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U.S. Seizure of Russian-Flagged Tanker Heightens Global Tensions

The ship, currently between Iceland and the British Isles, has been accused of breaking US sanctions and shipping Iranian oil. It has historically transported Venezuelan crude oil. The United States has seized a Russian‑flagged oil tanker linked to Venezuela after a prolonged pursuit across the Atlantic, marking one of the most assertive enforcement actions under Washington’s sanctions program. The vessel, previously known as Bella‑1 and later renamed Marinera , was intercepted after evading an earlier boarding attempt near Venezuelan waters. U.S. military aircraft and naval units tracked the ship for weeks as it traveled across the Atlantic, at times shadowed by Russian naval vessels. Officials say the tanker was part of a network used to transport sanctioned Venezuelan and Russian oil. Its capture underscores Washington’s efforts to disrupt what it describes as illicit energy shipments that help sustain both governments. The operation comes at a delicate geopolitical moment, wit...

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Hamas Sticks to Demand for Gaza Truce Deal Implementation

 

 Amid ongoing conflict, Hamas remains steadfast in its position regarding Gaza truce talks. The Palestinian militant group insists that negotiations should focus on a deal already discussed with Israel and mediators, rather than starting anew. Israeli airstrikes, which recently claimed the lives of at least 19 Palestinians in the enclave, have intensified the urgency for a resolution.

The United States expressed optimism that peace talks scheduled for Thursday would proceed as planned, emphasizing the possibility of a ceasefire agreement. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to engage in discussions in Qatar, Egypt, and Israel. While the Israeli government confirmed its delegation’s participation, Hamas seeks a workable plan to implement a proposal it has already accepted, rather than engaging in further talks.

In the densely populated Deir Al-Balah, where many are desperate for a truce, Israeli airstrikes continue to exact a heavy toll. The conflict, now spanning 10 months, has resulted in nearly 40,000 Palestinian deaths, including commanders and fighters. A potential ceasefire deal aims to end hostilities in Gaza and secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that the war can only end when Hamas is eradicated. As the situation remains tense, the international community watches closely, urging a swift resolution to prevent further loss of life.


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