UK Maritime Trade Operations said an oil tanker sailing east in the International Recommended Transit Corridor reported six small boats approaching from its starboard side.

EU high representative for foreign affairs and security policy Kallas said all 27 member states agree that Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal.

China's pork and hog prices have risen for two consecutive weeks in July, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs says. Beijing Xinfadi wholesale pork averaged 14.4 yuan/kg on July 12, up 15% from July 1; the early-July peak averaged 14.55 yuan/kg on July 8, the highest since the Lunar New Year. Farm-gate hog prices began a sustained uptrend in late June, climbing 12.8% over the past two weeks. The ministry said continued reduction in productive sow capacity should gradually ease hog supply pressure in H2, while end-Q3 back-to-school demand and Mid-Autumn/National Day holiday restocking should support a mild price rebound. Producers are advised to use the current rally to orderly schedule sales.