Wars and conflicts

US House approves $122b budget plan with Iran war funding

The plan provides US$73 billion for the armed forces and intelligence agencies, notably to fund operations linked to the war against Iran.

Yemen’s Houthis say they targeted two Saudi tankers; source says Encelia hit by missile

Ships near the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from a plane near the United Arab Emirates, on July 20.

While You Were Sleeping: 5 stories you might have missed, July 23, 2026

A nuclear power deal between the US and Saudi Arabia will allow the kingdom to build nuclear reactors using American technology and to enrich uranium.

Why it makes sense for Trump to back off on Iran, for now

Iran – and particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps that now seems to run much of the show -- seems anything but cowed by the US aggression.

Ukraine’s Zelensky speaks to Trump envoys to ‘reinvigorate diplomacy’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (second from left), with (from left) new army chief Mykhailo Drapatyi, his predecessor Oleksandr Syrskyi, and Acting Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara.

Germany approves controversial French-Russian nuclear project

The joint venture will involve French company Framatome and Russia’s state-owned nuclear power agency Rosatom.

Lebanon, Israel to hold next talks in Italy on Aug 4, Lebanese official says

Israel and Lebanon have held more than three months of face-to-face talks, billed as a way to put a permanent end to hostilities.

Ukraine will step up counteroffensive actions, new top commander says

Mykhailo Drapatyi, a respected and experienced commander, is described by many as a general from a new generation.

From battlefield to bureaucracy, Ukraine’s new military chief faces tests

Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi has held an array of high-level posts including head of Ukraine’s ground forces.

News analysis

Lebanon is everyone’s playground and peace in the region looks as elusive as ever

US President Donald J Trump welcomes Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House on July 21.

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MDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2026 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.