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Mojtaba Khamenei’s Rise Sparks Market Turmoil as Hardliners Mobilize

People attend a gathering to support Iran's new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Tehran, Iran, March 9, 2026.  Iran’s hardline factions mounted a powerful show of support for newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei , rallying across Tehran in a display that signaled a tightening of conservative control and diminished hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East.  The demonstrations, marked by mass gatherings and imagery linking Mojtaba to his late father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, underscored the regime’s consolidation at a moment of heightened regional conflict.  Analysts warn that the hardliners’ unified backing suggests Iran is unlikely to soften its stance amid ongoing tensions with the U.S. and Israel. Global markets reacted sharply. Fears that prolonged instability could further disrupt energy supplies sent oil prices soaring and triggered steep declines in major stock indices. With one of the most significan...

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Trump's Trade Diplomacy: A Step Toward Resolution with the EU

In a significant move, former U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about resolving trade disputes with the European Union (EU). This comes amidst ongoing tensions over tariffs and trade barriers that have strained transatlantic relations. Trump's announcement of a temporary 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs exceeding 10% signals a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

The EU has reciprocated by suspending its planned counter-tariffs for the same duration, creating a window for negotiations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of this pause, describing it as an opportunity to pursue a "frictionless" trading relationship. Both sides aim to address key issues, including tariffs on steel and aluminum, agricultural subsidies, and intellectual property rights.

This diplomatic effort could pave the way for a more collaborative relationship between the U.S. and the EU, potentially setting a precedent for future trade agreements worldwide. While challenges remain, the temporary halt in tariffs offers a glimmer of hope for resolving long-standing disputes and fostering economic cooperation.

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