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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Monday hailed the US-Iran agreement to end months of conflict, calling it a 'major step' toward de-escalation. The deal raises hopes for easing energy market pressures that have hurt resource-poor Japan. Takaichi urged continued talks for a lasting solution.
US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire with Iran, allowing the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping, with Pakistan and Qatar serving as mediators. The deal ends hostilities that began in late December when the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran.
Aymen Hussein, Iraq's most expensive footballer, overcame personal tragedy—including his father's murder and brother's kidnapping—to lead his team to the 2026 World Cup. His mother's insistence that he pursue his dream kept him in the sport.
Iran’s embassy in Berlin condemned the silence of certain countries, particularly Western nations, regarding US and Israeli military and political actions in the Middle East, arguing that such inaction amounts to complicity in violations of international law. The embassy called on the international community to take a clear stance and promote diplomatic solutions.
Tokyo stocks rallied sharply on the morning of June 9, with the Nikkei index briefly jumping more than 4%, driven by optimism over a possible end to the Middle East conflict. The rally eased earlier fears of escalation and boosted investor sentiment. Analysts say sustained positive diplomatic moves could keep the market rising.
The World Bank has cut its 2026 global growth forecast to 2.5%, the lowest since the COVID-19 pandemic, citing the US-Iran conflict driving up energy prices and inflation. Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted oil and gas supply chains, pushing Brent crude prices up 36% and global inflation to 4%. The bank warns growth could fall to 1.3% if disruptions worsen, with developing nations hit hardest.
Nearly 700 students at the University of Leipzig have voted to sever ties with Israeli educational institutions, marking the latest peak in a surging pro-Palestine solidarity movement at German universities since March. The vote follows similar resolutions at Berlin's Hertie School and other campuses, despite strong political and institutional opposition. Activists face suppression through event cancellations, police interventions, and legal threats, while Germany's Staatsraison doctrine prioritises support for Israel.
Global airline leaders gather in Rio for the Iata AGM despite jet fuel shortages from the Middle East conflict, with prices soaring to over $140/barrel. European carriers remain vulnerable but optimistic, while Gulf airlines face disruptions from the war.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei shows signs of a more active role as talks resume after the April 8 ceasefire. Rubio indicated negotiations now include previously forbidden nuclear aspects, but warned a deal is not guaranteed. Iran has reviewed the latest US proposal while insisting a full Lebanon ceasefire must be part of any agreement.
