World

US Navy Intercepts Iranian Cargo Ship in Gulf

The U.S. Navy intercepted the Iranian-flagged cargo ship Touska in the Gulf of Oman, as confirmed by President Donald Trump, who stated that the USS Spruance disabled the vessel after its crew ignored multiple warnings. The ship, which is under U.S. Treasury sanctions, was seized following the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports initiated last week. Iran has condemned the action as a violation of the ceasefire and has vowed to retaliate.

US to Host G20 Talks on Food Security Crisis

The United States will host additional talks in the coming weeks for the Group of 20 (G20) major economies to address the impact of the ongoing war in the Middle East on global food and fertilizer supplies. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has called for coordinated action among G20 members, including Russia and China, to ensure access to urgently needed fertilizer, as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warns that supply chain disruptions could increase food insecurity for 45 million people. The discussions follow a recent meeting of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors, where no formal agreement was reached.

China Releases Sanctioned Iranian Oil Amid US Tensions

China has authorized the release of sanctioned Iranian oil stockpiles, potentially escalating tensions with the United States amid ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Following the U.S. Navy's seizure of an Iranian cargo ship, both nations are set to send negotiators to Pakistan for peace talks, although President Trump has vowed to maintain a blockade of Iranian ports. Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for navigation, highlighting China's reliance on this route for 40 percent of its oil imports.

North Korea tests upgraded Hwasong-11 missiles again

North Korea conducted a test launch of five upgraded Hwasong-11 Ra tactical ballistic missiles equipped with cluster bomb warheads, marking its second such test this month. The launches, overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, occurred off the country's east coast and were reported by the Korean Central News Agency, which noted the missiles struck an island target. This activity is seen as part of North Korea's efforts to enhance its military capabilities ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to Beijing.