AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

&
""
Latest by
  • Messi Reflects on Heartbreak After World Cup Final Loss
    Messi Reflects on Heartbreak After World Cup Final Loss Lionel Messi broke his silence a day after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 North America World Cup final, expressing his disappointment. According to Reuters, Messi wrote on social media on July 20, "The pain is too great, and it seems it will take a long time for this wound to heal." Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in a tense match held in New Jersey, USA, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the second half of extra time, ending their hopes of back-to-back championships following their victory in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Messi acknowledged, "It is difficult to properly assess our achievements right now," but highlighted Argentina's accomplishment of reaching the World Cup final for the second consecutive time. He expressed gratitude to fans, stating, "The players' efforts and the support of the people brought the team back to the highest level in the world." He added, "We once again united as a nation and shared a great pride in being Argentine," and extended congratulations to Spain for their victory. At 39, Messi played in all eight matches of the tournament, scoring eight goals and providing four assists, leading Argentina to the final. This marked his third World Cup final appearance, following those in 2014 and 2022.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 06:48:00
  • Houthi Blockade Threatens Red Sea Oil Route, Raising Concerns for Asia
    Houthi Blockade Threatens Red Sea Oil Route, Raising Concerns for Asia The Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen have declared a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, raising alarms for energy supply chains in Asian countries, including South Korea. This blockade could disrupt Saudi Arabia's alternative oil transport route through the Red Sea, which has been used to avoid the Strait of Hormuz.According to Reuters on July 20, the Houthis announced that the maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia would take effect immediately. However, it remains unclear how the blockade will be implemented or whether it will lead to actual attacks on vessels.Yemen, controlled by the Houthis, is adjacent to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the southern gateway to the Red Sea. This area has become a crucial detour for Saudi oil exports to Asia since traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased.Saudi Arabia has increased its oil exports through the Red Sea by transporting crude via land pipelines to the western port of Yanbu. Recent figures show that oil shipments from Yanbu have surged to an average of 4 million barrels per day, up from about 973,000 barrels per day a year ago.The primary destinations for oil and petroleum products shipped from Yanbu include Asian countries such as South Korea, Japan, China, Singapore, and India. Any disruption in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait would directly impact the energy supply from the Middle East to Asia, which has been maintained as an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz.Oil volumes passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait have also increased, rising from 4.2 million barrels per day last year to 7.4 million barrels per day last month, accounting for approximately 7% of global oil production.Noam Rayden, a senior researcher at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, stated, "If the Houthi blockade materializes, Asian countries could bear the brunt of the impact." He noted that disruptions in shipping operations could lead to longer transport distances, as well as increased insurance premiums and freight costs.In fact, the war risk insurance for vessels passing through the Red Sea has surged from about 0.3% of the vessel's value on July 17 to approximately 0.75% following the Houthi blockade announcement.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 06:44:00
  • Iranian Missile Strikes US Base in Jordan, Killing Two Soldiers
    Iranian Missile Strikes US Base in Jordan, Killing Two Soldiers An Iranian ballistic missile launched at a U.S. military base in Jordan has struck a barracks, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers. The Wall Street Journal reported on July 20, citing U.S. officials, that the missile hit the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base on July 17, where U.S. troops were living and sleeping in modular accommodations. Three Iranian missiles fell on the base over a 24-hour period. The first missile struck the base's gym, prompting alarms that sent soldiers to bunkers. While some were injured during the evacuation, there were no fatalities at that time. Hours later, a second missile hit an empty aircraft hangar. The third missile struck the container-style barracks where soldiers were sleeping. Although alarms sounded again, not all soldiers were able to reach the bunkers. The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that Second Lieutenant Tyler Pihan and Private Isabella Gonzalez were killed in the attack. Additionally, unidentified remains were found at the scene, and authorities are investigating. One U.S. service member is currently missing. It remains unclear whether the deceased soldiers were inside the barracks at the time of the attack or were hit while evacuating. There is also no evidence yet that Iran intentionally targeted the U.S. accommodations. The Wall Street Journal noted that the penetration of three missiles through the defense system highlights significant challenges in protecting the approximately 50,000 U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East from Iranian missile and drone attacks. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that while most missiles were intercepted, one managed to breach the defense system, leading to tragic consequences. On July 20, President Donald Trump warned that Iran would pay a heavy price for each U.S. soldier killed, signaling potential retaliation. Following the attack, U.S. forces also conducted additional airstrikes against Iran.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 06:36:00
  • Irans President Declares Current Situation as Total War
    Iran's President Declares Current Situation as 'Total War' Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has characterized the current situation, including military conflict with the United States, as a 'total war.'According to AFP and local Iranian media, President Pezeshkian stated during a meeting with senior judicial officials in Tehran on July 20 that 'Iran is currently engaged in total war' and emphasized that 'this war is not simply fought with missiles.'He highlighted that 'both military clashes and the economy, as well as the lives of citizens, are major fronts in this war.' This reflects the need to maintain stability in the face of external pressures and domestic issues, particularly concerning prices and the supply of essential goods.President Pezeshkian noted, 'The enemies have concluded that they cannot force the surrender of the Iranian people through military strikes alone,' stressing the importance of unity between the government and the citizens.These remarks come amid ongoing military exchanges between the U.S. and Iran, including airstrikes and missile and drone attacks.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 06:28:00
  • Houthi Rebels Declare Maritime Blockade Against Saudi Arabia, Threatening Oil Routes
    Houthi Rebels Declare Maritime Blockade Against Saudi Arabia, Threatening Oil Routes As tensions escalate between the U.S. and Iran, the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen have announced a maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia. This move threatens Saudi oil exports through the Red Sea, which have been redirected to avoid the Strait of Hormuz.On July 20, the Houthis issued a statement declaring that the blockade against Saudi Arabia would take effect immediately. However, it remains unclear how the blockade will be implemented or whether Houthi forces will directly target Saudi vessels.Yemen, controlled by the Houthis, is adjacent to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial gateway for maritime traffic. Disruptions in this area could impact Saudi Arabia's alternative oil export routes that have been used since the volume of oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz significantly decreased.Saudi Arabia has been redirecting substantial oil shipments through land pipelines to the western port of Yanbu, exporting via the Red Sea. Recent figures indicate that oil shipments from Yanbu have averaged 4 million barrels per day, more than quadrupling from a year ago.The volume of oil passing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has also increased significantly, reaching 7.4 million barrels per day last month, accounting for about 7% of global oil production. Reuters reported that a complete closure of the strait could block a major Saudi oil export route, potentially reducing global oil supply by up to 7%.There are suggestions that the Houthis' actions may be coordinated with Iran. According to multiple sources, Iran has reportedly asked the Houthis to prepare for a blockade of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in response to potential U.S. attacks on Iranian power facilities.Meanwhile, efforts to mediate the conflict between the U.S. and Iran continue. A senior Iranian official stated that mediating countries have proposed a 10-day ceasefire to both sides. Iran has confirmed receiving proposals from several mediators and has reportedly requested Pakistan to resume its role in mediation.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 06:24:00
  • Trump: Netanyahu Will Not Be Arrested in the U.S.
    Trump: Netanyahu Will Not Be Arrested in the U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested during his visit to the United States. On July 20, Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social, "Netanyahu will not be arrested in any way while he is in the U.S." This statement serves as a public rebuttal to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who indicated he was considering legal measures to arrest Netanyahu. In a recent interview with The New York Times, Mayor Adams said, "We are reviewing the legalities of whether we can arrest Prime Minister Netanyahu if he visits New York." The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu in November 2024, related to allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Gaza conflict. Israel denies the allegations and does not recognize the ICC's authority in this matter. However, the United States is not a signatory to the Rome Statute, which established the ICC, and therefore has no obligation to enforce the arrest warrant. It remains unclear whether the mayor has the legal authority to directly order Netanyahu's arrest.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 06:12:00
  • Andy Burnham Sworn in as UK Prime Minister, Promises Major Reforms
    Andy Burnham Sworn in as UK Prime Minister, Promises Major Reforms Andy Burnham, leader of the ruling Labour Party, was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on July 20. According to reports from Reuters and the Associated Press, Burnham received a request to form a government from King Charles III at Buckingham Palace and delivered his first address to the public outside 10 Downing Street in London. He is the seventh Prime Minister of the UK since 2016. "This is a time for reflection and renewed resolve," Burnham said, emphasizing the need to demonstrate to the world that the UK can regain stability. He acknowledged that the public is weary of politics, stating, "We have not done well enough, and we must do better moving forward." Burnham asserted that his government must bring about the most significant change in the UK in 40 years, announcing plans to unveil a long-term national strategy outlining the direction for the next decade by the end of the year. In terms of economic and social policy, he prioritized decentralization and reindustrialization, aiming to transfer powers from the central government to local authorities. He plans to utilize public procurement to boost manufacturing and strengthen public control over essential services. Burnham also promised measures to alleviate the burden of living costs, stating, "We will expand public housing supply, increase support for education and mental health, and address homelessness issues." He emphasized a cautious approach to fiscal policy while adhering to existing financial rules and commitments to increase defense spending. Shortly after taking office, Burnham spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump, discussing the situation in the Middle East and shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. He conveyed that ensuring the security of the UK and its allies would be a top priority and pledged to work towards securing smooth shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to stabilize global supply chains and prices. Burnham also had a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who confirmed via social media platform X that UK support for Ukraine would continue. They agreed to discuss future cooperation, including ballistic missile defense collaboration.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 06:04:00
  • Trump Warns of Retaliation Against Iran for U.S. Military Deaths
    Trump Warns of Retaliation Against Iran for U.S. Military Deaths President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning of retaliation against Iran following the deaths of U.S. military personnel due to recent attacks.On July 20, Trump stated on the social media platform Truth Social, "For every U.S. soldier that Iran kills, they will pay a price many times greater." He added that this directive has been communicated to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Cain, along with other military leaders.This statement comes amid a rise in U.S. military fatalities in the Middle East. On July 17, two U.S. soldiers stationed in Jordan were killed and one went missing while defending against Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks. Additionally, on July 18, another U.S. soldier died while handling unexploded ordnance from an Iranian drone that had been shot down in northern Iraq.Since the onset of the Iran conflict on February 28, the total number of U.S. military deaths has risen to 17.The U.S. military has also continued its offensive against Iran. The U.S. Central Command reported that it completed nine consecutive nights of airstrikes on July 19, targeting Iranian military command facilities, air defense systems, and missile and drone-related sites.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 05:52:00
  • U.S. Considers Restrictions on Chinese AI Amid Rapid Advancements
    U.S. Considers Restrictions on Chinese AI Amid Rapid Advancements As Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) companies rapidly close the gap with the U.S. in terms of pricing and technological competitiveness, calls are growing within the Trump administration to limit the use of Chinese AI models. Axios reported on July 20 that the U.S. government is exploring options to prevent American companies from using Chinese AI through government procurement regulations and a trade restriction list. A government source indicated that measures are being discussed to make it difficult for companies using Chinese AI to engage in transactions with the U.S. government, or to place Chinese AI research institutions on the trade restriction list. Companies would need government approval to engage with firms on this list, significantly limiting their options. Discussions are also underway to emphasize the security risks associated with Chinese AI, warning companies that using these models could lead to the leakage of sensitive information or security breaches. Previously, the U.S. considered holding companies accountable for security incidents arising from the use of Chinese AI and limiting the use of these models under the pretext of protecting the domestic AI industry. However, concerns that excessive regulation could stifle technological innovation and competition prevented these measures from being implemented. As the competitiveness of Chinese AI continues to rise, the push for regulation is gaining momentum. Recently, the Chinese AI startup Moonshot AI introduced the 'Kimi K3,' which boasts low costs and high performance, rapidly narrowing the technology and price gap with the U.S. Opinions within the U.S. regarding regulations on Chinese AI are divided. While some argue that limiting the use of Chinese models is necessary for national security, others worry that such regulations could disproportionately benefit large American AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic. David Sachs, a special advisor on AI and virtual assets at the White House, criticized on July 20 that “some large AI companies are trying to push out open-source competitors from the market by leveraging government regulations.” This raises concerns that specific companies may exert influence over regulatory authorities to create rules that favor them.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-21 05:48:00
  • Khalil Al-Hayya Elected as New Hamas Leader
    Khalil Al-Hayya Elected as New Hamas Leader Khalil Al-Hayya, a hardliner, has been elected as the new leader of Hamas, the Palestinian militant group that governs the Gaza Strip, according to reports from Reuters and Al Jazeera on July 20.Al-Hayya was chosen after a runoff vote against his rival, Khaled Meshaal. The BBC reported that the electoral college for Hamas consists of 69 members, requiring at least 36 votes to win. In the initial round, Meshaal narrowly led but did not secure enough votes for victory. Al-Hayya was subsequently elected in the runoff.Born in Gaza City in 1960, Al-Hayya has been active in Hamas since its founding in 1987. In 2006, he was elected as a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council led by the Palestinian Authority (PA), according to Al Jazeera. The Times of Israel reported that following Hamas's invasion of Israel on October 7, 2023, Al-Hayya took refuge in Qatar. He has also been instrumental in diplomatic efforts, leading negotiations with Israel, Egypt, and the United States. He played a key role as a negotiator during the ceasefire agreement with Israel last October.Al-Hayya was considered the right-hand man of Yahya Sinwar, the former supreme leader who was killed in an Israeli attack in October 2024. However, after Israel targeted Sinwar and military commander Mohammed Deif at the onset of the conflict, Hamas has been led by a five-member leadership committee, including Al-Hayya, instead of appointing a new supreme leader.Al-Hayya has personally suffered losses due to Israeli attacks, with four of his children, including his son Osama and daughter-in-law, killed in strikes on their home in 2014. Additionally, his son Hummam was killed in an Israeli attack in Doha, Qatar, last September.A senior Hamas official told AFP, "Khalil Al-Hayya was elected with an overwhelming majority of votes as the supreme leader," adding that the Hamas political bureau will hold a meeting in Istanbul, Turkey, in the coming days to begin restructuring the leadership. The existing leadership committee will resign and dissolve before the new advisory body, the Shura Council, is formed. Al-Hayya is expected to be officially inaugurated next week.Al Jazeera reporter Nour Odeh noted that Al-Hayya is perceived as a hawk in Israel and is closer to Iran than to Turkey or other Arab nations, raising questions about future developments. The Times of Israel also commented that Al-Hayya's election underscores the close ties between Hamas and Iran, which openly calls for the destruction of Israel.Last month, Hamas officially transferred its governance of the Gaza Strip to the National Committee for Gaza, established through former President Donald Trump's peace initiative. The NCAG is led by Palestinian technocrat Ali Shate. 2026-07-21 05:04:00