1 hour ago
UPDATED: Aug 24, 2026 23:46 IST
This episode of Statecraft focuses on major geopolitical developments in West Asia and India's strategic autonomy. Reports suggest Iran may have received an invitation to join the Mecca Defense Pact alongside Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey. The pact operates under a mutual defense principle akin to NATO's Article 5, raising questions about potential US-Iran military conflicts and the ongoing rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen. Concurrently, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced an economic initiative targeting Iran's energy, banking, and trade networks. In response, Tehran warned of potential transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, as its currency dropped to a record low. The report examines how US economic pressure impacts India's strategic ties with Tehran, particularly regarding the Chabahar port project, while contrasting New Delhi's cautious approach toward Iran with its reliance on Russian energy and defense supplies.
Read More
VIDEOS FROM OTHER SECTIONS
LATEST VIDEOS
Goldy Brar Claims Nijjar Killing, Ex-Envoy Demands Apology, Reset In India-Canada Ties
A leaked audio clip circulating on social media features fugitive gangster Goldy Brar claiming responsibility for the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, attributing it to gang rivalry and drug networks. In an interview on News Track with Marya Shakil, former Indian High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Verma stated that if verified, the tape vindicates India's stance that Nijjar's death was tied to gang conflict rather than state action. Verma said Canada owes an official apology to India, its leadership, and diplomats who were falsely accused and declared persona non grata under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Former Canadian Minister Ujjal Dosanjh noted that the tape highlights the nexus between Khalistani elements and organized crime, adding that ties between Ottawa and New Delhi are now improving under Mark Carney. Both guests emphasized the need for stronger intelligence sharing and transparency regarding original allegations.
Govt has miscalculated...: Economist on causes behind sharp surge in sugar prices
In an exclusive interview, agricultural economist Professor Ashok Gulati explained the factors behind the sharp rise in sugar prices ahead of India's festive season, pointing to lower production, declining opening stocks and the diversion of sugarcane towards ethanol blending. He criticised the government's delayed response, saying, "Government has miscalculated the shortage," and argued that measures such as reducing import duties should have been taken six to eight months earlier. Gulati also called for greater market-oriented liberalisation, futures trading and reduced political intervention in the sugar sector. The episode also touches upon key national and international developments, including Maharashtra's FDA suspending licences of nine Mumbai eateries over hygiene violations, a row over Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's US visit, and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay putting the proposed Parandur airport project on hold. ly, 21 former cricket captains, including Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, sought medical care for jailed former Pakistan PM Imran Khan.
'Canada Owes An Apology To India': Sanjay Verma On Nijjar Probe & Goldy Brar Audio
In an interview, Sanjay Verma, former Indian High Commissioner to Canada, commented on a leaked audio recording where gangster Goldy Brar allegedly linked the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar to gang rivalry over drugs and weapons. Verma stated that if verified, the tape confirms India's long-standing position that Nijjar's death was a result of gang rivalry rather than state action. He highlighted that Indian intelligence agencies had accurately profiled criminal networks and shared information under UAPA terror listings prior to the incident. Commenting on diplomatic relations, Verma asserted, "Canada owes an apology to India," adding that Canadian authorities acted hastily without basing claims on facts. He emphasized the need for increased intelligence cooperation, information sharing, and a formal course correction by Ottawa to restore trust between both nations.
'Mr. Trudeau Was Always More Theatrical Than Real': Ujjal Dosanjh
In an interview, Ujjal Dosanjh, former Canadian Minister of Health and lawyer based in Vancouver, shared his views on the Nijjar killing and India-Canada diplomatic relations following leaked audio of Goldy Brar claiming responsibility. Dosanjh stated that the statement makes it clear some Khalistanis are part of gangs involved in drug and gun running, suggesting Nijjar "may have been killed as part of an internecine war amongst gangsters." Criticizing former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s handling of intelligence, Dosanjh said, "Mr. Trudeau was always more theatrical than real," and argued Trudeau mishandled the issue due to deep links with the Khalistani movement. He noted that official RCMP statements have indicated India may not be involved. Looking forward, Dosanjh expressed optimism about improving ties under Mark Carney and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing that Canada must draw a firm line against extremist rhetoric and violence rather than protecting it under freedom of expression.
