EU condemns U.S. steel tariff hike, prepares countermeasures

The European Commission (EC) on Saturday sharply criticized the United States' decision to raise tariffs on steel imports from 25 percent to 50 percent, warning that the move could prompt swift European retaliation.

"We strongly regret the announced increase," a Commission spokesperson said in an emailed statement, stating that the decision "adds further uncertainty to the global economy and increases costs for consumers and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic."

"The EU is prepared to impose countermeasures, including in response to the latest U.S. tariff increase," the spokesperson said, adding that the Commission is finalising consultations on expanded measures. Both existing and additional EU measures would take effect on July 14 -- or earlier -- "if circumstances require."

China strongly deplores, firmly opposes U.S. Defense Secretary's negative remarks related to China at Shangri-La Dialogue

China strongly deplores and firmly opposes the negative remarks related to China made by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, at the 22nd edition of the Shangri-La Dialogue, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Saturday.

The spokesperson said Hegseth deliberately ignored the call for peace and development by countries in the region, and instead touted the Cold War mentality for bloc confrontation, vilified China with defamatory allegations, and falsely called China a "threat."

"The remarks were filled with provocations and intended to sow division. China deplores and firmly opposes them and has protested strongly to the United States," said the spokesperson.

Israeli army confirms killing of Hamas leader in Gaza

Israel's military on Saturday confirmed the killing of Mohammed Sinwar, a senior Hamas commander and head of the group's military wing in Gaza.

In a joint statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet domestic intelligence agency said Sinwar was killed on May 13 in a targeted strike on an underground command center located beneath the European Hospital in southern Gaza. The military accused Hamas of using the medical facility as cover, putting civilians at risk.

Sinwar, 49, was described by the IDF as one of Hamas' most senior and long-serving military leaders, with a key role in planning the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel that ignited the current conflict.

Hamas gives "positive approval" to U.S.-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal

Hamas has given "positive approval" to the latest U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza, a senior official from the Palestinian militant group said on Saturday, describing it as part of a comprehensive agreement requiring full Israeli compliance.

The Hamas official, who requested anonymity, told Xinhua that the group's written response to international mediators includes specific timelines and implementation details, emphasizing the need for Israeli adherence to all terms, including reconstruction commitments.

"The ball is now in the court of the U.S. administration to pressure the Israeli government to comply with the agreement, rather than allowing it to prolong the war," the official said.