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BEIJING – Pakistan’s top diplomat is scheduled to meet with China’s foreign minister on Tuesday, with Iran’s current situation expected to be a key topic of discussion, according to Chinese foreign ministry officials.

A ministry spokesperson revealed during a press briefing that both nations maintain aligned perspectives on significant international and regional matters.

The diplomatic meeting comes as part of ongoing cooperation between the two countries on foreign policy issues.

MAKURDI, Nigeria – When US foreign aid cuts threatened to leave thousands of HIV patients without access to crucial medications, volunteer health workers in Nigeria took matters into their own hands, walking from house to house to ensure people stayed alive.

Josephine Angev, a 40-year-old volunteer, spent months last year traveling through rural communities in Nigeria’s Benue State, helping HIV patients maintain access to antiretroviral drugs that keep the virus suppressed and prevent transmission to others.

Angev is among dozens of volunteer “HIV champions” who conducted personal visits to bring patients back into medical care when medication access was interrupted, serving people whose condition often carries social stigma and shame.

Many patients were unaware of the dangers of stopping their treatment. “They don’t understand the implications,” Angev explained.

When people with HIV discontinue antiretroviral medications that control the virus, it resurges in their system. This creates risk for HIV-related health complications within months and enables virus transmission to others.

Angev made repeated visits to a 65-year-old woman who had ceased taking her medication when her supply was exhausted. The woman subsequently became sick. Through Angev’s persistent efforts, she has resumed her drug regimen and is now healthy.

This case illustrates how individuals managed during the aftermath of aid reductions that disrupted global HIV programs in 2025. Additional wealthy nations followed the US in reducing aid, forcing countries dependent on such assistance to find alternative solutions.

Nigeria responded within six weeks by announcing a $200 million health funding package that included HIV programs. The US government also granted a waiver for “life-saving” aid in February 2025, including antiretroviral medications. However, volunteers played a crucial role in filling service gaps.

Dinah Adaga oversees the volunteer network in Benue State. “If we couldn’t reach someone by phone, we went to their house – we traced the address and knocked on their door,” she explained.

A 41-year-old mother described feeling hopeless when learning about the aid reductions, worried that medications would become too expensive. Volunteers helped reconnect her with treatment in November.

“These drugs mean a lot to me. My future depends on them. I have three daughters, and they’re all doing well… They are all (HIV) negative. I’m the only one who is positive. So I believe the drugs were truly made for people like me,” she stated.

President Donald Trump’s 90-day suspension of foreign aid beginning January 20 last year created immediate consequences in Nigeria.

The US had covered approximately 90% of Nigeria’s HIV treatment expenses and supported healthcare personnel. In subsequent months, patients and advocacy organizations reported that medication distribution systems collapsed.

Patients could only obtain supplies lasting one to two weeks instead of six months from major medical facilities. In Makurdi, Benue’s capital city, all 10 treatment facilities shut down for one month, and the World Health Organization cautioned that medications might be depleted.

A network of volunteers intervened, operating as part of Afrocab, a continent-wide community support organization. They reconnected people with care facilities once they reopened with new funding sources, and addressed false information that had circulated about prayer-based “cures.” They encouraged expectant mothers to return to prenatal care to safeguard their babies.

Between June and December 2025, the volunteers brought more than 1,000 people in Benue, including 95 children under age five, back into medical care – representing everyone they estimate who had discontinued treatment in February and March.

“We have not received reports of people dying from not accessing antiretrovirals… that’s, for us, a good sign,” stated Krittayawan Boonto, UNAIDS country director in Nigeria.

Nigeria has approximately two million people living with HIV, among the world’s highest totals. Benue, a state with 4.25 million residents, has slightly over 200,000 people receiving treatment, according to Afrocab estimates.

Immediately following the aid suspension, a UNAIDS monitoring system indicated 200,000 fewer Nigerians were receiving treatment. However, by year-end 2025, data revealed 1.7 million people on treatment, a modest increase from 2024’s 1.6 million.

A US State Department representative said the number receiving medications was “very similar” at the end of 2025 compared to 2024. “The narrative suggesting widespread HIV treatment loss… is inaccurate, misleading and irresponsible,” they added.

Nigeria’s government did not respond to requests for comment.

Global health organizations and the Nigerian government have warned that HIV prevention services experienced more severe and prolonged impacts.

Bright Oniovokukor, who coordinates the Civil Society for HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, reported that people accessing drugs to prevent HIV infection decreased from 43,000 in November 2024 to below 6,000 in April 2025, while condom distribution fell by 55%.

Conditions have improved since then, but any interruption in prevention leads to increased cases, explained Dr. Oluwafunke Odunlade, HIV unit head at WHO Nigeria. Testing was also affected, meaning cases may have been overlooked: preliminary data showed that more than one million fewer people received HIV testing in 2025 compared to 2024.

Currently, the US and Nigeria are finalizing details of a health agreement for 2026-2030 that was signed in December, under which the US will provide $2.1 billion and Nigeria $3 billion.

The agreement prioritizes HIV response and commits to enrolling more patients in treatment programs, with Nigeria assuming complete funding responsibility over the next five years.

The US has indicated that only workers “formally recognised within government structures” will receive funding, and the agreement emphasizes “a strong emphasis on Christian faith-based healthcare providers,” reflecting broader US efforts to support Nigeria’s Christian population, which faces threats from Islamist violence.

In Benue, Angev will continue her volunteer work. “It can be exhausting, but we do it so lives that might have been lost are instead restored. And when you see them living better lives and truly changed, that’s when you feel happy,” she said.

Japan has activated its first long-range missile system at a military installation in the country’s southwest, officials announced Tuesday, representing a major expansion of the nation’s offensive military capabilities.

The enhanced Type-12 land-to-ship missile system, manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, went into operation at Camp Kengun located in Kumamoto prefecture.

Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi addressed reporters about the significance of this development. “As Japan faces the most severe and complex security environment in the postwar era … it is an extremely important capability to strengthen Japan’s deterrence and responsiveness,” Koizumi stated. “It demonstrates Japan’s firm determination and capability to defend itself.”

The modernized Type-12 system can strike targets approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) away, a dramatic increase from the original version’s 200-kilometer (125-mile) capability that now puts mainland China within striking distance.

This missile deployment provides Japan with “standoff” strike capabilities, allowing the country to attack enemy launch sites from distant positions. This represents a departure from Japan’s historically defensive-only military doctrine maintained under its pacifist constitution.

Local citizens who oppose having the weapons stationed near civilian neighborhoods held demonstrations outside Camp Kengun, arguing the deployment could heighten regional tensions and make their community a potential target for adversaries.

On the same day, military officials also activated a hypersonic glide vehicle system at Camp Fuji in Shizuoka prefecture, located west of Tokyo. This new weapons platform was specifically designed for defending Japan’s island territories. Military planners expect to install additional Type-12 missiles and hypersonic systems at various sites across Japan, including northern Hokkaido and southern Miyazaki, with completion targeted for March 2028.

Japan’s military expansion also includes plans to equip the destroyer JS Chokai with American-made Tomahawk cruise missiles capable of reaching targets 1,600 kilometers (990 miles) away later this year, with seven additional destroyers scheduled to receive the same weapons.

Japanese officials view China as the primary regional security challenge and have been strengthening defenses on southwestern islands near the East China Sea in recent years.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s administration approved a record-breaking defense spending plan in December exceeding 9 trillion yen ($58 billion) for the fiscal year starting in April, focusing on counter-strike capabilities and coastal defenses using cruise missiles and autonomous weapons systems.

Last June, Japan detected two Chinese aircraft carriers operating simultaneously near remote Japanese Pacific islands for the first time, raising Tokyo’s concerns about Beijing’s expanding military presence beyond its territorial boundaries.

Defense officials established a specialized office last week dedicated to monitoring China’s Pacific naval activities.

Regional tensions have intensified following Takaichi’s November declaration that any Chinese military assault on Taiwan could justify Japanese military intervention.

SAO PAULO (AP) — While the ongoing conflict involving Iran continues to disrupt oil markets worldwide, Brazil has found protection through an innovative solution that’s both cost-effective and eco-friendly: millions of motorists can select between pure sugarcane ethanol or gasoline mixed with 30% biofuel when they visit gas stations.

The South American nation’s extensive fleet of flexible-fuel vehicles — cars that operate on any mixture of ethanol and gasoline — represents an unparalleled program in terms of size. This initiative, which began in 1975 under Brazil’s former military government, has successfully adapted during democratic rule to decrease reliance on imported petroleum.

Currently, as the ongoing Middle East crisis involving Iran, the United States and Israel continues into its fifth week, countries including India and Mexico are examining Brazil’s approach as a model for achieving energy independence.

While motorists across the globe experience significant cost increases, Brazilian fuel prices climbed only 5% in March — a stark contrast to the 30% surge seen in America. Experts partially attribute this price stability to an established domestic biofuel sector that enables the nation to weather international tensions with little threat of fuel supply disruptions.

“Brazil is much better prepared than most countries because it has a viable alternative of this nature,” said Evandro Gussi, president of the Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association, UNICA.

The circumstances are especially favorable given that Brazil’s upcoming sugarcane season, starting in April’s first half, is projected to yield a record 30 billion liters of ethanol — representing 4 billion liters more than the previous year. “That increase alone is equivalent to the total amount of gasoline Brazil imported in all of last year,” Gussi noted.

Although Brazil ranks as a significant crude oil producer and exporter, the country continues importing petroleum to satisfy domestic refined fuel needs. Brazil currently obtains oil from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Russia and nearby Guyana.

Nevertheless, ethanol has emerged as a cornerstone of everyday transportation. During 2025, ethanol sales reached 37.1 billion liters, based on data from the state-operated Energy Research Company. While it remains slightly behind diesel and gasoline in overall energy consumption, ethanol’s availability at all service stations offers Brazilians both psychological comfort and economic protection.

Brazil’s biofuel industry success centers in Sao Paulo state, the nation’s manufacturing and farming hub.

Operations there combine advanced, export-focused large-scale farms with smaller family-run businesses like Bom Retiro farm, established in 1958, where several dozen employees are currently preparing to harvest their 40-square-kilometer property spanning nearly 10,000 acres.

The country’s biofuel technology has benefited from extensive government-funded research. The Science Development Center for Ethanol at Unicamp university in Campinas, located near Sao Paulo, represents one such facility. Coordinator Luis Cortez explains that Brazil’s program possesses distinct benefits that other countries cannot replicate.

“We have flexibility in ethanol production, in vehicle engines and from the federal government, which sets the percentage of ethanol in the fuel blend,” said Cortez. “We have flexibility at three levels.”

He maintains that this research investment ultimately creates benefits for consumers at service stations.

Data from the Brazilian Association of Fuel Importers shows that gasoline processed by state-owned Petrobras — containing biofuel additives — costs 46% less than imported alternatives, saving 1.16 Brazilian reals ($0.22) per liter. Petrobras diesel similarly sells at refineries for 63% below international prices.

Although the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz hasn’t dramatically affected Brazil’s gasoline sector, the country faces challenges with increasing diesel costs. This occurs because diesel relies heavily on imported crude oil and contains lower biofuel percentages.

In contrast to the sugarcane-ethanol achievement, Brazil’s biodiesel production, primarily derived from soybeans, comprises just 14% of diesel mixtures. This percentage may reach the same 30% level used in gasoline blends only by 2030, pending research advances and technological progress, meaning the current conflict has created immediate consequences.

Brazilian diesel costs jumped over 20% in March, leading President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to suggest import subsidies lasting through May. Government data indicates Brazil must purchase 20% to 30% of its diesel monthly, with most supplies coming from Russia.

Brazilian officials report the country imported nearly 17 billion liters of diesel during the past year.

For 80-year-old President Lula, who seeks reelection this October, maintaining stable diesel prices remains essential to avoid trucker protests and control food price inflation.

UNICA president Gussi revealed that since the recent Iran conflict began, multiple world leaders have contacted him regarding Brazil’s biofuel sector. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed interest earlier this month in Petrobras’ methods for producing ethanol from agave, a widely cultivated plant in Mexico.

“The best news, even in the midst of a situation like the one we are experiencing, is that this solution has a significant level of replicability,” Gussi said.

PALU, Indonesia — Search and rescue operations in Indonesia concluded successfully Tuesday morning when teams located 21 survivors floating on a makeshift raft, one day after their passenger vessel went down in turbulent ocean conditions.

Muhammad Rizal, director of the Palu city search and rescue operations center, confirmed that all individuals aboard the vessel were recovered alive. Initial reports indicated 27 people were unaccounted for, but survivors clarified that six passengers listed on the ship’s roster had canceled their travel plans before departure.

The survivors, consisting mainly of fishing industry workers, were discovered on their raft approximately 46 kilometers (29 miles) away from the location where their vessel sank in waters north of Taliabu Island.

The vessel Nazila 05 had left port on Taliabu island in North Maluku province shortly after sunset on Sunday, heading toward Kema in North Sulawesi province, according to Rizal.

Rizal explained that the Nazila 05 regularly carried tourists and served the local community as both a fishing boat and small passenger transport.

According to statements from the vessel’s owner to authorities, the ship’s captain reported that the Nazila 05 went under after powerful waves damaged the front section during severe weather conditions, with all crew members successfully evacuating to a smaller boat before the main vessel submerged, Rizal noted.

Family members informed officials that the survivors had secured themselves to a raft, prompting the National Search and Rescue Agency, known as Basarnas, to dispatch a rescue ship toward the projected drift location at first light Tuesday, where the raft was expected to be floating in rough seas.

“All survivors located by rescuers will be taken to a nearby city of Gorontalo,” Rizal said in a video statement.

The rescue mission deployed two rescue ships and received support from area fishing boats, Basarnas reported.

As an island nation containing over 17,000 islands, Indonesia relies heavily on watercraft for transportation between locations. Maritime incidents happen regularly due to insufficient safety regulations and vessel overcrowding issues.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — American military forces conducted what appears to be a major strike against Iran’s central city of Isfahan in the early morning hours Tuesday, creating enormous explosions visible from great distances, while Iranian forces retaliated by attacking a fully-loaded Kuwaiti oil vessel in Persian Gulf waters.

These escalating strikes demonstrate how fierce the month-long conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has become, with Tehran continuing to block the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and cutting off crucial global oil shipping lanes, causing petroleum costs to spike dramatically and creating chaos in international markets.

President Donald Trump, who continues to claim diplomatic negotiations toward ending hostilities are making headway, posted footage of the Isfahan assault on social media, showing bright explosions illuminating the darkness. The targeted city houses one of three locations previously bombed by American forces in June and likely contains significant quantities of Iran’s highly enriched uranium materials stored underground.

Separately, Israeli officials reported that four additional soldiers lost their lives during their Lebanese military operation, along with two more United Nations peacekeeping personnel, leading the U.N. Security Council to call an urgent meeting for Tuesday evening.

International Brent crude oil pricing reached approximately $107 per barrel during morning trading sessions, marking a more than 45% increase since military actions began February 28 when American and Israeli forces first attacked Iranian targets.

Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, the critical waterway connecting the Persian Gulf through which one-fifth of global oil moves during normal times, has caused worldwide petroleum prices to climb, along with Tehran’s strikes against regional energy facilities throughout the Gulf area.

Responding to increasing frustration from Arab Gulf nations, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated Tuesday that Tehran only aims at American military personnel. Multiple countries have been urging Washington to continue military operations until Iran’s armed forces are completely eliminated.

“Our operations are aimed at enemy aggressors who have no respect for Arabs or Iranians, nor can provide any security,” Araghchi wrote on X. “High time to eject U.S. forces.”

However, civilian targets remained under attack as an Iranian unmanned aircraft struck the Kuwaiti tanker in waters near Dubai, igniting fires that emergency crews later extinguished, according to Dubai Media Office statements.

Four Dubai residents sustained injuries when fragments from a destroyed drone crashed into a neighborhood area.

Warning sirens activated across Bahrain, while Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry reported intercepting three ballistic rockets aimed at Riyadh, with falling debris from a destroyed drone southeast of the capital causing minor property damage to six residential buildings.

Alert signals also sounded in Jerusalem with loud blasts heard shortly after Israeli military officials warned of incoming Iranian missile attacks.

Israel and the United States launched fresh bombing campaigns against Iran, striking Tehran during early morning hours.

The footage Trump shared appeared to document a massive assault on Isfahan, where NASA fire-detection satellites indicate the blasts occurred near Mount Soffeh, a location believed to contain military installations. Iranian officials have not yet acknowledged the attack.

Satellite imagery captured just before June’s 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel suggests Tehran moved a truck containing highly enriched uranium to its Isfahan nuclear complex.

The photograph from an Airbus Defense and Space Pléiades Neo satellite depicts a vehicle carrying 18 blue containers entering a tunnel at the Isfahan Nuclear Technology Center approximately two weeks before U.S. forces bombed the location.

Intelligence experts concluded the truck probably transported most or all of Iran’s uranium stockpile enriched to 60% purity levels. This represents a brief technical process away from weapons-grade concentrations of 90%.

Trump stated this week that “great progress is being made” in negotiations with Iran to cease military activities. However, he warned that without a deal reached “shortly,” and if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, America would expand its campaign by “completely obliterating” electrical facilities, oil installations, Kharg Island and potentially desalination plants.

The United States has deployed 2,500 Marines to the region with additional forces en route, while ordering 1,000 paratroopers to the conflict zone.

Trump has publicly discussed potentially attempting to capture Kharg Island, Iran’s primary oil export terminal, and Iran has accused America of using diplomatic discussions to delay while positioning more military personnel.

U.S. forces have already struck military positions on Kharg Island. Iran has warned it will launch ground invasions of Gulf Arab nations and place mines throughout the Persian Gulf if American troops enter Iranian territory.

During Trump’s second presidency, the United States has twice attacked Iran while high-level peace talks were ongoing, including the February 28 strikes that initiated the current war.

The U.N. Security Council scheduled Tuesday’s emergency session after officials reported three peacekeepers in southern Lebanon had died within a 24-hour period.

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the area where Israel is fighting Iran-supported Hezbollah forces did not identify who was responsible for the fatalities.

Iranian authorities report more than 1,900 casualties within their borders, while 19 deaths have been confirmed in Israel.

Twenty-four people have died in Gulf states and the occupied West Bank. Lebanese officials said over 1,200 people have been killed, with more than 1 million displaced from their homes.

Ten Israeli soldiers have been killed in Lebanon, including the four announced Tuesday, while 13 U.S. military personnel have died in the conflict.

American conservative leaders are keeping a close eye on Hungary’s upcoming parliamentary election on April 12, where Prime Minister Viktor Orban faces his most challenging political fight in over a decade.

For years, U.S. conservatives have held up Orban as an example of how Western politicians can implement strict immigration controls, challenge international organizations, and combat what they call “woke” ideology while maintaining electoral success.

However, polling data indicates that after 16 years in office, Orban’s Fidesz party is struggling against center-right challenger Peter Magyar and his Tisza party. Most independent surveys show Magyar holding a lead over the incumbent prime minister.

A potential loss for Orban would send shockwaves beyond Hungary’s borders, undermining a governing model characterized by strong nationalism and weakened democratic oversight that some American conservatives have promoted as a template for Western nations.

Magyar, age 45, has campaigned across hundreds of Hungarian communities, frequently delivering speeches from a truck decorated with the country’s national colors. The lawyer and European Parliament member has focused his message on economic concerns including stagnant wages, increasing food costs, and declining public services while promising to address corruption and restore democratic institutions.

His campaign has resonated particularly well with younger Hungarian voters, who appreciate his focused messaging and effective use of social media platforms.

Orban, 62, has characterized his opponent as an unreliable choice who would submit to European Union pressure and involve Hungary in the conflict in Ukraine. The longtime leader maintains friendly relations with Russia and opposes providing aid to Ukraine. Campaign materials throughout Budapest promote Fidesz as “The Safe Choice.”

Five political experts believe that even prominent American support, including Donald Trump’s endorsement and a scheduled visit from Vice President J.D. Vance on April 7-8, will have minimal impact on the election outcome since voters are primarily concerned with domestic economic issues.

Trump has described Orban as “a truly strong and powerful leader,” and Budapest has hosted conferences where American conservative figures study his political strategies.

The Hungarian leader’s approach to governance, which he calls “illiberal democracy,” shares similarities with Trump-era policies including strict immigration enforcement, rejection of liberal institutions, opposition to global organizations, and criticism of media outlets, universities, and advocacy groups. Orban became the first European leader to support Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.

During Barack Obama’s presidency, Washington frequently criticized Orban’s government for undermining democratic principles, including judicial independence and media freedoms, but such criticism diminished after Trump took office.

Orban’s willingness to oppose the European Union has also attracted American conservative supporters. He has consistently challenged the bloc, particularly by opposing Ukraine’s membership application and maintaining ties with Russia. Magyar has promised to distance Hungary from Moscow and strengthen Western relationships.

In a previous Reuters interview, Magyar stated that voters must decide between “Europe and development, or a continuation of ’16 years of decline.’”

On his Truth Social platform, Trump has praised Orban for helping achieve “new heights of cooperation and spectacular achievement” between the United States and Hungary. A White House spokesperson confirmed that Trump considers Orban “a close partner, respected leader, and a winner for the people of Hungary – a great ally to the United States.”

Despite this praise, the Trump administration has not provided Orban with the same level of economic support given to other allies like Argentine President Javier Milei, who received billions in U.S. assistance last year.

Following a November White House meeting, Orban claimed he had secured a U.S. “financial shield” for Hungary’s economy, but Trump later denied making such an offer. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s February 16 visit to Budapest yielded only vague promises about “finding ways to provide assistance” if needed.

“We’re hitting a ceiling (on) what the Americans are willing to really offer,” said Zsuzsanna Vegh, a political analyst at the German Marshall Fund of the United States. “That may signal a level of uncertainty about whether Orban will really win. Trump might not want to be seen supporting a loser.”

International observers from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe found Hungary’s 2022 general election, which Orban won decisively, to be free but not fair due to extensive state-funded advertising and media bias favoring Fidesz. Changes to election laws under Orban’s leadership have enabled his party to secure supermajorities with less than half the popular vote.

Vance’s upcoming visit demonstrates Orban’s position within Trump’s global conservative network, highlighted by two March conferences in Budapest featuring right-wing politicians and activists from multiple countries.

Even Orban supporters question whether international endorsements will influence voters. “Domestic issues will determine voter intentions,” said Zoltan Kiszelly, a political analyst at the pro-Orban think tank Szazadveg.

A March 21 CPAC Hungary conference included Argentine President Milei, German far-right leader Alice Weidel, and Republican congressmen Russ Fulcher of Idaho and Andy Harris of Maryland. During the event, conservative media personality Dave Rubin acknowledged feeling “trepidation” among attendees, while Harris warned of “vandals” threatening Christian values and urged Hungarians to “throw the vandals out and shut the gate,” declaring that “the future of Western, Christian, free civilization depends on it.”

Harris told Reuters that Orban’s leadership “led the way for the victory of many right-of-center leaders in Europe. Of course, that put a political target on him.”

Two days later, Orban met with leaders from at least 10 European far-right parties, including France’s Marine Le Pen and the Netherlands’ Geert Wilders. Their alliance, Patriots for Europe, established by Orban and allies in 2024, now ranks as the third-largest group in the European Parliament.

Kiszelly suggested his American conservative contacts remain confident despite polling challenges, drawing lessons from Trump’s 2024 victory about the unreliability of surveys. He attributed Orban’s apparent deficit to “pro-opposition pollsters” and cited polling by McLaughlin & Associates, a firm associated with Trump, showing Fidesz leading Tisza by six points.

According to Kiszelly, such a margin would allow Fidesz to govern independently or with support from the far-right Our Homeland party. “The opposition has no chance,” he stated.

However, most polling suggests a different outcome, favoring a challenger who appeals to voters in areas traditionally dominated by Fidesz.

Magyar represents a departure from typical liberal opposition figures. Campaigning with the motto “Now or never,” his party supports strict immigration controls, traditional family values, and nationalism – positions historically associated with Orban’s platform. Notably, his surname translates to “Hungarian.”

Signs of electoral pressure have emerged on the campaign trail. Orban faced heckling at a recent rally in Gyor, an unusual occurrence for a leader whose events are typically carefully managed. Appearing unsettled by the disruption, he accused the protesters of “not standing with Hungarians.”

KYIV, Ukraine – European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and multiple EU foreign ministers traveled to Ukraine’s capital on Tuesday to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the Bucha massacre while demonstrating continued support for the war-torn nation. The diplomatic visit occurs as the European bloc faces internal disputes regarding stalled aid packages.

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha welcomed Kallas and the delegation of high-ranking European officials at Kyiv’s main train station Tuesday morning. Sybiha emphasized that such significant European representation proved that accountability for Russian war crimes would ultimately prevail.

“Today, we commemorate the grim anniversary of the Bucha massacre,” Sybiha wrote on his Telegram account. “Comprehensive accountability for Russian crimes is vital to restore justice in Europe. And today, we will advance accountability efforts.”

This week marks four years since Ukrainian forces liberated Bucha, a town located approximately 25 kilometers from Kyiv, revealing horrific war crimes committed there. Russian forces killed over 400 civilians in the community during their occupation. Russia has consistently rejected responsibility for the killings and claimed Ukraine fabricated the evidence.

MELBOURNE, Australia — Australia’s internet safety regulator announced Tuesday it may pursue legal action against major social media companies, claiming Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube have failed to adequately enforce the nation’s groundbreaking ban on users under 16.

Legal experts suggest Australian courts will ultimately determine what constitutes reasonable enforcement measures under the legislation that became effective December 10, which requires platforms to block minors from creating accounts.

eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant issued her initial enforcement assessment Tuesday following the law’s implementation, which mandated 10 social media services eliminate all Australian account holders below age 16.

The assessment revealed that although 5 million Australian accounts were shut down, significant numbers of children continue maintaining existing accounts, establishing new profiles, and circumventing the platforms’ age verification procedures.

Inman Grant stated her agency holds “significant concerns about the compliance” of five out of the 10 platforms examined. Her department is compiling evidence showing these companies failed to implement “reasonable steps” to block underage account creation.

Judicial authorities could impose penalties reaching 49.5 million Australian dollars ($33 million) for widespread compliance violations. The eSafety office plans to determine whether to pursue litigation against any platform by mid-2025.

Social media services not facing investigation include Reddit, X, Kick, Threads and Twitch.

Communications Minister Anika Wells accused the five targeted platforms of intentionally avoiding compliance with Australian regulations.

“Social media platforms are choosing to do the absolute bare minimum because they want these laws to fail,” Wells stated to news media.

“This is the world-leading law. We’re the first in the world to do it. Of course they don’t want these laws to work because they want that to be a chilling effect on the dozen countries that have come out since Dec. 10 to follow Australia’s step,” she continued.

The safety agency documented “poor practices” including platforms permitting endless attempts to bypass age verification systems and encouraging users to retry verification even after declaring themselves underage.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, told The Associated Press it remains dedicated to following Australia’s social media restrictions. “We’ve also been clear that accurately determining age online is a challenge for the whole industry,” the company stated.

Snap Inc. reported it has disabled 450,000 accounts under the new law and continues blocking additional accounts daily.

“Snapchat remains fully committed to implementing reasonable steps under the legislation and supporting its underlying goal of improving online safety for young Australians,” a Snap spokesperson said.

TikTok refused to provide comment Tuesday, while Alphabet Inc., YouTube and Google’s parent company, did not respond immediately to requests for statement.

Lisa Given, an information technology specialist at RMIT University in Melbourne, predicted courts will determine whether platforms have implemented “reasonable steps” to exclude minors.

“If a tech company has said: look, we put in age assurance, we’ve done all these steps. That’s reasonable. Even though the aged assurance technologies are flawed, whose fault is that? Should they be held accountable for a piece of technology that is not 100% and likely not going to be 100% foolproof any time soon?” Given explained.

“That’s really the crux of it: what the courts will deem reasonable,” she concluded.

Military operations in southern Lebanon have resulted in the deaths of United Nations peacekeepers and Israeli forces, authorities confirmed Tuesday, while President Donald Trump and Iranian leadership made conflicting claims regarding potential diplomatic talks to resolve their ongoing conflict.

Israeli forces are conducting operations aimed at removing Hezbollah fighters from southern Lebanon, following repeated rocket and drone attacks launched across the border. Israeli leadership indicates this military campaign may develop into an extended occupation of the region.

An emergency United Nations Security Council meeting has been scheduled after three UN peacekeeping personnel were fatally wounded in southern Lebanon within a 24-hour period, though the responsible party remains unclear. Israeli military sources reported Tuesday morning that four additional Israeli soldiers had died during the offensive operations.

In an interview published Monday by the New York Post, President Trump stated that the United States is conducting negotiations with Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary speaker. The former Revolutionary Guard leader had previously been suggested as a potential diplomatic contact for Washington, but he has rejected claims that Iran is engaging in talks with America and characterized Pakistan-mediated discussions as merely concealing U.S. military positioning.

Trump additionally warned of massive strikes against Iran’s energy infrastructure and critical facilities, including water desalination systems, unless a peace agreement is achieved “shortly.”

Financial markets showed modest gains during volatile Monday trading sessions as petroleum prices continued rising amid uncertainty about the conflict’s duration.

The Thai cargo vessel operator whose ship was damaged by projectile fire near the Strait of Hormuz announced that search crews successfully boarded the disabled vessel but could not find three missing sailors.

The Mayuree Naree sustained damage after being struck north of Oman earlier this month.

Precious Shipping Co., Ltd informed the Stock Exchange of Thailand on Monday that searchers examined all reachable sections of the Mayuree Naree “under challenging conditions, including the presence of fire damage, residual smoke, and flooding in the engine room.” The company stated that relatives of the three missing crew members received appropriate notification.

Satellite imagery captured shortly before the 12-day Iran-Israel war in June indicates Tehran moved a truck carrying highly enriched uranium to its Isfahan nuclear complex.

The Airbus Defense and Space Pléiades Neo satellite photograph shows a truck carrying 18 blue containers entering a tunnel at the Isfahan Nuclear Technology Center on June 9, 2025. Hostilities commenced June 13, and American forces bombed the Isfahan facility along with two additional nuclear sites on June 22.

François Diaz-Maurin, a researcher with the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, determined the truck probably transported 18 secure containers holding up to 534 kilograms (1,177 pounds) of uranium enriched to 60% purity. This represents a brief technical process away from weapons-grade 90% enrichment levels.

“This calculation suggests that Iran could have transferred all of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to Isfahan via the truck seen in the satellite image,” Diaz-Maurin stated in his assessment.

The Washington-based Institute for Science and International Security similarly concluded the vehicle was moving highly enriched uranium. French publication Le Monde initially disclosed the satellite images.

Iran’s foreign minister declared early Tuesday that Tehran’s military strikes against Gulf Arab nations exclusively target American forces, despite attacks affecting civilian infrastructure across the region.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s statements, directed toward Saudi Arabia, come as increasing Gulf Arab frustration encourages those nations to support America’s continued military engagement.

“Iran respects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and considers it a brotherly nation,” Araghchi posted on X, including a photograph allegedly showing damage to an American aircraft at Prince Sultan Air Base in the kingdom. “Our operations are aimed at enemy aggressors who have no respect for Arabs or Iranians, nor can provide any security. … High time to eject U.S. forces.”

ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia — Parliament in Mongolia has approved Uchral Nyam-Osor to serve as the nation’s third prime minister within a 12-month period, as lawmakers attempt to break through legislative gridlock during a time of growing economic challenges for the resource-rich, landlocked nation.

The new leader emphasized the need for political cooperation, stating that internal conflicts have worsened external difficulties facing the country.

“As others unite to confront crises, we cannot afford political infighting that weakens our economy,” he addressed parliament members.

During Monday evening’s vote, 107 out of 126 parliament members participated, with 88 lawmakers backing Uchral’s appointment — representing 82.2% support — paving the way for the 39-year-old to assume leadership.

Previously serving as minister of digital development and communications, Uchral championed transparency initiatives and digital government programs. Prior to his political career, he gained public recognition performing hip-hop music under the name “Timon.”

The new prime minister has established himself as a modernization advocate, working to update Mongolia’s regulatory framework and simplify permit processes left over from the nation’s Soviet period. The country shifted to democratic governance in 1990 following years of single-party Communist control.

His selection occurs as international investors express growing worries about Mongolia’s governmental instability, constantly shifting policies, and problems with corruption and regulatory uncertainty.

Parliament viewed Uchral as a middle-ground choice between competing groups within the Mongolian People’s Party — some supporting the president and others backing former prime minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai.

The opposition Democratic Party’s boycott and internal conflicts within the governing party had prevented parliament from achieving the necessary attendance for voting during the legislative session that started approximately two weeks earlier.

Former Prime Minister Zandanshatar Gombojav, who had served for nine months, tendered his resignation on Friday to address the political crisis. He also faced pressure due to corruption charges against one of his top cabinet officials.

Zandanshatar, who maintains close ties with the president, had succeeded Oyun-Erdene, who served as prime minister for four years before stepping down last June following a parliamentary confidence vote defeat. All three leaders belong to the Mongolian People’s Party.

Manufacturing activity in China showed improvement during March, breaking a two-month streak of decline, according to government statistics released Tuesday. Economic experts remain cautious about future prospects due to potential energy supply challenges stemming from the ongoing Iran conflict.

China’s National Bureau of Statistics announced that the official manufacturing purchasing managers index climbed to 50.4 in March, up from February’s reading of 49. This figure exceeded analyst predictions and marked the highest level recorded in twelve months. The PMI scale runs from 0 to 100, with readings above 50 signaling sector growth.

Although the March data reflects the period following the start of the Iran war on February 28, economists believe the full effects of rising energy prices have yet to materialize. “So far supply disruptions have not occurred in a material way,” said Jacqueline Rong, Chief China Economist, BNP Paribas, a French bank.

China’s economic challenges extend beyond international conflicts, as the nation continues to grapple with a persistent real estate downturn that has lasted several years. This housing market decline has dampened both consumer spending and business investment throughout the country. As the globe’s second-largest economy, China has increasingly depended on international sales, particularly to Southeast Asian and European markets, which helped generate a record-breaking $1.2 trillion trade surplus last year despite elevated U.S. tariffs.

The nation’s export-driven economic strategy faces potential obstacles as the Iran conflict threatens to increase energy expenses and disrupt global supply networks. Maritime shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for approximately 20% of worldwide oil transport, has been severely restricted.

The severity of economic consequences will largely depend on the duration of Middle Eastern energy supply interruptions, according to BNP Paribas economist Rong. “If it is months, rather than weeks, then the supply disruptions, not just from oil, but also from the shortage of many chemical products — such as rare gases — would manifest itself in disrupting industrial production and services,” she said.

Chinese export performance could also decline if worldwide economic growth suffers significantly from the energy crisis, Rong noted. Higher global inflation rates, for instance, might reduce international demand for Chinese manufactured goods.

In early March, Chinese government officials announced an economic growth objective of 4.5% to 5% for the current year, representing a modest reduction from last year’s “around 5%” target and marking the most conservative growth goal since 1991.

Currently, China’s economy “appears to have weathered” the energy disruption from the Iran conflict relatively well, according to Zichun Huang, China economist at Capital Economics, in a recent research analysis. However, she warned that “it is likely that the fallout from the Iran war will grow over the coming months.”

As Chinese exports to the United States, its primary trading partner, have decreased in recent months, economists are monitoring developments in diplomatic relations between Washington and Beijing ahead of an anticipated meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping scheduled for May.

Some economic analysts suggest that reduced U.S. tariffs following a recent Supreme Court decision against Trump’s comprehensive global tariff policies might provide a modest boost to Chinese exports and manufacturing activity.

Israeli defense forces confirmed Tuesday that four military personnel lost their lives while two additional soldiers sustained injuries during active fighting in southern Lebanon.

The military announcement on March 31 detailed the casualties that occurred during ongoing combat operations in the southern region of Lebanon.

Energy markets experienced a dramatic turnaround during Tuesday’s Asian trading session, with crude oil prices falling after earlier gains, following reports that President Donald Trump indicated to his staff he may be prepared to halt military operations against Iran without requiring immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude futures for May delivery dropped $1.22, representing a 1.08% decline to $111.56 per barrel as of 0210 GMT, despite climbing 2% earlier in the trading day. The May contract reaches expiration Tuesday, while the more actively traded June contract stood at $105.76.

West Texas Intermediate futures for May fell 98 cents, or 0.95%, to $101.90 per barrel after reaching their highest levels since March 9 during early trading hours.

Market experts indicated the price decline represents a short-term response to potential conflict resolution, though substantial pricing changes would require complete restoration of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to a Wall Street Journal report published Monday citing administration sources, Trump informed his advisers he would consider ending the military operation against Iran while potentially delaying the waterway’s reopening to a future date.

Just one day earlier, Trump issued a stern warning that the United States would “obliterate” Iran’s energy infrastructure and petroleum facilities if Tehran failed to reopen the strategic waterway.

Iran’s effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage that normally handles approximately one-fifth of worldwide oil shipments and substantial liquefied natural gas transport, has driven Brent futures up 59% throughout March, marking their largest monthly increase on record. WTI has similarly risen 58% this month, the steepest gain since May 2020.

“While diplomatic signals remain mixed, the ground reality suggests that uncertainty will persist,” stated Sugandha Sachdeva, founder of SS WealthStreet, a New Delhi-based research firm.

“Even in the event of de-escalation, restoring damaged infrastructure will take time, keeping supply tight,” Sachdeva added.

Demonstrating ongoing threats to maritime energy transportation amid the conflict involving Iran, the U.S., and Israel, Kuwait Petroleum Corp announced Tuesday that its fully loaded crude tanker Al Salmi, with capacity for up to 2 million barrels, sustained damage from what officials described as an Iranian attack at a Dubai port facility. Authorities also expressed concerns about possible environmental contamination in the region.

Over the weekend, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi forces launched missile attacks targeting Israel, sparking renewed worries about potential disruptions to the Bab el-Mandeb strait, the narrow passage connecting the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden that serves as a vital shipping corridor between Asia and Europe through the Suez Canal.

Saudi Arabia has redirected its crude exports through this route, with shipments rerouted from the Gulf to the Red Sea facility at Yanbu reaching 4.658 million barrels daily last week according to Kpler data, representing a significant increase from the average 770,000 barrels per day recorded in January and February.

In domestic developments, U.S. crude oil inventories were projected to have decreased last week, alongside reductions in distillate and gasoline stocks, according to a preliminary Reuters survey released Monday.

“Contradictory statements and signals on the state of the war are flying thick and fast and truth and facts are the biggest casualty,” commented Vandana Hari, founder of oil market analysis provider Vanda Insights.

“Crude is likely to continue being whiplashed and directionless,” Hari concluded.

Iranian forces launched an attack Monday that set fire to a massive oil tanker loaded with crude off the coast of Dubai, while President Donald Trump issued stark warnings about destroying Iran’s energy infrastructure if shipping lanes remain blocked.

The assault targeted the Al-Salmi, a Kuwait-flagged vessel capable of transporting approximately 2 million barrels of oil valued at over $200 million based on current market rates. This marks another episode in an ongoing series of attacks against commercial shipping using missiles and explosive drones throughout the Gulf region and Strait of Hormuz, following U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran on February 28.

Dubai officials later confirmed they successfully extinguished the blaze caused by the drone strike, with no casualties reported. Kuwait Petroleum Corp, which owns the vessel, announced efforts to evaluate the damage while cautioning about potential environmental spillage.

The month-long regional conflict has expanded throughout the Middle East, resulting in thousands of deaths, energy supply disruptions, and threats to global economic stability. Oil markets responded immediately to news of the tanker attack, with prices experiencing another surge.

Rising fuel costs have begun impacting American families’ budgets and created political challenges for Trump and the Republican Party before November’s midterm elections, despite campaign promises to reduce energy expenses and boost domestic oil and gas output.

Monday marked a milestone as U.S. gasoline prices exceeded $4 per gallon for the first time in over three years, according to GasBuddy data, driven by constrained global supplies that pushed American crude above $101 per barrel.

Military escalation continues on multiple fronts, with Iran-supported Houthis joining the conflict by launching missiles and drones toward Israel in recent days. Turkey reported intercepting an Iranian ballistic missile that had crossed into Turkish airspace using NATO defense systems.

Israeli forces conducted missile attacks on what they described as military facilities in Tehran and Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut, leaving dark smoke visible across Lebanon’s capital city. The violence has claimed the lives of three Indonesian UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon during two separate incidents.

Elite soldiers from the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division have begun deploying to the Middle East, according to two U.S. officials who spoke to Reuters Monday. This reinforcement could provide Trump with additional military options, including potential operations within Iranian borders, even as diplomatic discussions with Tehran continue.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt indicated Trump seeks an agreement with Tehran before his April 6 deadline, which extends an earlier timeframe he established for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This critical waterway typically handles about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

Leavitt noted that negotiations with Iran are advancing, observing that Tehran’s public statements contrast with their private communications to American officials.

The Wall Street Journal subsequently reported that Trump has informed advisers he would consider ending military operations against Iran even if the strait remains mostly blocked, potentially postponing the complex task of fully reopening it.

Iran acknowledged Monday it had received American peace proposals through intermediary nations, following Sunday discussions between foreign ministers from Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei characterized the proposals as “unrealistic, illogical and excessive.”

“Our position is clear. We are under military aggression. Therefore, all our efforts and strength are focused on defending ourselves,” he stated during a press conference.

Following Baghaei’s comments, Trump announced the U.S. was negotiating with a “more reasonable regime” to conclude the Iranian conflict while issuing fresh warnings regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

“Great progress has been made but, if for any reason a deal is not shortly reached, which it probably will be, and if the Hormuz Strait is not immediately ‘Open for Business,’ we will conclude our lovely ‘stay’ in Iran by blowing up and completely obliterating all of their Electric Generating Plants, Oil Wells and Kharg Island,” Trump posted on social media, also threatening Iranian desalination facilities.

The White House revealed Trump is exploring requests for Arab nations to finance the conflict’s costs. “It’s an idea that I know that he has and something that I think you’ll hear more from him on,” Leavitt responded when asked about the concept.

Trump’s administration has submitted a request for an additional $200 billion in war funding, though the proposal encounters significant resistance in Congress, which must authorize new expenditures.

JAKARTA – Indonesian government officials have called in representatives from tech giants Meta and Google following their failure to follow new social media regulations designed to protect children, according to a statement released Tuesday by the country’s Communications and Digital Minister.

The Southeast Asian nation implemented comprehensive rules last week requiring social media companies to shut down accounts belonging to users under age 16 on platforms classified as high-risk for young people.

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid described Meta and Google as “two business entities that are non-compliant with the law” during a video announcement. She confirmed that officials from both companies were called in Monday to “undergo checks” regarding their adherence to the new youth protection measures.

According to Hafid, both technology companies have resisted the protective measures since they were first proposed. The minister warned that platforms refusing to implement the required safeguards could face penalties or complete blocking within Indonesia.

Neither Google nor Meta provided immediate responses when contacted for comment Tuesday. However, both corporations stated last week that they had established protective measures for younger users on their platforms.

The Indonesian government has also issued warnings to two additional platforms – gaming platform Roblox and TikTok, which is owned by Chinese company ByteDance. Hafid indicated that these companies must achieve full compliance or risk facing similar summons. Representatives from TikTok and Roblox have not yet responded to requests for comment.

The protective regulations aim to shield young people from cyberbullying incidents and social media addiction, according to Indonesian officials. These measures follow similar action taken by Australia last year, where lawmakers banned certain social media access due to concerns about negative impacts on young people’s mental health.

Indonesian authorities classify platforms as high-risk based on several factors, including opportunities for users to communicate with strangers, addictive features, and potential psychological dangers.

Recent data from the Indonesia Internet Service Providers Association shows that internet usage has reached 80.66% of the population in 2025. Among “Gen Z” users between ages 13 and 28, internet penetration climbs to 87.8%.

Minister Hafid noted that approximately 70 million children under 16 currently live in Indonesia, highlighting the scope of the new protective measures.

BEIJING – Chinese officials announced Tuesday that corruption charges have been filed against a high-ranking former securities official.

Wang Jianjun, who previously held the deputy leadership role at China’s securities watchdog agency, now faces bribery allegations, according to the state-run Xinhua news service.

Government investigators concluded that Wang exploited his official position and authority to “secure benefits,” Xinhua reported in its Tuesday announcement.

The prosecution represents the latest development in China’s ongoing efforts to root out corruption among government and regulatory officials.

BANGKOK, March 31 – King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand has given his royal approval to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s cabinet selection, as announced in Tuesday’s Royal Gazette publication.

This royal endorsement enables the cabinet members to participate in a swearing-in ceremony before the monarch and subsequently present their policy agenda to parliament before officially assuming their ministerial duties.

As anticipated, several key officials will continue in their current roles, including Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow.

In a notable change, Akanat Promphan, who previously served as Industry Minister, will take over the energy portfolio from Auttapol Rerkpiboon, the former chief executive of PTT.

During weekend remarks, Anutin indicated that his new administration would assume full operations by April.

Countries throughout Asia are racing to secure Russian petroleum as energy shortages worsen following a month-long conflict involving Iran that has eliminated approximately 20% of global oil production.

The majority of petroleum from the largely closed Strait of Hormuz was destined for Asian markets, which have been most severely affected by recent energy disruptions. This past weekend, Iranian-supported Houthi forces joined the fighting, creating additional threats to maritime transport.

To help stabilize worldwide petroleum supplies, the United States has temporarily lifted restrictions on Russian oil shipments currently in transit — initially for India, then expanding to all countries.

Asian demand is climbing while Russia earns billions in revenue. However, energy experts warn Moscow’s ability to increase crude oil exports is limited, as the country is already shipping at levels near its historical maximum.

Furthermore, Russia’s ongoing four-year invasion of Ukraine and recent Ukrainian drone strikes against Russian energy infrastructure are damaging its export capacity.

According to Muyu Xu, a senior petroleum analyst at global trade data company Kpler, the window of opportunity for Asian nations facing energy shortages is brief and narrowing.

“The real problem is how much cargo is still available in this market,” she stated.

Prior to the Iranian conflict, China, India and Turkey served as the primary buyers of Russian petroleum, ignoring Western sanctions in exchange for significant price reductions.

American and European Union restrictions were designed to economically weaken Russia following its Ukrainian invasion.

However, the U.S. sanction exemption triggered intense activity among energy-starved Southeast Asian nations. This month, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam expressed renewed interest in Russian petroleum.

Manila, a longtime American partner, purchased Russian crude for the first time in five years — just days after declaring an energy crisis.

Additional countries may follow suit, but they will face competition with China and India for approximately 126 million barrels currently being shipped, according to Kpler data.

India alone requires between 5.5 million and 6 million barrels daily.

Energy analysts believe Russia is unlikely to dramatically increase exports. March shipments reached about 3.8 million barrels daily, higher than February’s 3.2 million but still below the mid-2023 maximum of 3.9 million.

Xu explained that the current situation demonstrates how rapidly international politics can change — often influenced by a small number of leaders — making long-term planning difficult for nations. She noted that “right now, really the priority is to ensure your supply and all the other considerations are secondary.”

Southeast Asian nations competing for the decreasing amount of Russian petroleum at sea likely hope the United States will extend its sanction waiver past April, Xu noted.

These countries have few alternatives, and more reliable sources — such as petroleum from the United States, South America or West Africa — are too distant for Asia, meaning deliveries would take months to arrive. This situation leaves developing nations struggling to meet their needs.

Philippine airlines are considering fuel restrictions. Emergency financial assistance is being distributed to those most affected, including transportation workers. Most days see gas station lines extending for blocks.

The country of 117 million people serves as an early indicator for Southeast Asia.

Before the conflict, the Philippines depended on the Middle East for nearly 97% of its maritime oil imports, based on Kpler information. The energy emergency declaration represents a “new frontier” in scope and severity, according to Kairos Dela Cruz from the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities.

“It will definitely drive people down even further in the poverty line,” he explained.

To address energy shortages, the Philippines imported crude petroleum, marking the first such purchase since 2021. Other Southeast Asian countries are considering similar measures.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s March 23 trip to Russia included petroleum and natural gas cooperation agreements, along with nuclear energy partnerships, as increasing diesel costs begin affecting Vietnam’s manufacturing industry.

Indonesian officials stated “all countries are possible” partners as they build up reserves. This includes Russia and the small oil-rich nation of Brunei, according to Indonesian Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia.

“When you don’t have any other options, all options are on the table,” explained Putra Adhiguna from the Jakarta-based Energy Shift Institute.

While considering similar actions, Thailand is not as urgently affected as the Philippines, said Jitsai Santaputra from energy consulting firm The Lantau Group in Bangkok. She added that Thailand will likely observe developments as long as impacts remain manageable.

However, effects are expanding.

Thai fuel prices increased on March 26 after price controls and subsidies ended, with most fuels rising approximately 20 U.S. cents per liter and diesel climbing roughly 18% — affecting industry and transportation while threatening to increase costs of other products.

Disregarding Western sanctions, China and India were significant Russian petroleum buyers before the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on February 28.

India gained an extra benefit by having U.S. restrictions on Russian petroleum lifted about one week before other nations.

“They took that chance and snapped up quite many cargoes,” Xu said. When U.S. President Donald Trump permitted other countries to purchase, she explained it was “already a bit too late because most of the cargo had already been ordered” by China and India.

Despite this advantage, Kpler data indicates India’s Russian petroleum imports likely cannot compensate for lost Middle Eastern supplies.

Indian imports from Russia increased to approximately 1.9 million barrels daily in March, up from about 1 million barrels before the Iranian conflict. Prior to that fighting, India imported around 2.6 million barrels per day from Middle Eastern sources.

This may prove insufficient with approaching peak summer energy demands — driven by travel, farming and shipping requirements — particularly as emergency reserves decline, according to Duttatreya Das from research organization Ember. He noted that short-term purchases cover only several days of supply, making any shortage difficult to address without additional shipments from the United States or Canada.

“I don’t know how the shortfall will be met,” he said.

Despite ranking as the fifth-largest petroleum producer and promoting renewable energy, China maintains strong oil demand from its 1.4 billion citizens. However, the country has also accumulated massive oil reserves.

China possesses approximately 1.2 billion barrels of domestic crude stockpiles, Kpler estimates. This represents nearly four months of total maritime crude imports, providing protection against short-term war impacts.

China obtained about 13% of its maritime crude from Iran, according to Kpler, and roughly 20% from Russia, reported financial data company LSEG.

With substantial reserves and financial resources, analysts suggest some Russian shipments intended for China could be redirected to more desperate nations.

“Russia emerges as a major winner from the entire conflict,” said Sam Reynolds from the U.S.-based Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. Given the energy crisis, delivery speed and temporarily reduced prices, he stated Asia has “a much larger incentive to import Russian oil.”

“We can argue whether there’s a moral dilemma there, but I think it’s a reflection of the fact that countries are going to do whatever they need to to protect their energy security,” he concluded.

BEIJING, March 30 – Chinese officials have unveiled the World Data Organisation, a new international body designed to foster coordinated data development and management practices worldwide, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

The newly formed organization seeks to eliminate obstacles created by varying data regulations across nations through building industry-wide agreement and assisting international corporations in lowering their regulatory compliance expenses.

The group also plans to create comprehensive systems by implementing data solutions in real-world applications including healthcare, educational institutions, and power generation to advance project development and industrial advancement.

According to Tan Tieniu, who serves as chairman of the World Data Organization, the swift growth of artificial intelligence has transformed data into a primary engine for economic expansion, establishing the necessity for an internationally acknowledged forum to tackle data-related issues.

The organization has already gathered more than 200 participants representing over 40 nations worldwide.

Member organizations encompass corporations, academic institutions, research centers, global organizations, and banking institutions spanning sectors including financial services, healthcare, energy production, internet technology, and automotive manufacturing.

SYDNEY – The Reserve Bank of Australia’s board members have expressed uncertainty about future monetary policy direction following their closely divided decision to increase interest rates in March, according to meeting minutes released Tuesday.

Board members reached consensus that predicting the trajectory of interest rates with confidence has become impossible, particularly given ongoing uncertainties surrounding Middle Eastern conflicts and their potential economic ramifications.

The meeting minutes revealed concerns about extended conflict duration, stating: “A longer conflict could have a material bearing on both inflation and economic activity. Members therefore acknowledged that future policy decisions would require the board to balance its two objectives carefully.”

The central bank’s March decision increased rates by 25 basis points to 4.1%, marking the most divided vote since the RBA began publishing voting records last year. The 5-4 split in favor of the increase reversed two of three rate cuts implemented in 2025.

Financial markets currently assign a 60% probability to another rate increase in May, anticipating an additional 65 basis points of tightening throughout the year.

Following February’s unanimous rate increase, policymakers determined that monetary policy remained insufficiently restrictive. While all board members concurred that additional tightening would likely prove necessary, disagreement emerged regarding appropriate timing.

The five members supporting the March increase believed Middle East tensions would further constrain the economy’s already limited supply capacity while potentially destabilizing inflation expectations. They emphasized demonstrating clear commitment to achieving inflation targets.

Central bank projections indicate that oil prices sustained around $100 per barrel would push Australia’s headline inflation to approximately 5% during the June quarter, up from February’s 3.7% consumer price inflation rate.

The pro-increase faction acknowledged monitoring downside demand risks closely, noting in the minutes: “These members conceded it would be important to monitor downside risks to future demand closely… They noted that the board’s ability to respond effectively to a more material contraction in aggregate demand, should it occur, would not be impaired (by raising rates).”

The four dissenting members pointed to weakening household spending patterns and questioned whether labor market conditions had actually tightened recently. They favored delaying action until Middle East conflict effects became more apparent.

Two civilians lost their lives and over 20 others sustained injuries during Monday’s Russian military strikes targeting multiple Ukrainian regions, according to local government officials.

In the Poltava region of central Ukraine, debris from destroyed drones resulted in one death and three injuries while causing significant damage to a residential high-rise building, regional governor Vitaliy Diakivnych announced via Telegram.

The neighboring Dnipropetrovsk region experienced both drone assaults and artillery bombardments that claimed one life near Nikopol, Regional Governor Oleksandr Ganzha reported on Telegram. The attacks wounded two residents in Nikopol itself and an additional 12 people across the broader region.

In the northern Sumy region along the Russian border, Moscow’s forces deployed glide bombs in two separate strikes that wounded 13 individuals, including a 6-year-old child, according to regional governor Oleh Hryhorov. The bombardment damaged 15 residential properties.

High-ranking Russian military commanders have previously stated their intention to establish buffer zones within both Sumy and the neighboring northeastern Kharkiv region.

Reuters was unable to independently confirm these reports.

President Donald Trump issued stark warnings Monday about potential attacks on Iran’s critical water and energy infrastructure, including facilities that produce drinking water from seawater. Military experts caution that such actions could spark a humanitarian crisis throughout the drought-stricken Middle East region.

Writing on Truth Social, Trump declared that unless a peace agreement emerges “shortly” and the crucial Strait of Hormuz shipping lane reopens immediately, “we will conclude our lovely ‘stay’ in Iran by blowing up and completely obliterating all of their Electric Generating Plants, Oil Wells and Kharg Island (and possibly all desalinization plants!), which we have purposefully not yet ‘touched.’”

Security analysts express greater concern about potential Iranian counter-attacks than Trump’s initial threats. While Iran depends minimally on desalinated water, neighboring Gulf nations rely on these facilities for most of their freshwater supply.

Dozens of water treatment facilities line the Persian Gulf shoreline, placing systems that serve millions of residents within striking distance of Iranian rockets and unmanned aircraft. Major metropolitan areas including Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, plus Qatar’s capital Doha, could not maintain their current population levels without these installations.

“Desalination facilities are oftentimes necessary for the survival of the civilian population and intentional destruction of those types of facilities is a war crime,” stated Niku Jafarnia, who conducts research for Human Rights Watch.

Iran faces its fifth consecutive year of severe drought conditions, with some domestic news outlets reporting that water storage facilities serving Tehran hold less than 10% of normal capacity. Satellite imagery examined by The Associated Press confirms significantly reduced reservoir levels. The nation continues to depend primarily on rivers, lakes and declining underground water sources.

Israeli air attacks on March 7 targeted fuel storage sites around Tehran, creating thick smoke and acidic precipitation. Specialists cautioned that contamination could affect soil and portions of the city’s water infrastructure.

“Attacking water facilities, even one, could end up being harmful to the population in such a severe water scarcity context,” Jafarnia explained.

Prior to the military conflict that Israel and the United States initiated on February 28, Iran had been working rapidly to build more desalination capacity along its southern coastline and transport treated water to interior regions. However, infrastructure limitations, power costs and international economic restrictions have severely hampered expansion efforts.

Kuwait obtains approximately 90% of its drinking water through desalination, while Oman relies on the technology for roughly 86% and Saudi Arabia for about 70%. The process eliminates salt from ocean water, typically by forcing it through extremely fine filters using reverse osmosis technology, creating the freshwater that supports cities, tourism, manufacturing and some farming in one of Earth’s most arid regions.

Even facilities connected to national power networks with alternative supply options face risks of cascading failures across linked systems, according to David Michel, who serves as senior fellow for water security at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

“It’s an asymmetrical tactic,” he noted. “Iran doesn’t have the same capacity to strike back … But it does have this possibility to impose costs on the Gulf countries to push them to intervene or call for a cessation of hostilities.”

Water treatment plants contain numerous components including intake structures, processing equipment and power sources, with disruption to any element capable of halting operations, explained Ed Cullinane, Middle East editor at Global Water Intelligence, an industry publication.

“None of these assets are any more protected than any of the municipal areas that are currently being hit by ballistic missiles or drones,” Cullinane observed.

The Gulf region exports roughly one-third of global crude oil, with energy sales forming the foundation of national economies. Combat operations have already stopped tanker movement through vital shipping channels and interrupted port operations, compelling some producers to reduce exports as storage facilities reach capacity.

“Everyone thinks of Saudi Arabia and their neighbors as petrostates. But I call them saltwater kingdoms. They’re human-made fossil-fueled water superpowers,” said Michael Christopher Low, who directs the Middle East Center at the University of Utah. “It’s both a monumental achievement of the 20th century and a certain kind of vulnerability.”

Trump’s statements came amid escalating violence, with Tehran attacking a major water and power facility in Kuwait and an Israeli oil processing plant coming under fire, while American and Israeli military units launched fresh strikes against Iran.

A 2010 Central Intelligence Agency assessment cautioned that strikes on desalination infrastructure could create national emergencies in multiple Gulf states, with extended outages potentially lasting months if essential equipment suffered damage. The document noted that over 90% of the Gulf’s desalinated water originates from just 56 facilities, stating that “each of these critical plants is extremely vulnerable to sabotage or military action.”

Saudi Arabia and the UAE have constructed pipeline systems, water storage facilities and other backup measures intended to provide protection during brief interruptions. However, smaller nations including Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait maintain fewer reserve supplies.

Desalination expansion has accelerated partly because climate change is worsening drought conditions throughout the region. The facilities themselves consume enormous amounts of energy and produce substantial carbon emissions, while their coastal positions leave them exposed to severe weather and ocean level increases.

During Iraq’s 1990-1991 occupation of Kuwait, withdrawing Iraqi military units sabotaged electrical stations and water treatment plants, Low recalled, while millions of barrels of petroleum were intentionally spilled into the Persian Gulf, threatening seawater intake systems used by desalination facilities across the area.

Emergency crews worked quickly to position protective barriers around intake valves at major installations, but the damage left Kuwait mostly without fresh water and reliant on emergency water shipments. Complete restoration required several years.

In recent years, Yemen’s Iran-supported Houthi forces have attacked Saudi desalination installations as regional tensions increased.

International humanitarian law, including sections of the Geneva Conventions, forbids attacking civilian infrastructure essential to population survival, including drinking water systems.

Australia’s internet safety watchdog announced Tuesday it is examining five major social media companies for possible violations of the nation’s pioneering law prohibiting users under age 16 from accessing their platforms.

The investigation represents the government’s first public review of how well companies are following the groundbreaking legislation, which is drawing attention from lawmakers worldwide. Poor enforcement could weaken support for similar age restrictions being considered by other governments.

Julie Inman Grant, who leads the eSafety Commission, identified Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, along with Snapchat, TikTok and Google’s YouTube as the platforms under scrutiny. Her agency is collecting evidence for potential penalties against these companies.

“While social media platforms have taken some initial action, I am concerned through our compliance monitoring that some may not be doing enough to comply with Australian law,” Inman Grant stated.

“We are now moving into an enforcement stance,” she continued.

The Australian legislation allows regulators to impose penalties reaching A$49.5 million (approximately $34 million) on companies that fail to comply. Officials noted Tuesday that violating platforms also risk significant damage to their public reputation.

The safety commission discovered significant shortcomings in how platforms are implementing the youth ban. These include asking children who previously indicated they were under 16 to verify their age again, permitting multiple attempts at age verification until users achieve a result showing they’re over 16, inadequate systems for reporting underage accounts, and weak protections against new sign-ups by minors.

Each platform has received notification about specific problems and expectations for addressing these issues, according to the regulator.

TikTok refused to provide comment on the investigation, while representatives from Meta, Snap and Google did not respond immediately to requests for statements.

Israel’s legislative body voted Monday to enact capital punishment for individuals who commit deadly terrorist attacks, with lawmakers approving the controversial measure by a margin of 62 to 48 votes despite significant political opposition and pressure from international allies.

The bill, which completed its second and third readings on March 30, 2026, establishes that “a terrorist who intentionally caused the death of a person as part of a terrorist act – his sentence is death.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cast his vote supporting the measure, even though the bill was expected to secure enough votes without his backing. The opposition Israel Beiteinu party supported the legislation, while United Torah Judaism, a member of the governing coalition, opposed it. Following the vote, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who helped initiate the proposal, declared: “We are making history.”

Under the new statute, capital punishment becomes required in specific circumstances and eliminates the need for judges to reach a unanimous verdict. The law specifies that the Israel Prison Service will conduct executions by hanging within 90 days, with no option for presidential clemency.

Government sources indicated the statute will face review by the High Court of Justice.

Legal scholars have identified several constitutional concerns, including the automatic nature of the death sentence and clauses preventing pardons, along with disparities in how the law applies to Israeli citizens versus cases in the West Bank.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the legislation, stating: “This law will not lead to a single execution. Not in Gaza, not in Judea and Samaria, not of terrorists, and not of anyone else. It is deliberately written without filters and without balances, for one purpose only: to ensure that it will be struck down.”

According to N12 news, high-ranking European officials conducted emergency discussions with Israeli representatives in an attempt to block the legislation, threatening potential sanctions and the suspension of trade deals, technological partnerships, scientific collaboration, and diplomatic relations.

Yemen’s Houthi forces fired their first ballistic missiles directly at Tel Aviv since the October ceasefire ended, launching attacks in the early morning hours of Saturday, March 28, 2026. A follow-up operation occurred Sunday, March 29, with the group using drones and cruise missiles to target what they called strategic locations in Eilat.

The attacks occurred one month into the US-Israel conflict with Iran and have heightened concerns about potential closure of international shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The Houthis announced their participation in the conflict as part of the “axis of resistance,” but Yemen’s unstable internal conditions could face serious repercussions. Peace negotiations with Saudi Arabia that were nearly finalized are now in jeopardy, potentially triggering new international responses that could further devastate the nation’s crumbling infrastructure.

Mohammed Salem, using a pseudonym and working with Houthi war media, explained that these operations were carefully planned strategic moves rather than impulsive actions. “The military wing has studied the situation closely since the first day of the regional war,” he stated, explaining that joining the conflict represents “a response to the will of the Yemeni people and a national and religious duty to support the resistance in Palestine, Lebanon, Iraq, and Iran.”

Salem emphasized that the Houthis aren’t using these attacks as negotiating leverage to secure better terms, describing them as part of their ongoing campaign against what he called the Zionist and American enemy. He noted that Yemen now controls significant military resources, positioning it among major regional powers, and cautioned that “the coming days will reveal many surprises that will astonish the world, as we are still in an escalating phase until the aggression stops on all fronts.”

The cross-border attacks have created a sharp division within Yemeni society, going beyond military and political considerations. This split demonstrates vastly different views of the current crisis—with supporters believing the escalation restores national pride, while critics worry it will destroy the nation’s final opportunities for survival.

Mohammed, a young Sanaa resident who backs the Houthis’ actions, spoke enthusiastically to The Media Line about the Tel Aviv strikes representing a pivotal moment that restored Yemen’s international position.

He maintained that Yemenis—previously relegated to being seen as a “forgotten civil war”—have proven they cannot be overlooked in regional politics. Speaking boldly, he dismissed concerns about potential Israeli or American retaliation, asking what more a population devastated by years of blockade and poverty could possibly lose. He argued that “dying with dignity” through direct confrontation is better than “a slow death” while depending on limited humanitarian assistance, calling the expected sacrifices “an inevitable price for freedom and dignity.”

However, strong opposition voices are emerging elsewhere. Badri Saleh, who lives in al-Jawf governorate, characterized the military involvement as dangerous gambling that leads the nation toward “collective suicide” to serve foreign interests.

He expressed regret over the missed opportunity for a significant peace agreement with Saudi Arabia—which was nearly completed—that could have reduced domestic hardship. Instead, he argued, the missile attacks have undermined political progress “to satisfy Tehran.”

Saleh’s worries go beyond political breakdown to include fears of extensive infrastructure destruction, warning that a strong international response could hit ports and airports, driving the country into “economic paralysis” with no clear way out.

Abdulsalam Mohammed, who leads Abaad Studies & Research Center, described what he called substantial military preparation by the Houthis. He reported that the Houthis currently control 200 missile launch locations strategically placed throughout Saadah, Hodeidah, al-Jawf, and Taiz, plus 300 drones, including large suicide drone models appearing in combat for the first time.

He also highlighted a major change in naval operations, mentioning an “underwater base” with unmanned submarines, along with launch sites for explosive boats in as-Salif and Hodeidah. These capabilities are backed by secret manufacturing and development facilities built inside mountain tunnels in Sa’dah.

Mohammed additionally claimed that approximately 2,000 foreign specialists—primarily former Syrian army officers and Hezbollah and Iraqi armed group members—are managing technical operations. He stated that strategic planning and advanced operational coordination remain connected to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard command center, while the local group focuses on mobilization and field implementation.

Military affairs analyst and journalist Adnan al-Jabarni rejected the notion that the armed intervention is simply reactive. In analysis posted on X, he argued the Houthis intentionally started their direct involvement by attacking Tel Aviv to accomplish strategic goals—primarily to trigger a direct Israeli response. This approach, he contended, establishes the group as a major player in the conflict while reducing perceptions of complete tactical reliance on Iran.

Al-Jabarni noted that the Houthis are following a “gradual entry” strategy based on “axis of resistance” requirements.

If Iran’s current goals involve wearing down Israeli defenses and causing direct harm, the emphasis will continue on Israeli territory. However, if objectives change toward applying political and economic pressure on the US administration—especially to complicate President Donald Trump’s strategic calculations—then efforts might shift toward limiting navigation through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and potentially attacking regional military installations under sovereignty claims to expand the pressure campaign.

He concluded that if the Axis fully commits to this confrontation, especially during perceived weakness or distraction in Tehran, the region might face an extended conflict with a definitive result—either favorable or unfavorable to them.

As missiles illuminate regional skies, Yemen finds itself once more at the heart of a historic crisis that has continued for decades. From internal mountain conflicts to open maritime confrontations, the nation has transformed into a global battleground for rival powers. While the international community monitors the straits and shipping lanes, average Yemenis remain trapped between hopes of reconstructing their homeland and the reality of international conflicts.

Professional entertainers in full makeup and bright red noses took their concerns to the streets of Bolivia’s capital city Monday, rallying against a new educational policy that threatens to eliminate their primary source of income.

The colorfully dressed performers assembled outside La Paz’s Ministry of Education building to voice opposition to regulations implemented in February. The new rules require educational institutions to dedicate 200 full days annually to academic instruction, essentially prohibiting the special celebrations and events where these entertainers typically find work.

Wilder Ramírez, who represents the local performers’ union and performs under the stage name Zapallito, expressed concerns about the financial impact. “This decree will economically affect all of us who work with children,” Ramírez told reporters. He emphasized that “children need to laugh” while fellow performers questioned whether Bolivia’s Education Minister had experienced a proper childhood.

These professional entertainers regularly provide services at educational institutions throughout Bolivia, performing during school celebrations and special occasions that break up the regular academic routine. An important upcoming celebration is the nation’s Children’s Day observance on April 12.

The policy comes from recently elected President Rodrigo Paz’s administration, which states that festive activities will no longer receive approval during regular academic hours, though schools may choose to organize such events on weekends. Administrative officials indicated they would consider the entertainers’ concerns when developing policies for the 2027 academic year.

However, these future promises offered little comfort to Monday’s demonstrators.

“This decree will diminish our income, and with the economic crisis the country is going through, our future looks increasingly gloomy,” stated Elías Gutiérrez, representing the Confederation of Artisanal Workers of Bolivia.

The South American nation faces severe economic challenges as natural gas revenues continue declining due to reduced production levels, while U.S. currency shortages drive up import costs for the landlocked country.

The demonstration included additional workers whose livelihoods depend on school events, including seamstresses who create costumes for children’s performances and photographers who document educational celebrations.

The coalition of affected workers paraded through downtown La Paz, using whistles and small pyrotechnics to draw attention to their cause.

One demonstrator displayed a sign accusing government officials of “taking away smiles, and taking work away.”

WASHINGTON — Middle Eastern partners of the United States are privately pressing President Donald Trump to maintain military operations against Iran, contending that Tehran remains insufficiently weakened after weeks of U.S.-led airstrikes, sources from American, Gulf, and Israeli governments report.

Following initial behind-the-scenes complaints that they received insufficient warning about the U.S.-Israeli offensive and concerns about regional devastation, several allied nations now view this moment as a unique chance to permanently undermine Iran’s religious government.

Representatives from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain have privately expressed their desire for military actions to continue until Iran’s leadership undergoes major changes or dramatically alters its conduct, according to officials speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization for public statements.

This regional pressure emerges as Trump wavers between declaring Iran’s weakened leadership ready for negotiations and threatening escalation if agreements aren’t reached quickly.

Meanwhile, Trump faces challenges building domestic support for a conflict that has claimed over 3,000 lives throughout the Middle East and disrupted global economic stability. However, the president appears increasingly confident about backing from key regional partners who initially showed reluctance about renewed military action.

“Saudi Arabia’s fighting back hard. Qatar is fighting back. UAE is fighting back. Kuwait’s fighting back. Bahrain’s fighting back,” Trump stated to reporters aboard Air Force One Sunday evening during his return flight to Washington from Florida. “They’re all fighting back.”

These Gulf nations provide hosting facilities for American forces and military bases used for launching Iranian strikes, though they haven’t participated directly in offensive operations.

Although regional leadership generally supports current U.S. actions, one Gulf diplomatic source noted internal disagreements, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE spearheading calls for intensified military pressure against Tehran.

The UAE has positioned itself as potentially the most aggressive among Gulf states, strongly advocating for Trump to authorize ground invasion operations, the diplomat revealed. Kuwait and Bahrain also support this approach. The UAE, having endured over 2,300 missile and drone strikes from Iran, grows increasingly frustrated as ongoing warfare threatens its reputation as the region’s secure, pristine commercial and tourism center.

Conversely, Oman and Qatar, traditionally serving as mediators between economically isolated Iran and Western nations, prefer diplomatic resolution.

The diplomat indicated Saudi Arabia has argued to American officials that concluding warfare prematurely won’t achieve a “good deal” ensuring security for Iran’s Arab neighbors.

Saudi demands for any eventual settlement include neutralizing Iran’s nuclear capabilities, eliminating ballistic missile systems, ending Tehran’s proxy group support, and preventing future Islamic Republic shutdowns of the Strait of Hormuz as occurred during this conflict. Approximately 20% of global oil previously flowed through this waterway.

Accomplishing these objectives would require dramatic policy reversals by the theocratic government controlling the country since 1979’s Islamic Revolution or complete regime change.

Senior Emirati officials have adopted increasingly direct language regarding Iran.

“An Iranian regime that launches ballistic missiles at homes, weaponizes global trade and supports proxies is no longer an acceptable feature of the regional landscape,” wrote Noura Al Kaabi, UAE Foreign Ministry minister of state, in Monday’s column for state-affiliated English publication The National. She continued: “We want a guarantee that this will never happen again.”

The White House refused comment regarding Gulf ally consultations. However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized Monday that America and Gulf Arab partners share unified views about Iran.

“They are religious zealots who can never be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon because they have an apocalyptic vision of the future,” Rubio said about Iran during his ABC “Good Morning America” appearance. “And all of their neighbors know that, by the way, which is why all of their neighbors have been supportive of the efforts we’re conducting.”

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom’s effective ruler, has informed White House officials that further reducing Iran’s military capabilities and clerical leadership benefits long-term Gulf regional interests and beyond, according to someone briefed on these discussions.

Nevertheless, Saudis remain concerned that prolonged conflict provides Iran additional opportunities for striking the kingdom’s energy infrastructure, which forms the foundation of its oil-dependent economy.

A Saudi government representative emphasized the kingdom ultimately seeks political crisis resolution, but immediate priorities focus on protecting citizens and essential infrastructure.

Trump recently highlighted most Gulf countries’ unified support for his administration’s war prosecution, praising their crisis solidarity while criticizing NATO allies for refusing to join American efforts.

Friday brought Trump’s praise for Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, commending their “bravery” throughout the conflict.

Speaking at a Miami event sponsored by Saudi sovereign wealth funds, the president offered particular acclaim for the Saudi crown prince, describing him as a “warrior” and “fantastic man.”

Trump also acknowledged Gulf countries’ initial hesitation about his and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s war decision, but noted their subsequent rallying.

“They weren’t thinking this was going to happen, nobody was,” Trump said, referencing Iran’s thousands of retaliatory strikes across the Gulf region. “And they turned against them and really became very powerfully aligned. And they were with us, but they weren’t with us very obliquely. They were with us.”

Trump has not yet requested Gulf nations’ participation in offensive operations.

One consideration may involve administrative calculations that additional militaries beyond Israel would create unnecessary complications in crowded airspace.

Three American fighter aircraft were accidentally shot down by friendly Kuwaiti forces during initial conflict days amid Iranian aerial assault. All six crew members successfully ejected from the F-15E Strike Eagles.

Additionally, six American service members died March 12 when their KC-135 refueling plane crashed in western Iraq.

Another complication involves only UAE and Bahrain maintaining formal diplomatic relationships with Israel among Gulf states, adding complexity to their strategic considerations, notes Yasmine Farouk, International Crisis Group’s Gulf and Arabian Peninsula project director.

However, Iran has threatened attacks on neighbors’ critical infrastructure, including desalination facilities providing regional drinking water, should Trump execute his threat against Iranian power plants if the Strait of Hormuz isn’t reopened by April 6.

“The absence of a clear objective, the absence of the trust that the United States is really going to go until the end and finish the jobs … it’s making some of them reluctant,” Farouk explained. “But if there is a consequential or mass casualty (event) in one of those countries, then it would be justified for them to become a belligerent.”

Americans with connections to Israel are facing unprecedented travel disruptions as ongoing conflict forces the cancellation of holiday plans and family celebrations. Flight restrictions and war-related chaos have left travelers scrambling for alternative routes or abandoning trips altogether.

Lily Feinstein, a 20-year-old Dallas student at Reichman University in Herzliya, managed to return home through a grueling journey via Egypt and Greece. “My biggest fear throughout the whole war was getting stuck outside of the country rather than in the country,” said Feinstein, who is studying communications and marketing. “There was never a moment where I felt scared or something was going to happen to me. But rather, if I had to leave, what was going to happen then?”

Despite her concerns, Feinstein departed Israel as Passover approached and her family awaited her arrival for the Seder. After multiple El Al flight cancellations, she chose an unconventional route. “I had a couple of flights booked with El Al. My flights kept getting canceled,” she explained. While flights continued operating from Ben-Gurion Airport, options remained extremely limited, and each new reservation carried risks of being stranded during transit. “I just didn’t want to risk booking another flight and maybe getting stuck again. I just made the decision to go through Egypt.”

Her experience at Cairo’s airport highlighted the current travel crisis affecting Israel-bound passengers. “It was an experience for sure. I definitely wouldn’t recommend it,” Feinstein noted. “It’s not a good feeling when you don’t have the IDF behind you, and you’re alone.”

She described an airport terminal overwhelmed with Jewish travelers attempting to exit the region. “There was nobody else in the airport there. It was literally just Jews. There was not even one Egyptian person in the airport other than the staff and security, but it was chaos. Lines at the door. Their airport’s not equipped to handle what they’re doing.”

Tziril Yurman, who grew up in Israel until age 27 and currently resides on New York City’s Upper East Side working in nursing home admissions and marketing, faced her own disappointment when her March 25 El Al flight to spend Passover with elderly parents in Jerusalem was cancelled at 6 pm.

“Complete and utter devastation,” Yurman described her initial reaction. “I felt like I could not get home. I grew up there. But besides that, it’s home for every Jew, and I still feel stranded.” Having traveled without issues during COVID and following October 7, this situation felt different. “This is the first time where an Israeli, a Jew, who’s holding an Israeli passport, cannot get home.”

Instead of Jerusalem, she will attend a large Passover program in Cancun, Mexico, with her sister, joining over 1,500 participants. Security concerns weigh heavily on her mind, as tourist destinations are “definitely being looked at.” Event organizers have increased escorts and patrols, though she couldn’t confirm whether costs have risen accordingly.

California attorney and mother Melissa Cohen experienced her own devastating disruption. Cohen had spent over a year organizing what she called “the trip of a lifetime” to Israel for her middle daughter Alexa’s bat mitzvah celebration. “We actually hadn’t, I hadn’t been to Israel in over 30 years before last year for our spring break,” she shared. Having previously visited as a Houston teenager with her Jewish community and for her brother’s bar mitzvah, she felt an urgent need to return following October 7.

With Israel “being vilified for everything” in media coverage and Gaza war headlines dominating news, Cohen and her husband decided to show their daughters the country firsthand. “We wanted to take our family for the first time last year, so that we could see for ourselves, so that we could be there, so that we could support Israel, and give our tourism dollars to Israel, and give our children a sense of connection,” she explained. Their spring break trip succeeded: “All of my girls, 16, 12, and 10, fell in love with the country, and felt so connected.”

Upon departing Israel last year, they immediately began planning their bat mitzvah return. “Before we touched down on American soil, we sent a note to all of our friends saying next year in Jerusalem,” Cohen recalled. This trip was designed around joy and normalcy: Tel Aviv beaches, desert excursions, Bedouin tent experiences, and culminating with a bat mitzvah ceremony at the Western Wall. “This was really going to be the trip of a lifetime, in a way,” she said. “Being there with all of these people together, our family and friends traveling together, having one experience together, might not ever happen again.”

Then conflict with Iran escalated. As Israel’s military operations intensified and missiles were exchanged, authorities imposed strict limitations at Ben-Gurion airport: only one departure flight per hour to limited destinations like Athens and New York, with just 50 passengers permitted on any aircraft leaving Tel Aviv. “The vast majority of future bookings, both incoming and outgoing, has ground to a halt,” explained Mark Feldman, CEO of Ziontours Jerusalem, describing a tourism sector “paralyzed by uncertainty.” Tens of thousands of Israelis remain stranded overseas, primarily in North America and the Far East, while organized missions and group tours have virtually disappeared.

Cohen monitored these developments with increasing anxiety. “Starting with the moment we attacked Iran,” she said, “I thought, OK, well, this will be just like the 12‑day war last year. They’re even weaker than they were then, and this should be over soon, and this is good news, because this gives us time … and we’re good to go.” However, each passing day diminished that optimism. She and approximately 40 relatives and friends traveling from Houston, California, New York and Boston experienced what she describes as “whiplash”—alternating between thinking “maybe this is going to happen” and “there’s not a chance.”

Ultimately, airlines made the decision for them. As international carriers suspended Israel routes and remaining seats vanished, Cohen watched her meticulously planned celebration collapse. “They canceled flights, and then it just became very clear, I would say, seven, maybe 10 days ago, it became very clear that this was not going to happen,” she said. Passover and Easter itineraries like hers, typically booked a year in advance, “have crumbled,” Feldman observed, either because airlines ceased operations or “because they have chosen not to be in Israel during a war.”

Despite the chaos, Yurman shares Cohen’s commitment to supporting Israel. “Support the Jewish economy, the Jewish Israeli economy,” she urged. “Support any Israeli thing, anything you can, if it’s something online.” She purchases flowers and gifts for family there, encouraging visitors to buy locally—falafel, ice cream, or larger items—to help stores and tourism recover.

Financial consequences have varied. Cohen’s tour guide confirmed hotel reservations were refundable, providing rare relief. However, her attempt to save on airfare through a third-party ticket agency backfired. “That is not refundable,” she said. Rather than receiving straightforward airline credit, the company imposed “a $400 processing fee, plus a $300 commission fee on each ticket that they’re going to take.” Reflecting on the experience, she acknowledged, “In retrospect, I probably should have just gone directly through United. … I was overly confident that nothing was going to happen.”

Cohen’s miscalculation reflects broader assumptions that Israel’s skies had cleared. “Since the war last year in the summer, everything has been great,” she said. Tourism had surged, hotels required seven-night minimum stays over Passover, and prices climbed sharply as if the crisis had passed. It appeared the country had moved forward and tourists were no longer afraid to visit.

Currently, much of the travel system remains paralyzed. Feldman reports the government has provided no direct assistance, while the “one flight an hour” restriction leaves countless travelers with “no ability” to return home. Arkia, one of Israel’s domestic carriers, now operates solely from JFK to Larnaca, Cyprus, due to landing slot shortages. The US Embassy is transporting American citizens by bus to Amman’s airport in Jordan. “Short of a death certificate or a highlevel El Al frequent flier number, just getting out this week is almost a miracle,” Feldman said.

Feldman noted instances of price gouging amid the chaos: El Al’s $999 NYC economy tickets sell out immediately, with “finding space more than one or two days in advance … not possible,” while Amman’s Royal Jordanian charges $2,900 one-way to JFK, “way more than their normal fare.” Oil price spikes from the war haven’t yet impacted costs, but “will affect future ticket prices, when the system reboots,” he added.

Alternative routes used by Feinstein and others—through Egypt, Jordan, and Cyprus—have become essential lifelines. Foreign journalists enter Israel via land crossings, and Feldman reported “zero reports of any problems (other than a request for tips).”

However, these lifelines are becoming more expensive. At the Taba crossing into Egypt, fees on the Egyptian side have increased again as more stranded travelers use the route to reach connecting flights from Taba or Sharm el-Sheikh. Ynet reported on March 28 that new notices at the crossing announced that starting at March’s end, payments would only be accepted in US dollars, with costs for travelers continuing beyond the first kilometer rising to approximately $120 per person, up from the $60 fee mentioned in recent US Embassy Jerusalem travel advisories. An updated embassy alert on March 27 recommended travelers carry at least $115 cash per person, indicating how quickly this improvised exit route has become both more expensive and complicated.

Even so, the route offers little comfort. Feinstein said she “definitely felt safer in Israel” than in an Egyptian airport crowded with anxious passengers. She is now heading to Florida to meet her family and already worries about her return journey. “I don’t want to have to go through Egypt or Jordan again,” she said. “I’m hoping I don’t have to do that again.”

Yurman plans to return immediately after Passover, regardless of obstacles. “Without a question,” she said.

Cancellations have altered sacred family milestones. Rather than celebrating in Jerusalem at the Kotel, Cohen will now celebrate her daughter’s bat mitzvah at home. “I’ve spent the past week to two weeks planning a new bat mitzvah for April 11, the same day it was supposed to be,” she said. The venue has shifted from Jerusalem’s Old City to the family backyard in the Bay Area.

“Our whole family that was coming to Israel is coming here,” Cohen explained. “Everyone had tickets, they took the time off, they were planning to be away. And we’re going do it here,” she said. “…It’s going to be a very different experience. But I think it will be special, nonetheless.”

Cohen acknowledges that rising antisemitic incidents and anti-Israel sentiments have heightened fears around Jewish communal gatherings. She notes “a lot of concern” about attacks on Jews, but says, “I don’t think it’s going to change how I live my life. That’s just not how I operate daily.” Some of her friends are “very worried, very concerned,” and “don’t like going to synagogues now for bar mitzvahs” or to events with Jewish speakers. “I just can’t live that way,” she said. Yurman shared those concerns but remained determined.

The women say the war itself remains difficult for Americans to understand. As a communications student, Feinstein believes many in the US only see missiles and chaos. “They think that Israel is a scary place, with missiles all the time, and there’s no fun,” she said. Most “don’t even know you can study in English in Israel,” or that young people like her can live normal lives between sirens. She uses her modest Instagram platform to “showcase Israel in a positive light and all the fun and everything that you can do in Israel,” hoping to make it feel “not so far away and foreign.”

Yurman said the public misses the constant reality of sirens and shelter runs. “Just turn on the alarm on your phone, … just feel it with them,” she said. “You don’t have to run to a shelter, but just think that that many times people with children, old people, young people, babies have to run into shelters.”

Feinstein views the conflict with Iran in broad terms. “Without being too political, I would say that Iran has been given too much military power,” she said. In her opinion, Israel is “fighting a war on behalf of the whole world and protecting the whole world,” including Americans who may not realize they are being defended. “Iran having any sort of nuclear weapon is terrifying for the world,” she added. “Even right now, in this exact moment, it sucks that we have to deal with the consequences of war and fighting and all that. But in the long term, being able to fight this war now will protect the Jews, and honestly, everybody around the world, hopefully for forever.”

Yurman agreed the war is “definitely necessary” and overdue, calling Iran a global threat that could lead to another 9/11. “I definitely think it’s doing what it should,” she said. “It’s a legit threat, not only to Israel, but to the world.”

Cohen remains skeptical of messaging from Washington. “I don’t think Americans understand it. I don’t think anyone understands it,” she said of the war with Iran. “The messaging that is coming out of our administration is inaccurate, and untruthful, and bombastic. And so, I think it’s hard to know what’s real and what’s not.” Still, she believes the stakes could justify the campaign. “This could create a Middle East that is safer, not just for Israel and Jews, but safer for the world,” she said, while adding, “as to whether or not that is actually going to come to fruition, I don’t think anyone knows.”

Back in Israel, the impact of grounded aircraft and empty tour buses will persist long after the holidays. Feldman predicts outbound travel will recover within “one or two months” after a ceasefire, but inbound tourism will require “a solid six months” to rebound. Hotels and guides, he warns, will suffer longest, as many leave the industry “for stability, just as before.” Nothing will normalize “until the war has ended in Iran and missiles stop being fired from Lebanon,” he said. Yurman urged supporters to help accelerate that recovery: “When you end up taking a trip to Israel, you end up buying things in Israel. … Just support them.”

Feinstein is already planning beyond this Passover, balancing her activism and studies with her desire to remain rooted in Israel. Following October 7, she co-founded Mini Mitzvahs, a nonprofit that has “fed 60,000 soldiers on the front lines and visited injured soldiers in the hospital.” She and her friends have fulfilled “about 500 to 600 personal wish list requests” for wounded troops from Gaza and Lebanon and organized three barbecues on an air force base, feeding “over 100 pilots and 400 F‑16 plane technicians.”

For now, though, her focus remains personal: spending Passover with her family in Florida, then somehow returning to school without another harrowing detour. “I think anyone who wanted to get out was able to get out,” she said, noting that most students leaving Israel now are doing so for spring break, not from fear. “They’re not running away. They’re not fleeing. They just want to be with their families for this time.”

After Passover concludes, Feinstein will confront her biggest concern: repeating the exhausting journey back to Israel. “I definitely felt safer in Israel” than on the road, she said. The challenge, for now, is not the desire to be there—but finding a way to return without another “experience” she hopes never to repeat.