WASHINGTON (AP) — Weeks before his trip to China, US President Donald Trump was already predicting on social media that his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, would “give me a big, fat hug when I get there.” But Beijing’s deep economic ties to Iran, as well as trade tensions over tariff threats stretching back to Trump’s first…
Israel’s economy received a boost over the weekend when S&P Global Ratings maintained the country’s A credit rating despite nearly three years of war, regional instability and economic disruption. The quarterly update from one of the world’s “big three” credit rating agencies, S&P Global Ratings, also kept Israel’s outlook at stable, signaling that the agency…
Iran’s key focus: Tehran’s response to the U.S. plan centers on ending the war and ensuring maritime security in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. Ceasefire under strain: Recent clashes and attacks on the UAE have challenged the fragile truce, raising doubts over its durability despite official claims it holds. Mediation efforts grow: Pakistan…
The Strait of Hormuz remains an indispensable artery for global oil trade. Every major development affecting the region instantly influences energy prices, shipping insurance costs and international market confidence. Energy-importing countries across Asia, Europe and other regions carefully monitor every diplomatic and military movement surrounding the Gulf. The decision to pause Project Freedom reportedly surprised…
The decision reflects growing concerns over supply disruptions linked to the Iran conflict and instability surrounding the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, through which a major portion of global oil shipments passes every day. According to China’s state economic planner, retail gasoline prices will rise by 320 yuan per metric ton while diesel prices will…
Abdel Raouf Arnaout 08 May 2026•Update: 08 May 2026 Warnings have intensified in Israel over a looming economic crisis threatening the country’s export and technology sectors as the shekel climbs to its strongest level against the US dollar in more than three decades, according to local media reports. The Times of Israel daily reported Friday…
This handout photo provided by Syria’s SANA news agency’s Telegram channel, shows Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa (R) meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam at the People’s Palace in Damascus. AFP Speaking at Damascus International Airport after concluding his visit, Salam said discussions with Syrian officials had focused on strengthening bilateral ties and resolving long-standing…
The Middle East has once again become the center of global attention as tensions involving Iran, Israel, the United States, and regional powers continue to escalate in 2026. What began as a prolonged shadow conflict has evolved into one of the most dangerous geopolitical crises in recent years, raising fears of wider military confrontation, disruption…
The U.S.-Israeli war against Iran threw renewed attention on the often-overlooked geopolitical importance of the Caspian Sea as a trade corridor linking Russia and Iran, according to a New York Times report published Saturday. Iran faces economic pressure as US blockades ports The example provided by the authors was Israeli attack on Iran’s naval command…
Russia is using the Caspian Sea to ship drone components to Iran in order to help the Islamic Republic rebuild its offensive capabilities, the New York Times reported on Saturday, citing US officials. The report stated that the Caspian Sea has now become a vital trade route between the two allies. Russia is now sending…
