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Wednesday, July 8, 2026

US Launches Fresh Strikes On Iran For Second Day After Trump Says Deal Is ‘Over’

The United States launched a fresh wave of military strikes against Iran on Wednesday, targeting what it described as Tehran's ability to threaten shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The operation came just hours after President Donald Trump declared that an interim agreement aimed at ending the conflict was effectively "over". According to the U.S. military, the latest attacks were carried out in response to Tuesday's assault on three cargo vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes reportedly shook several cities along Iran's southern coastline and caused power outages in parts of the region. The renewed military action marks another sharp escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran, further clouding prospects for diplomacy and raising fresh concerns over stability in one of the world's most important energy corridors. <h2>CENTCOM Says Strikes Aim to Protect Global Shipping</h2> In a statement posted on X, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces had begun conducting additional strikes to weaken Iran's capacity to threaten maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. "U.S. Central Command forces have started conducting additional strikes against Iran to further degrade their ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz," CENTCOM said. It added that the United States was holding Iran responsible for what it described as "recent unjustified aggression" against commercial vessels and civilian crews using the international waterway. A U.S. official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said Wednesday's military operation would involve a greater number of strikes than those carried out a day earlier. Trump also defended the action on Truth Social, warning that any repeat of the attacks would trigger an even stronger response. "This is in retribution for yesterday's bombing of ships by Iran. If it happens again, it will get much worse!" he wrote. ALSO READ | <a href="https://ift.tt/0aYZXoi" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'The Era of Threats Is Over': Iran Hits Back After Trump Ends Ceasefire</a> <h2>Hormuz Remains at Centre of Escalating Conflict</h2> The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most strategically significant maritime routes. Before the conflict began with U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28, roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passed through the narrow waterway. Although Iran has not claimed responsibility for the attacks on the cargo ships, analysts have said such incidents are often used by Tehran to strengthen its position during negotiations. The waterway has long provided Iran with significant strategic leverage due to its importance to global energy markets. Meanwhile, Iran issued fresh warnings of retaliation. Nournews, which is affiliated with Iran's top security body, quoted a military source as saying Tehran would soon launch a "massive attack" on U.S. bases across the region. The warning was echoed by Mohsen Rezaei, a senior adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who wrote on X that "the aggressor enemy and its accomplices will be severely punished." ALSO READ | <a href="https://ift.tt/bMOxTwe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump Warns Of Fresh Strikes On Iran, Says US May Hit Again 'Tonight', Plans To Take Over Kharg</a> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ylt0eCEPpJw?si=0Ck5edznJQ7sef6a" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <h2>Trump Questions Future of Diplomacy</h2> The latest military escalation has further weakened hopes that a memorandum of understanding signed on June 17 could eventually lead to a lasting agreement to end the conflict. Iran said on Wednesday that it had launched attacks on U.S. military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait in response to earlier American strikes on infrastructure, which themselves followed the attacks on commercial shipping. Speaking before a NATO summit in Turkey, Trump was asked whether the interim memorandum remained in effect. "It's a very interesting question. To me, I think it's over. I don't want to deal with them," he said. The president later added that he was uncertain any future agreement would endure, saying, "If we make a deal with Iran, I'm not sure that will stick. I found them to be very dishonourable people." Even so, Trump said he did not expect the situation to return to full-scale war and acknowledged that it remained unclear whether negotiations towards a permanent settlement would continue.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-war-us-launches-fresh-strikes-for-second-day-after-trump-says-deal-is-over-1855344

OpenAI's Most Powerful AI Yet: GPT 5.6 Launches After White House Delay

Edited by: Natalie Muller OpenAI is set to roll out its GPT-5.6 AI model series on Thursday, weeks after postponing the launch in June as US officials reviewed potential security risks. According to Axios, the White House has now cleared the launch following technical testing and discussions with OpenAI executives. OpenAI describes its GPT-5.6 model as its strongest yet, with increased capabilities in cybersecurity, biology and autonomous, or agentic, AI tasks. <h2>Why did the White House delay the release?</h2> The delay came amid growing concern in Washington over increasingly powerful AI systems and their potential misuse. In June, the White House ordered OpenAI rival Anthropic to suspend the use of its cutting-edge Fable and Mythos AI models over national security concerns. Restrictions on those systems were only eased last week. US officials' concerns are linked to advanced AI models' ability to identify vulnerabilities in software code, which could be exploited by foreign militaries or intelligence services, including Russia and China. When the White House requested a delay to OpenAI's GPT-5.6 launch over similar concerns, the company agreed. But in a statement, the company said it doesn't believe "this kind of government access process should become the long-term default" since it "keeps the best tools" from users, businesses and others who need them. <h2>Washington pushes for AI safeguards</h2> At the start of his second term, President Donald Trump largely pursued a deregulatory approach to AI, arguing that excessive regulation could weaken the United States' ability to compete with China in the sector. But in June, Trump signed an executive order aimed at addressing cybersecurity risks linked to advanced AI models. The measure is supposed to establish a voluntary process under which AI developers can share models with the government 30 days before their public release. OpenAI said it was coordinating with officials "to develop the cyber Executive Order framework and a repeatable process for future model releases." <h2>GPT-5.6 to debut in three versions</h2> According to OpenAI, the GPT-5.6 model series released on Thursday will include three versions. The first, Sol, is described as the company's "strongest model yet." The Terra version will offer a mid-range model aimed at everyday tasks, while Luna will serve as the cheapest option focused on speed and efficiency. The company also said the GPT-5.6 model incorporates a "layered safeguard stack" — multiple security mechanisms designed to prevent the AI's misuse for cyberattacks and other harmful activities. Disclaimer: This report first appeared on Deutsche Welle, and has been republished on ABP Live as part of a special arrangement. Apart from the headline, no changes have been made in the report by ABP Live. for DW

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/openai-gpt-5-6-ai-model-white-house-security-risks-cybersecurity-trump-1855316

Trump Warns Of Fresh Strikes On Iran, Says US May Hit Again 'Tonight', Plans To Take Over Kharg

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said the United States was preparing for another round of military strikes against Iran later in the day, signalling a further escalation in tensions despite recent efforts to preserve a fragile ceasefire. Speaking in Ankara on the sidelines of the NATO summit, Trump said the US had carried out major strikes overnight and indicated that more military action was likely, according to The Associated Press (AP). "We hit them very hard last night," Trump said when asked about the possibility of renewed hostilities. "We'll probably hit them hard again tonight," he added. Trump also claimed that the strikes on Iran "knocked out 28 boats last night" and added, "probably will knock out more boats tonight." He further said that if necessary, the US would target electricity and water plants, but added that he personally would not want to do so. The US President also said the US may take over Kharg Island, although it was not clear whether he meant such action could take place that night. <h2>Why Kharg Island Matters</h2> Kharg Island is Iran's principal oil export terminal and handles the majority of the country's crude oil shipments to international markets. Located in the northern Persian Gulf, the island houses major oil storage facilities, export jetties and critical energy infrastructure. Any military action affecting Kharg Island could significantly reduce Iran's oil export capacity, tighten global crude supplies and drive up international oil prices. <h2>Trump Threatens Hormuz Blockade</h2> Commenting on the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said the US may reinstate a blockade on the strategically important waterway. He also said NATO countries were sending minesweepers to clear the area. According to Trump, the latest US military action was launched in retaliation for what Washington described as Iranian attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. He alleged that Tehran had launched drones and a missile at ships passing through the strategic shipping route. <h2>'For Me, I Think It's Over'</h2> Trump's remarks came just hours after he declared that the interim ceasefire agreement with Iran had effectively ended, although he said negotiations could still continue. "For me, I think it's over," Trump said when asked about the status of the ceasefire. "They can talk, but I think they're wasting their time." <h2>Overnight Strikes Deepen Conflict</h2> The latest escalation followed overnight US strikes on multiple targets inside Iran. According to AP, US Central Command said the operation targeted Iranian air defence systems, radar installations and more than 60 fast attack boats operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The US military said the strikes were intended to impose "heavy costs" on Iran following attacks on commercial shipping in international waters. It added that American forces remained prepared to respond if the interim agreement was violated again. Iranian state media reported explosions in several locations, including Bandar Mahshahr, where a member of the Revolutionary Guard was killed. Explosions were also reported near Bushehr, home to Iran's nuclear power plant complex. ALSO READ: <a href="https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-ceasefire-over-donald-trump-calls-iran-cancer-ebrahim-rezaei-hits-back-1855275">'The Era of Threats Is Over': Iran Hits Back After Trump Ends Ceasefire</a> <h2>Iran Targets US Military Bases</h2> Iran responded by launching attacks on American military installations in Bahrain and Kuwait, prompting missile alerts across both Gulf states. According to AP, Iran's Revolutionary Guard acknowledged carrying out the strikes on US military facilities in the two countries. Kuwaiti authorities said they intercepted two ballistic missiles and 13 drones launched by Iran. The country's Electricity Ministry said falling debris disrupted several power lines, although no major casualties were immediately reported. AP also reported that senior United Arab Emirates diplomat Anwar Gargash described the attacks as evidence that Iran remained unwilling to pursue de-escalation. <h2>Oil Prices Rise On Hormuz Fears</h2> The latest military exchange renewed concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, through which around one-fifth of the world's traded oil and natural gas passes. Brent crude prices rose by more than 5 per cent following Trump's latest remarks, reflecting fears that renewed fighting could disrupt global energy supplies. The US also revoked a licence that had allowed Iran to openly sell oil in US dollars under the interim agreement. According to AP, the decision followed attacks on commercial shipping, including a tanker that caught fire off the coast of Oman after being struck. Qatar condemned the attack on the vessel, which it said was carrying Qatari natural gas. According to AP, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari described it as an "unacceptable attack" on international navigation and global energy security and said Iran bore full legal responsibility. <h2>Iran Signals It Will Not Back Down</h2> Despite renewed military pressure, Iran indicated it would continue to resist US actions. According to AP, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf wrote on X that "the era of bullying and extortion is over" and insisted Tehran would not yield to pressure. The renewed hostilities have also cast fresh doubt over negotiations that were expected to resume after funeral ceremonies for Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the opening phase of the conflict. According to AP, the proposed talks were expected to focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and addressing Tehran's disputed nuclear programme. Trump's latest remarks, coupled with the fresh military exchanges, have further heightened concerns that the conflict could widen, with implications for regional stability and global energy markets. ALSO READ: <a href="https://news.abplive.com/news/world/pakistan-pok-pakistan-occupied-kashmir-protests-pakistani-army-disappearing-bodies-revolution-1855323">How The Disappearance Of 56 Bodies Pushed PoK To The Brink Of Revolution</a>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/trump-warns-of-fresh-strikes-on-iran-us-may-hit-again-tonight-nato-countries-1855334

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Japan, China Coast Guards Clash Near Disputed Senkaku Islands

Edited by: Natalie Muller Japanese and Chinese coast guard vessels traded accusations on Tuesday after an encounter near the disputed Senkaku islands — also known as the Diaoyu islands in China — in the East China Sea. Japan's coast guard said four Chinese vessels were operating near the islands, two of which entered what Tokyo considers its territorial waters. The Chinese ships were approaching a Japanese fishing vessel in the area, according to Japan's coast guard. The Japanese coast guard said it then "issued orders to leave ... successfully forcing the Chinese coast guard vessels to leave Japanese territorial waters by approximately 9:20 am (0020 GMT) today." Tokyo described the Chinese vessels' actions as "a violation of international law." In a separate statement, China's coast guard said that a Japanese fishing boat had "intruded into" its territorial waters and that its ships had taken "necessary measures to warn and expel it." The statement said that the disputed island chain was "China's inherent territory," and that the Chinese coast guard urged the "Japanese side to immediately stop all rights-violation and provocative acts in relevant waters." <h2>Senkaku islands part of long-standing territorial dispute</h2> The uninhabited Senkaku island chain is administered by Japan but claimed by China. Located between Taiwan and Japan's Okinawa island chain, the islands have long been a source of friction between Beijing and Tokyo. Interest in the area has been amplified by the possibility of oil and natural gas reserves beneath the East China Sea. Chinese government vessels frequently operate near the islands, although approaches to Japanese fishing boats are comparatively rare. Chinese coast guard ships were last reported to have entered waters claimed by Japan on June 10. <h2>Japan-China relations at a low point</h2> The latest incident comes against a backdrop of increasingly strained ties between the two countries. In November 2025, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said her country could come to Taiwan's aid militarily in the event of a Chinese invasion. These comments drew heavy criticism from Beijing. Since November, Chinese officials have called on their citizens to avoid traveling to Japan and have banned Japanese entities from receiving Chinese exports, including rare earth minerals. Disclaimer: This report first appeared on Deutsche Welle, and has been republished on ABP Live as part of a special arrangement. Apart from the headline, no changes have been made in the report by ABP Live. for DW

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/japanese-chinese-coast-guard-senkaku-islands-east-china-sea-1855086

Monday, July 6, 2026

Indonesia Visit: PM Modi Receives Grand Ceremonial Welcome in Indonesia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial welcome in Jakarta during his official visit to Indonesia, marking another important step in strengthening bilateral ties. Upon arrival, PM Modi was accorded a Guard of Honour and warmly welcomed by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The visit includes a series of high-level engagements aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two countries across strategic, economic, and cultural sectors. During his stay, the Prime Minister is scheduled to address the Indonesian Parliament and interact with members of the Indian community in Jakarta. He will also participate in a roundtable meeting with leading Indonesian business leaders to explore opportunities for greater investment and trade collaboration. As part of the cultural outreach, PM Modi is expected to visit the historic Prambanan Temple, one of Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complexes. Describing the visit as the beginning of a new chapter in India-Indonesia relations, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of deepening the longstanding partnership between the two nations. Following the conclusion of his engagements in Indonesia, PM Modi will depart for New Zealand as part of his multi-nation tour.

source https://news.abplive.com/videos/news/world-indonesia-visit-pm-modi-receives-grand-ceremonial-welcome-in-indonesia-1854948

Bangladesh: Blast Sparks Panic at Student Rally in Bangladesh's Dhaka

A bomb explosion caused panic during a student rally in Savar, an area near Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. The students had gathered to demand a public referendum and various political and institutional reforms. During the demonstration, an explosion suddenly occurred, creating chaos and triggering a stampede-like situation as people rushed to escape the area. According to reports, three people were injured in the blast and were immediately taken to a hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment. The condition of the injured has not been detailed, but authorities are monitoring their recovery. Following the incident, security agencies quickly arrived at the scene and launched an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Officials are also working to identify those responsible and establish whether the blast was a deliberate attack or linked to another factor. The incident has raised concerns about public safety during protests and political gatherings in Bangladesh. Authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and that appropriate action will be taken against anyone found responsible.

source https://news.abplive.com/videos/news/world-bangladesh-blast-sparks-panic-at-student-rally-in-bangladesh-s-dhaka-1854919

Strait Of Hormuz Tensions Rise As Oil Tanker Hit By Projectile Amid Fragile US-Iran Ceasefire

An oil tanker caught fire after being struck by what British maritime authorities described as an "unknown projectile" while transiting the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman on Tuesday, raising fresh concerns over security along one of the world's most vital energy shipping routes. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the vessel was travelling southbound near Limah, Oman, when it was hit on its port side, triggering a fire. No casualties or environmental damage were reported, and the agency urged ships passing through the area to remain vigilant while investigations continue. The incident comes amid renewed uncertainty in the Gulf despite a ceasefire between the United States and Iran and ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilise maritime security in the region. <h2>US Officials Accuse Iran Of Missile Attack</h2> According to Axios, citing two US officials, Iran's military launched at least two missiles at commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Monday night. One US official said the tanker identified by the UKMTO was among the vessels struck, while another commercial ship was also reportedly hit by an Iranian missile. Although both vessels suffered significant damage, no injuries were reported. The reported attacks came after a one-week agreement between the United States and Iran to suspend attacks in the Strait of Hormuz expired. Axios reported that Washington is now expected to consider retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets. ALSO READ | <a href="https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-war-live-updates-donald-trump-warns-iran-we-are-going-to-win-one-way-or-other-amid-khamenei-funeral-1854887">'We Are Going To Win One Way Or Other': Trump Warns Iran Amid Khamenei Funeral</a> <h2>Diplomatic Efforts Continue Despite Fresh Incident</h2> The attack occurred even as the United States and Iran remain under a ceasefire and continue efforts to negotiate a longer-term arrangement aimed at reducing tensions in the Gulf. Indirect talks between Washington and Tehran in Doha last week ended without a breakthrough on the future of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, leaving key security issues unresolved. The latest incident is likely to complicate those diplomatic efforts and intensify concerns over stability in one of the world's busiest maritime corridors. ALSO READ | <a href="https://news.abplive.com/news/india/watch-indonesian-air-force-fighter-jets-escort-pm-modi-plane-into-jakarta-1854853">WATCH: Indonesian Air Force Fighter Jets Escort PM Modi's Plane Into Jakarta</a> <h2>Strait Of Hormuz Remains Critical To Global Oil Trade</h2> The Strait of Hormuz continues to be one of the world's most strategically significant maritime chokepoints. According to the US Energy Information Administration, around 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the waterway each day in 2024, accounting for roughly one-fifth of global oil supply. The route became a focal point during the recent US-Iran conflict after Iran imposed a blockade and multiple commercial vessels came under attack, sending global energy prices sharply higher. Although maritime traffic resumed after both sides signed a memorandum of understanding last month to reopen the shipping lane, Tehran has maintained that shipping will not return to pre-war arrangements. It has also warned vessels against using routes outside an authorised corridor along Iran's coastline.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/strait-of-hormuz-oil-tanker-hit-by-unknown-projectile-off-oman-coast-us-blames-iran-1854907