Israel strikes Iran’s only nuclear plant amid escalating conflict
Israel has confirmed it carried out airstrikes on Iran’s only operational nuclear power plant in Bushehr, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Analysts say that when U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump takes office in January, tension areas are expected in trade, technology and geopolitical conflicts.
After Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, experts from various think tanks anticipate a further deterioration in U.S.-China relations, continuing the hardline stance from his previous administration. Analysts highlight several key areas where tensions are expected to rise, with a focus on trade, technology, and geopolitical conflicts.
According to experts at Chatham House, London, Trump's return could lead to a resumption of the aggressive trade policies that characterized his first term, including high tariffs on Chinese goods. Trump's administration may push for stricter measures aimed at decoupling the U.S. economy from China's, particularly in critical sectors like technology and pharmaceuticals. This aligns with Trump's previous rhetoric of bringing manufacturing back to America and reducing reliance on Chinese supply chains.
Analysts from the Hudson Institute and other think tanks predict an increase in military posturing, especially around Taiwan. During his campaign, Trump hinted at reducing U.S. security commitments in East Asia unless allies contribute more to their defense. This shift could embolden China to take a more assertive stance on Taiwan, potentially increasing the risk of a military conflict in the region.
Trump's potential pivot from Biden's explicit support for Taiwan could lead to a strategic ambiguity similar to his earlier stance, which would create uncertainty in the region and could destabilize the delicate balance of power in the South China Sea.
The technology war between the U.S. and China is likely to intensify under a renewed Trump administration. Experts at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) highlight that Trump has previously targeted Chinese tech giants like Huawei and TikTok, and his return could bring about even stricter controls on technology transfers and data security.
China's government, anticipating a tougher U.S. stance, is reportedly preparing policies to reduce dependence on American technology, focusing on self-reliance in semiconductors, AI, and cybersecurity measures. This suggests a deepening of the technological divide between the two superpowers.
Think tanks such as the Brookings Institution note that Trump's “America First” foreign policy could reshape alliances, potentially weakening the collective Western response to China's rise. However, Trump's hardline approach may push U.S. allies in Asia, such as Japan, South Korea, and Australia, to strengthen their own defenses against China's regional ambitions. Conversely, China's strategy under Xi Jinping is expected to focus on strengthening its global partnerships, especially through initiatives like the Belt and Road. Beijing might leverage Trump's unpredictable policies to position itself as a more stable global partner to other nations, especially in Europe and the Global South.
Think tank experts agree that Trump's return to the presidency will likely exacerbate U.S.-China tensions, particularly in the areas of trade, technology, and military strategy. This renewed rivalry is expected to influence global geopolitics, prompting both countries to bolster their alliances and prepare for a prolonged period of strategic competition.
Peace is no longer a dream. It is a discussion. On the streets of Baku and Yerevan, it is also a question, of trust, of foreign interests, and of who truly wants it.
Israeli strikes have reportedly targeted areas near the residences of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian, according to the New York Times, citing local witnesses.
Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) has cancelled certain flights scheduled for 13th and 14th June amid recent escalation of situation in the Middle East and the closure of airspace in several countries for security reasons.
The 2025 G7 Leaders’ Summit was held June 15–17 in Kananaskis, Alberta, under Canada’s presidency. Prime Minister Mark Carney framed the meeting around priorities of protecting communities, energy and climate security, the digital transition, and future partnerships.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for June 17th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Iran's foreign minister is expected in Istanbul on Saturday for a key Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) council meeting as regional tensions rise over Israel's strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
The US Embassy in Qatar has temporarily barred its personnel from entering Al Udeid Air Base due to rising regional tensions linked to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.
The World Bank has approved a $640 million loan to Bangladesh to help improve gas supply security and reduce dangerous air pollution in urban areas.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Thursday that Ukraine “will have to understand and accept” the post-war realities, as Moscow signals openness to a third round of peace negotiations with Kyiv.
Israel has confirmed it carried out airstrikes on Iran’s only operational nuclear power plant in Bushehr, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
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Very well written, let's see how this unfolds.