Makana 360 Daily Insights:
📌 WHO declares the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo an international emergency
The World Health Organization has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo a public health emergency of international concern after around 246 suspected cases and 80 deaths were recorded. The outbreak is centered in Ituri province, but it has also spread to Uganda and includes confirmed cases in Kinshasa and Goma. The current strain is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, for which there is no approved vaccine or treatment. WHO warned that insecurity, population movement, and urban transmission hubs could increase the risk of wider regional spread, while still advising against border closures or travel restrictions.
📌 Iran eyes a new source of power deep beneath the Strait of Hormuz
Iran is seeking to leverage subsea internet cables beneath the Strait of Hormuz as a new source of strategic and economic influence. Tehran has discussed imposing fees on major technology firms and cable operators using the route, while state-linked media hinted that data traffic could be disrupted if companies do not comply. Although the feasibility of the plan remains uncertain, especially because US sanctions limit payments to Iran, the move highlights Tehran’s effort to expand its leverage in the strait beyond energy shipments into global data flows and financial connectivity.
📌 Trump returns from China with stability and a stalemate
Donald Trump returned from talks with Xi Jinping in Beijing with both sides signaling greater stability, but little meaningful progress on major disputes. The summit marked a shift away from the trade-war tensions of the previous phase, yet core US concerns over China’s trade practices, industrial overcapacity, and Indo-Pacific military influence remained unresolved. China welcomed a more predictable phase in relations, while analysts described the outcome as managed competition rather than renewed cooperation. Only limited commercial understandings emerged, though further talks may follow if Xi visits Washington later this year.
📖 To read and download the full report
📧 For inquiries: [email protected]