Democrats seek to block Trump 'public charge' rule as White House defends immigration crackdown

India faces tariff risk as US Senate passes Graham's sweeping Russia sanctions bill

The US Senate has overwhelmingly passed a bill allowing President Donald Trump to impose 100% tariffs on goods from major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India and China. Passed 86-11, the legislation also targets Russian officials and extends Iran sanctions until 2031. The bill now awaits consideration by the House of Representatives on August 31. Aug 8, 2026
West Asia conflict escalates: India asks shipping firms to avoid deploying seafarers via Strait of Hormuz as US-Iran tensions deepen

The Strait of Hormuz and the New Geography of Power

The Strait of Hormuz crisis has underscored that energy security is now a core element of national security, with disruptions capable of affecting trade, inflation, industrial production and policymaking across Asia. While China, Japan, Vietnam and India are all exposed to varying degrees Jul 19, 2026
12 nations reaffirm commitment to free, open Indo-Pacific

12 nations reaffirm commitment to free, open Indo-Pacific

The countries also opposed unilateral actions, coercion and the use of coast guard or maritime militia forces to intimidate other states, while expressing support for ASEAN's vision of a peaceful and stable South China Sea. Jul 12, 2026
Iran opens Strait of Hormuz for all commercial vessels, Trump says 'thank you'

Hormuz appears set for reopening as US, Iran announce lifting blockades

The Strait of Hormuz appeared set to reopen after the US and Iran announced steps to lift blockades on the crucial global shipping route. US President Donald Trump said he was pausing the blockade to allow space for negotiations, while Iran's IRGC confirmed ships would be allowed to pass through the Strait. May 7, 2026
Trump orders Strait of Hormuz blockade after failed US-Iran talks, could spike oil prices by $10

The Geometry of Escalation: Power, Narrative, and the Edge of a Systemic War

The ongoing confrontation in West Asia has evolved beyond a simple conflict between Israel and Iran into a complex, multi-layered geopolitical struggle involving military, economic, and strategic dimensions. Beneath the visible war lie three interconnected battles: control over energy routes like the Strait of Hormuz Apr 15, 2026
Trump uses profanity, religious rhetoric to vent fury over Iran war

Trump uses profanity, religious rhetoric to vent fury over Iran war

President Donald Trump vented his frustration over the Iran conflict with profanity and religious references in social media posts, warning Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face "hell." The outburst came shortly after the rescue of a downed US airman Apr 6, 2026