International politics
South Korea joins 7 countries in Strait of Hormuz statement
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South Korea's foreign ministry announced Friday it will join a joint statement by seven countries, including Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands and Canada, condemning Iran's attacks in the Gulf and de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The statement calls on Iran to cease its actions and respect freedom of navigation. Seoul cited safety of sea lanes and impacts on its energy supply.
US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he had abandoned a military strike on Iran originally scheduled for Tuesday. The decision follows a request from Gulf leaders and comes as serious negotiations are underway with Tehran.
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China's UN ambassador Fu Cong voiced support for a woman leading the organization. The statement comes amid Michelle Bachelet's candidacy to succeed Antonio Guterres. China favors better geographical representation and multilateralism.
US President Donald Trump has threatened 10% tariffs on eight European countries, including France and Germany, to force the sale of Greenland from Danish territory. The European Union is showing unity and preparing countermeasures, including the anti-coercion instrument, at an extraordinary summit in Brussels on Thursday evening. European markets opened lower amid these transatlantic tensions.