QtrendsChina's economy grew at its slowest pace since 2022, missing the government's target for the first time since the pandemic, as Iran-linked trade disruptions compound domestic headwinds. The US reimposed its naval blockade on Iran after Tehran's attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran preparing a potential test of the blockade and threatening to halt all Middle East energy exports. Trump has threatened to bomb Iranian infrastructure unless talks resume, while reports suggest his administration is struggling to contain the escalating crisis. In sports, Spain defeated France in the World Cup semi-final, with Mbappe acknowledging his team was outnumbered. Ukraine suffered its deadliest month for civilians since 2022 due to Russian attacks, while also facing uncertainty over its US ties after Senator Lindsey Graham's sudden death.
China's second-quarter GDP grew at its slowest pace since 2022, falling short of the government's target for the first time since the Covid era. The miss reflects a broad economic slump outside China's export manufacturing sector, compounded by disruptions in global trade routes linked to the Iran crisis. Analysts are watching for further policy stimulus from Beijing as domestic demand remains weak.
Just as the United States reimposed its naval blockade on Iranian ports, Iran appeared to be readying vessels in the Persian Gulf that could attempt to evade US military forces. Tehran has threatened to halt all energy exports from the Middle East in retaliation. The standoff marks a significant escalation in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has previously attacked commercial shipping.
President Trump has threatened to bomb Iranian bridges and power plants unless Tehran resumes negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz dispute. However, reports indicate that his administration is struggling to manage the crisis, with a retreat over proposed Hormuz tolls suggesting a lack of coherent strategy. The US has returned to a full blockade of Iran as the standoff continues to escalate.
Spain secured a spot in the World Cup final after a tactical victory over France, with pundits praising their cohesive team play over individual brilliance. Kylian Mbappe reflected on the loss, saying France 'kept finding ourselves outnumbered.' Spain's performance has been described as a masterclass in team football, setting up a highly anticipated final match.
June was the deadliest month for Ukrainian civilians since 2022, with devastating Russian attacks causing heavy casualties. Meanwhile, Ukraine faces a diplomatic setback after the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham, a key Trump ally who had been a vocal supporter of aid to Kyiv. The US has agreed to allow Ukraine to produce Patriot missiles domestically, though questions remain about the long-term trajectory of American support.