Hamas gives “positive response” to US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal
Hamas says it has delivered a “positive response” to a US-backed ceasefire and hostage deal, expressing readiness for immediate negotiations. While accepting the proposal’s general framework, the group seeks amendments, including a US guarantee against renewed hostilities if talks fail, according to BBC.
US President Donald Trump said a deal could be reached within a week, noting Israel has agreed to a 60-day ceasefire. He urged Hamas to accept what he called the “final offer.”
The proposal includes phased hostage-prisoner exchanges, Israeli troop withdrawals, and increased UN-led humanitarian aid. Hamas demands the exclusion of the US- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and full Israeli withdrawal to pre-March positions.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu maintains the war will continue until all hostages are freed and Hamas is dismantled, BBC reported.
BRICS at a crossroads amid rising tensions
BRICS has expanded from a forum of four emerging economies in 2006 to a bloc of 11 nations by 2024, positioning itself as a non-Western alternative for global economic cooperation. Originally conceived in 2001 by economist Jim O’Neill, the group includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with recent additions aimed at strengthening multilateralism, according to Firstpost.
Key initiatives, such as the New Development Bank and alternative trade arrangements, have attempted to minimize dependency on Western-dominated institutions like the IMF and World Bank. However, the group faces increasing internal and external challenges.
Internally, China’s push to lead the bloc and align it with its larger anti-Western agenda backed by Russia has created worries, particularly among founding members like as India. Externally, US President Donald Trump has threatened 100 percent tariffs if the BRICS pursues dedollarization or introduces a common currency, Firstpost reported.
Trump to host five African leaders for trade talks in Washington
US President Donald Trump will host leaders from Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, and Senegal at the White House on July 9 to explore commercial opportunities, a White House official confirmed.
The meeting, which will include a discussion and a working lunch, is part of the administration's broader push to prioritize trade and investment above traditional foreign aid. According to the official, Trump sees Africa as a region having "incredible commercial opportunities" that will benefit both parties, Reuters reported.
The summit, scheduled for July 9-11, aligns with the administration's shift away from charity-based aid models. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized this approach, stating that support will favor nations showing “ability and willingness to help themselves.”
Iran reimposes airspace restrictions amid security concerns
Iran has once again closed its central and western airspace to international transit flights, just five days after reopening it. The move, announced Wednesday, follows a new security and safety assessment approved by the Civil Aviation Organization of Iran, according to Xinhua.
Flights to and from the country’s northern, southern, and western airports remain suspended until at least 14:00 local time (1030 GMT) Thursday. However, Iran’s eastern airspace, reopened on June 29, remains operational.
Iran initially shut its airspace on June 13 after Israeli airstrikes, later reaching a ceasefire with Israel on June 24 following 12 days of conflict, Xinhua reported.
