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The week in Global Affairs
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Talks and proposed shipping arrangements repeatedly raised hopes of a reopening, but Iran tied access to broad concessions while the United States applied blockade and economic pressure. By week's end, Hormuz had become both a diplomatic channel and a source of renewed energy risk.
Russia's missile campaign continued to pressure Ukrainian cities and depleted air defenses, while Ukraine expanded strikes against Russian refineries, logistics, and ports. Attacks also raised risks for defense-linked networks and civilian infrastructure beyond the front.
The Gaza ceasefire framework remained blocked by disagreement over Hamas disarmament and Israeli withdrawal. At the same time, West Bank raids, settler violence, and heritage-related land plans intensified the territorial conflict.
Houthi threats against Saudi-linked energy routes widened the danger around the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Fighting in Marib and Hadramawt then put Yemen's fragile truce under renewed strain, linking maritime disruption to a possible return of broader war.
US pressure on Cuba moved beyond economic coercion as the CIA formed a secret task force. By the end of the week, the campaign was also considering possible successors, making political transition an explicit objective.
Washington considered broader restrictions on Chinese data-center imports as Australia tightened scrutiny of Chinese ownership in strategic minerals. The week's mentions placed those steps within a widening contest over chips, artificial intelligence, and digital supply chains.
Colombia moved from unresolved claims about electoral integrity and heightened inauguration security to a new president promising tougher action against armed groups and narco-terrorism. The transition now faces immediate tests over civilian protection and escalation.
A mass arrival into Ceuta gave Morocco greater leverage over Spain, while Spain and Italy escalated their disagreement through reciprocal border controls. The dispute turned migration management into a direct challenge to movement within the EU.
Day’s Recap