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Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced on Wednesday that Israeli forces have killed Iran's Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib. Katz stated that the military is authorized to eliminate high-ranking Iranian officials without seeking further approval. This killing follows recent Israeli operations against Iran's security chief Ali Larijani and other senior officials, reflecting ongoing military actions targeting Iranian leadership.
The International Atomic Energy Agency reported Wednesday that Iranian authorities confirmed a projectile hit the Bushehr nuclear power plant premises on Tuesday evening. The agency stated no damage to the facility or injuries to staff were reported. The incident raises concerns about nuclear facility security and potential military conflict risks in the Middle East region.
Iran's army chief Amir Hatami stated on Wednesday that Iran will respond to the killing of security chief Ali Larijani, who died in an Israeli air strike. The Revolutionary Guards announced they had launched missiles at central Israel in retaliation. The incident marks an escalation in military tensions between Iran and Israel.
American artificial intelligence and robotics companies have urged lawmakers to address competition from Chinese robot manufacturers, particularly Unitree Robotics, citing national security risks. Industry representatives warn that China's rapid advancement in humanoid robotics poses competitive and security challenges. The companies call for the US government to develop coordinated policies and strategies to address Chinese firms' growing dominance in the humanoid robotics sector, marking a new area of US-China technological competition.
Multiple explosions were reported in Baghdad, Iraq's capital, on Tuesday evening. A security official confirmed a drone and rocket attack on the US embassy. Witnesses observed detonations from the embassy's air defense systems intercepting incoming projectiles, and a fire was spotted at the edge of the embassy grounds. Agence France-Presse journalists confirmed hearing the blasts.
🏛 Politics
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced on Wednesday that Israeli forces have killed Iran's Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib. Katz stated that the military is authorized to eliminate high-ranking Iranian officials without seeking further approval. This killing follows recent Israeli operations against Iran's security chief Ali Larijani and other senior officials, reflecting ongoing military actions targeting Iranian leadership.
The International Atomic Energy Agency reported Wednesday that Iranian authorities confirmed a projectile hit the Bushehr nuclear power plant premises on Tuesday evening. The agency stated no damage to the facility or injuries to staff were reported. The incident raises concerns about nuclear facility security and potential military conflict risks in the Middle East region.
Iran conducted air strikes against all six Gulf Cooperation Council member states in retaliation for US and Israeli military actions. The strikes targeted American military assets and civilian infrastructure including oil refineries in these countries. China confronts a strategic dilemma in maintaining long-term relations with both the Gulf states and Iran amid escalating regional tensions. As major oil and gas producers, the Gulf nations face significant economic pressures from the ongoing conflict.
Iran's army chief Amir Hatami stated on Wednesday that Iran will respond to the killing of security chief Ali Larijani, who died in an Israeli air strike. The Revolutionary Guards announced they had launched missiles at central Israel in retaliation. The incident marks an escalation in military tensions between Iran and Israel.
American artificial intelligence and robotics companies have urged lawmakers to address competition from Chinese robot manufacturers, particularly Unitree Robotics, citing national security risks. Industry representatives warn that China's rapid advancement in humanoid robotics poses competitive and security challenges. The companies call for the US government to develop coordinated policies and strategies to address Chinese firms' growing dominance in the humanoid robotics sector, marking a new area of US-China technological competition.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday to urge continued international support for Ukraine. Zelensky described Russia and Iran as "brothers in hatred" and expressed concern that the Middle East conflict has diminished momentum for US-brokered peace negotiations regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He suggested that the US and allies should leverage Ukraine's anti-drone technology in Middle East operations while maintaining focus on Ukraine's situation.
General Francis Donovan, commander of US Southern Command, disclosed to Congress that the US military is monitoring 23 Chinese port projects and 12 space-enabling facilities across Latin America. The military considers each facility a potential dual-use asset that could support Chinese military operations. The disclosure was made during a House Armed Services Committee hearing on US military posture in the western hemisphere.
The US House Oversight Committee issued a subpoena on Tuesday to Attorney General Pam Bondi to provide sworn testimony regarding the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Bondi faces allegations that the Justice Department concealed the identities of Epstein's powerful associates in its release of millions of related documents. Under the subpoena, Bondi will give a deposition to the House committee.
US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that his planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing will be delayed by five to six weeks due to ongoing US-Israel military operations against Iran. Trump stated the US is coordinating with China, which he indicated was receptive to the postponement. He expressed anticipation for the meeting with Xi. The Chinese embassy in Washington did not confirm Trump's timeline but indicated that China and the US remain in communication regarding the visit.
Multiple explosions were reported in Baghdad, Iraq's capital, on Tuesday evening. A security official confirmed a drone and rocket attack on the US embassy. Witnesses observed detonations from the embassy's air defense systems intercepting incoming projectiles, and a fire was spotted at the edge of the embassy grounds. Agence France-Presse journalists confirmed hearing the blasts.
💰 Finance
Saudi Arabia has activated an alternative crude oil transport plan via the Red Sea port of Yanbu, enabling Chinese very large crude carriers and other tankers to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. The move responds to Iran's effective closure of the strait following U.S. and Israeli military operations. The conflict, now in its third week, has disrupted global energy markets. Analysts caution that this alternative route has limited transport capacity. Chinese-owned VLCC New Vista has begun using this route.
Cosco Shipping Ports, a unit of state-owned Cosco Shipping, reported 2025 net profit of US$312.1 million, up 1.1 percent, with revenue increasing 11 percent to US$1.67 billion. Total container throughput climbed 6.2 percent to 153 million TEUs. Management expects limited impact from Iran conflict and plans to expand in emerging markets despite rising geopolitical risks to global trade. Overseas terminals showed strong growth.
Hong Kong's Airport Authority is partnering with a private company to develop an art storage facility with an investment of HK$300 million (US$38.28 million), set to open next year. CEO Vivian Cheung Kar-fay stated that Hong Kong is the world's second-largest primary art trading market and a key gateway connecting mainland China with the rest of the world. The project aims to strengthen Hong Kong's position as a global art trading hub.
A new report reveals that the global expansion of electric vehicle fleets is significantly reducing oil consumption. In 2025, avoided oil consumption from EVs is equivalent to 70 percent of Iran's oil exports. Last year, electric vehicles worldwide saved 1.7 million barrels of oil consumption daily, compared to Iran's daily exports of 2.4 million barrels. This trend demonstrates a fundamental shift in global energy dynamics and suggests continued acceleration in EV adoption.
A Malaysian private healthcare company suggests the country's medical tourism sector could gain from escalating Middle East conflict. Since February 28, following US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, Iranian retaliatory missile and drone attacks have targeted the region's primary medical hub, Dubai. This security situation may prompt Middle Eastern patients to seek medical treatment in Southeast Asian countries as a safer alternative.
Tencent Holdings reported fourth-quarter 2025 net income of 64.7 billion yuan on a non-IFRS basis, a 17 percent year-on-year increase that aligned with analyst expectations of 64.9 billion yuan. The tech company's quarterly revenue reached 194.4 billion yuan, representing 13 percent growth. The results reflect the broader artificial intelligence boom reshaping the global economy and driving investment momentum in China's technology sector.
In the first two months of 2026, Geely Auto surpassed BYD to become China's leading automaker by sales volume. Geely's diverse product portfolio contributed to this achievement, while BYD experienced a sales decline. Additionally, battery manufacturer CATL reported a 42% profit surge, reflecting continued growth in the new energy vehicle industry chain.
Amid Middle East conflict dampening investor risk appetite, markets are closely watching a potential summit between President Xi Jinping and Donald Trump. Investors view the meeting as a possible sign of cooperation that could stabilize mainland China and Hong Kong equities. Originally scheduled for the end of the month, the White House announced the summit would be postponed. Clarity on the meeting is seen as crucial for growth and stability signals.
Cathay Pacific Airways has extended the suspension of all flights between Hong Kong and the Middle East until the end of April due to ongoing regional conflict. The suspension, which began on February 28 following a US-Israeli military operation against Iran, affects services to Dubai and Riyadh. This represents another extension of the airline's previous suspension period.
Chinese investment banks are experiencing faster growth in their Hong Kong wealth management businesses compared to international competitors, according to Wang Lei, CEO of Huatai Financial Holdings (Hong Kong). He attributed this acceleration to their smaller existing base and favorable market conditions, including a robust IPO market and increased cross-border capital flows that strengthen their competitive position.
💻 Technology
Singapore, located just one degree north of the equator with year-round temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius and high humidity, is one of the world's least suitable locations for data centre cooling. Nevertheless, the city-state has concentrated over 70 data centre facilities with a combined capacity exceeding 1.4 gigawatts within its limited geographic footprint, making it one of the highest densities of data-centre infrastructure per capita globally. The rapid expansion of AI industry in Southeast Asia is putting significant strain on Singapore's power grid and cooling systems.
Tencent Holdings has integrated its QClaw AI agent, based on OpenClaw technology, into its flagship WeChat application. Following a Wednesday upgrade, QClaw is now accessible as a mini-program within WeChat, with new functionality enabling users to transfer files to their personal computers. Launched last week, QClaw is an OpenClaw-based artificial intelligence agent that allows users to control it remotely through WeChat.
Researchers from Shandong University in Qingdao have developed a novel cancer therapy using engineered E coli bacteria. The modified bacteria colonize tumors, produce existing drugs on-site, and deliver them directly to cancer cells, reducing toxic side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy. The study conducted on mice with breast cancer demonstrates potential for developing targeted cancer treatments in the future.
The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac) is implementing technical adjustments and regulatory adaptations to replicate C909 regional airliner success in Laos. This effort serves as a foundation for expanding sales across Southeast Asia, supporting Comac's long-term strategy to compete with Boeing and Airbus. The company is using Laos as a testing ground for broader regional market penetration.
This month in China, people have been lining up to install the AI programme OpenClaw on their computers, with some travelling from other cities and waiting hours for installation assistance. The programme features a red lobster logo and provides installation certificates. Chinese internet users have coined the term "raising lobsters" to describe the phenomenon, reflecting significant public interest in AI applications.
🌏 International
Iran has launched attacks on energy infrastructure in neighboring countries, while Israel claims to have killed a senior Iranian official. Investor concerns about Middle East tensions and energy supply security have intensified. West Texas Intermediate crude oil for April delivery rose 2.9% to close at 96.2 dollars per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. International oil prices increased amid heightened geopolitical risks.
Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced on the 17th that Ali Larijani, head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, and Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij paramilitary force under Iran's Revolutionary Guards, have died. The Israeli Defense Ministry confirmed the deaths of these two senior Iranian officials. The incident involves Iran's national security and military leadership, drawing international attention.
The US Embassy in Iraq has come under attack again. Multiple explosions were reported in the capital Baghdad tonight. According to security sources, the embassy faced a new round of attacks. The incident occurred in Iraq's capital, reflecting ongoing security challenges in the region. No confirmed casualty figures have been reported at this time.
Iran's president confirmed that Ali Larijani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, has died. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Larijani was killed in an Israeli military airstrike. The incident reflects escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, with regional conflict continuing to intensify.
International oil prices surged on Tuesday, with Brent crude rising 3.2% to $103.42 per barrel and WTI crude climbing 2.9% to $96.21 per barrel. Iran's attacks on oil facilities in the United Arab Emirates have heightened market concerns about global petroleum supply. The conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has entered its third week, with disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz affecting approximately 20% of global crude oil supply.
A senior United Arab Emirates official stated that the UAE may join a US-led maritime security operation to ensure safe passage through the Hormuz Strait amid rising global energy and shipping security concerns. UAE President's diplomatic advisor Anwar Gargash emphasized that major nations in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe should share responsibility for maintaining global trade and energy flow. The initiative remains under discussion with no formal agreement reached yet.
Iraqi security sources reported that U.S. diplomatic facilities in Iraq came under attack on Tuesday, involving rockets and unmanned aircraft. Targets included the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad and American diplomatic facilities near Baghdad International Airport. At least three explosive-laden drones participated in the assault. Alarms sounded at the embassy during the attack, with explosions reported in the vicinity. The incident occurred following earlier attacks the same day, reflecting ongoing security tensions in the region.
Following an Israeli airstrike that killed Iran's security chief Larijani, Iran's Revolutionary Guards launched a barrage of ballistic missiles at Israel on the 18th, resulting in two deaths. A senior Iranian commander issued a warning to US President Trump. The attack marks a significant escalation in Middle Eastern tensions and represents Iran's direct military response to the Israeli operation.
As Middle East tensions escalate, Iran has implemented control measures over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy transport route. According to latest data, Iran is adopting a selective passage strategy, prioritizing vessels from friendly nations. The strait carries approximately 20% of global daily oil and natural gas shipments, making it a crucial artery for international energy supply. The measure has drawn attention from global energy markets.
Israel claimed to have killed Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Larijani and Basij militia commander Suleimani in an airstrike. Iranian officials subsequently confirmed Larijani's death. Larijani previously served as Iran's national security chief and nuclear negotiator. The incident marks another significant blow to Iran's leadership following the death of Supreme Leader Khamenei.
Iran officially confirmed that National Security Chief Larijani and Basij militia commander Soleimani were killed in an Israeli airstrike on the evening of the 17th. This represents a significant loss of high-level personnel for Iran. The Israeli military stated it will continue military operations against Iranian leadership. The incident has heightened tensions in the Middle East region.
Samsung Electronics' union voted today to approve a strike plan, reflecting significant disagreement between labor and management over bonus systems. As the world's largest memory chip manufacturer, any strike action by Samsung could impact global semiconductor supply chains. If subsequent labor negotiations fail to reach consensus, the strike may commence in May. This development highlights escalating labor-management tensions in the technology industry.
Security firms Socket, Aikido, and Step Security issued warnings about GlassWorm worm activity affecting Open VSX, GitHub, NPM, and PyPI platforms. Recent investigation reveals this is a coordinated attack targeting multiple platforms simultaneously, compromising more than 430 repositories and software packages across these ecosystems.
The Federal Reserve is holding a two-day interest rate meeting today amid Middle East geopolitical tensions. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have cut approximately 20% of global oil supplies, pushing gasoline prices to 3.79 dollars per gallon, a 25% increase from pre-conflict levels. Rising energy costs are reigniting inflation pressures while economic growth and employment markets face new uncertainties, presenting policymakers with complex decision-making challenges.
The European Union released a report on foreign information manipulation revealing that China produced large quantities of AI-generated videos in 2025 to target dissidents and spread content originating from Chinese state media as fake original content. China has also integrated automated processes into fake news websites to expand reach. Russia continues to interfere in elections across countries by discrediting pro-EU governments and candidates to undermine electoral credibility.