Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has cautioned the Philippines against allowing the United States to deploy intermediate-range missiles on its territory, warning that such a move could escalate regional tensions and spark an arms race. The warning comes amid heightened tensions between China and the Philippines over disputed territories in the South China Sea.
The US government returned 262 antiquities to India and signed a Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) with India to curb the illicit trade of culturally valuable property. This agreement restricts the import of certain archaeological and ethnological materials from India into the US, including religious, ceremonial, and architectural items. The repatriation of artifacts was hailed as an investment in cultural diplomacy and sustainable development.
The US Department of Defense has admitted to a covert propaganda campaign aimed at undermining China’s Sinovac vaccine in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic. The operation involved using fake social media accounts and online bots to spread misinformation about the vaccine’s safety and efficacy. This revelation has sparked outrage in the Philippines, with the Senate launching an investigation into the matter.
Several rockets were launched at bases hosting US-led anti-jihadist coalition troops in Iraq and Syria, marking a resurgence of attacks after a period of relative calm. The attacks, which occurred on Thursday and Friday, targeted the Ain al-Assad base in Iraq and a coalition base in the Conoco gas field in Syria. While no injuries or damage were reported, the incidents raise concerns about the ongoing security situation in the region. The attacks come amidst discussions on the future of the US-led coalition in Iraq, with Iran-backed groups demanding a withdrawal.
US Senator Marco Rubio has introduced a bill that aims to elevate India’s strategic partnership with the US, including enhanced technology transfer, security assistance, and sanctions on Pakistan for sponsoring terrorism against India.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned that Iran’s nuclear breakout time, the time needed to produce enough weapons-grade material for a bomb, is now down to just one or two weeks. This assessment, the shortest made by a US official, comes amid concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Former President Donald Trump has pledged to implement a massive deportation campaign, claiming it would be the largest in US history. His statement comes despite expert opinions and data indicating the logistical and financial challenges of such an operation. Trump’s rhetoric on immigration has intensified, blaming immigrants for social ills and suggesting a connection between Central American crime rates and US immigration.
The US has condemned violence against protesters in Bangladesh, calling on the government to uphold the right to peaceful assembly. This comes after Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina criticized the US’ handling of pro-Palestine protests earlier this year. The ongoing tensions stem from a controversial job quota system that has sparked violent protests in Bangladesh, highlighting the strained relationship between the two nations.
Amid growing concerns about drone warfare, Japan and the US are collaborating on the development of high-power microwave weapons designed to counter drone threats. This joint initiative is driven by the increasing use of drones in military operations, particularly in swarm attacks, and the need for effective countermeasures.
The US has encouraged India to utilize its long-standing relationship with Russia to urge President Putin to end the war in Ukraine. This comes after Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to Russia, where he met with Putin and discussed bilateral trade and the need for peace. While India has advocated for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, it has continued to purchase Russian oil.
