Key takeaways:
- China signals openness to trade talks, but demands respect and concessions from US
- Hamas rejects Israel's ceasefire proposal, insisting on full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza
Israel-Hamas Conflict Hamas has rejected Israel's latest ceasefire proposal, which offered a 45-day pause in fighting, hostage releases, and talks on disarming Gaza militants. Hamas insists on a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and reconstruction guarantees. Israel is preparing for a broader offensive if negotiations fail. The rejection stalls hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough to end the war.
Iran Nuclear Negotiations Ahead of nuclear talks in Rome, Iran's foreign minister declared uranium enrichment "non-negotiable," rejecting US demands to dismantle its program. This comes after mixed messages from the US negotiator on acceptable enrichment levels. Iran continues enriching uranium to 60% purity, nearing weapons-grade. The talks aim to explore a framework for future negotiations, but stark differences remain on core issues.
Pentagon Leak Investigation Three senior Pentagon officials have been placed on leave as part of an internal probe into unauthorized disclosures. Those suspended include close advisors to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Deputy Secretary Steve Feinberg. The investigation stems from a memo authorizing aggressive leak-hunting measures. One official is accused of leaking classified documents to the press. The probe could expand further as the Pentagon cracks down on internal leaks.