Weekly Brief

Welcome to the tut0ugh Weekly Brief. This past week, the US struck Iranian nuclear sites amid rising tensions, China and Central Asia strengthened ties with a new pact, and political challenges surfaced in Spain, New Zealand, and the UK.

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US launches airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities

The US has launched airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities—Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan—described by former President Trump as a “spectacular military success”. The strikes align with recent Israeli operations and mark a sharp escalation after 10 days of Iran-Israel hostilities. Trump warned of further action unless Iran seeks peace, while Tehran’s Foreign Minister condemned the move as a breach of international law and promised consequences. 

Israel praised the strikes but activated defence systems in anticipation of Iranian retaliation. The attacks signal a major shift in US policy and have prompted warnings from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps: “War starts right now.”

China and Central Asia boost connectivity under new regional pact

China and five Central Asian nations have agreed to expand road, rail, and air links, ease visa rules, and modernise border infrastructure to strengthen regional integration. The move aims to enhance trade and mobility across the region, with plans to increase direct flights, open new consular offices, and streamline visa procedures.

China, along with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, will also upgrade ports and assess the need for new border facilities. The agreement follows a treaty signed by President Xi Jinping to formalise deeper cooperation.The deal aligns with Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative, reinforcing Central Asia’s role in China’s broader economic and strategic agenda.

Sánchez under pressure as party scandal deepens and NATO stance draws attention

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is facing internal pressure to call early elections following corruption allegations involving senior Socialist Party figures. The resignation of party heavyweight Santos Cerdán, linked to alleged kickbacks, has intensified calls for leadership reform. Despite a public apology and leadership shake-up, many within the party fear lasting electoral damage, with some urging an emergency congress.

Separately, Sánchez has rejected NATO’s proposed 5% GDP defence spending goal, calling it “counterproductive”. In a letter to NATO chief Mark Rutte, he argued such targets risk undermining EU defence efforts and domestic priorities. Spain currently spends 1.28%, the lowest in NATO, but aims to meet the existing 2% commitment.

New Zealand halts aid to Cook Islands over China concerns

New Zealand has suspended NZ$18.2 million in development funding to the Cook Islands, citing concerns over its growing ties with China. Foreign Minister Winston Peters said the Cook Islands government had not provided sufficient clarity on a recent economic deal with China, which covers trade, tourism, and renewable energy.

Peters stressed that future funding depends on rebuilding trust, highlighting New Zealand’s long-standing relationships with the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau. The suspension is unrelated to Prime Minister Luxon’s trade visit to China. The Cook Islands, which rely on New Zealand for foreign affairs and defence, have received NZ$194 million in aid over the past three years.

UK MPs back assisted dying bill for terminally ill adults

MPs have approved the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which would legalise assisted dying for adults with less than six months to live. Passed by 314 votes to 291, the bill allows patients to seek medical assistance to end their lives, with approval from two doctors. A review panel of medical and legal professionals would oversee decisions, replacing earlier plans for High Court involvement.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer backed the bill, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch opposed it. Critics raised concerns over limited debate and safeguards. The bill now moves to the House of Lords. If passed, the law could come into force by 2029.

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