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Anthropic launched its new flagship model, Claude Opus 5, on July 24 — and priced it in a way that puts its own product lineup in tension with itself.&nbsp;The Pricing&nbsp;Opus 5 is priced at $5 per million input tokens and $25 per million output tokens in standard mode, matching the pricing of the outgoing Opus 4.8. A faster mode is available at $10 input and $50 output per million tokens for users who need lower latency. Notably, Opus 5's standard-mode input price is exactly half of what Anthropic charges for Fable 5, its other current-generation model — an unusual pricing gap between two models Anthropic sells side by side.&nbsp;The Model Itself&nbsp;Opus 5 ships with a 1-million-token context window and introduces a new low/medium/high effort toggle, letting developers trade off cost and latency against reasoning depth for a given task — spend less compute on simple requests, more on complex ones, within the same model rather than switching between separate model tiers.&nbsp;On FrontierBench v0.1, one of the newer independent reasoning benchmarks tracking frontier models, Opus 5 scored 43.3%.&nbsp;Why The Timing Matters&nbsp;The launch lands in the middle of the most aggressive AI pricing war the industry has seen. OpenAI's GPT-5.6 family starts at $1 per million tokens. Meta's Muse Spark 1.1 undercuts both at $1.25 and $4.25. China's Kimi K3 — set to release its full weights within hours of this article — runs as low as $0.30 per million tokens on cached input, and gives its weights away entirely.&nbsp;Anthropic's flagship remains priced well above all of them, betting that Opus 5's reasoning quality justifies the premium rather than competing on cost. Whether that bet holds depends partly on infrastructure Anthropic doesn't fully control on its own — the company recently committed $1.25 billion a month to renting compute capacity from a rival, a deal that will shape how much room Anthropic actually has to compete on price going forward.

Anthropic launched Claude Opus 5 on July 24 at $5/$25 per million tokens standard, $10/$50 fast mode, with a 1M-token context window and new effort toggle. It scored 43.3% on FrontierBench v0.1, arriving amid the industry's sharpest AI pricing war yet.

Anthropic launched its new flagship model, Claude Opus 5, on July 24 — and priced it in a way that puts its own product lineup in tension with itself. The Pricing Opus 5 is priced at $5 per million input tokens and $25 per million output tokens in standard mode, matching the pricing of the outgoing Opus 4.8. A faster mode is available at $10 input and $50 output per million tokens for users who need lower latency. Notably, Opus 5's standard-mode input price is exactly half of what Anthropic charges for Fable 5, its other current-generation model — an unusual pricing gap between two models Anthropic sells side by side. The Model Itself Opus 5 ships with a 1-million-token context window and introduces a new low/medium/high effort toggle, letting developers trade off cost and latency against reasoning depth for a given task — spend less compute on simple requests, more on complex ones, within the same model rather than switching between separate model tiers. On FrontierBench v0.1, one of the newer independent reasoning benchmarks tracking frontier models, Opus 5 scored 43.3%. Why The Timing Matters The launch lands in the middle of the most aggressive AI pricing war the industry has seen. OpenAI's GPT-5.6 family starts at $1 per million tokens. Meta's Muse Spark 1.1 undercuts both at $1.25 and $4.25. China's Kimi K3 — set to release its full weights within hours of this article — runs as low as $0.30 per million tokens on cached input, and gives its weights away entirely. Anthropic's flagship remains priced well above all of them, betting that Opus 5's reasoning quality justifies the premium rather than competing on cost. Whether that bet holds depends partly on infrastructure Anthropic doesn't fully control on its own — the company recently committed $1.25 billion a month to renting compute capacity from a rival, a deal that will shape how much room Anthropic actually has to compete on price going forward.

Anthropic launched Claude Opus 5 on July 24, its new flagship model priced at $5 per million input tokens and $25 per million output tokens in standard mode — the same as the outgoing Opus 4.8, and half the input price of Anthropic's own Fable 5. A faster mode is available at $10 and $50 per million tokens, with a 1-million-token context window and a new low/medium/high effort toggle.

Anthropic launches Claude Opus 5, half the input price of its own Fable 5

US President Donald Trump is set to hold separate meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Tuesday (July 28), with discussions expected to centre on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-is-pursuing-alleged-us-war-crimes-through-legal-channels-what-are-these-channels-wion-decodes-1785187325727">Iran says it is pursuing alleged US ‘war crimes’ through legal channels. What are these channels? WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;Trump’s meeting with Netanyahu will focus on the war in Iran, progress in negotiations with Lebanon and efforts to expand the Abraham Accords, a White House official told CNN. The US president on Monday acknowledged that he and Netanyahu were not in complete agreement over Iran, but insisted the two allies remained closely aligned. “We have a little difference, but pretty close,” Trump told reporters.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kill-melania-barron-why-is-irgc-linked-media-outlet-urging-freedom-fighters-to-assassinate-trump-s-family-watch-1785183071114">‘Kill Melania, Barron’: Why is IRGC-linked media outlet urging ‘freedom fighters’ to assassinate Trump’s family? WATCH</a>&nbsp;The meeting comes amid continued uncertainty over Washington’s approach to Iran and regional security issues following the escalation of tensions in West Asia. Trump’s talks with Zelensky will focus on the ongoing peace efforts between Russia and Ukraine, according to the White House official. “Now is the time to end the war,” the official said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-far-more-than-we-need-trump-rejects-us-munitions-shortage-claims-but-what-do-reports-say-1785179641900">'We have far more than we need': Trump rejects US munitions shortage claims. But what do reports say?</a>&nbsp;Ahead of the meeting, Trump played down Zelensky’s claim that Russia has been sharing intelligence on US military bases with Iran. “I don’t think they’ve been doing it, certainly not at a high level,” Trump told reporters on Monday.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-they-had-nuclear-weapon-there-might-not-be-a-middle-east-today-trump-s-fresh-jibe-at-iran-1784933816124">‘If they had nuclear weapon, there might not be a Middle East today’: Trump’s fresh jibe at Iran</a>&nbsp;Both Netanyahu and Zelensky are also expected to attend the funeral of late US Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington on Tuesday.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump will hold separate White House meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss ongoing conflicts, coinciding with Senator Lindsey Graham's funeral. 

US President Donald Trump is set to hold separate meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Tuesday (July 28), with discussions expected to centre on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia. Also read: Iran says it is pursuing alleged US ‘war crimes’ through legal channels. What are these channels? WION Decodes Trump’s meeting with Netanyahu will focus on the war in Iran, progress in negotiations with Lebanon and efforts to expand the Abraham Accords, a White House official told CNN. The US president on Monday acknowledged that he and Netanyahu were not in complete agreement over Iran, but insisted the two allies remained closely aligned. “We have a little difference, but pretty close,” Trump told reporters. Also read: ‘Kill Melania, Barron’: Why is IRGC-linked media outlet urging ‘freedom fighters’ to assassinate Trump’s family? WATCH The meeting comes amid continued uncertainty over Washington’s approach to Iran and regional security issues following the escalation of tensions in West Asia. Trump’s talks with Zelensky will focus on the ongoing peace efforts between Russia and Ukraine, according to the White House official. “Now is the time to end the war,” the official said. Also read: 'We have far more than we need': Trump rejects US munitions shortage claims. But what do reports say? Ahead of the meeting, Trump played down Zelensky’s claim that Russia has been sharing intelligence on US military bases with Iran. “I don’t think they’ve been doing it, certainly not at a high level,” Trump told reporters on Monday. Also read: ‘If they had nuclear weapon, there might not be a Middle East today’: Trump’s fresh jibe at Iran Both Netanyahu and Zelensky are also expected to attend the funeral of late US Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington on Tuesday.

US President Donald Trump will hold separate White House meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss ongoing conflicts, coinciding with Senator Lindsey Graham's funeral.&nbsp;

‘Now is the time to end the war’: Trump to host Zelensky, Netanyahu amid global conflicts

Iran says it will continue pursuing legal action over alleged United States “war crimes” committed during the recent conflict, even if the process takes more than a decade, with Tehran relying on a mix of domestic courts, international institutions and foreign judicial systems.&nbsp;Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Iran had gathered extensive evidence to support its claims. According to him, authorities have compiled hundreds of documents, amounting to more than 1,400 pages of material, and submitted over 120 documents to the United Nations Security Council concerning what Tehran describes as the role played by some Persian Gulf countries during the conflict.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-in-our-dna-iran-denies-seeking-us-negotiations-rejects-trump-s-remarks-1785182270778">'Not in our DNA': Iran denies seeking US negotiations, rejects Trump's remarks</a>&nbsp;Speaking on the legal strategy, Gharibabadi said Iran was prepared for a lengthy process that could take between 10 and 15 years. He added that the country would continue pursuing the matter through multiple legal avenues rather than relying on a single international forum.&nbsp;<h2>What are the legal channels Iran is referring to?</h2>According to Gharibabadi, Iran is pursuing the cases through three main routes.&nbsp;&nbsp;The first is Iran’s domestic courts, where cases can be filed against individuals or entities accused of involvement in the alleged attacks. While judgments from Iranian courts may have limited international reach, they can serve as the basis for further legal and diplomatic efforts.&nbsp;The second route involves international mechanisms, including the United Nations system. Iran has already submitted documents to the UN Security Council and could also seek action through bodies such as the International Court of Justice, provided the legal requirements and jurisdictional conditions are met.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-far-more-than-we-need-trump-rejects-us-munitions-shortage-claims-but-what-do-reports-say-1785179641900">'We have far more than we need': Trump rejects US munitions shortage claims. But what do reports say?</a>&nbsp;The third avenue is foreign jurisdictions, where Iran could attempt to bring cases before courts in countries whose laws allow prosecution of certain international crimes under principles such as universal jurisdiction. Such cases would depend on the domestic laws of those countries and whether their courts accept jurisdiction.&nbsp;Gharibabadi also said Tehran had proposed the creation of a special court to examine the alleged crimes, although he did not provide details on how such a tribunal would be established or whether it had received international backing. Iran has consistently accused the United States of violating international law during the conflict, allegations that Washington has rejected. The legal efforts outlined by Gharibabadi signal that Tehran intends to keep the issue alive through judicial and diplomatic channels for years to come.

Iran is pursuing alleged US war crimes across a 10-15-year strategy using three main legal channels: domestic courts, international bodies like the UN and ICJ, and foreign courts via universal jurisdiction.

Iran says it will continue pursuing legal action over alleged United States “war crimes” committed during the recent conflict, even if the process takes more than a decade, with Tehran relying on a mix of domestic courts, international institutions and foreign judicial systems. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Iran had gathered extensive evidence to support its claims. According to him, authorities have compiled hundreds of documents, amounting to more than 1,400 pages of material, and submitted over 120 documents to the United Nations Security Council concerning what Tehran describes as the role played by some Persian Gulf countries during the conflict. Also read: 'Not in our DNA': Iran denies seeking US negotiations, rejects Trump's remarks Speaking on the legal strategy, Gharibabadi said Iran was prepared for a lengthy process that could take between 10 and 15 years. He added that the country would continue pursuing the matter through multiple legal avenues rather than relying on a single international forum. What are the legal channels Iran is referring to? According to Gharibabadi, Iran is pursuing the cases through three main routes. The first is Iran’s domestic courts, where cases can be filed against individuals or entities accused of involvement in the alleged attacks. While judgments from Iranian courts may have limited international reach, they can serve as the basis for further legal and diplomatic efforts. The second route involves international mechanisms, including the United Nations system. Iran has already submitted documents to the UN Security Council and could also seek action through bodies such as the International Court of Justice, provided the legal requirements and jurisdictional conditions are met. Also read: 'We have far more than we need': Trump rejects US munitions shortage claims. But what do reports say? The third avenue is foreign jurisdictions, where Iran could attempt to bring cases before courts in countries whose laws allow prosecution of certain international crimes under principles such as universal jurisdiction. Such cases would depend on the domestic laws of those countries and whether their courts accept jurisdiction. Gharibabadi also said Tehran had proposed the creation of a special court to examine the alleged crimes, although he did not provide details on how such a tribunal would be established or whether it had received international backing. Iran has consistently accused the United States of violating international law during the conflict, allegations that Washington has rejected. The legal efforts outlined by Gharibabadi signal that Tehran intends to keep the issue alive through judicial and diplomatic channels for years to come.

Iran is pursuing alleged US war crimes across a 10-15-year strategy using three main legal channels: domestic courts, international bodies like the UN and ICJ, and foreign courts via universal jurisdiction.

Iran says it is pursuing alleged US ‘war crimes’ through legal channels. What are these channels? WION Decodes

US President Donald Trump on Monday dismissed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s objections to a possible sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, insisting that no foreign leader could dictate what the United States chooses to sell to its allies.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump rejected the idea that Israel should have a say in Washington’s defence sales. “Nobody tells me what we should be selling,” Trump said.The US president also defended Turkey, describing it as a “tremendous ally” and praising Ankara’s role in regional affairs, including its involvement in Syria.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kill-melania-barron-why-is-irgc-linked-media-outlet-urging-freedom-fighters-to-assassinate-trump-s-family-watch-1785183071114">‘Kill Melania, Barron’: Why is IRGC-linked media outlet urging ‘freedom fighters’ to assassinate Trump’s family? WATCH</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;Prime Minister Netanyahu opposes sending the F-35s to Turkey...&quot;<a href="https://x.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Nobody tells me what we should be selling or not. Turkey has been a tremendous ally.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/8gSzavJ6Ce">pic.twitter.com/8gSzavJ6Ce</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://x.com/RapidResponse47/status/2081797692389286004?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Trump acknowledged that Turkey and Israel remain at odds, saying Ankara is “not a big fan” of either Israel or Netanyahu. However, he stressed that US-Turkey ties remain strong. “Turkey has been a tremendous ally. They have done a very good job in many areas,” Trump said. His remarks came after Netanyahu warned that supplying Turkey with advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets could alter the balance of power in the Middle East.&nbsp;In an interview with CNN, Netanyahu strongly opposed any move to bring Turkey back into the F-35 programme, arguing that such a decision would fuel instability in the region. He claimed Ankara had “aggressive aspirations” and cautioned against providing it with cutting-edge military technology.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-far-more-than-we-need-trump-rejects-us-munitions-shortage-claims-but-what-do-reports-say-1785179641900">'We have far more than we need': Trump rejects US munitions shortage claims. But what do reports say?</a>&nbsp;“When you give them that power, you’re going to see aggression in its wake,” Netanyahu said.Turkey was removed from the multinational F-35 programme in 2019 during Trump’s first term after purchasing Russia’s S-400 missile defence system, a move that triggered US sanctions and raised concerns within NATO over the security of the fifth-generation fighter programme.&nbsp;Trump’s latest comments indicate a willingness to keep the door open for closer defence cooperation with Ankara, despite continuing concerns from Israel over the potential strategic implications of such a sale.

US President Donald Trump rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s objections to selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, asserting that no foreign leader dictates American defence sales to key allies.

US President Donald Trump on Monday dismissed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s objections to a possible sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, insisting that no foreign leader could dictate what the United States chooses to sell to its allies. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump rejected the idea that Israel should have a say in Washington’s defence sales. “Nobody tells me what we should be selling,” Trump said. The US president also defended Turkey, describing it as a “tremendous ally” and praising Ankara’s role in regional affairs, including its involvement in Syria. Also read: ‘Kill Melania, Barron’: Why is IRGC-linked media outlet urging ‘freedom fighters’ to assassinate Trump’s family? WATCH

US President Donald Trump rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s objections to selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, asserting that no foreign leader dictates American defence sales to key allies.

'Nobody tells me what to sell': Trump rejects Netanyahu's objections to Turkey F-35 deal

An Iranian news agency affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has published a video urging "freedom fighters" and supporters of the Islamic Republic to kill US First Lady Melania Trump, while also issuing a threat against President Donald Trump's son, Barron.&nbsp;According to Tasnim News Agency, the video identified several locations allegedly frequented by Melania Trump, including places she visits, locations she reportedly prefers and shops where she is said to make purchases. The footage called on supporters to target the US First Lady. The video was titled: "Where to kill Melania?"&nbsp;The video concluded with a direct threat aimed at Barron Trump, stating that he "should wait for us."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">IRGC-run Tasnim News just released a video titled: &quot;Where to kill Melania?&quot; The video, shared with English subtitles, encourages &quot;freedom lovers of the world&quot; to assassinate the First Lady and even outlines a plan for it. <a href="https://t.co/nQhCWWchZy">pic.twitter.com/nQhCWWchZy</a>&mdash; Khosro K Isfahani (@KhosroIsfahani) <a href="https://x.com/KhosroIsfahani/status/2081830340453138537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Tasnim News Agency is widely regarded as being closely affiliated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, although it is not the IRGC's official media outlet.&nbsp;The video comes amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington following months of escalating rhetoric and military confrontation. Iranian authorities have not publicly commented on the video or indicated whether it reflects an official government position.

An Iranian news agency affiliated with the IRGC released a video calling on supporters to assassinate Melania Trump and threatening Barron Trump amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran.

An Iranian news agency affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has published a video urging "freedom fighters" and supporters of the Islamic Republic to kill US First Lady Melania Trump, while also issuing a threat against President Donald Trump's son, Barron. According to Tasnim News Agency, the video identified several locations allegedly frequented by Melania Trump, including places she visits, locations she reportedly prefers and shops where she is said to make purchases. The footage called on supporters to target the US First Lady. The video was titled: "Where to kill Melania?" The video concluded with a direct threat aimed at Barron Trump, stating that he "should wait for us."

An Iranian news agency affiliated with the IRGC released a video calling on supporters to assassinate Melania Trump and threatening Barron Trump amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran.

‘Kill Melania, Barron’: Why is IRGC-linked media outlet urging ‘freedom fighters’ to assassinate Trump’s family? WATCH

Iran has rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that negotiations with Washington are underway, with the country's Foreign Ministry insisting that no talks are currently taking place between the two sides.&nbsp;In a statement on Monday (July 27), the ministry said Iran was "not engaged in any negotiations with the United States" and dismissed suggestions that Tehran had sought to restart dialogue, saying such an approach was "not in our DNA". Instead, it claimed it was Washington that had requested talks, according to Iranian news agency Tasnim.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-far-more-than-we-need-trump-rejects-us-munitions-shortage-claims-but-what-do-reports-say-1785179641900">'We have far more than we need': Trump rejects US munitions shortage claims. But what do reports say?</a>&nbsp;The remarks came despite a pause in the recent military confrontation between Iran and the United States, with both sides refraining from launching fresh strikes for a second consecutive day.Trump's administration has maintained that diplomatic efforts are continuing. However, Tehran's latest statement directly contradicted the US president's assertion that negotiations were already in progress following the suspension of military action.&nbsp;The Iranian Foreign Ministry also said there had been no change in the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, adding that the strategic waterway remained completely closed to all lanes.The pause in hostilities has fuelled hopes of a possible diplomatic breakthrough and contributed to a sharp decline in global oil prices.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unlike-his-father-us-intelligence-flags-iran-s-new-leader-s-nuclear-ambitions-1784935494215">'Unlike his father': US intelligence flags Iran's new leader's ‘nuclear ambitions’</a>&nbsp;US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said President Trump was allowing diplomacy to continue while keeping military options available. "The President is giving talks some space. We remain locked and loaded, but he's going to give negotiations a little bit of room," Waltz told Fox News on Sunday.&nbsp;According to CNN, citing a US source, military operations are currently "on hold", while regional allies have not reported any fresh Iranian attacks during the pause.

Iran denied Donald Trump's claims of active negotiations with Washington, stating talks are "not in our DNA." Despite direct contradictions, a pause in military strikes continues, easing global oil prices.

Iran has rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that negotiations with Washington are underway, with the country's Foreign Ministry insisting that no talks are currently taking place between the two sides. In a statement on Monday (July 27), the ministry said Iran was "not engaged in any negotiations with the United States" and dismissed suggestions that Tehran had sought to restart dialogue, saying such an approach was "not in our DNA". Instead, it claimed it was Washington that had requested talks, according to Iranian news agency Tasnim. Also read: 'We have far more than we need': Trump rejects US munitions shortage claims. But what do reports say? The remarks came despite a pause in the recent military confrontation between Iran and the United States, with both sides refraining from launching fresh strikes for a second consecutive day. Trump's administration has maintained that diplomatic efforts are continuing. However, Tehran's latest statement directly contradicted the US president's assertion that negotiations were already in progress following the suspension of military action. The Iranian Foreign Ministry also said there had been no change in the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, adding that the strategic waterway remained completely closed to all lanes. The pause in hostilities has fuelled hopes of a possible diplomatic breakthrough and contributed to a sharp decline in global oil prices. Also read: 'Unlike his father': US intelligence flags Iran's new leader's ‘nuclear ambitions’ US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said President Trump was allowing diplomacy to continue while keeping military options available. "The President is giving talks some space. We remain locked and loaded, but he's going to give negotiations a little bit of room," Waltz told Fox News on Sunday. According to CNN, citing a US source, military operations are currently "on hold", while regional allies have not reported any fresh Iranian attacks during the pause.

Iran denied Donald Trump's claims of active negotiations with Washington, stating talks are "not in our DNA." Despite direct contradictions, a pause in military strikes continues, easing global oil prices.

'Not in our DNA': Iran denies seeking US negotiations, rejects Trump's remarks

US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports suggesting the Pentagon is facing critical shortages of air defence interceptors, insisting that the United States has more than enough military stockpiles despite concerns linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran.&nbsp;"We have far more munitions than anyone in the world, and far more than we need," Trump told The Wall Street Journal, rejecting claims that US military inventories are under pressure. His remarks came after several US media outlets reported that senior military officials had warned the White House that a broader military campaign against Iran could significantly deplete stocks of Patriot missile interceptors and other air defence systems deployed across the Middle East.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unlike-his-father-us-intelligence-flags-iran-s-new-leader-s-nuclear-ambitions-1784935494215">'Unlike his father': US intelligence flags Iran's new leader's ‘nuclear ambitions’</a>&nbsp;According to The New York Times, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine privately advised that while expanded operations against Iran remained militarily feasible, they would place considerable strain on interceptor supplies allocated to US Central Command.&nbsp;The report said concerns grew after three US service members were killed in Jordan when a ballistic missile breached American air defences during a barrage of Iranian drones and missiles. Military leaders reportedly warned that declining interceptor inventories could leave US troops, Gulf allies and key regional installations exposed if the conflict were to escalate.&nbsp;Separately, Axios reported, citing two people familiar with the matter, that US Central Command chief General Brad Cooper recommended ending the bombing campaign around the Strait of Hormuz, arguing it had reached the limits of its effectiveness. However, The Wall Street Journal reported that Cooper believes current stockpiles remain sufficient to sustain ongoing operations while the US considers expanding strikes, subject to Trump's approval, to weaken Iran's missile-launch capabilities.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-they-had-nuclear-weapon-there-might-not-be-a-middle-east-today-trump-s-fresh-jibe-at-iran-1784933816124">‘If they had nuclear weapon, there might not be a Middle East today’: Trump’s fresh jibe at Iran</a>&nbsp;The White House has declined to release updated figures on the use of Patriot and THAAD interceptors, saying publishing such information would pose a national security risk, according to The Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;Analysts Mark Cancian and Chris Park of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies estimated in figures cited by the newspaper that the US has fired at least 1,500 Patriot interceptors since the conflict began, leaving an estimated inventory of fewer than 1,000.&nbsp;

Donald Trump dismissed reports of critical US air defence interceptor shortages, assuring strong military stockpiles. However, analysts and military officials warn that expanded Middle East conflict heavily strains inventory.  

US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports suggesting the Pentagon is facing critical shortages of air defence interceptors, insisting that the United States has more than enough military stockpiles despite concerns linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran. "We have far more munitions than anyone in the world, and far more than we need," Trump told The Wall Street Journal, rejecting claims that US military inventories are under pressure. His remarks came after several US media outlets reported that senior military officials had warned the White House that a broader military campaign against Iran could significantly deplete stocks of Patriot missile interceptors and other air defence systems deployed across the Middle East. Also read: 'Unlike his father': US intelligence flags Iran's new leader's ‘nuclear ambitions’ According to The New York Times, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine privately advised that while expanded operations against Iran remained militarily feasible, they would place considerable strain on interceptor supplies allocated to US Central Command. The report said concerns grew after three US service members were killed in Jordan when a ballistic missile breached American air defences during a barrage of Iranian drones and missiles. Military leaders reportedly warned that declining interceptor inventories could leave US troops, Gulf allies and key regional installations exposed if the conflict were to escalate. Separately, Axios reported, citing two people familiar with the matter, that US Central Command chief General Brad Cooper recommended ending the bombing campaign around the Strait of Hormuz, arguing it had reached the limits of its effectiveness. However, The Wall Street Journal reported that Cooper believes current stockpiles remain sufficient to sustain ongoing operations while the US considers expanding strikes, subject to Trump's approval, to weaken Iran's missile-launch capabilities. Also read: ‘If they had nuclear weapon, there might not be a Middle East today’: Trump’s fresh jibe at Iran The White House has declined to release updated figures on the use of Patriot and THAAD interceptors, saying publishing such information would pose a national security risk, according to The Wall Street Journal. Analysts Mark Cancian and Chris Park of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies estimated in figures cited by the newspaper that the US has fired at least 1,500 Patriot interceptors since the conflict began, leaving an estimated inventory of fewer than 1,000.

Donald Trump dismissed reports of critical US air defence interceptor shortages, assuring strong military stockpiles. However, analysts and military officials warn that expanded Middle East conflict heavily strains inventory. &nbsp;

'We have far more than we need': Trump rejects US munitions shortage claims. But what do reports say?

A student in China was startled by loud banging at her door. When she opened it, a man pushed his way inside and asked her to record a video for her family asking for ransom.&nbsp;However, there is a catch here.&nbsp;This kidnapping scenario was not real.&nbsp;The man was simply an instructor from a private summer camp preparing Chinese youngsters who want to study in the US to deal with perceiving risks of living there.&nbsp;This comes at a time when America’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, is facing flak for its intense crackdown.&nbsp;As per reports, one of the main components of such camps is training students on how to cope with ICE raids.&nbsp;It simulates ICE tactics and procedures, preparing participants to respond calmly and effectively to sudden raids in everyday settings like homes, schools and public spaces.&nbsp;What else do these camps offer?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-students-enrol-in-i-c-e-style-camps-to-prepare-for-life-in-us-1785175049913/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-students-enrol-in-i-c-e-style-camps-to-prepare-for-life-in-us-1785175049913/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Apart from kidnapping drills, the courses also reportedly put students through scenarios on how to deal with hate crimes, phone and internet scams as well as bullying.&nbsp;This new phenomenon in China also assumes significance in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s administration tightening rules for international students.&nbsp;For instance, it recently imposed a four-year cap on student and cultural exchange visas.&nbsp;China also took offence at being singled out in case of journalists.&nbsp;While Chinese journalists can get a US visa for a maximum of three months, the limit for other foreign journalists is 240 days.&nbsp;China’s ICE-style camps are gaining traction, as US has witnessed a spate of protests throughout the year over Trump’s immigration crackdown.&nbsp;Protests initially erupted after 37-year old Renee Good was shot dead by ICE officer Jonathan Ross on January 7.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-students-enrol-in-i-c-e-style-camps-to-prepare-for-life-in-us-1785175049913/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-students-enrol-in-i-c-e-style-camps-to-prepare-for-life-in-us-1785175049913/embed</a>&nbsp;Legal experts also raised concern over a memo of ICE, whereby people can be arrested from their homes without a judicial warrant.&nbsp;The outrage intensified as another US citizen Alex Pretti was gunned down by ICE agents at point blank range.&nbsp;In February, Trump removed US Border patrol commander Gregory Bovino, who emerged as the figure of the immigration crackdown.&nbsp;Recently, a diplomatic row arose as Mexican President Claudia Shein-Baum requested for criminal charges to be filed in US courts over death of its citizens.&nbsp;Since Trump began his presidential tenure last year, at least 17 Mexican nationals have died during ICE raids or in the agency’s custody.

The courses also reportedly put students through scenarios on how to deal with hate crimes, phone and internet scams, and bullying. This new phenomenon in China also assumes significance in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s administration tightening rules for international students.

A student in China was startled by loud banging at her door. When she opened it, a man pushed his way inside and asked her to record a video for her family asking for ransom. However, there is a catch here. This kidnapping scenario was not real. The man was simply an instructor from a private summer camp preparing Chinese youngsters who want to study in the US to deal with perceiving risks of living there. This comes at a time when America’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, is facing flak for its intense crackdown. As per reports, one of the main components of such camps is training students on how to cope with ICE raids. It simulates ICE tactics and procedures, preparing participants to respond calmly and effectively to sudden raids in everyday settings like homes, schools and public spaces. What else do these camps offer? https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-students-enrol-in-i-c-e-style-camps-to-prepare-for-life-in-us-1785175049913/embed Apart from kidnapping drills, the courses also reportedly put students through scenarios on how to deal with hate crimes, phone and internet scams as well as bullying. This new phenomenon in China also assumes significance in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s administration tightening rules for international students. For instance, it recently imposed a four-year cap on student and cultural exchange visas. China also took offence at being singled out in case of journalists. While Chinese journalists can get a US visa for a maximum of three months, the limit for other foreign journalists is 240 days. China’s ICE-style camps are gaining traction, as US has witnessed a spate of protests throughout the year over Trump’s immigration crackdown. Protests initially erupted after 37-year old Renee Good was shot dead by ICE officer Jonathan Ross on January 7. https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-students-enrol-in-i-c-e-style-camps-to-prepare-for-life-in-us-1785175049913/embed Legal experts also raised concern over a memo of ICE, whereby people can be arrested from their homes without a judicial warrant. The outrage intensified as another US citizen Alex Pretti was gunned down by ICE agents at point blank range. In February, Trump removed US Border patrol commander Gregory Bovino, who emerged as the figure of the immigration crackdown. Recently, a diplomatic row arose as Mexican President Claudia Shein-Baum requested for criminal charges to be filed in US courts over death of its citizens. Since Trump began his presidential tenure last year, at least 17 Mexican nationals have died during ICE raids or in the agency’s custody.

The courses also reportedly put students through scenarios on how to deal with hate crimes, phone and internet scams, and bullying. This new phenomenon in China also assumes significance in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s administration tightening rules for international students.

Chinese students learn how to deal with ICE raids in US in special camps | Gravitas

As China continues to expand the world’s largest navy and Pakistan strengthens its underwater warfare capabilities with advanced Chinese-built submarines, New Delhi is responding with a clear strategic objective—a 200-ship Indian Navy by 2035.&nbsp;&nbsp;And this is not just about increasing numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is about building a stronger, more self-reliant naval force capable of safeguarding India’s interests across the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;&nbsp;As per defence experts, that vision is taking shape with the recent commissioning of two indigenous warships: INS Mahendragiri, a stealth frigate, and INS Malvan, an anti-submarine warfare vessel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Experts say their induction reflects India’s growing confidence in domestic naval construction.&nbsp;&nbsp;Because INS Mahendragiri, for example, is designed by the Indian Navy’s warship design bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders with nearly 75 per cent indigenous content—a strong example of the Atmanirbhar Bharat push in the defence sector.&nbsp;At present, the Indian Navy operates over 140 vessels, including destroyers, frigates, and submarines, while another 50 warships are under construction.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-aims-for-200-ship-navy-by-2035-to-counter-china-pakistan-1785174115024/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-aims-for-200-ship-navy-by-2035-to-counter-china-pakistan-1785174115024/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout this year, a new Indian warship on average is reportedly entering service roughly every six weeks.&nbsp;In the past month and a half alone, the Navy has commissioned five indigenous vessels.&nbsp;&nbsp;In late June, for example, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three indigenously built warships in Kolkata, including INS Dunagiri, a stealth frigate packed with advanced weapons and sensors, like the BrahMos missiles and modern air defence systems, massively boosting the Navy’s combat capabilities.&nbsp;INS Sanshodhak was also commissioned on the same day.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of India’s latest survey vessels, the ship is designed to map the oceans and collect crucial hydrographic data.&nbsp;Equipped with autonomous underwater vehicles, it further strengthens maritime domain awareness.&nbsp;Completing the trio was INS Agray.&nbsp;Built to detect and neutralise underwater threats in shallow waters, its advanced sonar systems and torpedoes make it a key asset against enemy submarines.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to defence experts, the recent launches by the Indian Navy indicated that the 200-ship target is steadily moving towards reality.&nbsp;As per reports, the seventh and final ship of the Nilgiri-class frigate class INS Vindhyagiri is also expected to join the fleet within months.Beyond that, seven next-generation Project-17 Bravo warships are also in the pipeline, highlighting India’s long-term commitment to modernising its fleet.&nbsp;&nbsp;In fact, PM Modi recently said the launching of new ships is proof that India no longer wants to remain merely a buyer in the global defence market.&nbsp;&nbsp;India has also set an even bigger milestone—achieving complete self-reliance in naval shipbuilding, including critical components by 2047, while also becoming one of the world’s top five shipbuilding nations by the centenary of independence. But experts say challenges remain.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, India still imports specialised steel and several high-end technologies, while according to experts, supply-chain gaps and ageing shipyard infrastructure continue to slow progress.&nbsp;To overcome these, India is taking several steps, including forming key strategic partnerships.&nbsp;&nbsp;India and Japan have already signed an agreement to jointly develop the unicorn stealth mast for future warships, while discussions on co-producing Japan’s Mogami-class frigates reflect New Delhi’s focus on technology collaboration without compromising self-reliance.&nbsp;The regional backdrop makes these efforts increasingly important.&nbsp;&nbsp;China already operates more than 370 warships and continues to project power across the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;Pakistan is reportedly set to receive eight Chinese-built Hangor-class attack submarines.&nbsp;For India, strengthening the navy is not simply a military objective.&nbsp;It is essential for protecting sea lanes, securing trade, deterring potential threats, and reinforcing India’s position as a major maritime power in the Indian Ocean Region.

At present, the Indian Navy operates over 140 vessels, including destroyers, frigates, and submarines, while another 50 warships are under construction. Throughout this year, a new Indian warship on average is reportedly entering service roughly every six weeks.

As China continues to expand the world’s largest navy and Pakistan strengthens its underwater warfare capabilities with advanced Chinese-built submarines, New Delhi is responding with a clear strategic objective—a 200-ship Indian Navy by 2035. And this is not just about increasing numbers. It is about building a stronger, more self-reliant naval force capable of safeguarding India’s interests across the Indian Ocean. As per defence experts, that vision is taking shape with the recent commissioning of two indigenous warships: INS Mahendragiri, a stealth frigate, and INS Malvan, an anti-submarine warfare vessel. Experts say their induction reflects India’s growing confidence in domestic naval construction. Because INS Mahendragiri, for example, is designed by the Indian Navy’s warship design bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders with nearly 75 per cent indigenous content—a strong example of the Atmanirbhar Bharat push in the defence sector. At present, the Indian Navy operates over 140 vessels, including destroyers, frigates, and submarines, while another 50 warships are under construction. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-aims-for-200-ship-navy-by-2035-to-counter-china-pakistan-1785174115024/embed Throughout this year, a new Indian warship on average is reportedly entering service roughly every six weeks. In the past month and a half alone, the Navy has commissioned five indigenous vessels. In late June, for example, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three indigenously built warships in Kolkata, including INS Dunagiri, a stealth frigate packed with advanced weapons and sensors, like the BrahMos missiles and modern air defence systems, massively boosting the Navy’s combat capabilities. INS Sanshodhak was also commissioned on the same day. One of India’s latest survey vessels, the ship is designed to map the oceans and collect crucial hydrographic data. Equipped with autonomous underwater vehicles, it further strengthens maritime domain awareness. Completing the trio was INS Agray. Built to detect and neutralise underwater threats in shallow waters, its advanced sonar systems and torpedoes make it a key asset against enemy submarines. According to defence experts, the recent launches by the Indian Navy indicated that the 200-ship target is steadily moving towards reality. As per reports, the seventh and final ship of the Nilgiri-class frigate class INS Vindhyagiri is also expected to join the fleet within months. Beyond that, seven next-generation Project-17 Bravo warships are also in the pipeline, highlighting India’s long-term commitment to modernising its fleet. In fact, PM Modi recently said the launching of new ships is proof that India no longer wants to remain merely a buyer in the global defence market. India has also set an even bigger milestone—achieving complete self-reliance in naval shipbuilding, including critical components by 2047, while also becoming one of the world’s top five shipbuilding nations by the centenary of independence. But experts say challenges remain. For example, India still imports specialised steel and several high-end technologies, while according to experts, supply-chain gaps and ageing shipyard infrastructure continue to slow progress. To overcome these, India is taking several steps, including forming key strategic partnerships. India and Japan have already signed an agreement to jointly develop the unicorn stealth mast for future warships, while discussions on co-producing Japan’s Mogami-class frigates reflect New Delhi’s focus on technology collaboration without compromising self-reliance. The regional backdrop makes these efforts increasingly important. China already operates more than 370 warships and continues to project power across the Indo-Pacific. Pakistan is reportedly set to receive eight Chinese-built Hangor-class attack submarines. For India, strengthening the navy is not simply a military objective. It is essential for protecting sea lanes, securing trade, deterring potential threats, and reinforcing India’s position as a major maritime power in the Indian Ocean Region.

At present, the Indian Navy operates over 140 vessels, including destroyers, frigates, and submarines, while another 50 warships are under construction. Throughout this year, a new Indian warship on average is reportedly entering service roughly every six weeks.

India aims for 200-ship Navy by 2035 to counter China and Pakistan | Gravitas

United States President Donald Trump on ‌Monday (July 27) said that he was in "very ​deep talks ​with Iran" but also prepared to restart &nbsp;"strong military action" against Tehran if diplomacy failed. Trump said that the planned US military strikes were delayed to allow diplomacy another opportunity.&nbsp;"We are in very deep talks with Iran. If they don't work out, we will go back to very strong military action," Trump said in an interview to Axios.&nbsp;Asked how long Washington is willing to give diplomacy, Trump said "Not much time. Either it goes fast or not at all."&nbsp;Trump said that he allowed temporary halt in strikes against Iran because mediating countries as well as other countries in the region asked him to give negotiations another chance, reported Axios.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/won-t-go-unanswered-will-the-ukrainian-attacks-on-caspian-sea-vessels-lead-to-the-convergence-of-the-iran-war-and-the-russia-ukraine-war-1785150065123">'Won't go unanswered': Will the Ukrainian attacks on Caspian Sea vessels lead to the convergence of the Iran war and the Russia-Ukraine war?</a>&nbsp;Trump further said that he agreed to the demands of the negotiators as there was "Nothing gained, nothing lost". He pointed towards drop in oil prices and stock market recovering after halting the attacks.&nbsp;Almost after two weeks Trump put a pause on military strikes against Iranian targets around the southern coast of Iran and in the Strait of Hormuz area.&nbsp;The decision came after consultation with top advisers and military officials who presented him with a new strike plan for the day, reported Axios.&nbsp;<h2>What is the negotiation focused on?</h2>&nbsp;Trump's remarks comes ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday. The two countries launched a joint strike on Iran in February, eliminating Iran's supreme leader Ayahtollah Ali Khemenei and several top leadership of the country. They launched the attack citing threats and Tehran's nuclear program.&nbsp;Iran and Oman are the main negotiators of peace talks between US and Iran, but Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt and Trump's envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are actively involved.The current negotiations focuses on a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and relaunch talks on a comprehensive nuclear deal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump said that he allowed temporary halt in strikes against Iran because mediating countries in the region asked him to give negotiations another chance.

United States President Donald Trump on ‌Monday (July 27) said that he was in "very deep talks with Iran" but also prepared to restart "strong military action" against Tehran if diplomacy failed. Trump said that the planned US military strikes were delayed to allow diplomacy another opportunity. "We are in very deep talks with Iran. If they don't work out, we will go back to very strong military action," Trump said in an interview to Axios. Asked how long Washington is willing to give diplomacy, Trump said "Not much time. Either it goes fast or not at all." Trump said that he allowed temporary halt in strikes against Iran because mediating countries as well as other countries in the region asked him to give negotiations another chance, reported Axios. ALSO READ: 'Won't go unanswered': Will the Ukrainian attacks on Caspian Sea vessels lead to the convergence of the Iran war and the Russia-Ukraine war? Trump further said that he agreed to the demands of the negotiators as there was "Nothing gained, nothing lost". He pointed towards drop in oil prices and stock market recovering after halting the attacks. Almost after two weeks Trump put a pause on military strikes against Iranian targets around the southern coast of Iran and in the Strait of Hormuz area. The decision came after consultation with top advisers and military officials who presented him with a new strike plan for the day, reported Axios. What is the negotiation focused on? Trump's remarks comes ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday. The two countries launched a joint strike on Iran in February, eliminating Iran's supreme leader Ayahtollah Ali Khemenei and several top leadership of the country. They launched the attack citing threats and Tehran's nuclear program. Iran and Oman are the main negotiators of peace talks between US and Iran, but Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt and Trump's envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are actively involved. The current negotiations focuses on a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and relaunch talks on a comprehensive nuclear deal.

Trump said that he allowed temporary halt in strikes against Iran because mediating countries in the region asked him to give negotiations another chance.

Ready for 'strong military action' against Iran if talks fail, warns Trump

As the impasse over the US-Iran war continues, Pakistan’s desperate attempt to showcase its relevance also continues.&nbsp;&nbsp;At a time when his country is in dire need of foreign investments and energy supplies, Pak army chief Asim Munir is trying to create what is perceived as a new military alliance of Muslim-majority nations.&nbsp;This process gained momentum last year, when Pakistan and Saudi Arabia inked a strategic mutual defence agreement in September.&nbsp;The two countries pledged that any attack on either nation would be treated as an act of aggression against both.&nbsp;Amid the risk of getting embroiled in the West Asia war, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir deployed thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;While Pakistan has already signed a defence deal with Kuwait, it is also exploring defence pacts with Qatar and Turkiye.&nbsp;Now, the defence agreement with Kuwait has come under scrutiny.&nbsp;While both nations signed the deal in 2023 itself, Kuwait ratified it only a day earlier.&nbsp;The reason for this prolonged delay remains a mystery.&nbsp;As per reports, the pact establishes a framework for cooperation between Pakistani and Kuwaiti armed forces in areas such as training, intelligence sharing, logistics, and military manufacturing.&nbsp;A joint military committee will reportedly oversee this pact, which shall remain in place for five years.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-eyes-defence-pact-with-qatar-turkiye-1785173237509/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-eyes-defence-pact-with-qatar-turkiye-1785173237509/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;This comes at a time when Kuwait’s infrastructure has borne the brunt of Iran’s retaliation during the ongoing West Asia war.&nbsp;It has been grappling with a barrage of Iranian missiles and drones as well as attacks on US bases and desalination plants.&nbsp;As per Reuters, Pakistan has been negotiating an expanded defence agreement with Kuwait in exchange for energy cooperation and investment.&nbsp;Kuwait is reportedly seeking the deployment of Pakistani forces on its soil, akin to the Saudi Arabia pact.&nbsp;Reuters also claimed that Bahrain is interested in a similar agreement, whereas Jordan has expressed interest in a weapons and training deal with Pakistan.&nbsp;Now, in January this year, Pakistan’s federal minister for defence production, Raza Hayat Harraj, revealed that Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye are exploring a joint defence pact.&nbsp;But a final consensus is yet to emerge.&nbsp;In May, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif went a step ahead. He told local media that Pakistan desires Qatar as well as Turkiye to join its existing defence agreement with Saudi Arabia to ensure a robust defence alliance in West Asia.&nbsp;He said, “That will potentially minimise dependence on the outside region.”&nbsp;Even as Pakistan attempts to boost its military prowess to strengthen its position in a potential conflict with India, it is worth noting that Munir’s forces have struggled to tackle even internal turmoil.&nbsp;Whether it is Balochistan or Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, dissatisfaction and calls for freedom are growing.&nbsp;At present, a Pakistan-driven military alliance seems to be a pipe dream at best.

Amid the risk of getting embroiled in the West Asia war, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir deployed thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia. While Pakistan has already signed a defence deal with Kuwait, it is exploring defence pacts with Qatar and Turkiye.

As the impasse over the US-Iran war continues, Pakistan’s desperate attempt to showcase its relevance also continues. At a time when his country is in dire need of foreign investments and energy supplies, Pak army chief Asim Munir is trying to create what is perceived as a new military alliance of Muslim-majority nations. This process gained momentum last year, when Pakistan and Saudi Arabia inked a strategic mutual defence agreement in September. The two countries pledged that any attack on either nation would be treated as an act of aggression against both. Amid the risk of getting embroiled in the West Asia war, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir deployed thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia. While Pakistan has already signed a defence deal with Kuwait, it is also exploring defence pacts with Qatar and Turkiye. Now, the defence agreement with Kuwait has come under scrutiny. While both nations signed the deal in 2023 itself, Kuwait ratified it only a day earlier. The reason for this prolonged delay remains a mystery. As per reports, the pact establishes a framework for cooperation between Pakistani and Kuwaiti armed forces in areas such as training, intelligence sharing, logistics, and military manufacturing. A joint military committee will reportedly oversee this pact, which shall remain in place for five years. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-eyes-defence-pact-with-qatar-turkiye-1785173237509/embed This comes at a time when Kuwait’s infrastructure has borne the brunt of Iran’s retaliation during the ongoing West Asia war. It has been grappling with a barrage of Iranian missiles and drones as well as attacks on US bases and desalination plants. As per Reuters, Pakistan has been negotiating an expanded defence agreement with Kuwait in exchange for energy cooperation and investment. Kuwait is reportedly seeking the deployment of Pakistani forces on its soil, akin to the Saudi Arabia pact. Reuters also claimed that Bahrain is interested in a similar agreement, whereas Jordan has expressed interest in a weapons and training deal with Pakistan. Now, in January this year, Pakistan’s federal minister for defence production, Raza Hayat Harraj, revealed that Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye are exploring a joint defence pact. But a final consensus is yet to emerge. In May, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif went a step ahead. He told local media that Pakistan desires Qatar as well as Turkiye to join its existing defence agreement with Saudi Arabia to ensure a robust defence alliance in West Asia. He said, “That will potentially minimise dependence on the outside region.” Even as Pakistan attempts to boost its military prowess to strengthen its position in a potential conflict with India, it is worth noting that Munir’s forces have struggled to tackle even internal turmoil. Whether it is Balochistan or Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, dissatisfaction and calls for freedom are growing. At present, a Pakistan-driven military alliance seems to be a pipe dream at best.

Amid the risk of getting embroiled in the West Asia war, Pakistani army chief Asim Munir deployed thousands of troops, fighter jets, and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia. While Pakistan has already signed a defence deal with Kuwait, it is exploring defence pacts with Qatar and Turkiye.

Asim Munir eyes defence deal with Qatar & Turkiye after Kuwait as Pakistan seeks investments | Gravitas

The danger of the Iran-US-Israel war and the Russia-Ukraine war converging or overlapping has grown after the reported targeting of Iran-linked vessels in the Caspian Sea this past weekend. On 25 July, Ukrainian forces conducted long-range strikes in the Caspian Sea targeting vessels allegedly used in military cargo shipments involving Iran, and a Russian warship. This was confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) reported drone attacks on the cargo vessels Port Olya 2 and Begey. These vessels are under international sanctions for transporting military cargo between Iran and Russia. Also targeted was a Project 12418 Molniya-class missile boat.<h2>Iran responds with strong words after Caspian Sea attacks</h2>A war of words has ensued. On Monday (Jul 27), Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei called Ukraine's action "an absolutely illegal and unjustified act, contrary to the Charter of the United Nations". He dubbed it "a dangerous act of adventurism that will certainly not go unanswered by us". "The consequences of Ukraine's action will certainly be unforeseen," he added.Iran earlier confirmed that an Iranian-flagged commercial vessel sailing from Russia's Astrakhan Port to Iran's Bandar Anzali Port was struck on July 25, causing an explosion on board, killing one sailor and injuring several others.Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov identified the vessel as the Iran-owned dry cargo ship Ana, which he said was carrying "civilian cargo".<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-s-armed-forces-strike-russian-warship-in-caspian-sea-1785037333825/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-s-armed-forces-strike-russian-warship-in-caspian-sea-1785037333825/embed</a><h2>Caspian Sea attack risks convergence of the Iran-US and Russia-Ukraine wars</h2>Soon after the attacks, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on July 25: "The Ukrainian regime's aggression against an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea—an act explicitly acknowledged by the head of that regime—is a sign of the Ukrainian regime's continued irrational and hostile approach towards the Islamic Republic of Iran."It described the action as "a violation of Article 2, Paragraph 4 of the UN Charter and an act of aggression", while stressing that Iran has never intervened directly in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was more direct. On Sunday, he said in a post on X: "Zelensky has attacked an Iranian commercial vessel, killing a sailor. A blatant UN Charter violation done at Israel's behest to drag Europe into its war... What the freeloader in Kyiv did CANNOT GO UNANSWERED."Araghchi also raised the issue in separate calls with European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, according to reports.Following the Caspian Sea attacks, Iran summoned Ukraine's chargé d'affaires in Tehran to protest what it described as a "hostile and criminal act".Senior Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi said Ukraine "may soon come to understand that Iran does not let actions go unanswered", adding that any attack on Iran always "comes with a cost".Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-tu-214pu-doomsday-aircraft-iran-us-iran-conflict-explained-1783941853939">Putin's mysterious Tu-214PU 'Doomsday plane' lands in Iran as US-Iran conflict spirals</a><h2>Caspian Sea's geographic reality could make it the spot where the two wars converge</h2>To understand how the Caspian Sea could become a common theatre where the two wars might converge, one needs to understand its geographical location and strategic significance. The Caspian Sea, the world's largest inland body of water covering nearly 371,000 sq km, has coastlines shared by Iran and Russia, as well as Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan. Iran has a coastline of nearly 740 km along the southern Caspian Sea. The Iranian port of Bandar Anzali is the country's largest port on the Caspian coast. In March this year, Israel reportedly targeted Iranian naval assets in Bandar Anzali.The Caspian Sea is directly connected to Iran's northern frontier. The Caspian serves as a vital northern trade and logistics route linking Iran with Russia and Central Asia.During the Russia-Ukraine war, the Caspian Sea served as a Russia-Iran logistics corridor for military and commercial cargo. From there, Iran supplied Russia with drones and other military components used in the war in Ukraine. There's significant trade in oil, grain and other goods between the two countries along Caspian Sea, bypassing maritime routes affected by sanctions and security risks in the south. This logistics network appears to have been the focus of Ukraine's strikes.If Iran follows through on its threat of retaliation, the attacks raise the possibility that the Russia-Ukraine war and the broader Iran-Israel-US confrontation could increasingly overlap in the Caspian theatre.&nbsp;While it is too early to conclude that the two conflicts have merged, the shared geography and logistics of the Caspian Sea mean it could emerge as a common arena where the consequences of both wars intersect.

Ukraine's strikes on Iran-linked vessels in the Caspian Sea have triggered sharp warnings from Tehran. The war of words raises concerns that the Russia-Ukraine war and the wider Iran-US-Israel conflict could increasingly overlap.

The danger of the Iran-US-Israel war and the Russia-Ukraine war converging or overlapping has grown after the reported targeting of Iran-linked vessels in the Caspian Sea this past weekend. On 25 July, Ukrainian forces conducted long-range strikes in the Caspian Sea targeting vessels allegedly used in military cargo shipments involving Iran, and a Russian warship. This was confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) reported drone attacks on the cargo vessels Port Olya 2 and Begey. These vessels are under international sanctions for transporting military cargo between Iran and Russia. Also targeted was a Project 12418 Molniya-class missile boat. Iran responds with strong words after Caspian Sea attacks A war of words has ensued. On Monday (Jul 27), Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei called Ukraine's action "an absolutely illegal and unjustified act, contrary to the Charter of the United Nations". He dubbed it "a dangerous act of adventurism that will certainly not go unanswered by us". "The consequences of Ukraine's action will certainly be unforeseen," he added. Iran earlier confirmed that an Iranian-flagged commercial vessel sailing from Russia's Astrakhan Port to Iran's Bandar Anzali Port was struck on July 25, causing an explosion on board, killing one sailor and injuring several others. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov identified the vessel as the Iran-owned dry cargo ship Ana, which he said was carrying "civilian cargo". https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-ukraine-s-armed-forces-strike-russian-warship-in-caspian-sea-1785037333825/embed Caspian Sea attack risks convergence of the Iran-US and Russia-Ukraine wars Soon after the attacks, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said in a statement on July 25: "The Ukrainian regime's aggression against an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea—an act explicitly acknowledged by the head of that regime—is a sign of the Ukrainian regime's continued irrational and hostile approach towards the Islamic Republic of Iran." It described the action as "a violation of Article 2, Paragraph 4 of the UN Charter and an act of aggression", while stressing that Iran has never intervened directly in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was more direct. On Sunday, he said in a post on X: "Zelensky has attacked an Iranian commercial vessel, killing a sailor. A blatant UN Charter violation done at Israel's behest to drag Europe into its war... What the freeloader in Kyiv did CANNOT GO UNANSWERED." Araghchi also raised the issue in separate calls with European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, according to reports. Following the Caspian Sea attacks, Iran summoned Ukraine's chargé d'affaires in Tehran to protest what it described as a "hostile and criminal act". Senior Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi said Ukraine "may soon come to understand that Iran does not let actions go unanswered", adding that any attack on Iran always "comes with a cost". Also read: Putin's mysterious Tu-214PU 'Doomsday plane' lands in Iran as US-Iran conflict spirals Caspian Sea's geographic reality could make it the spot where the two wars converge To understand how the Caspian Sea could become a common theatre where the two wars might converge, one needs to understand its geographical location and strategic significance. The Caspian Sea, the world's largest inland body of water covering nearly 371,000 sq km, has coastlines shared by Iran and Russia, as well as Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan. Iran has a coastline of nearly 740 km along the southern Caspian Sea. The Iranian port of Bandar Anzali is the country's largest port on the Caspian coast. In March this year, Israel reportedly targeted Iranian naval assets in Bandar Anzali. The Caspian Sea is directly connected to Iran's northern frontier. The Caspian serves as a vital northern trade and logistics route linking Iran with Russia and Central Asia. During the Russia-Ukraine war, the Caspian Sea served as a Russia-Iran logistics corridor for military and commercial cargo. From there, Iran supplied Russia with drones and other military components used in the war in Ukraine. There's significant trade in oil, grain and other goods between the two countries along Caspian Sea, bypassing maritime routes affected by sanctions and security risks in the south. This logistics network appears to have been the focus of Ukraine's strikes. If Iran follows through on its threat of retaliation, the attacks raise the possibility that the Russia-Ukraine war and the broader Iran-Israel-US confrontation could increasingly overlap in the Caspian theatre. While it is too early to conclude that the two conflicts have merged, the shared geography and logistics of the Caspian Sea mean it could emerge as a common arena where the consequences of both wars intersect.

Ukraine's strikes on Iran-linked vessels in the Caspian Sea have triggered sharp warnings from Tehran. The war of words raises concerns that the Russia-Ukraine war and the wider Iran-US-Israel conflict could increasingly overlap.

'Won't go unanswered': Will the Ukrainian attacks on Caspian Sea vessels lead to the convergence of the Iran war and the Russia-Ukraine war?

New Delhi: India’s foreign ministry summoned Ukraine’s ambassador Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk after an attack on a vessel killed an Indian seafarer. Indian seafarers’ unions attributed the attack to a Ukrainian drone. The Indian foreign ministry strongly took up the issue.&nbsp;The vessel, MV Omorfi, was attacked on 18 July while transiting the Black Sea, “reportedly in Russian territorial waters,” the ministry said in a statement last week. Ten crew members were on board at the time, three of them Indian nationals. One Indian, Chief Officer Sagar Gupta, died in the incident. The two other Indian crew members were reported safe.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/berlin-pride-attack-suspect-shot-dead-by-police-incident-classified-as-islamist-terror-attack-1785091454375">Berlin Pride attack suspect shot dead by police; incident classified as ‘Islamist terror’ attack</a>&nbsp;India strongly condemned the attack. “Attacks on commercial shipping and civilian crew members are unacceptable,” the External Affairs Ministry said, urging all parties to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and the free flow of global trade.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nandan-nilekani-infosys-co-founder-and-aadhaar-architect-to-lead-pm-s-high-powered-task-force-1785079026251">Nandan Nilekani, Infosys co-founder and Aadhaar architect, to lead PM’s high-powered task force</a>&nbsp;The Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier, built in 2010, was operating in a region that has seen repeated strikes on merchant ships amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The incident shows the growing risks being faced by Indian seafarers, who form one of the largest contingents in the global merchant navy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-powered-task-force-on-exam-reforms-set-up-under-nandan-nilekani-pm-modi-1785073188370#">DMK founder Karunanidhi’s granddaughter booked for slapping SBI branch manager | Video</a>&nbsp;Indian authorities have issued advisories urging seafarers and shipping companies to carefully assess security risks, verify routes, insurance coverage, and emergency procedures before accepting any assignments in or near the Black Sea. New Delhi has repeatedly called for the protection of commercial shipping lanes, stressing that the safety of civilian seafarers must not be compromised.

India strongly condemned the attack on the vessel in the Black Sea. India's External Affairs Ministry said attacks on commercial shipping and civilian crew members are unacceptable and urged all parties to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and the free flow of global trade.

New Delhi: India’s foreign ministry summoned Ukraine’s ambassador Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk after an attack on a vessel killed an Indian seafarer. Indian seafarers’ unions attributed the attack to a Ukrainian drone. The Indian foreign ministry strongly took up the issue. The vessel, MV Omorfi, was attacked on 18 July while transiting the Black Sea, “reportedly in Russian territorial waters,” the ministry said in a statement last week. Ten crew members were on board at the time, three of them Indian nationals. One Indian, Chief Officer Sagar Gupta, died in the incident. The two other Indian crew members were reported safe. Also Read: Berlin Pride attack suspect shot dead by police; incident classified as ‘Islamist terror’ attack India strongly condemned the attack. “Attacks on commercial shipping and civilian crew members are unacceptable,” the External Affairs Ministry said, urging all parties to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and the free flow of global trade. Also Read: Nandan Nilekani, Infosys co-founder and Aadhaar architect, to lead PM’s high-powered task force The Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier, built in 2010, was operating in a region that has seen repeated strikes on merchant ships amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The incident shows the growing risks being faced by Indian seafarers, who form one of the largest contingents in the global merchant navy. Also Read: DMK founder Karunanidhi’s granddaughter booked for slapping SBI branch manager | Video Indian authorities have issued advisories urging seafarers and shipping companies to carefully assess security risks, verify routes, insurance coverage, and emergency procedures before accepting any assignments in or near the Black Sea. New Delhi has repeatedly called for the protection of commercial shipping lanes, stressing that the safety of civilian seafarers must not be compromised.

India strongly condemned the attack on the vessel in the Black Sea. India's External Affairs Ministry said attacks on commercial shipping and civilian crew members are unacceptable and urged all parties to ensure the safety of maritime navigation and the free flow of global trade.

India summons Ukraine Ambassador Dr. Oleksandr Polishchuk after attack on vessel killed Indian seafarer

France and Spain are waking up to yet another day of wildfires on Monday (Jul 27), as more than 300,000 people have been evacuated from affected regions. The fires are turning out to be among the worst in Europe in recent years, severely affecting daily life and tourism in both countries. In France, nearly 98,000 hectares or 242,000 acres have burned, a historic record, according to French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez. In Spain, around 152,000 hectares have burned nationwide so far this year, which is more than six times the area burned during the same period last year and well above the annual average of around 100,000 hectares.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-spain-wildfires-force-267-000-to-flee-macron-says-we-will-rebuild-1785002928333">France, Spain wildfires force 267,000 to flee; Macron says, 'We will rebuild'</a><h2>Southwestern France worst-affected</h2>Around 30 wildfires burnt simultaneously in southwestern France. More than 32,000 hectares have burned in the Gironde and Landes areas, destroying an estimated 240 buildings and homes. The affected area is roughly three times the size of Paris. Reports said more than 220,000 people have been evacuated from Gironde alone, making it one of the largest peacetime civilian evacuations in modern French history. Full evacuation orders were issued for the Cap Ferret peninsula, home to around 40,000 people, with some residents rescued by boat. Further evacuation orders were issued overnight for nearly 57,000 people in the western suburbs of Bordeaux.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-wildfires-rage-on-spain-france-battle-deadly-blazes-thousands-evacuated-1785052632084/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-wildfires-rage-on-spain-france-battle-deadly-blazes-thousands-evacuated-1785052632084/embed</a>French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said the Gironde fires "remained extremely violent and unpredictable", moving "erratically towards Bordeaux". The A63 motorway, which connects Bordeaux with the Spanish border, has been closed over a 60-kilometre stretch.Around 2,500 firefighters, 1,500 military personnel, 1,200 police officers and an Airbus A400M military transport aircraft have been deployed for firefighting and rescue operations. The aircraft has been used to drop fire retardant, marking the first such operational use of the A400M for this purpose in France. Last week, two French firefighters died while battling the blazes.Firefighter Captain Nicolas Braz said the fires had created their own winds, "complete with whirlwinds... erratic and unmanageable."&nbsp;<h2>Spain fires burn 152,000 hectares</h2>In Spain, fires west of Madrid and in the province of Ávila have burned around 45,000 hectares.The Ávila wildfire has been reported to have an 82,000-hectare perimeter and was described as potentially the worst fire in the history of the region and among the largest wildfires ever recorded in Spain.Around 75,000 people have been evacuated from the Madrid, Ávila and Toledo areas. An additional 15,000 people have been evacuated from parts of Castellón and Valencia. Tens of thousands more have been ordered to remain indoors because of smoke.Spain has reported at least two deaths: one in the Valencia-Manises area and another in the eastern province of Castellón.Spain has declared a national state of emergency, with fires near Madrid described as being "beyond the capacity" of firefighters at their peak after multiple blazes merged.Madrid regional president Isabel Díaz Ayuso called it the "worst fire in the history of the region", saying the area was facing a "perfect storm" of high temperatures, strong winds and merging fire fronts.Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the priority is to save lives, while warning that difficult hours lie ahead. Civil Protection chief Virginia Barcones described the Ávila fire as like battling a "monster".<h2>European Union responds as fires hit other countries</h2>The European Union has mobilised aircraft and firefighting teams from Greece, Italy, Portugal, Türkiye, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Romania to help tackle the fires. Germany has also announced assistance for the fire-ravaged regions.Wildfires are also being reported in Sicily in Italy, Germany, Romania and the United Kingdom amid a hot summer.According to data from the European Forest Fire Information System, 254,388 hectares had burned across the European Union as of July 22.

France and Spain are continuing to battle some of Europe's worst wildfires. Hundreds of thousands of hectares have burned, and an estimated 300,000 people have been evacuated. Several records are being broken amid disruption across both countries.

France and Spain are waking up to yet another day of wildfires on Monday (Jul 27), as more than 300,000 people have been evacuated from affected regions. The fires are turning out to be among the worst in Europe in recent years, severely affecting daily life and tourism in both countries. In France, nearly 98,000 hectares or 242,000 acres have burned, a historic record, according to French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez. In Spain, around 152,000 hectares have burned nationwide so far this year, which is more than six times the area burned during the same period last year and well above the annual average of around 100,000 hectares. Also read: France, Spain wildfires force 267,000 to flee; Macron says, 'We will rebuild' Southwestern France worst-affected Around 30 wildfires burnt simultaneously in southwestern France. More than 32,000 hectares have burned in the Gironde and Landes areas, destroying an estimated 240 buildings and homes. The affected area is roughly three times the size of Paris. Reports said more than 220,000 people have been evacuated from Gironde alone, making it one of the largest peacetime civilian evacuations in modern French history. Full evacuation orders were issued for the Cap Ferret peninsula, home to around 40,000 people, with some residents rescued by boat. Further evacuation orders were issued overnight for nearly 57,000 people in the western suburbs of Bordeaux. https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-wildfires-rage-on-spain-france-battle-deadly-blazes-thousands-evacuated-1785052632084/embed French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said the Gironde fires "remained extremely violent and unpredictable", moving "erratically towards Bordeaux". The A63 motorway, which connects Bordeaux with the Spanish border, has been closed over a 60-kilometre stretch. Around 2,500 firefighters, 1,500 military personnel, 1,200 police officers and an Airbus A400M military transport aircraft have been deployed for firefighting and rescue operations. The aircraft has been used to drop fire retardant, marking the first such operational use of the A400M for this purpose in France. Last week, two French firefighters died while battling the blazes. Firefighter Captain Nicolas Braz said the fires had created their own winds, "complete with whirlwinds... erratic and unmanageable." Spain fires burn 152,000 hectares In Spain, fires west of Madrid and in the province of Ávila have burned around 45,000 hectares. The Ávila wildfire has been reported to have an 82,000-hectare perimeter and was described as potentially the worst fire in the history of the region and among the largest wildfires ever recorded in Spain. Around 75,000 people have been evacuated from the Madrid, Ávila and Toledo areas. An additional 15,000 people have been evacuated from parts of Castellón and Valencia. Tens of thousands more have been ordered to remain indoors because of smoke. Spain has reported at least two deaths: one in the Valencia-Manises area and another in the eastern province of Castellón. Spain has declared a national state of emergency, with fires near Madrid described as being "beyond the capacity" of firefighters at their peak after multiple blazes merged. Madrid regional president Isabel Díaz Ayuso called it the "worst fire in the history of the region", saying the area was facing a "perfect storm" of high temperatures, strong winds and merging fire fronts. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the priority is to save lives, while warning that difficult hours lie ahead. Civil Protection chief Virginia Barcones described the Ávila fire as like battling a "monster". European Union responds as fires hit other countries The European Union has mobilised aircraft and firefighting teams from Greece, Italy, Portugal, Türkiye, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Romania to help tackle the fires. Germany has also announced assistance for the fire-ravaged regions. Wildfires are also being reported in Sicily in Italy, Germany, Romania and the United Kingdom amid a hot summer. According to data from the European Forest Fire Information System, 254,388 hectares had burned across the European Union as of July 22.

France and Spain are continuing to battle some of Europe's worst wildfires. Hundreds of thousands of hectares have burned, and an estimated 300,000 people have been evacuated. Several records are being broken amid disruption across both countries.

France wildfires burn a record 98,000 ha; Spain fires reach 152,000 ha as more than 300,000 evacuated

Russian President Vladimir Putin went on a rant about the fate of Ukraine and that its western regions would "sooner or later" return to Hungary, Romania, and Poland. He called them "a gift from Stalin" and said that this "return" would take time, but in "a year, or two, or maybe even ten or fifteen", everything will "historically fall into place." Putin made the remarks during a televised meeting with Navy personnel after scrapping the Navy Day parade, fearing an attack by Ukraine.&nbsp;The parade was scheduled to have nearly 200 warships sail along the Neva River in St. Petersburg. But instead, he chose to address a group of sailors, Soviet dictator Josef Stalin, and how Ukraine would one day fall apart. After cancelling such a large event, Putin tried to save face by making weird claims and trying to present a picture where Russia had the upper hand in the ongoing war. He said that Russia is the only "guarantor" of Ukraine's "territorial integrity."&nbsp;Notably, during the war that has been going on since February 2022, Russia has seized eastern regions of Ukraine and has tried to claim them as its own. But Kyiv has staged a massive comeback in the war with its drones that are bombing the inner regions of Russia, travelling several kilometres for hours before inflicting major destruction.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-drone-destroys-russian-bomber-tu-95-800km-engels-2-air-base-1784779435318">Ukrainian drone wrecks irreplaceable Russian bomber 800km inside the country, satellite images show it was halved</a><h2>Ukraine destroys strategic Russian bomber</h2>Recently, a Tu-95 strategic bomber was destroyed at Russia's Engels-2 air base by an SBU drone that travelled 800 kilometres deep into the country. Satellite images backed the claims by President Volodymyr Zelensky, with a wrecked TU-95MS visible on the tarmac at the air base. &nbsp;The Tu-95MS variant has been carrying the Kh-101 cruise missiles to carry out attacks on major Ukrainian cities.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/ukrainian-drone-travels-2-500-km-in-12-hours-to-attack-oil-refinery-in-siberia-1784184857187">Ukrainian drone travels 2,500 km in 12 hours to attack oil refinery in Siberia, as CIA confirms 30-minute soldier lifespan</a><h2>Ukraine drone travels 12 hours to attack oil refinery in Siberia</h2>Before that, a drone flew for 12 hours, covering a distance of 2,500 kilometres to attack an oil refinery in Siberia. Kyiv's FP-1 drones struck the Gazprom Neft oil refinery in Omsk on July 6. The strike halted operations at Russia's largest gasoline producer. The $55,000 drone set fire to the CDU-10 crude distillation unit. CDU-11, another unit, was shut down after network links were damaged.&nbsp;

Vladimir Putin cancelled the Navy Day parade for fear of a Ukrainian attack. More than 200 warships were set to sail, but it all had to be scrapped. Then Putin held a televised meeting where he tried to push the agenda that Ukraine's end is inevitable, and only Russia can save it. 

Russian President Vladimir Putin went on a rant about the fate of Ukraine and that its western regions would "sooner or later" return to Hungary, Romania, and Poland. He called them "a gift from Stalin" and said that this "return" would take time, but in "a year, or two, or maybe even ten or fifteen", everything will "historically fall into place." Putin made the remarks during a televised meeting with Navy personnel after scrapping the Navy Day parade, fearing an attack by Ukraine. The parade was scheduled to have nearly 200 warships sail along the Neva River in St. Petersburg. But instead, he chose to address a group of sailors, Soviet dictator Josef Stalin, and how Ukraine would one day fall apart. After cancelling such a large event, Putin tried to save face by making weird claims and trying to present a picture where Russia had the upper hand in the ongoing war. He said that Russia is the only "guarantor" of Ukraine's "territorial integrity." Notably, during the war that has been going on since February 2022, Russia has seized eastern regions of Ukraine and has tried to claim them as its own. But Kyiv has staged a massive comeback in the war with its drones that are bombing the inner regions of Russia, travelling several kilometres for hours before inflicting major destruction. Also Read: Ukrainian drone wrecks irreplaceable Russian bomber 800km inside the country, satellite images show it was halved Ukraine destroys strategic Russian bomber Recently, a Tu-95 strategic bomber was destroyed at Russia's Engels-2 air base by an SBU drone that travelled 800 kilometres deep into the country. Satellite images backed the claims by President Volodymyr Zelensky, with a wrecked TU-95MS visible on the tarmac at the air base. The Tu-95MS variant has been carrying the Kh-101 cruise missiles to carry out attacks on major Ukrainian cities. Also Read: Ukrainian drone travels 2,500 km in 12 hours to attack oil refinery in Siberia, as CIA confirms 30-minute soldier lifespan Ukraine drone travels 12 hours to attack oil refinery in Siberia Before that, a drone flew for 12 hours, covering a distance of 2,500 kilometres to attack an oil refinery in Siberia. Kyiv's FP-1 drones struck the Gazprom Neft oil refinery in Omsk on July 6. The strike halted operations at Russia's largest gasoline producer. The $55,000 drone set fire to the CDU-10 crude distillation unit. CDU-11, another unit, was shut down after network links were damaged.

Vladimir Putin cancelled the Navy Day parade for fear of a Ukrainian attack. More than 200 warships were set to sail, but it all had to be scrapped. Then Putin held a televised meeting where he tried to push the agenda that Ukraine's end is inevitable, and only Russia can save it.&nbsp;

Putin rambles in TV speech after cancelling Navy Day parade fearing an attack by Ukraine

US people are neither considering the prediction of President Donald Trump about the Iran war that is about to end, nor do they believe that Iran has lost the will or the means to keep fighting. UN Ambassador Mike Waltz speculated that he would not commit to the war ending before the end of 2026. "I'm not going to put some kind of timeline on it,” said Waltz. Waltz's statement followed after Trump denied the idea of further negotiations with Iran, allowing the war to resume at full strength after a 60-day extension of the ceasefire between both the nations dissolved earlier this month. In addition, a tanker struck a mine in the Strait of Hormuz and exploded this weekend because the biggest trade route has become increasingly unsafe for global shipping traffic.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-grain-vessel-struck-by-russian-cruise-missiles-sinks-7-days-after-the-attack-that-killed-10-1785125364075">Video: Grain vessel struck by Russian cruise missiles sinks 7 days after the attack that killed 10</a><h3>War Powers resolutions</h3>These developments point to mounting uncertainty inside the administration itself, with very few officials willing to accept the fact that the war is conclusively over, even as criticism mounts from Congress. While senators have so far blocked War Powers resolutions aiming to curb the president’s power, the Senate GOP caucus is growing opposed to the war and several senators have publicly stated about their beliefs that the war was misguided from the beginning. Separately, a new poll released Sunday showed that public trust in the Trump administration's assessments of Iran has eroded significantly. According to CBS News polling, only a small fraction of Americans still believe the White House's claim that the war will conclude within days or weeks. The majority instead expect the conflict to drag on for months, or possibly years, as it nears its five-month mark with senior officials seemingly unable to advance negotiations that have effectively stalled following renewed fighting. Meanwhile, this week, the president attended a dignified transfer ceremony for four American service members killed in an Iranian strike earlier this month, later asserting without evidence that the fallen troops had "said very strongly" that Iran must be prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The majority instead expect the conflict to drag on for months, or possibly years, as it nears its five-month mark with senior officials seemingly unable to advance negotiations that have effectively stalled following renewed fighting.

US people are neither considering the prediction of President Donald Trump about the Iran war that is about to end, nor do they believe that Iran has lost the will or the means to keep fighting. UN Ambassador Mike Waltz speculated that he would not commit to the war ending before the end of 2026. "I'm not going to put some kind of timeline on it,” said Waltz. Waltz's statement followed after Trump denied the idea of further negotiations with Iran, allowing the war to resume at full strength after a 60-day extension of the ceasefire between both the nations dissolved earlier this month. In addition, a tanker struck a mine in the Strait of Hormuz and exploded this weekend because the biggest trade route has become increasingly unsafe for global shipping traffic. Also read: Video: Grain vessel struck by Russian cruise missiles sinks 7 days after the attack that killed 10 War Powers resolutions These developments point to mounting uncertainty inside the administration itself, with very few officials willing to accept the fact that the war is conclusively over, even as criticism mounts from Congress. While senators have so far blocked War Powers resolutions aiming to curb the president’s power, the Senate GOP caucus is growing opposed to the war and several senators have publicly stated about their beliefs that the war was misguided from the beginning. Separately, a new poll released Sunday showed that public trust in the Trump administration's assessments of Iran has eroded significantly. According to CBS News polling, only a small fraction of Americans still believe the White House's claim that the war will conclude within days or weeks. The majority instead expect the conflict to drag on for months, or possibly years, as it nears its five-month mark with senior officials seemingly unable to advance negotiations that have effectively stalled following renewed fighting. Meanwhile, this week, the president attended a dignified transfer ceremony for four American service members killed in an Iranian strike earlier this month, later asserting without evidence that the fallen troops had "said very strongly" that Iran must be prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons.

The majority instead expect the conflict to drag on for months, or possibly years, as it nears its five-month mark with senior officials seemingly unable to advance negotiations that have effectively stalled following renewed fighting.

Will Iran war last months or even years? Here's what new poll shows about what most Americans think

A ship transporting grain sank in the Black Sea days after being struck by Russian missiles, Ukraine's Sea Ports Authority (USPA) said. The civilian cargo ship was hit near Odesa on July 19. USPA said that the Golden Leo "sustained significant damage to its hull and superstructure" from the Russian attack, following which it sank. The vessel was sailing under the Guinea-Bissau flag and was owned by a Turkish company. Visuals on social media show the ship moments before it went down.&nbsp;The cargo ship was hit by three Russian Kh-59/Kh-69 cruise missiles as it was leaving Ukraine's maritime corridor with a cargo of grain. The Russian attack on July 19 left 10 people dead, USPA earlier said. The missiles struck the starboard side of the vessel's superstructure, sparking a fire on board. The fire was brought under control following a night-long operation in which eight people were rescued. Ten people, including a Ukrainian maritime pilot, couldn't be saved.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strike-on-kyiv-drone-expo-kills-10-injures-around-100-this-is-what-we-know-1784922780731">Russian strike on Kyiv drone expo kills 10, injures around 100. This is what we know</a>&nbsp;"At the time of the sinking, there was no crew on board. We recall that after the attack, eight crew members were evacuated during a search and rescue operation. Unfortunately, nine crew members and a Ukrainian pilot were killed as a result of the attack," USPA reported.<h2>Ship attacked by Russia in Black Sea sinks</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">‼️The ship sank in the Black Sea near Odesa, — local media Previously, as a result of shelling by the Russian Federation. <a href="https://t.co/3dO8nsC8cd">pic.twitter.com/3dO8nsC8cd</a>&mdash; MAKS 26 🇺🇦👀 (@Maks_NAFO_FELLA) <a href="https://x.com/Maks_NAFO_FELLA/status/2081401686510198819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Ukraine slams Russia for attacking a ship carrying food&nbsp;</h2>The International Maritime Organization and the shipowner have been informed about the sinking, Ports Authority said. Ukraine slammed Russia for targeting a ship carrying food supplies. "By attacking commercial vessels, Russia is grossly violating the norms of international maritime law, the principles of freedom of navigation, and creating a direct threat to the lives of seafarers. This also jeopardises the stability of international maritime transport and global food security," USPA said.&nbsp;Odesa Oblast Governor Oleh Kiper said that the attack shows that the enemy is "deliberately targeting civilian shipping, endangering human lives and the safety of maritime transport," calling it "proof of the terrorist nature of the aggressor country."&nbsp;Earlier, Russia hit a civilian cargo vessel flying the Togolese flag on July 13, killing five and inuring 10. The strike happened while it was unloading mineral fertilisers at the port of Odesa.

The ship, struck by three Russian Kh-59/Kh-69 cruise missiles on July 19, sank on July 26, according to Ukraine's Sea Ports Authority. The attack had killed 10 crew members, while eight were rescued. Video of the sinking is 

A ship transporting grain sank in the Black Sea days after being struck by Russian missiles, Ukraine's Sea Ports Authority (USPA) said. The civilian cargo ship was hit near Odesa on July 19. USPA said that the Golden Leo "sustained significant damage to its hull and superstructure" from the Russian attack, following which it sank. The vessel was sailing under the Guinea-Bissau flag and was owned by a Turkish company. Visuals on social media show the ship moments before it went down. The cargo ship was hit by three Russian Kh-59/Kh-69 cruise missiles as it was leaving Ukraine's maritime corridor with a cargo of grain. The Russian attack on July 19 left 10 people dead, USPA earlier said. The missiles struck the starboard side of the vessel's superstructure, sparking a fire on board. The fire was brought under control following a night-long operation in which eight people were rescued. Ten people, including a Ukrainian maritime pilot, couldn't be saved. Also Read: Russian strike on Kyiv drone expo kills 10, injures around 100. This is what we know "At the time of the sinking, there was no crew on board. We recall that after the attack, eight crew members were evacuated during a search and rescue operation. Unfortunately, nine crew members and a Ukrainian pilot were killed as a result of the attack," USPA reported. Ship attacked by Russia in Black Sea sinks

The ship, struck by three Russian Kh-59/Kh-69 cruise missiles on July 19, sank on July 26, according to Ukraine's Sea Ports Authority. The attack had killed 10 crew members, while eight were rescued. Video of the sinking is&nbsp;

Video: Grain vessel struck by Russian cruise missiles sinks 7 days after the attack that killed 10

Climate and environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Sunday (Jul 26) joined a protest in London that was organised Indian students expressing solidarity to the Jantar Mantar victory in the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protest in India's New Delhi. The protest called by UK unit of the Students' Federation of India (SFI-UK) featured placards demanding more accountability than just Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The protest was organised outside the Indian High Commission in London. Some placards also called for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resignation. Notably, the protest and Greta Thunberg's involvement comes even as the protest in India is over and Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned, as well as the ruling government has agreed to the demands of the protesters.&nbsp;SFI President VP Sanu shared photographs from the event on social media, and wrote, “Famous social and environment activist Greta Thunberg showed up in solidarity with the Indian student movement at London protest organised by SFI-UK today. The student movement has given global activists hope about the power of the people. Thank you for your solidarity.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Famous Social and Environment Activist Greta Thunberg showed up in solidarity with the Indian student movement at London protest organised by SFI-UK today. The student movement has given global activists hope about the power of the people. Thank You For your Solidarity… <a href="https://t.co/VATlX9wvZo">pic.twitter.com/VATlX9wvZo</a>&mdash; Adarsh.M.Saji (@Adarshmsaji) <a href="https://x.com/Adarshmsaji/status/2081409745794330748?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What Greta Thunberg said?</h2>Speaking at the protest Greta Thunberg said that the protest by students in India was a part of “the broader struggle for democracy and liberation”and is shared cause for other activists globally. “The Indian student protest has made us all proud and it gives us hope. It shows what we can achieve when people come together and resist. The protests show the true meaning of people power. The Indian student struggle for justice and broader struggle for democracy and liberation is also our struggle. So, we all have to come together now and rise up and unite in solidarity with India,” Greta Thunberg said in her speech.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Greta Thunberg has spoken about the Indian Protest!! &quot;The Indian Student Protest, has made us all proud! They have given us hope! <a href="https://t.co/14Amri5WfP">pic.twitter.com/14Amri5WfP</a>&mdash; eppy (@epppyyy) <a href="https://x.com/epppyyy/status/2081460351548493998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

After the protest, the SFI UK issued a statement and said that it salutes the struggle of the student movement and its success in pushing the education minister to resign. "The fight has been very inspiring and courageous. But it has certainly not yet come to an end. We continue to grieve for the 21 students who have lost their lives due to the handling of NEET, and of course, the brutal police repression against protestors,” it stated.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg joined an SFI-UK protest outside the Indian High Commission in London, expressing solidarity with India’s student movement over alleged examination irregularities. SFI leaders shared images of Thunberg at the demonstration and thanked her for her support.

Climate and environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Sunday (Jul 26) joined a protest in London that was organised Indian students expressing solidarity to the Jantar Mantar victory in the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protest in India's New Delhi. The protest called by UK unit of the Students' Federation of India (SFI-UK) featured placards demanding more accountability than just Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The protest was organised outside the Indian High Commission in London. Some placards also called for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resignation. Notably, the protest and Greta Thunberg's involvement comes even as the protest in India is over and Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned, as well as the ruling government has agreed to the demands of the protesters. SFI President VP Sanu shared photographs from the event on social media, and wrote, “Famous social and environment activist Greta Thunberg showed up in solidarity with the Indian student movement at London protest organised by SFI-UK today. The student movement has given global activists hope about the power of the people. Thank you for your solidarity.”

Climate activist Greta Thunberg joined an SFI-UK protest outside the Indian High Commission in London, expressing solidarity with India’s student movement over alleged examination irregularities. SFI leaders shared images of Thunberg at the demonstration and thanked her for her support.

'Broader struggle for democracy...': Greta Thunberg joins Indian students protest in London - What she said

Three people died after a mass shooting at a food festival in Seattle on Sunday night. Witnesses said at least seven to eight shots rang through the site where thousands had gathered. One person has reportedly been arrested in connection with the incident, while a second person remains at large, Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis said at a news conference late Sunday night. The incident happened at Seattle Center which was hosting its annual Bite of Seattle festival. Hundreds of local vendors were present at the site. CNN affiliate KOMO reported two witnesses as saying that they heard “seven to eight shots.”<h2>One arrested in Seattle shooting, one suspect at large</h2>Police said that the suspect they are looking for is a “young person” and does not pose a threat to the public. Shots rang out around 6 pm at the centre where thousands had gathered for the food festival. Two people died on the spot, with at least 5 treated at the scene. The Seattle Times said there was "mayhem", with people grabbing kids out of strollers and running towards the exit.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Harborview Medical Center was put on lockdown due to increased police activity in the area, an email sent to staff Sunday night read. It described it as a "mass casualty incident." A third victim who was taken to the hospital died later. The US flag on the Space Needle was flying at half-mast.<h2>Seattle Police urge people to call tipline with information on shooting&nbsp;</h2>The shooting occurred outside the Seattle Center Armory, according to the Seattle Police Department, near the iconic Space Needle. Seattle Times reported the scene was "pure chaos." According to their reporter who was present at the festival, no cameras recorded the shooting. Police are trying to piece the puzzle together by talking to witnesses. People with any information have been urged to call the tip line &nbsp;206-233-5000.&nbsp;"We need your help. We can't solve this without help from our community," Seattle police Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis said.&nbsp;The Bite of Seattle festival has been happening at the centre for decades every year. Last year, 282,000 people attended, according to Seattle Center’s impact report.

Seattle mass shooting: Multiple gunshots rang through the Seattle Centre on Sunday evening. Two victims died on the scene while a third passed away in the hospital. Thousands had gathered for the annual Bite of Seattle festival. 

Three people died after a mass shooting at a food festival in Seattle on Sunday night. Witnesses said at least seven to eight shots rang through the site where thousands had gathered. One person has reportedly been arrested in connection with the incident, while a second person remains at large, Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis said at a news conference late Sunday night. The incident happened at Seattle Center which was hosting its annual Bite of Seattle festival. Hundreds of local vendors were present at the site. CNN affiliate KOMO reported two witnesses as saying that they heard “seven to eight shots.” One arrested in Seattle shooting, one suspect at large Police said that the suspect they are looking for is a “young person” and does not pose a threat to the public. Shots rang out around 6 pm at the centre where thousands had gathered for the food festival. Two people died on the spot, with at least 5 treated at the scene. The Seattle Times said there was "mayhem", with people grabbing kids out of strollers and running towards the exit. Meanwhile, the Harborview Medical Center was put on lockdown due to increased police activity in the area, an email sent to staff Sunday night read. It described it as a "mass casualty incident." A third victim who was taken to the hospital died later. The US flag on the Space Needle was flying at half-mast. Seattle Police urge people to call tipline with information on shooting The shooting occurred outside the Seattle Center Armory, according to the Seattle Police Department, near the iconic Space Needle. Seattle Times reported the scene was "pure chaos." According to their reporter who was present at the festival, no cameras recorded the shooting. Police are trying to piece the puzzle together by talking to witnesses. People with any information have been urged to call the tip line 206-233-5000. "We need your help. We can't solve this without help from our community," Seattle police Assistant Chief Tyrone Davis said. The Bite of Seattle festival has been happening at the centre for decades every year. Last year, 282,000 people attended, according to Seattle Center’s impact report.

Seattle mass shooting: Multiple gunshots rang through the Seattle Centre on Sunday evening. Two victims died on the scene while a third passed away in the hospital. Thousands had gathered for the annual Bite of Seattle festival.&nbsp;

What we know about Seattle mass shooting: 3 dead, suspect arrested and one at large

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (July 26) made his first reaction on New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's statement about his arrest. Slamming Mamdani, Netanyahu said that he is “fomenting hate.” The New York mayor had said that Netanyahu should be arrested if he visits the city for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The 81st session of the UNGA will open 8 September 2026, at the UN Headquarters in New York. The Israeli PM also accused Mamdani of turning one group against other while he is expected to be the mayor for all groups.&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>Speaking to Fox News, Netanyahu criticised the mayor’s stance, saying: “He’s fomenting hate. He's supposed to be the mayor of all New Yorkers — Jews, Christians, Muslims, everyone. But he's trying to turn one group against the other. I speak to Jewish Americans, and they’re afraid right now.” He also added, “I intend to come and speak the truth – speak for Israel and for the Israeli-American alliance from the podium of the United Nations.” He labeled the ICC war crimes charges as a "perversion of justice" and a "kangaroo court" with no jurisdiction over Israel or the United States.</blockquote><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayor-zohran-mamdani-considers-netanyahu-arrest-during-un-visit-icc-warrant-controversy-1784464918795/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayor-zohran-mamdani-considers-netanyahu-arrest-during-un-visit-icc-warrant-controversy-1784464918795/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>What Mamdani and Trump said about Netanyahu's arrest?</h2>Last week, Mamdani said the warrant issued by the ICC should be "taken seriously" and argued that international legal processes must be applied consistently, regardless of who they involve. "When it comes to Benjamin Netanyahu, we're speaking about someone who's the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. And he's the subject of this arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity, for war crimes, and he's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians in Gaza as Israel's prime minister. These are not facts of my personal assessment, they are facts of public record," Mamdani said.He also stressed that international arrest warrants should be treated uniformly, irrespective of the individual named in them. However, Trump assured that Netanyahu won't be arrested.<h2>What is ICC warrant?</h2>The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024 over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Israel has rejected the allegations and disputes the court's jurisdiction. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied accusations of wrongdoing, while Israel has also strongly rejected allegations of genocide. &nbsp;

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani of “fomenting hate” after Mamdani said he would consider arresting him over the ICC warrant. Netanyahu said he plans to attend the UNGA in New York, while Trump assured he would not be arrested.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (July 26) made his first reaction on New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's statement about his arrest. Slamming Mamdani, Netanyahu said that he is “fomenting hate.” The New York mayor had said that Netanyahu should be arrested if he visits the city for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The 81st session of the UNGA will open 8 September 2026, at the UN Headquarters in New York. The Israeli PM also accused Mamdani of turning one group against other while he is expected to be the mayor for all groups. Speaking to Fox News, Netanyahu criticised the mayor’s stance, saying: “He’s fomenting hate. He's supposed to be the mayor of all New Yorkers — Jews, Christians, Muslims, everyone. But he's trying to turn one group against the other. I speak to Jewish Americans, and they’re afraid right now.” He also added, “I intend to come and speak the truth – speak for Israel and for the Israeli-American alliance from the podium of the United Nations.” He labeled the ICC war crimes charges as a "perversion of justice" and a "kangaroo court" with no jurisdiction over Israel or the United States. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayor-zohran-mamdani-considers-netanyahu-arrest-during-un-visit-icc-warrant-controversy-1784464918795/embed What Mamdani and Trump said about Netanyahu's arrest? Last week, Mamdani said the warrant issued by the ICC should be "taken seriously" and argued that international legal processes must be applied consistently, regardless of who they involve. "When it comes to Benjamin Netanyahu, we're speaking about someone who's the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. And he's the subject of this arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity, for war crimes, and he's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians in Gaza as Israel's prime minister. These are not facts of my personal assessment, they are facts of public record," Mamdani said. He also stressed that international arrest warrants should be treated uniformly, irrespective of the individual named in them. However, Trump assured that Netanyahu won't be arrested. What is ICC warrant? The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024 over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Israel has rejected the allegations and disputes the court's jurisdiction. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied accusations of wrongdoing, while Israel has also strongly rejected allegations of genocide.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu accused New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani of “fomenting hate” after Mamdani said he would consider arresting him over the ICC warrant. Netanyahu said he plans to attend the UNGA in New York, while Trump assured he would not be arrested.

'They’re afraid right now...': Netanyahu reacts for first time after Mamdani threatens arrest over ICC warrant

The man who carried out the deadly attack near Berlin’s Christopher Street Day (CSD) celebrations was shot dead by police on Sunday after a massive manhunt. He was identified as Abdul Ballout, 21. Officers opened fire after Abdul Ballout charged at them with a weapon during an operation in the city’s Spandau district.&nbsp;Berlin’s Senate Department for Interior Affairs confirmed that the fugitive suspect in a Saturday van ramming during Berlin Pride was shot dead in a police operation on Sunday.&nbsp;Berlin Police said officers had located the suspect, Abdul Ballout, at a garden allotment in Spandau on the western outskirts of the city around 6 pm local time. Authorities said he rushed towards members of the elite SEK unit with a stabbing weapon, prompting police to open fire. The firefighters tried to resuscitate him, but he died of his wounds at the scene.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nandan-nilekani-infosys-co-founder-and-aadhaar-architect-to-lead-pm-s-high-powered-task-force-1785079026251">Nandan Nilekani, Infosys co-founder and Aadhaar architect, to lead PM’s high-powered task force</a><h2>‘Made multiple attempts to leave Germany and join Islamic State’</h2>&nbsp;Judicial authorities confirmed that Abdul had made multiple failed attempts to leave Germany and join the Islamic State (IS) militant group.He had initially tried to travel to Mauritania through Turkey but ultimately travelled from Turkey to Lebanon in an attempt to make his way to Syria to join IS, the public prosecutor general’s office of the city-state of Berlin said.&nbsp;He was sentenced to three months in prison by a Lebanese military court for inciting religious and confessional conflict, among other things. He returned to Germany in November 2025 and was arrested at Berlin International Airport.&nbsp;<h2>Ballout was focus of nationwide manhunt since Saturday night</h2>&nbsp;Abdul Ballout had been the focus of a nationwide manhunt since Saturday night after driving a minivan into crowds near one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ Pride celebrations before fleeing. The attack killed one person and injured 29 others.&nbsp;&nbsp;German authorities had earlier identified him as a German citizen of Lebanese descent and a known Islamist extremist. He had previously been convicted of “preparing a serious act of violence” after a failed attempt to travel to the Middle East to join ISIS.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-powered-task-force-on-exam-reforms-set-up-under-nandan-nilekani-pm-modi-1785073188370#">DMK founder Karunanidhi’s granddaughter booked for slapping SBI branch manager | Video</a>&nbsp;German authorities had launched an extensive search operation after the attack unfolded near Berlin’s Tiergarten park, close to the Brandenburg Gate, at around 10 pm (local time) on Saturday.Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the suspect, a German citizen of Lebanese heritage, had previously come to the attention of authorities due to repeated criminal offences, radicalisation, and links to the Islamist scene.&nbsp;<h2>Suspect was known to intelligence services, classified as potentially dangerous</h2>&nbsp;Security sources said he had been released from juvenile detention only two months ago. He was also known to Germany’s domestic intelligence services and was among hundreds of individuals classified as potentially dangerous because of concerns over extremist activities. Authorities said the attacker not only drove the rented van into pedestrians but also assaulted several people with a bladed weapon believed to be a machete before fleeing.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/don-t-cry-after-elections-owaisi-extends-alliance-offer-to-akhilesh-for-up-polls-1785084798505">‘Don't cry after elections': Owaisi extends alliance offer to Akhilesh for UP polls</a>&nbsp;The attack happened on the sidelines of Berlin’s annual Christopher Street Day celebrations, one of Europe’s biggest LGBTQ Pride events, where thousands had gathered for the closing festivities.Emergency crews rushed to the scene after the van crashed into a crowd before coming to a stop against a tree. The Berlin fire service said three of the injured remained in life-threatening condition, while dozens of others sustained injuries of varying severity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chancellor Friedrich Merz appealed for unity and urged Germans not to allow violence to undermine the country’s democratic values.The attack took place at a politically sensitive time for Germany.

Abdul Ballout, 21, had been the focus of a nationwide manhunt since Saturday night after he drove a minivan into crowds near one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ Pride celebrations before fleeing. The attack killed one person and injured 29 others.

The man who carried out the deadly attack near Berlin’s Christopher Street Day (CSD) celebrations was shot dead by police on Sunday after a massive manhunt. He was identified as Abdul Ballout, 21. Officers opened fire after Abdul Ballout charged at them with a weapon during an operation in the city’s Spandau district. Berlin’s Senate Department for Interior Affairs confirmed that the fugitive suspect in a Saturday van ramming during Berlin Pride was shot dead in a police operation on Sunday. Berlin Police said officers had located the suspect, Abdul Ballout, at a garden allotment in Spandau on the western outskirts of the city around 6 pm local time. Authorities said he rushed towards members of the elite SEK unit with a stabbing weapon, prompting police to open fire. The firefighters tried to resuscitate him, but he died of his wounds at the scene. Also Read: Nandan Nilekani, Infosys co-founder and Aadhaar architect, to lead PM’s high-powered task force ‘Made multiple attempts to leave Germany and join Islamic State’ Judicial authorities confirmed that Abdul had made multiple failed attempts to leave Germany and join the Islamic State (IS) militant group. He had initially tried to travel to Mauritania through Turkey but ultimately travelled from Turkey to Lebanon in an attempt to make his way to Syria to join IS, the public prosecutor general’s office of the city-state of Berlin said. He was sentenced to three months in prison by a Lebanese military court for inciting religious and confessional conflict, among other things. He returned to Germany in November 2025 and was arrested at Berlin International Airport. Ballout was focus of nationwide manhunt since Saturday night Abdul Ballout had been the focus of a nationwide manhunt since Saturday night after driving a minivan into crowds near one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ Pride celebrations before fleeing. The attack killed one person and injured 29 others. German authorities had earlier identified him as a German citizen of Lebanese descent and a known Islamist extremist. He had previously been convicted of “preparing a serious act of violence” after a failed attempt to travel to the Middle East to join ISIS. Also Read: DMK founder Karunanidhi’s granddaughter booked for slapping SBI branch manager | Video German authorities had launched an extensive search operation after the attack unfolded near Berlin’s Tiergarten park, close to the Brandenburg Gate, at around 10 pm (local time) on Saturday. Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said the suspect, a German citizen of Lebanese heritage, had previously come to the attention of authorities due to repeated criminal offences, radicalisation, and links to the Islamist scene. Suspect was known to intelligence services, classified as potentially dangerous Security sources said he had been released from juvenile detention only two months ago. He was also known to Germany’s domestic intelligence services and was among hundreds of individuals classified as potentially dangerous because of concerns over extremist activities. Authorities said the attacker not only drove the rented van into pedestrians but also assaulted several people with a bladed weapon believed to be a machete before fleeing. Also Read: ‘Don't cry after elections': Owaisi extends alliance offer to Akhilesh for UP polls The attack happened on the sidelines of Berlin’s annual Christopher Street Day celebrations, one of Europe’s biggest LGBTQ Pride events, where thousands had gathered for the closing festivities. Emergency crews rushed to the scene after the van crashed into a crowd before coming to a stop against a tree. The Berlin fire service said three of the injured remained in life-threatening condition, while dozens of others sustained injuries of varying severity. Chancellor Friedrich Merz appealed for unity and urged Germans not to allow violence to undermine the country’s democratic values. The attack took place at a politically sensitive time for Germany.

Abdul Ballout, 21, had been the focus of a nationwide manhunt since Saturday night after he drove a minivan into crowds near one of Europe’s largest LGBTQ Pride celebrations before fleeing. The attack killed one person and injured 29 others.&nbsp;

Berlin Pride attack suspect shot dead by police; incident classified as ‘Islamist terror’ attack

Responding to a proposal put forward by Pakistan to Iran and US on resuming talks between the countries, Tehran said it has not withdrawn from negotiations but has suspended them, reported Al Arabiya and Al Hadath on Sunday.&nbsp;Iran also told Pakistani officials that it has rejected the creation of a new corridor in the Strait of Hormuz, the source said.&nbsp;This comes after US stopped attacks on Iran after nearly two weeks of sustained military operations. Since the last two days there has been no US military strikes on Iran.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-strike-saudi-oil-facilities-shoot-down-drone-in-escalating-tensions-video-1785062656272">Houthis strike Saudi oil facilities, shoot down drone in escalating tensions: VIDEO</a>&nbsp;For 13 days, U.S. President Donald Trump approved military strike plans presented by officials each afternoon, with the attacks typically being carried out within hours, reported Axios.&nbsp;After US stopped attacks on Iran, Trump speaking to reporters in the White House said he retains the option of continuing or escalating the attacks, but a more feasible option would be to reach an agreement with Iran.&nbsp;“We're talking to [the Iranians] right now. I think they're getting more and more serious as the days go by. We're locked and loaded and ready to go, but we're talking to them,” Trump said.&nbsp;Early today an oil tanker exploded in the Strait of Hormuz after colliding with a naval mine outside a navigation route designated by Iran said Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reports. No immediate official statement has been released by the Iranian authorities about the incident so far.

This comes after US stopped attacks on Iran after nearly two weeks of sustained military operations. Since the last two days there has been no US military strikes on Iran.

Responding to a proposal put forward by Pakistan to Iran and US on resuming talks between the countries, Tehran said it has not withdrawn from negotiations but has suspended them, reported Al Arabiya and Al Hadath on Sunday. Iran also told Pakistani officials that it has rejected the creation of a new corridor in the Strait of Hormuz, the source said. This comes after US stopped attacks on Iran after nearly two weeks of sustained military operations. Since the last two days there has been no US military strikes on Iran. ALSO READ: Houthis strike Saudi oil facilities, shoot down drone in escalating tensions: VIDEO For 13 days, U.S. President Donald Trump approved military strike plans presented by officials each afternoon, with the attacks typically being carried out within hours, reported Axios. After US stopped attacks on Iran, Trump speaking to reporters in the White House said he retains the option of continuing or escalating the attacks, but a more feasible option would be to reach an agreement with Iran. “We're talking to [the Iranians] right now. I think they're getting more and more serious as the days go by. We're locked and loaded and ready to go, but we're talking to them,” Trump said. Early today an oil tanker exploded in the Strait of Hormuz after colliding with a naval mine outside a navigation route designated by Iran said Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reports. No immediate official statement has been released by the Iranian authorities about the incident so far.

This comes after US stopped attacks on Iran after nearly two weeks of sustained military operations. Since the last two days there has been no US military strikes on Iran.

Iran tells Pakistan it has not withdrawn from negotiations but suspended them: Report

An oil tanker exploded in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday (July 26) after colliding with a naval mine outside a navigation route designated by Iran said Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reports. No immediate official statement has been released by the Iranian authorities about the incident so far.&nbsp;The incident comes after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Thursday said that three oil tankers attempted to use an unauthorised southern route through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;One of the tankers, according to IRGC, struck an explosive device and caught fire, prompting the other two to turn back after receiving warnings. It also threatened that vessels attempting to transit the waterway without coordinating with Iranian authorities would "suffer the same fate."&nbsp;Earlier, on July 14, the IRGC claimed it had struck and disabled two supertankers after they allegedly ignored repeated warnings, turned off their navigation systems, and entered a mined corridor outside the designated shipping route.<h2>US attacks on hold?</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, US has stopped attacks on Iran after nearly two weeks of sustained military operations. Since the last two days there has been no US military strikes on Iran.&nbsp;After US stopped attacks on Iran, Trump speaking to reporters in the White House said he retains the option of continuing or escalating the attacks, but a more feasible option would be to reach an agreement with Iran.&nbsp;“We're talking to [the Iranians] right now. I think they're getting more and more serious as the days go by. We're locked and loaded and ready to go, but we're talking to them,” Trump said.

The incident comes after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Thursday said that three oil tankers attempted to use an unauthorised southern route through the Strait of Hormuz.

An oil tanker exploded in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday (July 26) after colliding with a naval mine outside a navigation route designated by Iran said Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reports. No immediate official statement has been released by the Iranian authorities about the incident so far. The incident comes after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Thursday said that three oil tankers attempted to use an unauthorised southern route through the Strait of Hormuz. One of the tankers, according to IRGC, struck an explosive device and caught fire, prompting the other two to turn back after receiving warnings. It also threatened that vessels attempting to transit the waterway without coordinating with Iranian authorities would "suffer the same fate." Earlier, on July 14, the IRGC claimed it had struck and disabled two supertankers after they allegedly ignored repeated warnings, turned off their navigation systems, and entered a mined corridor outside the designated shipping route. US attacks on hold? Meanwhile, US has stopped attacks on Iran after nearly two weeks of sustained military operations. Since the last two days there has been no US military strikes on Iran. After US stopped attacks on Iran, Trump speaking to reporters in the White House said he retains the option of continuing or escalating the attacks, but a more feasible option would be to reach an agreement with Iran. “We're talking to [the Iranians] right now. I think they're getting more and more serious as the days go by. We're locked and loaded and ready to go, but we're talking to them,” Trump said.

The incident comes after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Thursday said that three oil tankers attempted to use an unauthorised southern route through the Strait of Hormuz.

Oil tanker explodes in the Strait of Hormuz after hitting a naval mine

The Iran-backed Houthis claimed on Saturday (July 25) that they targeted Saudi Aramco facilities in Jazan and Yanbu with missiles and drones, in response to the Saudi-led strikes on Houthi-held areas along the Red Sea coast of Yemen. However, Saudi Arabia has not yet confirmed the attack on facilities despite several videos and images. Jazan is home to a major oil refinery, while Yanbu functions as a key export point on the Red Sea, enabling Saudi crude to avoid the Strait of Hormuz altogether. Given that Hormuz is already strained, targeting Yanbu puts at risk the very alternative route Saudi Arabia has come to rely on for keeping oil exports flowing.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">⚡️BREAKING: 3 Houthi Ballistic Missiles have hit Aramco Refinery in Jazan This is the 5th Largest Oil Refinery in Saudi Arabia<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Ir%C3%A1n?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Irán</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/IranWar%E2%80%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IranWar‌</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/pakist%C3%A1n?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pakistán</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Kuwait?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kuwait</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Jordan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jordan</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Bahrain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bahrain</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Oman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Oman</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Qatar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/SaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaudiArabia</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Houthi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Houthi</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://t.co/IC4xqnebos">pic.twitter.com/IC4xqnebos</a>&mdash; Iran Flash News (@FlashWireNews) <a href="https://x.com/FlashWireNews/status/2080953786927927375?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

By striking Yanbu, the Houthis are essentially widening the conflict beyond the Persian Gulf into the Red Sea, putting a second critical energy corridor in jeopardy. Yahya Saree cautioned that the group's operations could grow in scale and intensity "in the coming hours and days." These strikes come on the heels of the first Saudi-led airstrikes against the Houthis since the 2022 ceasefire, heightening concerns that the broader Iran conflict may be reigniting the Saudi-Houthi confrontation in Yemen.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/takaichi-s-1-7tn-spending-plan-sparks-fears-of-liz-truss-style-shock-how-will-it-impact-japan-china-and-india-1785059302899">Takaichi's £1.7tn spending plan sparks fears of 'Liz Truss-style' shock: How will it impact Japan, China and India?</a><h3>Houthi shoots down Saudi drone &nbsp;</h3>Later in the day, Iran-backed Houthi rebels claimed that they shot down a Saudi drone over the northwest of Yemen. It comes a day after the Yemeni group claimed it attacked oil facilities in the Gulf kingdom. The Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the group "successfully shot down a Turkish-made... armed reconnaissance drone belonging to the Saudi enemy while it was conducting hostile operations". Meanwhile, Iran stated on Sunday (July 26) that it has stopped retaliatory attacks in the region after the United States halted its strikes on the country for the past two nights. "These attacks continued until two nights ago, but over the past two nights the Americans have stopped their attacks," said army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia. "Since... our strategy has essentially been retaliatory, we have also halted our retaliatory operations."

These strikes come on the heels of the first Saudi-led airstrikes against the Houthis since the 2022 ceasefire, heightening concerns that the broader Iran conflict may be reigniting the Saudi-Houthi confrontation in Yemen.

The Iran-backed Houthis claimed on Saturday (July 25) that they targeted Saudi Aramco facilities in Jazan and Yanbu with missiles and drones, in response to the Saudi-led strikes on Houthi-held areas along the Red Sea coast of Yemen. However, Saudi Arabia has not yet confirmed the attack on facilities despite several videos and images. Jazan is home to a major oil refinery, while Yanbu functions as a key export point on the Red Sea, enabling Saudi crude to avoid the Strait of Hormuz altogether. Given that Hormuz is already strained, targeting Yanbu puts at risk the very alternative route Saudi Arabia has come to rely on for keeping oil exports flowing.

These strikes come on the heels of the first Saudi-led airstrikes against the Houthis since the 2022 ceasefire, heightening concerns that the broader Iran conflict may be reigniting the Saudi-Houthi confrontation in Yemen.

Houthis strike Saudi oil facilities, shoot down drone in escalating tensions: VIDEO

A recent US intelligence assessment suggests that Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, may be more open to developing nuclear weapons than his father, Ali Khamenei. The finding has heightened concerns over Tehran’s strategic ambitions and raised the potential for fresh regional escalation. Analysts pointing to Mojtaba Khamenei’s potential interest in a nuclear deterrent highlight several factors, including lessons drawn from recent direct military confrontations with Israel and the United States, close ties to senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commanders, and a regional security environment where Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons. However, US officials emphasise that these assessments remain analytical judgments rather than confirmed policy decisions, as Iran officially maintains its program is strictly peaceful and has made no announcement indicating a decision to build a weapon.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/khamenei-funeral-mojtaba-khamenei-a-no-show-as-other-sons-join-funeral-prayer-1783665722658/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/khamenei-funeral-mojtaba-khamenei-a-no-show-as-other-sons-join-funeral-prayer-1783665722658/embed</a>&nbsp;<h3>Is Iran now moving closer to developing a nuclear weapon under Mojtaba Khamenei?</h3>&nbsp;Currently, most independent experts assess Iran as remaining a nuclear threshold state possessing sufficient enriched uranium, advanced centrifuge technology, and technical expertise to produce a nuclear weapon relatively quickly if instructed, though it has not made the political decision to assemble and deploy one. Concerns have grown following reports that Iran is rebuilding nuclear infrastructure in hardened underground facilities following military strikes, along with ongoing requests from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for cooperation and inventory clarification.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mojtaba-khamenei-is-90-gone-trump-says-iran-s-military-has-been-wiped-out-1783975299029">'Mojtaba Khamenei is 90% gone': Trump says Iran's military has been 'wiped out'</a>&nbsp;Crossing into a full nuclear weapons state would require distinct steps: enriching uranium to around 90% weapons-grade levels, converting material into weapon components, undertaking weaponisation activities such as designing and testing an explosive package, and integrating a warhead onto a delivery system. While an expanded Iranian program could trigger a conflict with the United States and Israel, war is not inevitable. Escalation risks could rise if intelligence discovers concrete evidence of actual weaponisation, diplomatic negotiations break down, or regional proxy conflicts intensify. Conversely, conflict could be deterred by diplomatic mediation, IAEA inspections, high military and economic costs, and shared incentives to protect global energy markets.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-kept-away-from-public-eye-1783270616754">Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei kept away from public eye</a>&nbsp;Should Iran fully transition from its threshold status to a nuclear weapons state, the implications would be wide-ranging. Beyond elevating the immediate risk of military conflict, it could spark a Middle Eastern arms race, prompting states such as Saudi Arabia to reconsider their nuclear strategies while placing severe pressure on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Furthermore, major escalation could disrupt global shipping, drive up energy prices, and generate broader economic instability worldwide.

A recent US intelligence assessment suggests Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, may be more open to pursuing nuclear weapons than his father, raising concerns over regional escalation.

A recent US intelligence assessment suggests that Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, may be more open to developing nuclear weapons than his father, Ali Khamenei. The finding has heightened concerns over Tehran’s strategic ambitions and raised the potential for fresh regional escalation. Analysts pointing to Mojtaba Khamenei’s potential interest in a nuclear deterrent highlight several factors, including lessons drawn from recent direct military confrontations with Israel and the United States, close ties to senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commanders, and a regional security environment where Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons. However, US officials emphasise that these assessments remain analytical judgments rather than confirmed policy decisions, as Iran officially maintains its program is strictly peaceful and has made no announcement indicating a decision to build a weapon. https://www.wionews.com/videos/khamenei-funeral-mojtaba-khamenei-a-no-show-as-other-sons-join-funeral-prayer-1783665722658/embed Is Iran now moving closer to developing a nuclear weapon under Mojtaba Khamenei? Currently, most independent experts assess Iran as remaining a nuclear threshold state possessing sufficient enriched uranium, advanced centrifuge technology, and technical expertise to produce a nuclear weapon relatively quickly if instructed, though it has not made the political decision to assemble and deploy one. Concerns have grown following reports that Iran is rebuilding nuclear infrastructure in hardened underground facilities following military strikes, along with ongoing requests from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for cooperation and inventory clarification. Also read: 'Mojtaba Khamenei is 90% gone': Trump says Iran's military has been 'wiped out' Crossing into a full nuclear weapons state would require distinct steps: enriching uranium to around 90% weapons-grade levels, converting material into weapon components, undertaking weaponisation activities such as designing and testing an explosive package, and integrating a warhead onto a delivery system. While an expanded Iranian program could trigger a conflict with the United States and Israel, war is not inevitable. Escalation risks could rise if intelligence discovers concrete evidence of actual weaponisation, diplomatic negotiations break down, or regional proxy conflicts intensify. Conversely, conflict could be deterred by diplomatic mediation, IAEA inspections, high military and economic costs, and shared incentives to protect global energy markets. Also read: Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei kept away from public eye Should Iran fully transition from its threshold status to a nuclear weapons state, the implications would be wide-ranging. Beyond elevating the immediate risk of military conflict, it could spark a Middle Eastern arms race, prompting states such as Saudi Arabia to reconsider their nuclear strategies while placing severe pressure on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Furthermore, major escalation could disrupt global shipping, drive up energy prices, and generate broader economic instability worldwide.

A recent US intelligence assessment suggests Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, may be more open to pursuing nuclear weapons than his father, raising concerns over regional escalation.

US intel assessment signals potential shift in Iran’s nuclear stance under Mojtaba Khamenei

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is targeting ¥370tn (£1.7tn/$2.3tn) in combined public-private investment across 17 strategic industrial sectors by 2040, covering AI, semiconductors, quantum technology and energy. Takaichi has stated that her investment plan will lift the productive capacity of the economy, keep Japan at the forefront of the AI revolution, and free the economy from its increasing dependence on trade with China. However, Sanae Takaichi’s coalition government, along with her own party sacred that the decision could blow up the Japanese economy, similar to a Liz Truss-style economic shock. Financial markets are unsettled by the Japanese government's departure from its typically cautious approach, as it moves to rewrite budget rules for a sweeping, largely unfunded investment push. Takaichi's determination dates back to the 1991 property market collapse, when the post-export-boom prosperity of Tokyo gave way to bank failures within months. A second banking crisis followed before the decade's end, as major financial institutions buckled under bad debt from the earlier crash. In the late 1980s, Japan's debt-to-GDP ratio was once around 60 per cent, surging to 130 per cent by the 1990s following sector-wide bailouts. Since the 2008 global financial crisis, the economy has largely stagnated, with the government routinely spending roughly 10 per cent more than it collects in taxes, driven partly by an ageing population, pushing debt-to-GDP as high as 260 per cent by 2020. Tighter budgets have since brought that figure down to just below 230% in 2025. Takaichi stated that her investment plan will lift the productive capacity of the economy, putting Japan ahead of the AI revolution, and providing relief to the country's economy from its increasing dependence on trade with China.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-were-sent-flying-minab-school-teacher-reacts-after-trump-claimed-iranian-school-photos-could-be-ai-generated-1785032184760">'We were sent flying...': Minab school teacher reacts after Trump claimed Iranian school photos could be AI-generated</a><h3>How will it impact Japan?</h3>Takaichi's ¥370tn investment drive aims to keep Japan competitive in AI, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing; however, its unfunded nature has rattled markets, forcing JGB yields to 29-year highs, and driven the yen to a four-decade low against the dollar, raising fears of a Truss-style shock.&nbsp;Ever since the proposals were unveiled in June, the stock market has experienced a succession of downward steps despite the renewal of hostilities in the Middle East and the prospect of higher oil prices, which could not help. Following the development, several investors sold up their shares almost as soon as the government arrived in office. The most affected shares were of the country's big companies, which include Sony and Toyota Motor Corporation. Sony is grappling with fierce competition from South Korean and Chinese rivals, while Toyota, having resisted the shift to all-electric vehicles, now risks being outpaced by China's heavily subsidised auto industry. Meanwhile, both domestic and international lenders have driven Japanese government bond yields up to 2.8 per cent, their highest level in 29 years. The yen has also taken a hit as global confidence in Japan's economic direction wavers. Takaichi's assertive fiscal stance, often likened to recklessness, much like former UK PM Liz Truss, has further weighed on the currency, dragging it down to 163 against the US dollar, a four-decade low. Much of the rising debt burden stems from inflation, which has climbed alongside the yen's decline, as a weaker currency pushes up costs for imported energy and raw materials. While core inflation has stayed under the Bank of Japan's 2 per cent target for four straight months, analysts expect a jump into the mid-2% range last quarter, driven by higher oil prices following the Iran conflict. Kelvin Lam of Pantheon Macroeconomics said markets are most concerned about the absence of clarity on how the new spending will be funded, warning that continued ambiguity could trigger a "Liz Truss moment." “The markets were already worried about Japan’s long-term fiscal health, and this plan hasn’t helped.” Takaichi’s conservative coalition government won last autumn with a slim majority, where it received a big boost after she called February’s snap election and gave her a two-thirds majority in the lower house. Takaichi understands the risks surrounding her initiative, especially now that financial markets have made their doubts clear. Observers are questioning whether a manufacturing-focused strategy can succeed as China moves up the value chain, encroaching on high-tech territory long dominated by Japan, Germany, and the US.<h3>How will it impact China and India?</h3>At the heart of the debate is whether Japan has the means to compete with China and secure a market share substantial enough to sustain itself through the 2030s. While exports climbed 20 per cent year-on-year in June, that growth was largely offset by the yen's decline, leaving the real gain close to negligible. For China, the plan signals Japan's intent to counter Beijing's dominance in high-tech manufacturing and reduce economic dependence on Chinese supply chains, potentially sharpening competition in semiconductors, EVs and advanced materials as both nations race up the value chain. For India, the strategy could translate into deeper economic ties, as Japan increasingly treats India as a hedge against China. Recent visits by Takaichi have been framed as a summit about semiconductors and supply chains, as Tokyo seeks to lock India in as a trusted economic-security partner amid mounting global uncertainty. Japan Inc has already announced $12.5 billion in investment across 120 deals spanning semiconductors, AI, clean energy, mobility and manufacturing, positioning India as a key beneficiary of Japan's broader industrial recalibration.

Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's determination dates back to the 1991 property market collapse, when the post-export-boom prosperity of Tokyo gave way to bank failures within months. 

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is targeting ¥370tn (£1.7tn/$2.3tn) in combined public-private investment across 17 strategic industrial sectors by 2040, covering AI, semiconductors, quantum technology and energy. Takaichi has stated that her investment plan will lift the productive capacity of the economy, keep Japan at the forefront of the AI revolution, and free the economy from its increasing dependence on trade with China. However, Sanae Takaichi’s coalition government, along with her own party sacred that the decision could blow up the Japanese economy, similar to a Liz Truss-style economic shock. Financial markets are unsettled by the Japanese government's departure from its typically cautious approach, as it moves to rewrite budget rules for a sweeping, largely unfunded investment push. Takaichi's determination dates back to the 1991 property market collapse, when the post-export-boom prosperity of Tokyo gave way to bank failures within months. A second banking crisis followed before the decade's end, as major financial institutions buckled under bad debt from the earlier crash. In the late 1980s, Japan's debt-to-GDP ratio was once around 60 per cent, surging to 130 per cent by the 1990s following sector-wide bailouts. Since the 2008 global financial crisis, the economy has largely stagnated, with the government routinely spending roughly 10 per cent more than it collects in taxes, driven partly by an ageing population, pushing debt-to-GDP as high as 260 per cent by 2020. Tighter budgets have since brought that figure down to just below 230% in 2025. Takaichi stated that her investment plan will lift the productive capacity of the economy, putting Japan ahead of the AI revolution, and providing relief to the country's economy from its increasing dependence on trade with China. Also read: 'We were sent flying...': Minab school teacher reacts after Trump claimed Iranian school photos could be AI-generated How will it impact Japan? Takaichi's ¥370tn investment drive aims to keep Japan competitive in AI, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing; however, its unfunded nature has rattled markets, forcing JGB yields to 29-year highs, and driven the yen to a four-decade low against the dollar, raising fears of a Truss-style shock. Ever since the proposals were unveiled in June, the stock market has experienced a succession of downward steps despite the renewal of hostilities in the Middle East and the prospect of higher oil prices, which could not help. Following the development, several investors sold up their shares almost as soon as the government arrived in office. The most affected shares were of the country's big companies, which include Sony and Toyota Motor Corporation. Sony is grappling with fierce competition from South Korean and Chinese rivals, while Toyota, having resisted the shift to all-electric vehicles, now risks being outpaced by China's heavily subsidised auto industry. Meanwhile, both domestic and international lenders have driven Japanese government bond yields up to 2.8 per cent, their highest level in 29 years. The yen has also taken a hit as global confidence in Japan's economic direction wavers. Takaichi's assertive fiscal stance, often likened to recklessness, much like former UK PM Liz Truss, has further weighed on the currency, dragging it down to 163 against the US dollar, a four-decade low. Much of the rising debt burden stems from inflation, which has climbed alongside the yen's decline, as a weaker currency pushes up costs for imported energy and raw materials. While core inflation has stayed under the Bank of Japan's 2 per cent target for four straight months, analysts expect a jump into the mid-2% range last quarter, driven by higher oil prices following the Iran conflict. Kelvin Lam of Pantheon Macroeconomics said markets are most concerned about the absence of clarity on how the new spending will be funded, warning that continued ambiguity could trigger a "Liz Truss moment." “The markets were already worried about Japan’s long-term fiscal health, and this plan hasn’t helped.” Takaichi’s conservative coalition government won last autumn with a slim majority, where it received a big boost after she called February’s snap election and gave her a two-thirds majority in the lower house. Takaichi understands the risks surrounding her initiative, especially now that financial markets have made their doubts clear. Observers are questioning whether a manufacturing-focused strategy can succeed as China moves up the value chain, encroaching on high-tech territory long dominated by Japan, Germany, and the US. How will it impact China and India? At the heart of the debate is whether Japan has the means to compete with China and secure a market share substantial enough to sustain itself through the 2030s. While exports climbed 20 per cent year-on-year in June, that growth was largely offset by the yen's decline, leaving the real gain close to negligible. For China, the plan signals Japan's intent to counter Beijing's dominance in high-tech manufacturing and reduce economic dependence on Chinese supply chains, potentially sharpening competition in semiconductors, EVs and advanced materials as both nations race up the value chain. For India, the strategy could translate into deeper economic ties, as Japan increasingly treats India as a hedge against China. Recent visits by Takaichi have been framed as a summit about semiconductors and supply chains, as Tokyo seeks to lock India in as a trusted economic-security partner amid mounting global uncertainty. Japan Inc has already announced $12.5 billion in investment across 120 deals spanning semiconductors, AI, clean energy, mobility and manufacturing, positioning India as a key beneficiary of Japan's broader industrial recalibration.

Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's determination dates back to the 1991 property market collapse, when the post-export-boom prosperity of Tokyo gave way to bank failures within months.&nbsp;

Takaichi's £1.7tn spending plan sparks fears of 'Liz Truss-style' shock: How will it impact Japan, China and India?

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