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Sergey Lavrov touched down in Beijing as Washington intensified its pressure on Iran by attempting to block the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway that carries roughly one‑third of China’s oil imports. The Russian foreign minister was greeted with a red‑carpet reception, according to photos released by Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Both Beijing and Moscow condemned the United States and Israel over their involvement in the ongoing war on Iran, noting that the conflict has already strained China’s energy supplies. China, a major purchaser of Iranian crude, denounced a newly announced U.S. plan to prohibit vessels from entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal waters, calling the measure an unjustified interference with international trade. “The Strait of Hormuz is a vital international trade route for goods and energy, and its security and uninterrupted flow serve the common interest of the global community,” Chinese MFA spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Monday. According to Al Jazeera’s Alan Fisher, the U.S. hopes that by choking Iran’s trade it can force China to pressure Tehran into returning to negotiations, given that Beijing imports about a third of its oil from Iran. Lavrov also held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, emphasizing the need to prevent any resurgence of hostilities in the Middle East and reiterating Russia’s “unwavering readiness” to assist in a diplomatic settlement. Araghchi relayed details of recent U.S.–Iran talks in Pakistan, which ended without a breakthrough, underscoring the limited diplomatic progress on the issue. The visit comes as China‑Russia relations have deepened since Russia’s full‑scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Earlier in the week, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke with Lavrov, agreeing that the two capitals would cooperate to de‑escalate tensions in the region. Beijing’s diplomatic calendar this week also featured meetings with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and an upcoming visit by Vietnamese President To Lam, highlighting China’s active role in global diplomacy despite its low‑profile stance on the Iran conflict. Analysts note that China’s restrained approach allows it to position itself as a “reliable, stable and predictable partner” for states seeking alternatives to U.S. influence, especially given its extensive trade ties with Tehran. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, slated to visit Beijing next month, warned he would impose a 50 percent tariff on Chinese goods if China provides military assistance to Iran. The claim followed a CNN report citing U.S. intelligence that China might deliver new air‑defence systems to Tehran. Chinese officials dismissed the report as “completely fabricated” and warned of “resolute counter‑measures” should the United States use it as a pretext for additional tariffs.

The Guardian’s latest photo feature offers a vivid look at Steve McQueen’s exhibition titled “Grenada”, a work that intertwines art and history through a series of compelling images.Central to the visual narrative are flowers that have “witnessed horrific things”, serving as silent witnesses to the island’s turbulent past. The photographs juxtapose the natural beauty of the flora with the lingering shadows of colonial trauma, inviting viewers to contemplate the complex legacy of Grenada.Each picture is carefully composed to highlight the contrast between the bountiful landscape and the weight of historical memory, underscoring McQueen’s intent to provoke reflection on how beauty can coexist with suffering.By presenting the exhibition in a picture‑rich format, the article allows readers to experience the emotional depth of the work without leaving the page, emphasizing the power of visual storytelling in contemporary art.

The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran has taken a turn for the worse, with President Trump's decision to escalate rather than negotiate turning this into a global problem. Europe, which had initially adopted a stance of non-involvement, is now facing the consequences of Trump's actions. The US naval blockade of Iran aims to prevent the country from shipping oil to market unless it allows free passage through the Strait of Hormuz. However, this move has caused oil prices to rise and stocks to fall, with the global economy feeling the pinch. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) meeting in Washington has turned into a crisis summit, with global growth forecasts being revised down due to the expected prolonged energy shock. The conflict has also raised concerns about shortages of essential goods such as medicines, fertilizers, and helium, which could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy. The article suggests that Trump's threats to stop tankers reaching Iranian ports and seize any ship paying Iran a toll for safe passage risk spiraling the war out of control. In this context, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's suggestion that Europe should help the US get out of the mess it has created has some merit. The article argues that Europe needs to find a way to help Trump retreat without losing face, and that diplomacy and negotiation are crucial to resolving the crisis. The article concludes that Trump's war aims are unpredictable and that the US needs NATO's diplomats and ideas to resolve the crisis, rather than just brute force. Europe must find a way to work with the US to end the conflict and prevent further economic damage.

World Aquatics, the governing body for swimming, diving, and water polo, has lifted restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes, allowing them to compete under their own flag and anthem for the first time since 2022. This decision has been met with outrage in Ukraine and joy in Russia, adding momentum to Russia's bid to participate in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. Ukrainian athletes have expressed their disappointment and anger over the decision. Vladyslav Heraskevych, a Ukrainian skeleton star, described the move as 'unacceptable and disgraceful', highlighting the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and its impact on Ukrainian athletes and sports facilities. The decision by World Aquatics follows a similar move by judo last year and comes as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) considers removing restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes for international events. The IOC recommended allowing Russians to compete under national flags in December, while the International Paralympic Committee has already permitted Russians to compete under their own flag and anthem. Russia has welcomed the decision, with Dmitry Mazepin, head of the Russian Aquatics Federation, stating that competing as a neutral athlete was 'an insult'. This development has significant implications for international sports and the participation of Russian athletes in future competitions.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia has granted the Trump administration a brief reprieve, extending the pause on the White House ballroom construction until April 17. The move allows officials to pursue a potential Supreme Court review of a lower‑court injunction that barred further work. In a split decision, Judges Patricia Millett and Bradley Garcia formed the majority, while Trump‑appointed Judge Neomi Rao dissented. The majority questioned the administration’s repeated claim that the construction pause creates a national‑security risk, noting that the original order already exempts work necessary for the White House’s safety. Judge Richard Leon, appointed by former President George W. Bush, had issued the March 31 injunction, stating that a project of this magnitude requires explicit Congressional authorization. Leon’s order included a 14‑day stay to let the administration appeal, a stay that was set to expire this week before the appeals court’s extension. The court highlighted that the administration has not demonstrated how the injunction interferes with any existing security plans. As the majority wrote, “Defendants have not, on this record, explained how, if at all, the injunction interferes with their existing plans for safety and security.” Furthermore, the judges pointed out that the ballroom—spanning roughly 90,000 sq ft (8,360 m²)—was always projected to be a multi‑year undertaking. Planning documents estimate completion nearly three years after groundbreaking, raising doubts about the claim that a short‑term delay poses additional harm. In her dissent, Judge Rao argued that the majority’s demand for further fact‑finding would cause “irreparable injury” by halting construction, asserting that the aesthetic concerns raised by critics are outweighed by the administration’s interests. The controversy stems from the decision to demolish the historic East Wing, a structure dating back to 1902, to make room for the new ballroom. Critics, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation, contend the demolition was executed without notice and exceeds presidential authority, prompting a lawsuit that led to Leon’s injunction. While the appeals court has sent the case back to the district court for clarification on factual disputes and the scope of the security exemption, the extension effectively keeps the construction site active for another week, maintaining the political flashpoint surrounding one of the most transformative building projects on the nation’s capital in recent memory.

When wages have been stagnant for almost two decades and a simple tube of toothpaste now costs nearly £7 at a major supermarket, the claim that “money can’t buy happiness” feels increasingly dismissive. The argument rests on a narrow view of what money can achieve. Spending cash solely on material goods yields only short‑lived pleasure. In contrast, the ability to afford time, experiences and mental‑health support expands one’s sense of freedom and purpose. Even basic needs such as leisure have become commodified; more disposable income simply translates into more opportunities to pursue what matters. As someone diagnosed with ADHD, I have learned—through personal trial rather than formal neuroscience—how to secure a steady supply of dopamine. The cheapest route is not a quick thrill, but activities that provide lasting satisfaction, such as novel experiences and moments of awe. One vivid example came during a winter trip to rural France, where two feet of snow turned the landscape into a scene straight out of Narnia. The awe‑inspiring view was a reminder that nature’s restorative power is often accessible only to those who can afford the travel, in my case a budget flight with Ryanair. Research supports the intuition that higher income correlates with greater happiness. A 2023 study by psychologists at Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania found that people with higher earnings report higher life satisfaction, though money cannot resolve non‑financial sources of unhappiness. Even the world’s richest are not immune to the paradox. Earlier this year, Elon Musk—on track to become the first trillionaire—tweeted that anyone who says “money can’t buy happiness” must be missing something. While Musk’s wealth may not guarantee personal joy, the same resources could provide a foundation for happiness for billions facing financial strain. Nevertheless, hoarding wealth like a dragon does not equate to fulfillment. The column suggests that redirecting a portion of vast fortunes toward travel, cultural enrichment, and shared experiences could transform isolated wealth into collective well‑being. In short, financial stability reduces stress and broadens horizons. It allows individuals to invest in the intangible assets—time, relationships, awe‑inducing experiences—that truly enrich life.

Argentina's lawmakers have given the green light to a bill championed by President Javier Milei that permits mining in sensitive glacier and permafrost regions. The move has sparked fierce criticism from environmentalists, who argue it jeopardizes vital water sources. The bill, which was already approved by the Senate in February, passed with 137 votes in favor, 111 against, and three abstentions in the Chamber of Deputies after a marathon 12-hour debate. This development is seen as a significant victory for Milei, who has been pushing for looser regulations to attract large-scale mining projects. Environmentalists have expressed deep concerns that the reforms will undermine protections for glaciers and permafrost, which are crucial for water supplies. Thousands of people demonstrated outside parliament, with some protesters clashing with police. Banners displayed slogans such as 'Water is more precious than gold!' and 'A glacier destroyed cannot be restored!' The bill allows for mining of metals like copper, lithium, and silver in the Andes mountains. Argentina is a major producer of lithium, a critical component for the global tech and green energy sectors. The central bank forecasts that mining exports could triple by 2030. Milei, who does not believe in man-made climate change, argues that the bill is necessary for economic growth. 'Environmentalists would rather see us starve than have anything touched,' he has stated. The reform gives provinces more power to decide which areas to protect and which to exploit economically. Environmental activist Flavia Broffoni countered that 'the science is clear' and that creating a 'sustainable mine' in a periglacial environment is not possible. With nearly 17,000 glaciers and rock glaciers in Argentina, concerns over glacial reserves shrinking due to climate change add urgency to the debate.

Cameron Picton, the bassist‑vocalist behind British art‑rock outfit Black Midi, has unveiled his first solo statement under the moniker My New Band Believe. Recorded with a cadre of improvisational musicians—including veteran drummer Steve Noble, formerly of Rip Rig + Panic—the album abandons the band’s signature wall of sound for an intimate, acoustic approach.The record opens with the gentle ballad “Still,” a track originally tucked away on Black Midi’s sprawling rock‑opera Hellfire. Here, Picton’s unadorned vocal delivery replaces Geordie Greep’s theatrical croons, setting a tone of understated sincerity that runs through the entire project.Every song is built from live‑sounding instruments: fingerpicked guitars, double bass, piano, subtle percussion and tasteful string arrangements. This stripped‑back aesthetic allows the lyrics to move away from Black Midi’s often surreal narratives toward more direct, everyday subjects. For instance, the opening track “Target Practice” retains a hint of the band’s dark humor, while “Love Story” paints a nostalgic picture of a couple cooking together, and “Opposite Teacher” reflects on the challenges of fatherhood.Even within this quieter framework, Picton injects moments of tension. The second track, “In the Blink of an Eye,” introduces dissonant chords that remind listeners that “understated” is a relative term for an artist accustomed to sonic extremes. Throughout, the songs remain episodic, with sudden key changes and tempo shifts that echo the restless spirit of Van Dyke Parks’ 1967 Song Cycle—a collaboration Picton initially pursued before budget constraints halted the partnership.Highlights such as “Heart of Darkness” weave together folk‑rock riffs, jazzy drumming and an improvised coda of feedback‑like strings, while “Actress” balances sweet melodies with dramatic pauses and volume surges, ending more as a gradual fade than a conventional finish.Compared with Black Midi’s recent releases—most notably the chaotic, genre‑bending Hellfire and Geordie Greep’s solo effort The New Sound—Picton’s debut feels more approachable without sacrificing artistic curiosity. The album’s constant motion is contained by its acoustic instrumentation, making it easier to love rather than merely admire. It resists standard song structures, defies easy categorisation, and showcases a plethora of unconventional musical ideas, all while wearing its intelligence with a lighter touch.

On All Hallows' Eve in 1517, Martin Luther, a 33-year-old German priest and scholar, took a pivotal step that would change the course of history. He marched up to the church in Wittenberg and nailed a document to the door, containing 95 statements, or theses, protesting against corruption in the church.Luther's actions led to his excommunication and a dramatic escape, but they also marked the beginning of the Reformation. As a musician himself, Luther knew the power of music in spreading his new doctrine. He saw music as a divine gift 'next to theology' and used it to incite people to do good and to teach them.Luther's hymns, known as chorales in the German-speaking world, were simple, memorable tunes, often adapted from popular melodies, repeated verse to verse. The words were in everyday German, and the hymn tunes were harmonized with simple, block chords, making it possible for anyone to sing along.One of Luther's most famous hymns, Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott (A Safe Stronghold Our God is Still), is still sung today in churches around the world. His hymns were widely distributed using the relatively new technology of the movable type printing press, invented by Johannes Gutenberg.Luther's musical legacy continued to influence composers, including Heinrich Schütz and Johann Sebastian Bach, who composed new chorales and clothed existing ones in rich harmonies. Bach's chorale preludes, where an elaborate melodic line unfolds until the chorale tune emerges, remain iconic.The chorales have also had a lasting impact on popular music, with arrangements by artists like the Swingle Singers and Myra Hess, and even influencing 1970s pop music, such as Apollo's 'Joy' and The Beach Boys' 'Lady Lynda'.