Diplomacy
US-Iran Talks Focus on Reopening Hormuz and Ending Blockade
US and Iranian negotiators are discussing a phased arrangement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and lift Washington’s blockade of Iranian ports. The proposal could begin with reciprocal steps, but mistrust, frozen assets and control of the waterway remain major obstacles.
Jaishankar Raises India’s Concerns Over Sweeping US Sanctions Law
India has raised its concerns directly with the United States over a new law permitting tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian energy. New Delhi says the measure could damage bilateral ties, disrupt global oil markets and threaten its energy security.
Taipei Fears Trump May Soften US Support to Secure China Deal
Taiwan fears Donald Trump could weaken US support for the island in return for economic concessions from China. A delayed $14 billion arms package and possible changes in Washington’s language on Taiwan have become central concerns as Trump meets Xi Jinping.
Sanctions, Blockade and Diplomacy: Iran Defies US Pressure
Iran has vowed to resist an expanding US pressure campaign as sanctions, a naval blockade and war strain its economy. Tehran says it will strengthen domestic resilience while keeping diplomacy open, but disputes over trade and the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved.
Trump and Xi Prepare for High-Stakes Washington Talks
Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are preparing for high-level talks in Washington focused on trade, rare-earth supplies, artificial intelligence, Taiwan and Iran. The summit follows an agreement to extend a tariff truce, but expectations of a major breakthrough remain limited.
Russia and Saudi Arabia Push to Reopen Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb
Vladimir Putin and Mohammed bin Salman have called for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb. Disruptions at both waterways have restricted Saudi oil exports, raised shipping costs and intensified fears of a wider global energy crisis.
Trump Threatens to “Annihilate” Iran if Peace Talks Fail
Donald Trump has threatened to “annihilate” the Islamic Republic if Iran refuses to reach an agreement ending the war. The warning came during his UN address, even as US envoys held indirect talks with Iranian mediators and both governments publicly signalled conditional interest in diplomacy.
US Prepares Sweeping Sanctions Targeting International Criminal Court
The United States is preparing sweeping sanctions against the International Criminal Court, potentially targeting the institution itself. The measures could disrupt its banking, payroll and technology services as Washington presses it to abandon cases involving American and Israeli officials.
Australia Begins Global Lobbying Push for UN Security Council Seat
Australia has launched its campaign for a 2029–30 UN Security Council seat, promising to represent smaller nations and defend international rules. Its bid will focus on conflict prevention, civilian protection, climate security, artificial intelligence and the concerns of Pacific countries.
Trump Coerces Denmark into a Permanent US Security Foothold in Greenland
The US has secured sweeping new military access in Greenland after months of pressure on Denmark, including tariff threats and demands for greater American control. Critics say the deal risks reinforcing a wider perception that Washington will use economic and strategic coercion to secure its goals.
Trump Signs New Russia Sanctions Law, Raising Risks for India and China
Donald Trump has signed sweeping new Russia sanctions legislation that expands restrictions on Moscow and gives the White House power to impose tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, putting countries including India and China under greater scrutiny.
The Sacrificial Animal: The Killing of Jamal Khashoggi
Jamal Khashoggi walked into the Saudi consulate in Istanbul and never came out. His murder sparked global outrage, but eight years later, the case stands as a reminder of how quickly accountability can fade when power and strategic interests take over.