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The Panama Canal links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and carries over 5% of global maritime commerce. Today, it is being pulled in different directions by US sanctions, China’s growing trade power, and Panama’s attempts to maintain control of its own canal.   Why the Canal Still Shapes Global Trade The canal remains one of the world’s most critical shipping routes. When it slows down, global trade slows down with it. M...

The United States is escalating pressure on Iran as former President Donald Trump issues a blunt warning over a new nuclear deal. With US warships moving toward the Middle East, the message from Washington is simple: negotiate now or face serious consequences.   Trump said a powerful US naval force, led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, is heading toward the Gulf. He described the deployment as massive and fully prepared for act...

The Philippines has surprised the region, and even its own citizens, with a bold tourism reset. Beginning January 16, 2026, Chinese citizens may now enter the Philippines without a visa for up to fourteen days for tourism and business trips. Officials say the new policy aims to bring back Chinese visitors, revive local jobs, and restore a major tourism market that collapsed during years of travel limits and political friction.   What makes...

Israel has become the first country in the world to formally recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state, breaking a rule African governments have upheld for more than three decades. The move angered Somalia, alarmed African leaders, and stirred debate internationally.   Announced in December 2025, the move established full diplomatic relations between Israel and Somaliland, including the opening of embassies and the appointment of ambassado...

At the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Hanoi, held January 12-16 under the theme “Adaptive ASEAN: From Connectivity to Connected Intelligence,” Southeast Asian leaders discussed how artificial intelligence could reshape economies, societies, and governance across the region. With major powers like the US and China racing to dominate AI technology, ASEAN is aiming to craft its own rules and strategies, ensuring Southeast ...