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China’s Politburo steps up response as Iran war shocks reverberate around world
China's top leadership convened an emergency Politburo session to coordinate its response to economic shockwaves stemming from the US-Israel conflict with Iran, with energy security emerging as the central concern. The ruling body pledged to accelerate major infrastructure investment across water, power, and computing sectors as a buffer against external disruption. The move signals Beijing's intent to use domestic stimulus as a strategic shield against the conflict's widening global economic fallout.
Read article →Straits Times
US cannot accept Iran retaining control of Strait of Hormuz, Rubio says
Iran's potential dominance over the Strait of Hormuz — a chokepoint for roughly 20% of the world's oil supply — is a redline for Washington, Secretary of State Marco Rubio made clear. The statement signals hardening U.S. resolve as nuclear negotiations with Tehran continue. Control of the strait would hand Iran unprecedented leverage over global energy markets and its regional adversaries.
Read article →Straits Times
Israel using water access as ‘weapon’ in Gaza: MSF
Israel has been weaponizing water access against Gaza's civilian population, according to Médecins Sans Frontières, which describes the policy as deliberate collective punishment. The humanitarian organization warns that restricting water is compounding an already catastrophic situation for Palestinians. The accusation adds to mounting international pressure over the conduct of Israel's military campaign in the territory.
Read article →Straits Times
US, Iran clash at UN after Tehran gets nuclear non-proliferation role
Iran has been selected to a nuclear non-proliferation role at the United Nations, drawing sharp condemnation from Washington. The US called the appointment an "affront" to the very treaty the body exists to uphold, given Iran's long-running disputes with international inspectors over its nuclear program. The clash underscores deepening fractures between Western powers and other UN member states over who holds influence in global arms control forums.
Read article →Al Jazeera English
Oil prices rise despite Iran’s proposal to reopen Strait of Hormuz
Brent crude climbed more than 1 percent even as Iran offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a delay in nuclear negotiations. Markets appear skeptical of Tehran's proposal, with traders unwilling to bet on diplomatic goodwill in a region defined by volatility. The move signals that geopolitical risk premiums remain firmly embedded in energy prices.
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