Geopolitics and Conflicts

• US Military Drafts 'Mother of All Bombs' Plan to Strike Iran: According to Global - United Daily News, citing CNN, the US military has drafted a new military plan considering the use of the large aerial bomb known as the 'Mother of All Bombs' to strike Iran's energy and nuclear facilities. US President Trump recently stated at a rally that Tehran had asked for his commitment not to target Iranian leaders for elimination. • Merchant Ship Sinks in Strait of Hormuz: Singaporean authorities confirmed that two container ships registered in Singapore were hit by unidentified projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz, with one unfortunately catching fire and sinking, drastically increasing maritime shipping risks in the Middle East. • Ukraine Faces Large-Scale Airstrikes and Starlink Restrictions: Russia has once again launched large-scale drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, destroying multiple energy facilities and leaving at least 600,000 people across Ukraine without power. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military complained that Musk's SpaceX unilaterally restricted the speed of military Starlink (disconnecting above 160 km/h), severely impacting drone operations. Musk responded that the restrictions were within the scope of US military and government jurisdiction. • China-North Korea New Yalu River Bridge Opens Today After 12-Year Delay: The New Yalu River Bridge connecting China and North Korea, after long delays due to nuclear tests, sanctions, and deteriorating China-North Korea relations, officially held its opening ceremony today. Recent strengthening of cross-border transportation links with North Korea by both China and Russia has drawn particular attention. • Chinese Delegation Visits Disputed Island, Prompting Japanese Protest: A delegation from China's Heilongjiang Province visited an island controlled by Russia but claimed by Japan.