Here are the major world news stories:
Middle East Tensions
The US is negotiating with Iran “right now,” according to President Trump, following a military escalation in the region[1]. A US fighter jet shot down an Iranian drone approaching the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea[1]. Additionally, Iranian gunboats reportedly attempted to seize a US tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, though the vessel continued its journey under Navy escort[4].
Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks
US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are attending trilateral negotiations in Abu Dhabi with representatives from Russia and Ukraine[1]. These talks aim to address the ongoing conflict as it approaches its fourth anniversary.
Gaza and Israeli Operations
President Trump stated that the US will “take over” the Gaza Strip, speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu[6]. Israeli military operations in Gaza have resulted in casualties, with 17 Palestinians killed in recent strikes[2]. Humanitarian efforts are underway, with the first American news access to the region since a ceasefire agreement was reached[6].
Armed Conflicts
- A Russian drone strike in Ukraine killed at least 15 mineworkers in Dnipro[4]
- Russian forces launched strikes involving drones and cruise missiles across Ukrainian cities including Kyiv and Kharkiv[4]
- Pakistan’s military concluded a 40-hour counterterrorism operation against Baloch Liberation Army insurgents, resulting in 145 militant deaths[4]
- Nigeria reported killing senior Boko Haram commander Abu Khalid and ten other fighters[4]
Other Developments
- A landslide in Indonesia’s West Java province has killed 85 people as search operations continue[1]
- A 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar[1]
- Turkey and Saudi Arabia signed a $2 billion energy investment agreement for solar and wind projects[1]
