Amid the Iran war and the controversial resignation of US Counter-terrorism chief Joe Kent, top US intelligence officials testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee, warning of rapidly growing global threats to American national security. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard revealed that countries including Russia, China, North Korea, Iran and Pakistan are advancing missile systems capable of striking the United States. The report highlighted a dramatic surge in missile threats, with projections increasing from 3000 in 2025 to 16000 by 2035, raising serious concerns about homeland defense. The hearing also pointed to deepening alliances between North Korea, Russia and China, as well as ongoing threats from terrorist groups like ISIS and Al Qaeda

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade, has once again become the center of international tension. In this latest update, US President Trump is pressuring oil-dependent nations to deploy naval forces and patrol the strategic strait, raising questions about allied commitments and global security. Despite Trump’s heavy appeals, countries like Japan and Australia have firmly declined immediate military engagement. The stakes are high as global energy markets react to the uncertainty, with oil prices surging amid mounting tension. While the US stresses the strait’s importance to allies, it notes its own lower dependency on Hormuz oil flows. China remains a major player with strong self-interest in securing energy supply routes, though its participation in any international coalition remains unclear. WATCH