The US has instituted visa restrictions affecting dozens of countries, while unrest in Iran escalates and Uganda, Beijing’s cyber security guidance to local firms, and major strategic moves in the streaming industry.
US preparation to halt visa processing for 75 nations
The United States is preparing to suspend routine visa processing for citizens of about 75 countries next week as part of tightened entry restrictions, according to a senior government official, cited by Fox News, a move likely to delay travel and complicate travel plans for many foreign nationals even as national security concerns remain at the forefront of US immigration policy.
US pulls personnel from Middle East bases as Iran unrest raises risk of conflict
The United States has started withdrawing some personnel from key Middle East bases as tensions with Iran rise during the country’s deadliest unrest since 1979. A US official said the move is a precaution after Tehran warned it would target American bases if Washington intervenes, with limited draw downs reported at sites including Qatar’s Al Udeid air base. The pullback comes as President Donald Trump continues to threaten intervention, with European and Israeli officials warning military action could be imminent, even as Iran’s security forces retain control despite a protest death toll exceeding 2 600, according to rights groups.
Uganda election campaign marked by violence and political tension
Uganda’s election campaign has been clouded by violence and political tension, with reports of attacks on supporters of opposition figures including Bobi Wine, raising concerns about the fairness and safety of the electoral process as President Yoweri Museveni seeks another term amid a deeply polarised environment.
China tells domestic firms to avoid US and Israeli cyber security software
Beijing has instructed Chinese companies to stop using cyber security software from US and Israeli vendors, according to sources, in a push to reduce reliance on foreign technology and protect national security, underscoring ongoing tech decoupling between China and Western technology suppliers.
Netflix considers all-cash offer to amend Warner Bros bid
Netflix is weighing an all-cash proposal to revise its offer for a deal with Warner Bros, Bloomberg News reports, signalling a potential strategic shift in the highly competitive streaming market as companies compete for content ownership and global subscriber growth.
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