Reuters World News Iran-US talks, Houthis, Russia's spring offensive and Chinese humanoid robots
Mar 30, 2026
Pakistan offers to host talks aimed at ending the US‑Iran standoff. Concerns rise over Houthi attacks threatening a second key shipping route and oil supplies. Ukraine braces for a renewed Russian spring offensive around Donetsk. U.S. lawmakers push to block government purchases of Chinese humanoid robots.
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Pakistan Offers To Host US Iran Talks
- Pakistan offered to host US-Iran talks aimed at a comprehensive settlement of the conflict.
- Foreign Minister Ishak Dar said Pakistan "will be honoured to host and facilitate meaningful talks" though attendance by Washington and Tehran was unclear.
Houthis Threaten Second Oil Chokepoint
- Yemen's Houthis have begun attacking Israel and threaten Bab al-Mandeb, a second chokepoint for Middle East oil.
- Asia Commodities Editor Tony Monroe noted Saudi oil is rerouted via Yanbu then south through Bab al-Mandeb, lengthening and costing shipments to Asia.
Oil Prices Reflect Prolonged Conflict Fears
- Brent crude surged above $115 a barrel, reflecting fears of prolonged conflict and supply disruption.
- Morning Bid noted futures out three to four months are also over $100, signalling fading hopes for a quick end to the war.