Middle East Tensions: The United States and Israel's strikes on Iran have created increased tensions in the Middle East, which now threaten to interrupt worldwide trade and shipping operations. The Indian government organized a meeting to assess how the ongoing trade developments will impact the country. Freight rates will increase by 20 to 30 per cent as shipping companies charge more due to higher marine insurance costs for vessels facing greater risks. Exporters fear that their perishable shipments, which include fruits and meat, will face delays or complete cancellations. The government will investigate the logistics interruptions to determine which relief measures and alternative routes should be used. The petroleum and food ministries, together with other ministries, will schedule meetings to evaluate how the total situation will affect India.