World & Security

China Expands Duty-Free Trade to 53 African Nations as US Extends AGOA for One Year

China's unlimited duty-free access contrasts with Washington's one-year extension, raising questions about US commitment to African markets.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 4 min read
World & Security

China's Retaliation Against Panama Stokes Regional Backlash Across Latin America

Panama's seizure of canal-side ports from Chinese operator triggers shipping delays as regional partners shift toward US ties.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 4 min read
World & Security

Democratic Senator Accuses Hegseth of 'Blowing Smoke' Over Iran War Claims

Sen. Chris Van Hollen says U.S. is 'less safe' after Operation Epic Fury as Iran backs off ceasefire and shuts Strait of Hormuz.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 3 min read
World & Security

Do Not Celebrate Ceasefire as a Victory for America

Commentators argue the ceasefire in Iran may strengthen Tehran's regional position and wealth, while others contend de-escalation serves U.S. interests.

By James Callahan · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 3 min read
World & Security

Iran's Supreme National Security Council Says It Has Accepted Two-Week Ceasefire in the War

Trump backs down from threats to destroy Iranian infrastructure as Iran agrees to negotiate in Islamabad starting Friday.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 3 min read
World & Security

Israeli Opposition Leader Lapid Accuses Netanyahu of 'Lies Sold' to US

Yesh Atid party leader Yair Lapid called Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership a 'strategic collapse' amid ongoing Iran tensions.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 3 min read
World & Security

Loomer Says US 'Didn't Really Get Anything' Out of Iran Ceasefire Deal

Conservative influencer Laura Loomer criticized the temporary US-Iran ceasefire as a 'failure' and predicted it would fail, contrasting with Trump's characterization of the deal as 'total victory.'

By Diane Park · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 3 min read
World & Security

Mideast Experts Weigh Iran Regime's Leverage in Negotiations With U.S.

Two-week ceasefire agreed as analysts debate whether Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz provides lasting negotiating power.

By James Callahan · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 3 min read
World & Security

Much Remains Unclear After U.S., Israel and Iran Agree to 2-Week Ceasefire

The deal headed off Trump's threat to destroy Iranian civilization, but both sides claim victory and new attacks were reported hours after the announcement.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 4 min read
World & Security

Taiwan Opposition Leader Arrives in China on What She Calls a 'Journey to Peace'

The visit by the leader of Taiwan's largest opposition party comes amid ongoing cross-strait tensions and as both sides navigate complex political dynamics.

By Diane Park · Wednesday, April 8, 2026 · 3 min read