The United States' effort to economically isolate Iran is increasingly targeting Dubai, a Gulf city that has long functioned as an offshore centre for Iranian financial services, trade and a gateway to global markets essential to the regime. Officials say the campaign aims to cut off the channels that have allowed Tehran to bypass sanctions. Dubai's role as a conduit for Iranian commerce has drawn scrutiny as Washington steps up pressure on the network of intermediaries that support Iran's access to international finance.
China’s crude oil reserves have increased its influence over the global oil market, providing the country with significant leverage. According to the publisher’s summary, these reserves now also serve as a critical new defense against the West.
Singapore has introduced measures that have helped ease the city‑state’s notorious gridlock, but the relief comes with a steep price tag for would‑be motorists. Certificates required to own a car have surged in cost, pushing the price of some vehicles up to levels comparable with real‑estate. The sharp rise in ownership fees is forcing drivers to weigh difficult choices about whether to purchase a car at all.
Mexico’s left‑wing president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has dismissed a state governor whom the United States has accused of drug‑trafficking. The removal also sidelines a prominent ally of the president’s mentor.
More than 2,480 people remain missing and at least 584 have been confirmed dead after devastating floods struck the Nepal‑China border region on Wednesday. Rescue teams continue to search the disaster zone, retrieving survivors covered in mud while expanding operations amid rising casualties. Various reports note that the death toll has climbed steadily, with some sources indicating the number of missing could exceed 2,400. Authorities have intensified rescue efforts, though the scale of the disaster has prompted concerns about the ability to locate all victims. The situation remains critical as officials assess the full impact of the flooding.