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Trade Tensions Rise as EU Prepares Retaliation Against U.S. Tariff Hike

The European Union has strongly condemned President Donald Trump's decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, warning of swift countermeasures that could escalate global trade tensions. Announced Friday near Pittsburgh, Trump raised existing steel and aluminum tariffs from 25% to 50%, aiming to protect U.S. industry and bolster a $14.9 billion Nippon Steel–U.S. Steel deal. The European Commission responded sharply, calling the move a threat to transatlantic economic stability and global supply chains. “This decision adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic,” a spokesperson said. The EU is finalizing consultations on expanded retaliatory tariffs, set to take effect by July 14 unless a negotiated solution is reached. The reaction from global trade partners was swift. Canada’s Chamber of Commerce criticized the tariffs as a threat to North American economic security, while Canada’s Uni...

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Israel’s Determination Amidst US Arms Embargo Threat

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asserted Israel’s readiness to “stand alone” in the face of a potential US arms embargo. The stern declaration comes as tensions escalate in Rafah, Gaza, where Israeli forces are poised for a possible full-scale invasion to combat Hamas militants.

  • Defiant Stance: Netanyahu evoked the spirit of the 1948 War of Independence, emphasizing Israel’s historical resilience and capability to triumph despite arms embargoes and overwhelming odds.
  • US Warning: President Joe Biden has threatened to withhold critical military supplies, including artillery shells, if Israel proceeds with an invasion of Rafah, citing concerns over civilian casualties.
  • Humanitarian Crisis: The UN reports over 80,000 people have fled Rafah amidst continuous bombardment, with essential supplies like food and fuel dwindling for those remaining.
  • Continued Conflict: Despite peace talks faltering and the US’s stance, Israel maintains that victory over Hamas is unattainable without taking Rafah, underlining the ongoing seven-month war’s complexity.

Netanyahu’s remarks underscore a pivotal moment in Israeli-US relations, as Israel weighs its strategic options against the backdrop of international scrutiny and humanitarian considerations.

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