QtrendsUS and Iran reach a tentative deal to end the war, with Trump ordering the naval blockade halted and Tehran demanding Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon as a precondition. Taiwan tests Himars rockets in the Taiwan Strait amid ongoing cross-strait tensions at the Straits Forum. A Russian warship fires warning shots at a British-flagged yacht in the English Channel, escalating maritime tensions.
Taipei launched Himars rockets towards the Taiwan Strait, signaling a shift in its defensive strategy. Meanwhile, Beijing continues to push cross-strait exchanges at the annual Straits Forum despite tightening restrictions. A visiting KMT leader's trip to the US has drawn scrutiny, with experts questioning her policy positions.
The US and Iran have agreed to an initial deal to end their conflict, moving toward formal signing despite unresolved issues. Trump has ordered a stop to the naval blockade and invoked the Defence Production Act to address strained weapons stockpiles. The deal would allow Tehran to resume oil and fuel sales.
Trump's Iran agreement faces significant challenges, particularly the question of allowing money to flow back to Tehran. US officials overcame their own skepticism to reach the framework deal, but details remain scarce. Analysts warn the $300 billion financial question could unravel the nascent agreement.
Iran has made Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon a precondition for finalizing the tentative peace deal with the US. Tehran's top envoy stated that no agreement can be signed unless Israel leaves southern Lebanon. Israel's ambassador to Washington has firmly rejected the demand, setting up a major diplomatic impasse.
A Russian warship fired warning shots at a UK-flagged yacht in the English Channel, claiming the vessel was on a dangerous course. The British couple on board described the experience as surreal. The UK military is investigating the incident, which marks a sharp escalation in Russia-NATO maritime encounters.