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The US president has confirmed that Iran has made inquiries regarding the lifting of Washington’s naval blockade on its ports. This development indicates a potential shift in communication between the two nations, amidst ongoing tensions in the region.

The United States is scrutinising Iran’s recent proposal aimed at de-escalating tensions. Iran seeks to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz while postponing discussions on its nuclear programme. Early reactions from the Trump administration suggest the offer may be rejected, potentially prolonging the conflict.

Iran has offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the US lifts its blockade, but Washington remains focused on nuclear limits and has little appetite for a deal that separates shipping from enrichment. King Charles is in Washington to speak about renewal in the UK-US relationship, while North Korea is deepening its military bond with Russia and Mali faces a major jihadist offensive. Markets are watching oil, central banks and energy costs, while global politics continues to move through trade routes, alliances and domestic pressure points.

The US Coast Guard’s final report criticises OceanGate for severe safety failures leading to the Titan disaster. Notable victims included Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman, who died alongside three others when the submersible imploded. OceanGate has since suspended operations.

A gunman has opened fire at a social security office and courthouse in central Athens, wounding several individuals. The suspect, an 89-year-old man, was reported to be armed with a shotgun. A police operation is currently underway to locate him.

A 2,000-year-old headless statue of Athena has been uncovered in the ancient city of Laodicea, Turkey, during excavation work. Significant for its size and craftsmanship, the white marble statue features intricate details. Restoration efforts at the site will continue throughout 2026.

Arthur Goldberg, a British expat, was acquitted in Germany after being fined 600 euros for stating, “I think you are a racist,” during a tense meeting at Leipzig University. Following two years of legal proceedings, he successfully argued his freedom of expression rights.

Elon Musk and Sam Altman are set to face off in a trial beginning Monday, focusing on allegations of betrayal over OpenAI’s shift from a nonprofit to a lucrative venture. The outcome could significantly impact the AI landscape and Musk’s personal and financial future.

Bahrain has revoked the citizenship of 69 individuals, accusing them of supporting Iranian attacks against the country. The Ministry of Interior claims the individuals displayed disloyalty and colluded with foreign entities. Rights groups have condemned this action as a serious abuse of power and a violation of international law.

Italy has extradited 34-year-old Xu Zewei, a Chinese hacker, to the United States, where he faces allegations of stealing COVID-19 vaccine research. Xu was arrested in Milan for reportedly targeting universities as part of a state-sponsored cyber-espionage campaign, facing multiple criminal charges.