Straits Times
Trump urges countries to go to Strait of Hormuz and 'just take it'
Trump called on nations that sat out U.S.-Israeli military strikes on Iran to purchase American oil and seize control of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints. The remarks signal Washington's willingness to escalate pressure on Iran by encouraging allied nations to assert dominance over the waterway through which roughly 20% of global oil supply flows. The statement is likely to heighten tensions in an already volatile region and raise fresh questions about U.S. strategy in the Persian Gulf.
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Outrage and condemnation over Israel’s death penalty law for Palestinians
Israel has passed a law legalising the death penalty for Palestinians, triggering a wave of international condemnation. Critics argue the measure is discriminatory, applying a distinct legal standard based on ethnicity. The move marks a significant escalation in Israel's legal framework governing Palestinians and is likely to intensify diplomatic pressure on the country.
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Children in Gaza reenact a funeral procession during play
Children in a Gaza displacement camp were filmed staging a mock funeral procession for a doll during play — a stark reflection of the death and mourning that has become routine in their daily lives. The scene underscores the deep psychological toll the conflict has taken on the Strip's youngest residents. When children rehearse grief as a form of play, the trauma of war has already reshaped their understanding of the world.
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Trump issues new warning to Tehran, Iran calls US peace proposals ‘unrealistic’
Iran's rejection of US peace proposals as "unrealistic" has drawn a fresh warning from Trump over any continued blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical oil chokepoints. The standoff is already rattling energy markets, with oil prices on track for a record rise. The exchange signals deepening tensions that could have significant consequences for global supply chains and fuel costs.
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Trump’s options: Will seizing Iran’s Kharg Island solve the Strait of Hormuz blockade?
The Trump administration is weighing aggressive military options to counter a potential Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20% of the world's oil supply flows. Seizing Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export terminal, has emerged as one scenario, though analysts consider capturing smaller strategic islands within the strait itself a more operationally viable move. The choice of target would carry enormous geopolitical consequences, risking direct military confrontation with Iran while reshaping global energy markets overnight.
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