China Eyes Drone Blockade of Taiwan Post US ‘Hellscape’ Plan
The Chinese military claims it can enforce an island blockade using drones, as reported in a peer-reviewed journal. Chen Huijie of the PLA led a simulation on an island resembling Taiwan, aiming to blockade and control it despite air defense systems and hostile naval forces. Four types of drones were used, focusing on reconnaissance, all-weather operations, and threat elimination.
Iran Frees Crew of Seized Ship MSC Aries on ‘Humanitarian Grounds’
Iran released all 25 crew members of the Portuguese-flagged cargo ship MSC Aries, including 17 Indians, on May 3. The release followed a call between Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and Estonian counterpart Margus Tsahkna. The ship, seized by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on April 13 in the Strait of Hormuz, was boarded by a Guards helicopter and taken into Iranian waters.
India Reopens Libya Embassy After Five Years
India has reopened its embassy in Tripoli, Libya, after a five-year hiatus, marking a key diplomatic development. Dr. Mohd. Aleem has been appointed Charge d’Affaires at the embassy. The reopening, celebrated on July 21, is seen as an important step in strengthening bilateral relations between India and Libya, according to Libya’s Government of National Unity.
Kenyan Protesters Plan to Seize Main Airport Amid Six Weeks of Unrest
In Kenya, protesters plan a “total shutdown” of Nairobi’s main international airport on Tuesday as anti-government demonstrations continue into their sixth week. The unrest has resulted in at least 50 deaths and over 400 injuries. Social media calls urge closing all roads to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Authorities have heightened security and warned against trespassing in protected areas.
Hamas and Fatah Sign Agreement in Beijing to End Division, China Says
Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Fatah, signed an agreement in Beijing on Tuesday to end their division and strengthen unity. Hosted by China, the talks involved 14 factions and aimed to present China as a peace broker. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) will be the sole representative of Palestinians and that a provisional national reconciliation government will be established.
