Tehran / Washington / Global Markets —A new geopolitical flashpoint has emerged in the Middle East as Iran announced that vessels linked to the United States and Israel will not be allowed to pass through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz. While the waterway remains open to most international shipping, the selective restriction has heightened global anxiety over energy security and the stability of oil markets. The Iran government has stated that the measure is a direct response to escalating tensions with Israel and the United States, following recent military and diplomatic confrontations in the region. Iranian officials insist that...

London / New York / Middle East —The escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel is rapidly transforming global oil and gas markets. As military tensions intensify in the Persian Gulf region, energy analysts warn that the crisis could trigger a prolonged period of volatility affecting fuel prices, global trade routes, and economic stability. In recent weeks, oil markets have reacted sharply to fears of supply disruption. Benchmark crude prices have surged dramatically, with Brent crude briefly exceeding $100 per barrel and in some cases approaching levels not seen since 2022. Analysts from major financial institutions say the...

NEW YORK – In a historic diplomatic achievement for Nepal, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has officially adopted a resolution to establish April 15 as International Wellness Day. The proposal, spearheaded by Nepal’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, received unanimous support from member states on Wednesday. The resolution aims to promote a global culture of holistic health, mental well-being, and the integration of traditional wisdom into modern lifestyle practices. A Vision from the Himalayas Nepal’s proposal was presented as a response to the growing global crises of mental health, sedentary lifestyles, and chronic stress. By designating a specific...

KATHMANDU – The capital city is reeling under a worsening shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and petroleum products, with long queues of frustrated consumers snaking around distribution depots from the early hours of Thursday morning. Despite repeated assurances from the state-owned Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) that supply remain "normal," the ground reality in Kathmandu paints a picture of growing desperation. Chaos at the Depots In the Balaju Industrial Area and surrounding neighborhoods like Chabahil and Kirtipur, hundreds of residents were seen waiting with empty cylinders. Many reported being turned away after hours of waiting, as retailers claim they are...