China hits out at US and Israel, why the Strait of Hormuz matters: SCMP daily highlights
From China urged to adopt yuan-backed stablecoins to Beijing criticising the US and Iran, here’s a round-up from today’s coverage
1. China hits out at US and Israel, calls for de-escalation of conflict with Iran
China sharply criticised the United States and Israel, calling on them to de-escalate their conflict with Iran, prioritise civilian safety and adhere to international law as Mideast anxiety intensified following the US attack on three Iranian nuclear facilities using massive “bunker buster” bombs.
2. Veteran banker Jin Liqun on leading AIIB during its formative first 10 years
With his tenure as Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank president drawing to a close, the financier surveys the landscape for multilateral development.
3. Why the Strait of Hormuz matters – and what a blockade could mean for Asia
Iran’s parliament has approved a measure to close the Strait of Hormuz after the United States launched military strikes over the weekend. The final decision rests with the country’s Supreme National Security Council and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei – but the move has already deepened fears for the global energy trade.