A significant increase in tariffs, including a stunning 104% levy on Chinese imports, is set to take effect, creating volatility in Asian markets. This development follows an overall downturn in the U.S. stock market, where the S&P 500 fell 1.6%, indicating widespread investor concern regarding the ongoing trade war.

Tensions between Israel and Turkey are escalating, with both nations exchanging strong warnings of military action over the situation in Syria. Israel’s attacks on Syrian targets are seen as a direct response to Turkish military ambitions in the region.

The Israeli government maintains that it is conducting a “thorough” investigation into the shooting of 15 aid workers by its forces, asserting that the Israel Defense Forces acted against a convoy perceived as suspicious.

The global financial markets are experiencing a downturn due to US tariffs imposed by President Trump, raising fears of an escalating trade war and potential global recession.

Donald Trump announced that the US is engaged in direct talks with Iran regarding its nuclear programme, stating that Iran would face “great danger” if negotiations fail.

Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq were responsible for 90% of recorded executions in 2024, with Iran leading at 972 executions, a significant increase from the previous year.