##  Trade Deadline Looms: Trump Imposes New Tariffs Amid Global Scramble

**Washington D.C.** - In a last-minute flurry of activity, governments scrambled to secure trade deals with the US as President Donald Trump announced new tariffs Wednesday, just hours before an August 1st deadline. South Korea managed to avoid steeper penalties by agreeing to a 15 percent tariff on exports to the United States.


**Global Pressure Mounts**

The move comes as international pressure mounts on Washington amid ongoing trade disputes. The US has imposed tariffs on billions of dollars worth of goods from major trading partners, sparking retaliatory measures and raising concerns about a global economic slowdown.  


**Deals Struck Amidst Uncertainty**

Despite the looming deadline, several countries managed to reach agreements with the US in recent days. These deals aim to alleviate some of the trade tensions and ensure smoother commerce between nations. 


##  Trade Deadline Looms: Trump Imposes New Tariffs Amid Global Scramble

**Washington D.C.** - In a last-minute flurry of activity, governments scrambled to se

Trump announces new tariffs as deadline nears

## Pacific Rocked by Devastating 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Off Russia

**Tsunamis Up to Four Meters High Trigger Evacuations Across the Region**

A powerful earthquake, measuring a staggering 8.8 on the Richter scale, struck off Petropavlovsk on Russia's Kamchatka peninsula Wednesday. This seismic event, one of the strongest recorded in recent history, triggered tsunamis reaching heights of up to four meters (12 feet) across the Pacific Ocean.

The tremors sent shockwaves across the region, prompting widespread evacuations from Hawaii to Japan as authorities issued tsunami warnings and urged residents to seek higher ground.  

This powerful quake, the largest since a similar magnitude 8.8 event in 2011, underscores the immense power of nature and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone areas. 




## Pacific Rocked by Devastating 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Off Russia

**Tsunamis Up to Four Meters High Trigger Evacuations Across the Region**

A powerful eart

Huge quake off Russia sparks Pacific tsunamis

##  US Envoy Witkoff Heads to Israel for Gaza Ceasefire Talks 

**Focus on Next Steps After Failed Negotiations**

Steve Witkoff, US President Donald Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, will travel to Israel on Thursday to discuss "next steps" regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. 

An American official confirmed Witkoff's visit, stating it aims to address the stalled ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Witkoff has been actively involved in these indirect talks, which unfortunately broke down last week after disagreements between Israel and the US emerged.  




##  US Envoy Witkoff Heads to Israel for Gaza Ceasefire Talks 

**Focus on Next Steps After Failed Negotiations**

Steve Witkoff, US President Donald Trump's sp

US envoy Witkoff to visit Israel on Thursday

## Global Growth Surges as Trade Circumvents Tariffs

**IMF Upbeat on Future, but Warns of Slowdown This Year** 


The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its global growth forecast upwards, citing a significant increase in trade fueled by efforts to bypass Donald Trump's tariffs.  While the US president has tempered some of his previous threats, the IMF still predicts a slowdown in economic growth this year.

Despite the projected slowdown, the IMF now forecasts global growth to reach 3.0% by 2025, an increase from previous estimates. This upward revision reflects the unexpected surge in international trade, largely driven by businesses seeking alternatives to products subject to Trump's tariffs.  




## Global Growth Surges as Trade Circumvents Tariffs

**IMF Upbeat on Future, but Warns of Slowdown This Year** 


The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has rev

IMF lifts 2025 global growth forecast to 3% on tariff distor

IMF lifts 2025 global growth forecast to 3% on tariff distortion

## Germany Steps Up to Airlift Aid to Hunger-Stricken Gaza 

**Berlin pledges support as international concern over starvation grows.**

Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced Monday that Germany will partner with Jordan in an airlift mission to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, following Israel's promise to open secure routes for supplies.  This move comes amid escalating global concern over the dire humanitarian situation in the war-torn territory. 

"Defense Minister Boris Pistorius will coordinate this very closely with France and the United Kingdom, which are also prepared to conduct such an airlift for food and medical supplies," said Merz. He added, "We know that this can only be a very small help for the people in Gaza, but nevertheless it is a contribution that we will gladly make.”

Merz, who is meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah II in Berlin on Tuesday, stressed the urgency of improving the situation.  "I urge Israel to immediately improve the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza in a comprehensive and sustainable manner," he said. 

Germany also aims to facilitate peace talks between Hamas and Israel. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul will travel to the Middle East on Thursday to support ceasefire negotiations.

**International Pressure Amid Rising Hunger**


Concern over starvation has intensified in recent weeks as aid groups warn that “mass starvation” is spreading in Gaza after more than 21 months of conflict.  

Israel, facing mounting international pressure, announced a daily "tactical pause" in fighting in some areas over the weekend. On Monday, truckloads of food reached hungry Gazans following Israel's promise to open secure aid routes. However, humanitarian agencies emphasize that vast quantities of aid are still desperately needed to avert mass starvation. 


## Germany Steps Up to Airlift Aid to Hunger-Stricken Gaza 

**Berlin pledges support as international concern over starvation grows.**

Chancellor Friedrich Me

Germany to organise Gaza aid airlift: Merz

## EU Considers Funding Freeze for Israeli Tech Start-Ups Amidst Gaza Crisis

**Brussels Weighs Action as Humanitarian Situation in Gaza Worsens**

The European Commission is proposing a suspension of Israel's access to EU funding for tech start-ups, escalating pressure on the country amid growing concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. This move follows calls from several EU nations for concrete actions against Israel amidst fears of mass starvation in the war-ravaged territory. 

"While Israel has announced a daily humanitarian pause in Gaza fighting, the situation remains severe," stated the European Commission. "The proposed suspension is a targeted and reversible action."

The suggestion to partially suspend Israel's participation in the Horizon research program will be debated by all 27 EU member states on Tuesday.  Implementation hinges on approval from a majority of these countries. This proposed action comes as the bloc grapples with internal divisions regarding the Gaza conflict, balancing staunch supporters of Israel with those more sympathetic to the Palestinians.

This potential move follows recent efforts by EU officials to address the situation. Earlier this month, EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas proposed various measures to penalize Israel after it was found in violation of a human rights cooperation agreement with the EU. 

Brussels has also announced an agreement with Israel to improve aid access to Gaza. While acknowledging that Israel has taken steps towards fulfilling its promises regarding increased aid, the EU maintains that much more needs to be done.  

Partial suspension of Horizon access represents one of the more limited actions Brussels could take. However, diplomats and officials suggest this step serves as a signal to Israel that the bloc is prepared for further action unless conditions in Gaza improve. 

The proposed measure would halt funding for Israeli start-ups operating in fields such as drone technology, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. In 2024, Israel ranked among the top three countries vying for Horizon funding alongside Germany and France.

As Gaza's population of over two million faces famine and malnutrition, Israel has yielded to international pressure by announcing a daily "tactical pause" in fighting in certain areas over the weekend. On Monday, truckloads of food reached hungry Gazans following Israel’s promise to open secure aid routes. However, humanitarian agencies warn that significantly larger quantities are required to avert starvation. 




## EU Considers Funding Freeze for Israeli Tech Start-Ups Amidst Gaza Crisis

**Brussels Weighs Action as Humanitarian Situation in Gaza Worsens**

The European

EU proposes halting Israel access to start-up funds over Gaz

EU proposes halting Israel access to start-up funds over Gaza war

## **Gaza Awaits Aid as Israel Announces 'Tactical Pause'**

Trucks laden with humanitarian supplies began crossing into the Gaza Strip from Egypt on Sunday, marking a tentative step towards alleviating the territory's dire humanitarian situation. 

###  A Delicate Journey for Essential Goods

Despite the arrival of aid convoys, the journey to Gaza remains fraught with obstacles. While trucks cross the Rafah border from Egypt, they cannot enter directly due to last year's Israeli military seizure and damage to the Palestinian side.  Instead, they must detour several kilometers to the Kerem Shalom crossing, controlled by Israel. Here, they undergo inspection before being permitted into southern Gaza. 

AFP footage captured large trucks displaying logos of organizations like the Egyptian Red Crescent and the United Arab Emirates, with signs proclaiming "United Arab Emirates – Humanitarian Aid to Gaza – Water Support Projects in Gaza."


###  A Brief Respite for Devastated Areas

Amidst the ongoing conflict, Israel announced a “tactical pause” in certain areas of Gaza from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. This respite applies specifically to Al-Mawasi, Deir el-Balah, and parts of Gaza City, where Israeli troops are currently not operating.

The Israeli military also claimed to have opened secure routes across the enclave to facilitate United Nations and other aid convoys. 


###  Mounting Pressure for Humanitarian Access

This development follows escalating international pressure concerning Gaza's worsening hunger crisis. Israel has initiated air-drops of food into the territory, mirroring similar announcements from the UAE and UK. However, skepticism remains among humanitarian officials. UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini warned that air drops are "expensive, inefficient and can even kill starving civilians."

While Israel insists it is not restricting aid and alleges some UN agencies are failing to distribute supplies already within Gaza, relief organizations counter by accusing the military of limiting access and creating dangerous conditions near distribution centers.


On Saturday, Gaza’s civil defense agency reported over 50 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes and shootings, including individuals waiting for aid.  


## **Gaza Awaits Aid as Israel Announces 'Tactical Pause'**

Trucks laden with humanitarian supplies began crossing into the Gaza Strip from Egypt on Sunday, ma

Aid trucks begin entering Gaza from Egypt: AFPTV

## Trump Downplays Macron's Recognition of Palestinian State

**President Calls French Move "Pointless" Despite Appreciating President Macron**

Washington D.C. -  US President Donald Trump weighed in on the decision by French President Emmanuel Macron to formally recognize the State of Palestine, calling it "pointless." 

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump said, “He’s a very good guy, I like him, but that statement doesn’t carry weight.” His comments followed Macron's announcement Thursday recognizing the Palestinian state.




## Trump Downplays Macron's Recognition of Palestinian State

**President Calls French Move "Pointless" Despite Appreciating President Macron**

Washington D.C.

Trump says French recognition of Palestinian state 'doesn't 

Trump says French recognition of Palestinian state 'doesn't carry weight'

## Left-Wing Power Play: Corbyn Launches New Political Party 

**Former Labour Leader Aims to Reshape Britain's Political Landscape**

Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader who spearheaded a left-wing agenda during his tenure, has announced the formation of a new political party alongside independent MP Zarah Sultana. This move signals a potential shift in Britain's established political landscape, as Corbyn seeks to build a platform for a "new kind of political party."

**"It’s time for a new kind of political party. One that is rooted in our communities, trade unions and social movements,"** stated Corbyn and Sultana in a joint announcement.  They outlined their vision for a party advocating for a "mass redistribution of wealth and power," an end to arms sales to Israel, and a "free and independent Palestine."

Corbyn's departure from Labour came after two consecutive election defeats in 2017 and 2019. His leadership was marked by controversy, including accusations of anti-Semitism within the party, leading to his suspension by then leader Keir Starmer in 2020. Despite being expelled, Corbyn won re-election as an independent MP for Islington North last year.

**Challenging the Two-Party System**


Corbyn's new venture appears to capitalize on a growing trend towards multi-party politics in Britain. The Liberal Democrats secured 72 seats in the recent general election, while Nigel Farage's Reform UK party made significant gains, winning five seats and posing a challenge to the traditional dominance of Labour and the Conservatives.

Experts are watching closely to see if Corbyn's new party can gain traction and disrupt the established political order. Chris Hopkins, political research director at polling firm Savanta, notes: **"I do think there is space for a left-wing populist party in the UK with a charismatic leader that could pose an enormous threat to Labour and the other parties, but it’s going to take a lot to convince me that Jeremy Corbyn can be it.”**


The formation of "Your Party" (the name subject to change) adds another layer of complexity to Britain's already dynamic political scene.  Its success will depend on its ability to unite disparate left-leaning groups and offer a compelling alternative to the existing options. 


## Left-Wing Power Play: Corbyn Launches New Political Party 

**Former Labour Leader Aims to Reshape Britain's Political Landscape**

Jeremy Corbyn, the former

Ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn launches new UK political par

Ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn launches new UK political party

## Mediation Efforts Continue Despite Gaza Talks Suspension

**Qatar and Egypt remain committed to ending the Gaza conflict despite a recent pause in negotiations.** 

In a joint statement released by the Qatari foreign ministry, both nations emphasized their continued “intensive efforts” in mediating talks within the Gaza Strip. While acknowledging a  “some progress” made during the latest round of discussions, they stressed that suspending talks for consultations is “normal” in such complex negotiations. This comes as hopes for an imminent breakthrough appear to be waning.


 **"Suspending talks to hold consultations before resuming dialogue is normal in the context of these complex negotiations,"** the statement read. 


## Mediation Efforts Continue Despite Gaza Talks Suspension

**Qatar and Egypt remain committed to ending the Gaza conflict despite a recent pause in negotiatio

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