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Toyota's car exports from Japan to the Middle East fell 91.7% year-on-year in April to just 2,418 units, as regional conflicts disrupted trade flows. The decline highlights the severe impact of geopolitical tensions on Japanese automakers.
Japan and the Philippines are set to announce on Thursday their intent to launch official talks on a security intelligence-sharing agreement, the latest move to strengthen bilateral cooperation amid concerns over China's military activities. The pact would allow Tokyo and Manila to exchange sensitive intelligence, including maritime and aerial data, marking a significant step in their strategic partnership.
Iran and the US exchanged military strikes on April 11, with the IRGC retaliating against a US base after an American airstrike near Bandar Abbas. The fragile ceasefire remains in place despite three direct engagements since its declaration, while negotiations continue amid mutual threats and economic warfare over the Strait of Hormuz.
Japan is considering exporting Mogami-class frigates to New Zealand and expanding trilateral defense talks with Australia. The move aims to boost allied capabilities and interoperability amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
President Trump threatened to bomb Oman if it cooperates with Iran to control the Strait of Hormuz. The remark, confirmed by the State Department, alarmed critics who called it reckless and a violation of the UN Charter. Trump also demanded Arab states normalize ties with Israel as part of any ceasefire deal.
Iran's top adviser Ali Akbar Velayati stated that the Strait of Hormuz is the true guarantor of any nuclear deal, not world powers. The remarks come amid deadlocked nuclear talks and highlight Tehran's use of the strategic waterway as leverage.
The 1,300-km Lobito corridor, connecting Angola to Central Africa's mineral belt, has been touted by US officials as a model partnership but faces criticism for prioritizing resource extraction and US strategic goals over local benefits. Critics warn of displacement, environmental risks, and neo-colonial practices.
Bangladesh has formally requested a new support program from the International Monetary Fund as the nation reels from the economic fallout of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran. The conflict has triggered soaring energy costs, disrupted supply chains, and increased foreign debt, prompting Dhaka to seek billions in emergency loans.
Iran's president urged Islamic nations to unite against common security threats, citing divisions that allow external interference. He called for enhanced OIC cooperation on security and economics, highlighting Gaza and Yemen crises. Analysts note challenges from rivalries like Iran-Saudi Arabia, even after their 2023 rapprochement.
