Afghanistan's economy is broken. Blame it on the Taliban - Asia Times

• A cargo vessel was struck by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, creating immediate tension in one of the world's most critical maritime corridors. • The attack occurs during a fragile ceasefire and ongoing peace talks between the United States and Iran, threatening to derail diplomatic progress.

• President Marcos Jr. is experiencing a significant decline in political legitimacy, with his approval and satisfaction ratings hitting their lowest levels since he took office. • The commentary argues that the administration's primary challenge is no longer just falling popularity, but a deeper crisis of legitimacy.

• Tensions have escalated in the Strait of Hormuz as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) continues to insist on designated transit routes. • This dispute persists despite ongoing ceasefire discussions between the United States and Iran aimed at stabilizing the region.

• This edition of "My Take 5" reviews key international developments, focusing on diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran to end their ongoing conflict. • The report highlights escalating tensions between Ukraine and Poland, alongside Ukraine's strategic increase in military strikes targeting Russian-occupied Crimea.

• A Global Peace Conference was held in Hyderabad on Thursday, bringing together diplomats, policymakers, and social leaders from nations including Russia, France, and the United States. • Organized by a news channel and Bliss Berg Future of Hope, the event focused on promoting humanitarian values, peaceful coexistence, and collaborative diplomacy.

• The United States, Cuba, and Iran have joined a global rescue effort to assist Venezuela following a series of devastating earthquakes. • UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher confirmed that specialist rescue teams are currently deploying to the region to search for survivors.

• The EU has sparked outrage among Afghan women by initiating talks with the Taliban, signaling a shift in how the bloc balances security concerns against human rights. • This diplomatic engagement occurs amidst a broader climate of rising anti-immigration rhetoric across Europe.

• Switzerland is deploying a specialized rescue team to Venezuela to assist in search and rescue operations following a devastating earthquake. • The team is scheduled to depart from Zurich Airport at 2:00 am on the night between Thursday and Friday, as confirmed by humanitarian aid delegate Dominik Stillhart.

• The Taliban's autocracy is being sustained through economic and political lifelines provided by international bodies, including the United Nations, which have compromised human rights standards. • Organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have documented a humanitarian catastrophe characterized by gender apartheid and systemic rights violations.

• Twin earthquakes have struck Venezuela, with officials fearing thousands of casualties as emergency responses begin. • The White House has requested $87.6 billion in supplemental funding, primarily to support the ongoing war with Iran.

• At least 32 people have died in Venezuela following a series of powerful twin earthquakes that have left the country reeling. • The disaster has caused significant casualties and infrastructure damage, prompting an immediate need for emergency relief.