International

The Apex Times

THE APEX TIMES

South African court sentences two men in what police called world’s largest rhino-horn trafficking case

Dawie Groenewald, described by police as the “mastermind,” received a fine of 2 million rand or a four-year jail term, as a nearly 16-year legal process draws to a close.

The Apex Times

THE APEX TIMES

Ukrainian drones strike Moscow refinery, sending thick black smoke over parts of the capital, according to reports

A large Ukrainian drone attack hit a major oil refinery in Moscow on June 18, producing thick black smoke visible across parts of the city, according to Fox News.

The Apex Times

THE APEX TIMES

Bowen says a US-Iran deal has raised questions about what the earlier conflict was for

In an assessment reported by BBC World, a proposed or ongoing US-Iran agreement is prompting scrutiny of the objectives and outcomes of the United States’ previous approach toward Iran, as the Iranian leadership remains in power.

The Apex Times

THE APEX TIMES

Iran says a US deal has left it stronger than before as focus shifts to the next phase of pressure and negotiations

A BBC Persian Service analysis says Iran believes it has emerged from the first chapter of a conflict-era process with greater leverage than many expected, even as it confronts what it views as a more difficult next challenge.

The Apex Times

THE APEX TIMES

OPEC chief dismisses IEA warning of a supply glut as Strait of Hormuz reopens

The International Energy Agency said a lasting resolution to the conflict affecting shipping could quickly raise oil supply volumes and contribute to a potential “major oil overhang” next year. OPEC’s leadership responded by questioning the glut outlook and tying the shift to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy flows.

The Apex Times

THE APEX TIMES

Lebanon leaders and diplomats weigh what a U.S.-Iran agreement could change on the ground

In an interview published June 18, former Lebanese ambassador to Jordan Tracy Chamoun said the implications of a new U.S.-Iran deal for Lebanon extend beyond Hezbollah, including how any ceasefire would be understood and enforced.

The Apex Times

THE APEX TIMES

Vice President Vance holds White House briefing after Trump signs Iran war agreement, preparation for Switzerland talks

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is set to brief reporters at the White House following President Donald Trump’s signing of an Iran-related war agreement, as the administration prepares for a new round of negotiations in Switzerland.

The Apex Times

THE APEX TIMES

Ukraine launches major drone strike targeting Moscow refinery, NPR reports

A large-scale drone attack hit a refinery in Moscow on Thursday, an incident NPR described as among Ukraine’s biggest strikes on Russia to date.