Trump’s call for an international coalition to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz has met with widespread resistance, particularly from key allies, most of whom have refused to participate, viewing the conflict as America’s war, not theirs.

Japan is currently experiencing a period of political uncertainty, amid rising tensions with China and a strained relationship with its US ally.

Japan is pivoting from aid to strategic investment in Africa to compete with China and Russia while boosting development and Japanese business engagement.

In a new move aimed at addressing the crisis of declining birth rates and population aging, the Japanese government has recommended adopting a policy that would make childbirth completely free.

On November 26, 2024, Saudi Arabia approved its 2025 budget, projecting a $26.4 billion deficit and allocating $72.5 billion to defense, a 5% increase from 2024.