Benjamin Netanyahu will meet Donald Trump at the White House next Tuesday, coinciding with Senator Lindsey Graham's funeral. The visit occurs amid escalating US-Israeli conflict with Iran, Israel's war in Gaza, and calls for Netanyahu's arrest by the ICC.
Andy Burnham has become the UK's new Prime Minister, pledging immediate cost-of-living relief and a 10-year plan for Britain. He confirmed commitment to the AUKUS defence pact and began forming his cabinet, replacing key figures from Sir Keir Starmer's government.
President Trump informed NATO allies of his intention to keep the US in the alliance and expressed readiness to continue arms sales. He notably refrained from criticizing Spain or mentioning Greenland during the meeting.
President Trump assured NATO leaders of continued US commitment to the alliance, a shift from his previous criticisms. NATO chief Mark Rutte defended recent US strikes on Iran as 'absolutely necessary' following alleged attacks on commercial vessels.
US Senator Tom Cotton and allies are pushing legislation to permanently embed US-Israel security cooperation within the Pentagon, bypassing traditional foreign aid processes. This effort comes as US public opinion shifts against unconditional aid to Israel, aiming to make future policy changes more difficult despite evolving strategic interests and constitutional implications.
Sanam Vakil of Chatham House states Gulf states remain reliant on the US for security but are uneasy with Washington's 'regime change-light strategy,' urging them to diversify defense relationships and manage diplomatic tracks amid an 'uncomfortable moment' with uncertain US policy and unpredictable Iran.
Former Japanese minister Taro Kono stated that Japan and South Korea must forge a robust security alliance to ensure regional stability, especially as US commitment to East Asia wavers. He emphasized the need for independent efforts for regional security, noting the difficulty for Indo-Pacific nations to find a 'plan B' without US support.
US President Donald Trump announced a "complete" deal with Iran, authorizing the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and removal of the US naval blockade. Iran stated an immediate end to war on various fronts. Pakistan's PM confirmed the peace deal, with a signing ceremony set for Friday in Switzerland.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Store met to discuss upcoming NATO defense minister meetings in Ankara, focusing on increased defense spending, new capability goals, and deterrence plans. They also highlighted continued support for Ukraine and emphasized the US commitment to the alliance.
The US is considering expanding its nuclear weapons deployment to more NATO countries, particularly on the alliance's eastern flank, amid rising tensions with Russia. These arrangements are seen as vital for deterrence, cohesion, and reassuring allies.
A University of Hong Kong professor praises the shift in Trump-Xi relations towards strategic stability but questions the practicality of a new communique given unimplemented existing agreements.
Iran's representative Bekayi stated that while progress has been made in talks, US commitments remain uncertain due to frequent changes in their stance. He also addressed the Strait of Hormuz, noting it's a regional issue and Iran seeks to establish a mechanism for safe passage, not charge transit fees.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that while progress has been made in ongoing talks, there is no guarantee of US commitment due to frequent changes in US officials' stances. The Strait of Hormuz issue was also discussed, with Iran seeking a mechanism for safe passage and denying intentions to charge transit fees.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer anticipates China will annually purchase billions in US agricultural products over the next three years. However, Chinese analysts suggest new purchases beyond soybeans will be incremental, as Beijing prioritizes domestic needs and supply goals.
President Trump has ordered the withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany following a public dispute with Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding US military strategy in Iran. The move signals a potential shift in the transatlantic security architecture.
Japan and South Korea are closing ranks as they prepare for high-level meetings aimed at steadying ties amid growing regional volatility, with analysts saying the diplomatic push reflects shared concern over China, North Korea and the reliability of US commitments under President Donald Trump. Both countries appear willing to put past differences aside, at least for now, as they confront an assertive China and an unpredictable US administration that has unsettled long-standing allies and...
Fresh reports reveal internal Pentagon discussions exploring punitive measures against Nato allies, including Spain, for perceived lack of support during the Iran conflict. These discussions, alongside President Trump's continued questioning of US commitment, expose deep divisions within the alliance, raising questions about its future and European security.
Dmitry Medvedev, Security Council Deputy Chairman, stated that the US will not defend European countries in a hypothetical conflict with Russia, questioning NATO Article 5 effectiveness. He expressed doubt that Americans would stand up for Europe, citing US focus on other conflicts like Iran rather than European defense.
