International

Israel’s cabinet approved a legal framework allowing an International Stabilization Force into Gaza, supporting a US-backed ceasefire plan to stabilize the region and transition to Palestinian civilian administration.

The escalating US-Iran conflict is reshaping the Gulf. Despite regional debates, Gulf states remain heavily dependent on US security, as no other power can effectively replace American deterrence in the region.

India is urging China to improve market access and address trade imbalances as both nations work to normalize relations and stabilize ties following years of border tensions.

The US House narrowly passed a $95 billion budget framework, primarily funding military operations against Iran, alongside aid for farmers and election programs. The bill now moves to the Senate.

The US and Saudi Arabia signed a civil nuclear deal allowing uranium enrichment. Lawmakers fear it lacks sufficient safeguards, potentially sparking a regional arms race. The agreement now awaits Congressional approval.

Rising costs, military losses, and economic strain suggest the U.S. should pause its conflict with Iran to focus on other strategic priorities, as brute force has proven ineffective against Tehran.

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan stated that ASEAN’s global partnerships are vital for regional resilience, prosperity, and stability, as the bloc engages major powers amid ongoing Indo-Pacific strategic competition.

The US war in Iran has cost $37.5 billion, with 18 troops killed and 430 injured. President Trump seeks additional funding amid escalating tensions and threats to expand military strikes.

Ukrainian President Zelensky dismissed army chief Oleksandr Syrsky following political unrest over the removal of the defence minister. Mykhailo Drapaty has been appointed as the new Commander-in-Chief.

Middle East allies face uncertainty as the US lacks a clear strategy regarding escalating tensions with Iran, risking a prolonged conflict without defined objectives.

China’s AI sector is surging as founders from DeepSeek, Z.ai, and Moonshot AI prioritize open-weight models and original innovation to challenge US dominance and foster a global, accessible technological ecosystem.

A UN report reveals that online scam losses in the Asia-Pacific region reached $147.2 billion in 2025, tripling since 2023 as organized syndicates adopt sophisticated, corporate-like transnational criminal models.