WTO raises global trade forecast as AI boom offsets other disruptions
Trade in goods is expected to grow 3.9% in 2026 even as conflict-related disruptions weaken trade in services.
Middle East
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Over 100,000 displaced in Yemen in two weeks as fighting intensifies
Thousands flee to Djibouti as U.N. agencies warn health services and humanitarian operations are overwhelmed.
Iran nuclear dispute returns to Security Council on verification gap
IAEA says it lost continuity of knowledge over Iran's enriched uranium as Tehran says war made inspections impossible.
Hormuz disruption risks squeezing smaller firms out of supply chains
UNCTAD warns trade could recover while becoming more concentrated as smaller companies face higher costs.
U.S.-Saudi nuclear pact raises questions as Trump adds conditions
The agreement opens the door to a Saudi civilian nuclear program but leaves critical questions unanswered.
U.S.-Iran talks move to technical phase after first Bürgenstock session
U.S. vice president cites 'great progress' amid disputes over Lebanon, Strait of Hormuz, next steps for nuclear verification.
Grossi says IAEA ready to begin technical talks on Iran agreement
Inspectors to play an 'indispensable' role as Washington and Tehran move from ceasefire diplomacy to verification.
U.N. appeal shows how regional conflict is reshaping Lebanon
While the request reflects immediate needs, officials describe the crisis as a threat to Lebanon's long-term resilience.
Hormuz disruptions drive up aid costs amid U.N. funding squeeze
Shipping delays, rising transport prices and deep budget cuts force humanitarian agencies into difficult choices worldwide.
Major powers fuel new conflicts as aid to poorer nations declines
A new U.N. assessment says wars, energy shocks and shrinking aid push vulnerable economies deeper into debt.
UAE to exit OPEC, seeking a strategic shift and more production flexibility
Move reflects long-running tensions with Saudi Arabia over quotas as Abu Dhabi seeks greater control over output policy.
Ship seizures, stalled talks deepen Hormuz crisis as global risks mount
Rather than de-escalation, the Iran war shifted toward control of shipping flows in the strait while talks remain uncertain.
Groups call out Trump's potential war crime threats against Iran
International law, civilian protections and the rules of war are in sharp focus due to Trump's far-reaching military threats.
Strikes near Iranian landmarks test protections for cultural heritage
UNESCO said it gave all sides coordinates of protected sites so they could 'take all feasible precautions to avoid damage.'
IEA prepares historic oil reserve release as Iran war disrupts markets
The decision on the 12th day of the war comes in the wake of escalating disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
War on Iran tests foundation of international law as conflict widens
Organizations warn the U.S. and Israeli strikes raise questions over the use of force, civilian protections, nuclear safety.