The EU’s trade deal with South America’s Mercosur bloc has begun provisional implementation after 25 years of negotiations. This agreement forms one of the world’s largest free trade areas, encompassing 720 million consumers and aiming to reduce tariffs on over 90% of bilateral trade.

President Trump announced that the US blockade of Iranian ports is proving effective, urging Tehran to “just give up” amid escalating tensions. Iran’s Parliament Speaker dismissed the blockade’s impact, stating it has only increased global oil prices, while tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt markets.