Iran says Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until U.S. meets deal terms
Iran has said the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the U.S. fulfils the terms of an interim deal, including lifting the maritime blockade ...
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for 13th July, covering the latest developments you need to know.
1. Erdoğan, Aliyev discuss ties and security across South Caucasus
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev held a phone call to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments, with Erdoğan reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to closer cooperation and lasting peace in the South Caucasus. Erdoğan also emphasised that the Terror-Free Türkiye initiative would enhance regional stability, a goal Aliyev strongly supported.
2. New Caledonia to gain more autonomy under French deal
France has announced a new autonomy agreement for New Caledonia, proposing the creation of a “state of Caledonia” within the French Republic and recognising a distinct Caledonian nationality. While hailed by President Macron as historic, the deal faces criticism for not fulfilling the Kanak people’s long-standing demand for full independence.
3. Israeli and Syrian officials hold a rare meeting in Baku
Israeli and Syrian officials held a rare in-person meeting in Baku during Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit, focusing on Israel’s military activities in Syria. Though unconfirmed publicly by either side, the discreet talks suggest a tentative step toward regional coordination amid evolving diplomatic dynamics.
4. North Korean leader Kim reaffirms support for Russia in Ukraine conflict
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged unconditional support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine during a meeting with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Wonsan, as both countries held strategic talks to deepen their alliance. The visit underscored growing military and political ties, with Pyongyang reportedly providing troops, arms, and reconstruction aid to support Moscow’s war effort.
5. Hungary's opposition flags "New Deal" to kickstart stagnating economy
Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar has unveiled a “Hungarian New Deal” aimed at reviving the economy through large-scale investment, anti-corruption measures, and improved public services if his Tisza party wins next year’s election. As Tisza leads in opinion polls, the plan positions Magyar as the strongest challenger to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in over a decade.
U.S. President Donald Trump says Washington is not seeking an extension of its memorandum of understanding with Iran, claiming the U.S. already controls the Strait of Hormuz through its naval blockade.
Iran has said the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the U.S. fulfils the terms of an interim deal, including lifting the maritime blockade and sanctions and releasing Iran’s frozen assets.
Ukraine has targeted at least 20 Wildberries warehouses across Russia since 18 July, disrupting a major logistics network. Kyiv says the strikes aim to disrupt alleged military-linked supplies, while the attacks have caused billions of dollars in losses and wider economic pressure.
South Korea's presidential Blue House said on Monday it was reviewing U.S. President Donald Trump's comments on scaling back joint military drills. It added that it hoped a favourable relationship between Washington and Pyongyang could lead to meaningful talks.
Azerbaijan exported goods worth $17.372 million to Armenia between January and July 2026, according to data from the State Customs Committee, as commercial ties between the two South Caucasus neighbours showed signs of expansion.
Britain will continue to support Ukraine “100 per cent” against Russia’s invasion, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Tuesday, after Moscow warned London of consequences over reports that British-made drones had been used in strikes on Russian territory.
Russia has summoned Japan’s ambassador to Moscow and delivered a strong protest over what it called “anti-Russian” remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi concerning four disputed islands.
Pakistan is turning to more U.S. crude as disruption around the Strait of Hormuz exposes the risks of its heavy reliance on Gulf energy supplies.
U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) Commander Xavier Brunson visited South Korea's Defence Ministry on Tuesday to discuss plans to scale back the joint Ulchi Freedom Shield military exercise, according to media reports.
European countries are stepping up investment in drones and counter-drone technology as unmanned systems reshape modern warfare, driving demand for new production and capabilities across the continent.
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