A major escalation is unfolding in the Middle East as Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels exchange fire, ending years of relative calm in the region. The latest developments come amid intensifying US-Iran tensions, with the Houthis claiming attacks on Saudi Aramco facilities in Jazan and Yanbu, triggering emergency alerts and raising concerns over regional security. In this detailed report, we analyse the growing Saudi-Houthi conflict, the maritime blockade announced by the Houthis, and Saudi Arabia's retaliatory air strikes on Houthi targets. The escalation has put key shipping routes, including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, under renewed pressure.
The Red Sea corridor remains a critical global trade route, connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Suez Canal. Any disruption in this strategic passage could impact international shipping, energy supplies, and global markets.

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China on Tuesday imposed a $23.6 million fine on US automaker Ford's joint venture for "price fixing" in violation of anti-monopoly laws, a move coinciding with growing trade tensions with the United States.

China fines Ford joint venture, citing anti-monopoly law

China said on Wednesday it would allow foreign investors greater access to its stock markets and promised that other previously announced financial reforms would come into effect within months in its latest conciliatory signals amid US trade tensions

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