Houthis Conflict: US airstrikes pound Houthi targets in Yemen

The Iran backed Houthis have intensified their attacks on Maritime vessels posing a serious threat to global trade and the environment. Watch WION for more updates.

Houthis attack cargo ship linked to Israel in Gulf of Aden

#Gravitas | Cheap Houthi drones, made from scraps have become a big challenge for the U.S. as its leads efforts to protect Red Sea shipping from the Yemen-based group. According to reports, the fight against Houthis is putting pressure on Pentagon budget.

Gravitas: Cheap Houthi Drones, Made From Scraps Pose a Big Challenge for U.S.

The troubling developments continue in the Red Sea, the Houthis have launched a series of attacks on commercial ships and this is concerning for both frequency and effectiveness of these ships. Watch in for more details!

Red Sea Crisis: Commercial vessels under siege as Houthi strikes escalate in Red Sea

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Israel pounds tent camps around Rafah - PMs Modi, Hasina hold bilateral talks - Yemen Houthis attack USS Eisenhower - Russia pounds energy infra in Ukraine - Convicted, Hindujas appeal to higher court - Israel-Hezbollah: UN Chief sounds alarm

WION Headlines | Yemen Houthis attack USS Eisenhower | Convicted, Hindujas appeal to higher court

With increased strikes on vessels the Houthi trouble for Israel seems to be gaining momentum. In the latest strikes announced early on Sunday Houthi rebels have struck four ships at Israel's Northern Haifa Port. Watch in for more details!

Houthis claim attack on four ships at Israel's Haifa port

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