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Japan's defence minister paid respects at the controversial Yasukuni shrine on the 81st anniversary of Japan's WWII surrender, while Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi opted not to attend, a decision with significant diplomatic implications across Asia.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has ordered an investigation into Saudi Arabia's assertion that pro-Iranian armed groups operating from Iraqi soil launched drone strikes targeting the kingdom, marking a significant diplomatic development in regional tensions.
Malaysia's embassy in Qatar has warned its nationals to adhere to local security protocols and steer clear of military installations, citing recent developments in the Gulf. Malaysians are also advised to remain cautious and verify travel arrangements.
Donald Trump has warned the United States will destroy an Iranian bridge or power plant for every attack on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating rhetoric amid ongoing military confrontation.
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi will meet Philippine counterpart Theresa Lazaro this week in Manila for the first top-level diplomatic encounter in two years, even as tensions escalate over South China Sea claims, defence matters, and regional geopolitics.
Cambodia's PM Hun Manet and Thailand's PM Anutin Charnvirakul have both signalled openness to Chinese mediation of their border dispute during simultaneous visits to Beijing, though neither has formally requested intervention.
A Thai-registered vessel was reportedly attacked by Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz as US-Iran military clashes escalate. The incident highlights growing risks to commercial shipping in one of the world's most critical energy corridors.
The Philippines has condemned a China Daily video showing Filipinos depicted as monkeys, demanding its removal and denouncing it as racist propaganda that crosses moral and diplomatic boundaries.