Diplomacy 101: Undiplomatically Speaking
Where Beliefs Clash and Stories Flash
Resignations and Regional Reckonings
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau formally announced his resignation amid plummeting approval ratings, economic anxiety, and growing criticism over his Gaza policy. The Liberal Party entered emergency leadership negotiations, with former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor Mark Carney emerging as frontrunner—sparking interest from Washington and London alike.
In the Middle East, Israel launched a limited ground operation into Rafah, despite international calls for restraint. Egypt issued a rare direct warning, while Jordan withdrew its ambassador for “consultations.” The Biden administration maintains diplomatic silence, but U.S. defense officials quietly increased munitions transfers.
Meanwhile, ASEAN foreign ministers convened in Jakarta to address increasing Chinese maritime aggression in the South China Sea. The final communiqué was tepid, but individual member states—particularly the Philippines and Vietnam—pledged expanded naval patrols, backed by Japanese funding and U.S. logistics support.