China has introduced its first drone “mothership,” the Jiu Tian, capable of launching up to 100 UAVs mid-flight. Built by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China, the aircraft boasts a wingspan of 82 feet, a 4,350-mile range, and a 6-ton payload capacity. Designed for versatility, it can perform strike, electronic warfare, and rescue missions. Its modular design allows rapid reconfiguration, and it doubles as a communication relay. However, defence analysts caution that its large, non-stealthy profile makes it highly vulnerable in combat. Jiu Tian’s first test flight is scheduled for late June, marking a new phase in drone warfare.
TRUMP THREATENS ISRAEL WITH ABANDONMENT
U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly warned Israel that continued escalation in Gaza could lead to a withdrawal of American support. According to a Washington Post report citing anonymous sources, Trump’s team told Israeli officials that the U.S. would “abandon” them unless military operations in Gaza ceased. The warning follows Trump’s comments during his Gulf visit, where he expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. However, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee dismissed the report as “nonsense.” Despite official denials, growing friction is evident as Trump urges humanitarian aid and directly negotiates with Hamas, excluding Israel from the process.
ISRAEL DEEPENS GAZA GROUND OFFENSIVE
Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza under “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” aiming to dismantle Hamas and assert full control over the territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared intentions to “take control of the entire Gaza Strip,” prompting international concern. The offensive has resulted in over 400 deaths and 1,000 injuries, with significant infrastructure damage. Amidst the escalating conflict, limited humanitarian aid has been permitted, though it’s deemed insufficient by aid organizations. The UN and countries like the UK, France, and Canada have condemned the actions, warning of potential sanctions if the offensive and aid restrictions persist.
CHINA, RUSSIA PLAN LUNAR REACTOR
China and Russia have announced plans to build a nuclear power station on the moon by 2035 as part of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). The reactor will provide energy for long-term research and exploration at the Moon’s south pole. Over a dozen countries, including Pakistan and Venezuela, are involved in the ILRS, seen as a direct competitor to NASA’s Artemis program. The project will launch its first module in 2028 via China’s Chang’e-8 mission. With ambitions to lead space exploration, China hopes to tap into the moon’s natural resources and strengthen its global scientific and technological influence.
EU LIFTS SYRIA SANCTIONS PARTIALLY
The European Union has lifted key economic sanctions on Syria following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad by the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in December. The move aims to support Syria’s post-war recovery and encourage the formation of an inclusive government. However, sanctions on individuals and entities linked to Assad’s regime and those accused of human rights violations will remain in place. Export restrictions on weapons and surveillance technology are also upheld. Despite concerns over the new government’s Islamist ideology, EU leaders, including Germany’s Foreign Minister, stress that support hinges on inclusive governance and national unity moving forward.
