USA blockades Iranian ports • Spain storms into World Cup final • Border between Gibraltar and Spain falls

The United States has initiated a naval blockade against Iran, halting maritime traffic in and out of its ports and coastal zones. The U.S. military's regional command confirmed the blockade began at 10:00 PM CEST. This action is part of a broader escalation, with the U.S. military conducting a new wave of attacks on Iranian targets overnight. President Donald Trump indicated in a Fox News interview that further destruction of Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, is planned for the following week unless Iran agrees to negotiations.

Trump stated that the military actions would continue until he deems them sufficient. However, he has abandoned plans to impose a fee on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Instead, he announced on his platform Truth Social that following "very productive discussions" with Middle Eastern leaders, the proposed 20% levy will be replaced by trade and investment agreements. He is seeking financial commitments from Gulf states as an alternative.

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It is unless they come to the negotiating table and negotiate.

In sports, Spain's national football team, "La Roja," has secured a spot in the World Cup final after a decisive 2-0 victory over France in the semifinals. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal (penalty) and Pedro Porro propelled the reigning European champions into the championship match. They await the winner of the Argentina vs. England game. This marks Spain's second attempt to hold both the European Championship and World Cup titles simultaneously, a feat previously achieved by Germany in 1974 and Spain itself in 2010.

Meanwhile, the number of confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo has risen to 2,011, with 754 reported deaths, according to official government data from Kinshasa. The actual figures are believed to be higher due to strict quarantine measures. Ebola is a life-threatening viral disease transmitted through bodily fluids. The current outbreak is particularly challenging to contain, as there is no vaccine or specific therapy for the Bundibugyo Ebola virus strain. Additionally, the border barrier between Spain and Gibraltar, erected in 1908, has been dismantled after more than a century, removing border controls between the EU nation and the British Overseas Territory.

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After very productive discussions with the leaders in the Middle East, I have decided to replace the 20 percent levy with trade and investment agreements.