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The conflict between the United States and Iran continues to escalate. For the sixth consecutive night, U.S. forces have carried out airstrikes against Iran, employing fighter jets, drones, naval vessels, and precision-guided munitions. In addition to striking multiple military installations, the U.S. publicly boarded and inspected an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, signaling its determination to tighten its maritime blockade. The operation lasted a total of seven hours and forty minutes, targeting several strategic sites along Iran's southern coast near the Strait of Hormuz in an apparent effort to weaken Tehran's control over the vital waterway.

After six consecutive nights of airstrikes, key Iranian infrastructure—including bridges, power facilities, railways, and ports—has suffered extensive damage. According to Iran's Ministry of Health, the attacks have killed at least 38 people and injured more than 400.

Iran has retaliated with missile and drone strikes, expanding its targets to U.S. military bases in neighboring Middle Eastern countries, including Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Jordan. The U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and a desalination plant in Kuwait were reportedly heavily damaged in the attacks. Since approximately 90% of Kuwait's drinking water depends on desalinated seawater, damage to the facility poses a direct threat to the country's civilian population.

Meanwhile, the struggle for control of the Strait of Hormuz has intensified. Iran has once again blocked the strait, while the United States has imposed a blockade on ports linked to Iran. As a result, one of the world's most critical shipping routes for oil and natural gas has once again been disrupted, driving international energy prices higher. Experts say the United States and Iran have returned to the starting point of their confrontation and now face a choice between further escalating the conflict or returning to the negotiating table.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the U.S. government is considering a major overhaul of its immigration policy that would require certain applicants for immigrant visas (green cards) at U.S. consulates abroad to post a refundable bond of up to US$100,000 before their visas are issued. The proposal is expected to have the greatest impact on family-based immigration, raising concerns that only wealthy families would be able to afford the cost of reunification.

The proposal is being led by the U.S. Department of State as part of President Donald Trump's "America First" agenda. The goal is to ensure that new immigrants are financially self-sufficient upon arrival in the United States and do not become a burden on American taxpayers. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott confirmed the report, stating that the government is exploring its existing authority under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to require certain applicants to demonstrate financial capability through a bond. The proposal remains under internal review, has not yet been formally published in the Federal Register, and has not taken effect.

According to the draft proposal released so far, the bond would have to be paid by a U.S.-based family member or sponsor on behalf of the applicant before an immigrant visa is issued at an overseas U.S. consulate. The bond would serve as collateral and would only be refunded after the immigrant successfully becomes a U.S. citizen—typically at least five years after obtaining a green card. However, the bond could be forfeited if, before naturalization, the immigrant receives government public assistance—including cash benefits as well as non-cash benefits such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (commonly known as food stamps), or housing assistance—or fails to comply with applicable immigration requirements.

The proposal represents the latest in a series of measures aimed at tightening U.S. immigration policy. Last year, the State Department introduced a pilot program requiring certain applicants for B-1/B-2 business and tourist visas from more than 50 countries to post bonds of up to US$15,000. Since January of this year, the United States has also suspended the issuance of immigrant visas to nationals of 75 countries, including Brazil and Nigeria, citing concerns over the potential public burden posed by new immigrants. In addition, on the 16th, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a new rule expanding immigration officers' discretion to consider an applicant's use of public benefits—including Medicaid, SNAP, and housing assistance—when adjudicating green card applications.

July 14 marks Bastille Day, France's national holiday. France held its annual Bastille Day military parade along the Champs-Élysées in Paris, featuring approximately 7,600 service members, 65 military aircraft, 34 helicopters, and 247 military vehicles—the largest display in recent years. Military units from several European countries also took part in the parade, underscoring

Europe's determination to strengthen defense cooperation and maintain its support for Ukraine.
Bastille Day is France's most important national holiday, commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison by Parisians in 1789, an event that marked the beginning of the French Revolution. The revolution overthrew the centuries-old ancien régime and profoundly reshaped the political development of both France and Europe. In addition to the grand military parade in Paris, celebrations across the country include festivals, public dances, and fireworks, making it France's most significant annual national celebration.

Following the revolution, France experienced repeated political upheavals, including periods of republic, empire, and monarchy. Despite this turbulent history, the republican system ultimately prevailed. As a result, Bastille Day has come to symbolize the ideals of liberty, equality, fraternity, democracy, and republicanism.

During the Bastille Day parade on July 14, around 500 soldiers from the Coalition of the Willing, a group of countries supporting Ukraine, marched proudly down the Champs-Élysées. In addition to the ground forces, military aircraft from Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland, Spain, Italy, and other European nations participated in a joint flyover, highlighting Europe's growing multinational military cooperation. Twenty-five Ukrainian soldiers also took part in the parade. President Emmanuel Macron's office told the media that this year's parade would be historically significant and serve as a powerful signal of Europe's awakening. Macron emphasized that the event demonstrated Europe's "strategic realignment and unity."

On the eve of the Bastille Day parade, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined approximately 25 other leaders at a summit in Paris of Western allies supporting Ukraine's defense against Russia's invasion. As Kyiv continued to face intense Russian air attacks, with Moscow stepping up strikes on the Ukrainian capital and surrounding areas, the participating nations announced the formation of an air defense coalition.
Zelenskyy, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and about 30 other leaders attended the Bastille Day parade at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. The ceremony marked Macron's final Bastille Day parade as host before the end of his presidential term in 2027.

U.S. President Donald Trump met with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi at the White House on the 14th, marking what both sides described as a strategic redefinition of U.S.–Iraq relations. The meeting produced two major agreements: the complete withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of September, and the establishment of a commercial energy partnership valued at up to US$60 billion, signaling a shift in bilateral relations from military cooperation to energy and economic collaboration.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Prime Minister al-Zaidi stated, "By September 30, all U.S. forces will have fully withdrawn from Iraq." He added that as American troops depart, U.S. investment will enter the country. The Iraqi government also pledged to work toward disarming non-state armed groups, including Iran-backed factions, before the withdrawal deadline to ensure that the state retains the sole legitimate monopoly on the use of force. President Trump expressed support for the plan, saying that U.S. troops would no longer need to remain stationed in Iraq.

Trump emphasized that the proposed energy agreement would be the largest oil deal in history and would generate significant employment opportunities for both countries. Chevron is expected to play a central role, having secured exclusive negotiating rights for Iraq's West Qurna-2 oil field, which has previously been operated by Russia's Lukoil. The agreement also includes the development of the Nasiriyah oil field and exploration rights for additional fields in Dhi Qar Province. By strengthening cooperation with the United States, the Iraqi government aims to safeguard its energy production and exports from potential disruptions caused by international sanctions. The partnership is also expected to reinforce U.S. influence in the Middle East's energy sector while reducing Russia's long-standing presence.

To facilitate the diversion of approximately 95% of Iraq's oil exports away from the Iranian-controlled Strait of Hormuz, the United States and Iraq also plan to advance the Kirkuk–Baniyas oil pipeline project. The roughly 500-mile pipeline would run through Syria to the Mediterranean Sea, providing direct access to European markets and significantly reducing geopolitical risks associated with Middle Eastern energy exports.

Trump praised Prime Minister al-Zaidi as "a great leader," adding, "Iraq has tremendous potential because of its oil resources. We are going to make many deals—not only for the benefit of the United States, but also for Iraq's long-term stability and prosperity."

Thailand's deadly fire at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao beer hall in Bangkok has claimed at least 32 lives and left more than 70 people injured. On July 13, grieving families gathered at the Institute of Forensic Medicine of the Royal Thai Police Hospital to identify and claim the bodies of their loved ones. The somber atmosphere was marked by grief and frustration, with several relatives saying that no amount of compensation could make up for their loss. They urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the disaster, including the building's structural safety, fire protection systems, and allegations that emergency exits had been locked.

The fire broke out at the popular beer hall on Lat Phrao Road, where around 300 patrons were inside at the time. Witnesses said electrical equipment near the stage began emitting smoke before exploding, triggering a power outage. Thick smoke engulfed the enclosed venue in less than a minute. Fire officials said nearly 90 percent of the victims died from smoke inhalation rather than burns, with many bodies found in restrooms and the rear kitchen area. Preliminary investigations suggest the blaze may have been caused by a short circuit in wiring connected to the ceiling-mounted air-conditioning system.

After inspecting the site, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said the venue had emergency exits, but one passage was blocked by stacks of beer crates while another was obstructed by tables and chairs, severely hindering evacuation. Families of the victims and survivors have accused the establishment of poor emergency exit management and demanded that those responsible be held accountable. Police have listed gross negligence as a key focus of their investigation. The tragedy has also renewed concerns over fire safety standards at entertainment venues in Thailand, drawing comparisons to the 2009 New Year's Eve Santika Club fire in Bangkok, which claimed 66 lives.

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, died on the evening of July 11 following a sudden illness at the age of 71, sending shockwaves through Washington. U.S. President Donald Trump publicly mourned Graham's passing, describing him as one of the greatest people he had ever known and one of the finest senators in American history.

According to a statement from Graham's office, the senator died after a "brief and sudden illness." The preliminary cause of death was identified as an aortic dissection. His family expressed gratitude for the prayers and support they have received and asked for privacy during this extremely difficult time.

Trump also ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide until 6:00 p.m. on July 18 in honor of Graham. In a post on social media, Trump wrote, "He was one of the greatest people I have ever known and one of the greatest senators ever to serve our country. Lindsey worked tirelessly throughout his life and was a true American patriot."

Graham had served in the U.S. Senate since 2003 and was one of Trump's closest political allies. He had been preparing to seek a fifth six-year term in the November midterm elections. Before his death, he chaired the Senate Budget Committee and was widely regarded as one of the Senate's most influential members, particularly on defense and foreign policy issues within the Republican Party.

Graham was also one of the most prominent pro-Taiwan voices in the U.S. Congress and had consistently advocated stronger U.S.-Taiwan relations. In an interview with NBC in May this year, he said the United States has a responsibility to help ensure Taiwan's security while continuing its policy of strategic ambiguity. He also argued that if China were to launch a military attack on Taiwan, Washington should respond with comprehensive economic sanctions and tariffs against Beijing.

Graham first visited Taiwan in 1999 while serving as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. He returned to Taiwan in 2016 and again in 2022 during the presidency of Tsai Ing-wen. When meeting Graham's congressional delegation in April 2022, then-President Tsai praised his more than two decades of support for Taiwan, highlighting his contributions to strengthening U.S.-Taiwan economic and trade relations and expanding Taiwan's international participation. She described Graham as one of Taiwan's most important supporters in the U.S. Congress.

Less than three weeks after a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, renewed clashes have erupted. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked cargo vessels and threatened to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, while the U.S. military launched large-scale airstrikes against Iran for several consecutive days. Iran retaliated by targeting U.S. military bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, reigniting hostilities between the two sides.

Amid the escalating tensions, the United States has imposed a new round of sanctions on Iran, targeting key financial backers of the country’s leadership. On the 10th, the U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions against individuals including Dubai-based Iranian banker Ali Ansari, who had previously been sanctioned by the United Kingdom for allegedly providing financial support to the IRGC. The United States accused Ansari of transferring funds overseas and enabling himself and senior Iranian officials to profit from the transactions.

The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) also sanctioned three Iran-based exchanges and several foreign shell companies. It said the targeted Iranian banks had used these entities to move billions of dollars annually and relied on networks of shell companies to conceal what Washington described as the Iranian government’s illicit commercial activities.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said, “The United States is taking action to cut off the financial lifelines that sustain Iran’s ruling elites and will directly undermine Iran’s ability to obtain foreign currency and engage in international finance.”

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the department would continue using all available tools to remove Mojtaba Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials from the global financial system.

French far-right National Rally leader Marine Le Pen, who has been embroiled in a legal case over the alleged embezzlement of public funds, announced on the 7th that she will run in the 2027 French presidential election.

Earlier the same day, the Paris Court of Appeal ruled on her case, reducing her original five-year ban on running for public office to 15 months, a period that has already been served. However, she was sentenced to one year of home detention under electronic monitoring. The ruling effectively removes the legal obstacle preventing her from contesting the next presidential election.

Le Pen immediately announced that she would run on a joint ticket with National Rally President Jordan Bardella. She also said she would appeal the ruling in an effort to suspend the one-year electronic monitoring sentence.

Now 57 years old, Le Pen has sought the French presidency three times over the past 15 years, reaching the runoff election twice before ultimately losing to Emmanuel Macron on both occasions. Macron, who is currently serving his second consecutive term, is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term, leading many observers to believe that this represents Le Pen’s best opportunity yet to win the presidency.

In recent years, support for the National Rally has continued to grow. The party secured the largest share of the vote in both the 2024 European Parliament election and the subsequent snap parliamentary election, making it the largest single party in the French National Assembly. According to opinion polls, if Le Pen is allowed to run, she is well positioned to win a second-round runoff against either far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon or centrist former prime ministers Gabriel Attal and Édouard Philippe.

South Korea's judiciary issued its final verdict on July 9 in one of the criminal cases stemming from former President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law. The Supreme Court dismissed appeals filed by both the defense and the special prosecutor, upholding the seven-year prison sentence imposed by the appellate court. The case originated from Yoon's abrupt declaration of martial law nearly two years ago, which triggered nationwide unrest. After more than 500 days of legal proceedings, the Supreme Court has for the first time issued a final criminal judgment on Yoon's personal criminal liability.

According to the ruling, Yoon was found to have used presidential security personnel to obstruct law enforcement officers attempting to arrest him during the constitutional crisis. The court also found that he failed to convene all cabinet ministers for the legally required policy deliberations before issuing the martial law decree, thereby depriving multiple officials of their collective decision-making authority. In addition, Yoon was convicted of falsifying government documents, issuing misleading statements to the foreign press to downplay the severity of the crisis, and ordering subordinates to destroy communication records stored on military communication devices.

The sentence changed several times during the judicial process. Earlier this year, the district court convicted Yoon on multiple charges and sentenced him to five years in prison. The High Court later increased the sentence to seven years. Although the special prosecution team sought a heavier sentence of ten years, and Yoon's legal team argued that the evidence seizure procedures violated due process and the rule of law, the Supreme Court ultimately concluded that the lower courts had made no errors in either their factual findings or their application of the law. Yoon's legal team expressed deep regret over the decision and stated that they intend to seek constitutional review as their final legal remedy.

In addition to this case involving obstruction of justice and abuse of power, Yoon remains imprisoned over separate charges related to his alleged leadership role in the constitutional insurrection. In that case, he was previously sentenced to life imprisonment by the trial court, and the appeal is still pending. He has also received a 30-year prison sentence in another case over allegations that, on the eve of the martial law declaration, he deliberately dispatched unmanned aerial vehicles toward North Korea in an attempt to provoke a regional crisis.

Following opposition leader Lee Jae-myung's victory in last year's presidential election and assumption of office, the political crisis that drew international attention continues to unfold, with other senior officials implicated in the affair also facing the final stages of judicial review.

The United States and Iran reached a ceasefire agreement (in the form of a memorandum of understanding) just last month. However, within only 20 days, Iran allegedly carried out multiple attacks on commercial vessels, prompting a U.S. military response. The latest round of hostilities erupted on Tuesday (the 7th). Before launching airstrikes against Iran, the U.S. Treasury Department also revoked a waiver that had temporarily eased sanctions on Iranian oil.

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated on the 7th that Iran had attacked civilian commercial vessels operating along international shipping routes, and that the United States responded with decisive military force. Qatar and Saudi Arabia also condemned Iran's attacks, saying that their commercial ships had come under attack in the Strait of Hormuz and calling on Iran to immediately cease all actions that undermine regional security.

In a statement broadcast on state television, Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the United States for violating the agreement. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf claimed that Washington had seriously breached the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding. He listed five alleged violations by the United States: disrupting Iran's revised navigation arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz, continuing to threaten further military strikes against Iran, reinstating oil sanctions, launching attacks on southern Iran, and allowing Israel to continue its military operations in Lebanon.

Iran's Armed Forces issued a statement vowing a firm response to the U.S. attacks. Tehran stressed that under no circumstances would it allow the United States to interfere in the management of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran also asserted that the shipping routes it has designated are the only safe passage for oil tankers and commercial vessels transiting the strait. On the 8th, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on state television that, in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on Iranian coastal bases, it had struck U.S. military facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait.

As tensions in the Middle East escalated once again, U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday (the 8th) condemned Iran's leadership as brutal. Trump declared that the U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement was effectively over and said that engaging with Iran was "a waste of time."

Also on Wednesday, Trump attended a NATO summit in Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, where he met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Rutte stated that the U.S. overnight airstrikes on Iran on Tuesday were "absolutely necessary," arguing that Iran had openly violated the ceasefire agreement after it had taken effect and that a strong U.S. response was therefore essential.