Strait Of Hormuz: Oil tanker hit at Hormuz: US accuses Iran of attacking 2 commercial ships, mulls counter strike - The Times of India

• Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Tuesday that negotiations with the United States regarding a final deal will not commence if threats against Iran persist. • Araghchi referenced part 13 of the Tehran-Washington memorandum of understanding on X, emphasizing that the terms for starting talks are clear.

• Central banks are reassessing their interest rate trajectories following military confrontations between the United States, Israel, and Iran. • Despite a fragile ceasefire, policymakers are concerned that inflationary pressures are proving more persistent than previously forecasted.

• Despite escalating public rhetoric, a diplomatic deal between the U.S. and Iran remains likely following the signing of an interim memorandum of understanding. • The current 60-day window is expected to be characterized by fluctuating tensions and occasional diplomatic friction as both parties negotiate.

• Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper published an essay via Chatham House outlining Britain's strategic approach to a "storm" of geopolitical instability, AI risks, and climate change. • The proposal emphasizes the need for the UK to work more closely with European partners and seek expanded cooperation beyond traditional large trading blocs.

• The United Nations warned on Monday that Afghanistan is currently facing one of the world's largest displacement crises due to poverty, climate shocks, and decades of conflict. • A recent UNDP socioeconomic review highlights that the return of approximately 2.7 million Afghans is placing immense pressure on the country's fragile economy and public services.

• A tanker was set on fire in the Strait of Hormuz after being struck by a projectile, escalating tensions in a critical global shipping lane. • The incident coincides with a period of national mourning in Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

• Iranian missiles reportedly struck two commercial ships in the Gulf, according to a U.S. official. • The attacks occurred amid a fragile cease-fire, though Iranian officials have not yet issued an official comment on the strikes.

• The House of Commons is scheduled to hold a debate on UK rearmament and warfighting readiness on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. • The session will focus on the current state of defense programs and the UK's capacity to maintain operational readiness for potential conflict.

• Afghanistan continues to be one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises, as reported by the United Nations. • In 2025, approximately 22.9 million people—nearly half of the total population—required urgent humanitarian assistance.

• A tanker was set on fire in the Strait of Hormuz after being struck by a projectile, marking a significant escalation in regional maritime tensions. • The attack coincides with a period of national mourning in Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Ukraine’s president says defensive capabilities built up in war with Russia mean it would be wrong to exclude itEurope live – latest updatesVolodymyr Zelenskyy has argued for Ukraine to be allowed to join Nato at its annual summit – saying it would be wrong to exclude a country that had built up strong defences in its long struggle against the Russian invasion.The Ukrainian president said his country had developed almost all the weapons it needed, and now only required European help in developing an alternative to the US Patriots to protect against ballistic missile attack. Continue reading...