US Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor called his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi "incredible," discussing trade, critical minerals, and defence during his six-day Delhi visit. The meeting comes amid strained India-US relations following President Trump's 50% tariffs on Indian exports, including additional 25% duties for Russian crude oil purchases. India condemned the move as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable." PM Modi welcomed Gor, expressing confidence his tenure will strengthen the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Both leaders held a framed photo of Modi and Trump's joint address. Gor, accompanied by Deputy Secretary Michael Rigas, earlier met External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. Recent Modi-Trump phone conversations have raised hopes for positive trade deal negotiations. (PC: X)

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor in New Delhi on Saturday amid ongoing tensions over Washington's 50% tariffs on Indian exports. Gor, accompanied by US Deputy Secretary Michael J Rigas, is on a six-day India visit following his recent Senate confirmation. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties and easing recent strains in the relationship. Jaishankar discussed India-US relations and their global significance, wishing Gor success in his new role. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also held productive exchanges with Gor about the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. The US Embassy emphasized deepening the ambitious strategic partnership for a safer, stronger, more prosperous relationship between both nations. (PC: X)

Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Maulana Amir Khan Muttaqi, visited Darul Uloom Deoband in Uttar Pradesh on October 11, 2025, marking his first trip to India since the Taliban's return to power in 2021. During his visit, he received a 'Sanad' (certificate) from the seminary, granting him the title 'Qasmi,' acknowledging his academic connection to the institution. The visit reflects the Taliban government's efforts to strengthen religious, educational, and diplomatic ties with India. Muttaqi expressed hope for enhanced India-Afghanistan relations and future diplomatic exchanges.    

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with U.S. Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor in New Delhi during Gor’s official visit. The two discussed the future of India–U.S. relations, emphasizing the global significance of their partnership. Gor is in India from October 9 to 14 before formally assuming his role, accompanied by U.S. Deputy Secretary Michael Rigas. The meeting comes amid ongoing efforts to enhance strategic, trade, and diplomatic cooperation. (PC: X)

The United States has imposed sanctions on nine Indian companies and eight Indian nationals for violating U.S. restrictions on Iranian oil, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and petrochemical trade. The sanctions, issued by the Treasury’s OFAC and the State Department, freeze all U.S. assets of the designated entities and individuals, and block companies controlled 50% or more by them. The firms, including CJ Shah & Co, Chemovick, and Haresh Petrochem, allegedly imported Iranian energy products worth hundreds of millions. The move aims to curb Iran’s revenue streams and pressure its regime over regional activities.  

India has officially restored full diplomatic relations with Afghanistan by upgrading its technical mission in Kabul to a full-fledged embassy. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar conveyed the decision to Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, emphasizing the historical ties and India’s consistent support during crises. The embassy had been downgraded four years ago due to escalating violence, prompting evacuation of personnel via military aircraft. A technical team was later deployed after the Taliban assured security. Muttaqi praised India’s swift humanitarian aid following the August 31 earthquake that killed over 2,000 people and destroyed 5,000 homes. He also affirmed that Afghan soil will not be used for terror against India, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations.

The US Treasury Department sanctioned over 50 entities, including two Indian nationals Varun Pula and Soniya Shrestha for facilitating Iranian energy sales worth billions. Pula owns Marshall Islands-based Bertha Shipping Inc., operating vessel PAMIR, which transported nearly four million barrels of Iranian LPG to China since July 2024. Shrestha owns Vega Star Ship Management, operating vessel NEPTA, transporting Iranian LPG to Pakistan since January 2025. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated the sanctions aim to degrade Iran's cash flow by dismantling its energy export machine. The blacklist also includes China's Rizhao Shihua Crude Oil Terminal, processing 9% of China's crude imports, targeting outlets for Iran's sanctioned crude reaching Chinese refineries. (PC: Free Beacon & The Federal)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paused his security cabinet meeting on Gaza's ceasefire deal to take a congratulatory phone call from PM Narendra Modi. Modi welcomed the hostage release agreement and enhanced humanitarian assistance under President Trump's 20-point Gaza Peace Plan, reaffirming that terrorism is unacceptable anywhere. The Israeli government subsequently approved "phase one" of the ceasefire, with officials stating it takes effect immediately. Trump announced hostages would be released Monday or Tuesday, planning an Egypt trip for official signing. US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner attended Jerusalem's government meeting where the US-brokered deal was approved, marking what Trump called a "momentous breakthrough." (PC: The Hindu)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paused a crucial security cabinet meeting on October 9, 2025, to speak with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Gaza peace agreement. The discussion focused on the first phase of the US-brokered 20-point plan, which includes a ceasefire and the release of hostages. PM Modi congratulated Netanyahu on the progress and welcomed the agreement, emphasizing India's commitment to peace and humanitarian aid. The Israeli government has approved the ceasefire, with immediate implementation expected. (PC: NDTV)  

In a pivotal diplomatic push, the Taliban are urging India to formally recognize the “Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan” as their government, coinciding with Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s six-day visit to New Delhi. This is the first high-level Afghan government engagement in India since the Taliban takeover. Taliban envoy Suhail Shaheen indicated bilateral relations should be elevated via recognition. Despite this, India continues to tread carefully, balancing domestic concerns and alignment with the international community. Reconstruction, development, and security cooperation are expected to dominate talks. (PC: X)