Trump extends Iran ceasefire; Hong Kong actress’ second cancer shock: SCMP’s 7 highlights
Pakistan's request leads to last-minute Iran ceasefire extension by Trump.
In a significant geopolitical move, US President Donald Trump announced a last-minute extension of the ceasefire with Iran following a request from Pakistan's top leadership. Trump also appeared to suggest that American forces had intercepted a potentially lethal 'gift from China' intended for Tehran, escalating tensions in the region.
Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open during a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. In Hong Kong, the triple baby bonus scheme, launched in October 2023, has seen only 20 couples receive the full HK$60,000 for three children, with less than 60% of the HK$2.28 billion fund disbursed as of February, just six months before the program ends.
- Trump extended Iran ceasefire after Pakistan's request, claimed US intercepted Chinese 'gift' to Tehran
- Xi Jinping told Saudi Crown Prince the Strait of Hormuz must remain open
- Hong Kong's triple baby bonus: 20 couples got HK$60,000 each, but only 60% of HK$2.28 billion fund disbursed
Why It Matters
Geopolitical shifts in US-Iran-China relations and Hong Kong's demographic policy impact global stability and regional economics.