China: Manufacturing sector continues to expand despite rising price and supply pressures

*U.A.E. Preparing to Join Military Effort to Open Strait Of Hormuz, Arab Officials Say: WSJ *UAE TO PERSUADE US TO OPEN WATERWAY BY ANY MEANS: WSJ #OOTT | UAE Wants To Force Hormuz Open And Is Willing To Join The Fight – WSJ UAE pushes to reopen Hormuz by force, raising risk of wider war The United Arab Emirates is taking a more assertive stance in the Iran conflict, signalling it is prepared to support military action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint. According to officials, the UAE is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution that would authorise a multinational effort to restore freedom of navigation in the strait, including the potential use of force. Emirati officials are also urging the United States and allied powers across Europe and Asia to form a coalition capable of clearing mines, escorting commercial shipping and, if necessary, taking control of strategic territory along the waterway. The shift marks a significant change in the UAE’s posture. Historically cautious and economically intertwined with Iran, the country had previously sought to avoid direct confrontation. However, sustained Iranian missile and drone attacks—along with economic damage to sectors such as aviation, tourism and property—have altered that calculus. The UAE is now actively considering a direct military role, including supporting operations to secure key islands in the strait. The waterway is vital not only for global oil and gas flows but also for the UAE’s own economic model, which depends heavily on trade, logistics and stable shipping routes. Other Gulf states are also hardening their stance. Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are backing efforts to increase pressure on Iran, though most have not yet committed to direct military engagement. Bahrain is sponsoring the proposed UN resolution, with a vote expected soon.