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Ghana News Live Blog: Key Updates Throughout Monday, January 26, 2026

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Stay tuned! We’ll refresh this page as new developments emerge across politics, public safety, and civic affairs.


(Last updated: 7:30 pm on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories.)

Court Dismisses Unauthorized Applicant’s Claim in Daddy Lumba Estate Case

A High Court in Kumasi has struck out an application related to the estate of the late highlife musician Charles Kwadwo Fosuh (Daddy Lumba) after a named applicant, his daughter Charlyn Fosuh, denied consenting to her inclusion in the legal action. The motion for misjoinder was upheld by Justice Hannah Taylor, removing her name from the application seeking letters of administration. Fosuh’s counsel emphasised that she had not authorised any affidavit in her name and preferred the family resolve estate matters privately to preserve unity while protecting her father’s legacy.

🔗 Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/court-strikes-out-unauthorised-applicant-from-daddy-lumbas-estate/

Prominent Figures Challenge Party Delegate Systems at Supreme Court

Elder statespersons including Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, and Dr. Christine Amoako-Nuamah have filed a constitutional writ at the Supreme Court challenging the delegate-based candidate selection systems used by Ghana’s major political parties — the NPP, NDC, and CPP. They argue these systems disenfranchise ordinary party members by limiting voting rights in internal elections to a small class of delegates. The plaintiffs claim such practices violate democratic principles under the 1992 Constitution and seek rulings to mandate broader participation and compliance by political parties and the Electoral Commission.

🔗Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/prof-frimpong-boateng-nyaho-tamakloe-and-others-sue-npp-ndc-and-cpp-over-delegate-systems/

Minority in Parliament Questions Chief Justice’s Institutional Visits

The Minority in Ghana’s Parliament has criticised Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s ongoing visits to state institutions, alleging the engagements resemble a politically motivated “thank-you tour” following his appointment. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin stated the caucus would boycott a planned visit to Parliament and called for direct engagement with the judiciary on substantive issues. Supporters of the visits say they are aimed at strengthening collaboration across government sectors.

🔗 Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/minority-questions-chief-justices-institutional-visits-labels-them-thank-you-tour/

NDC Government Draws Criticism Over Delay in Passing Anti-LGBTQ Law

The Minority in Parliament has accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of hypocrisy and stalling on the anti-LGBTQ Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which they say was championed by the party while in opposition. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin highlighted that despite previous advocacy, the government has been quiet on advancing the bill a year after assuming office, using procedural delays as justification. Critics argue this represents a departure from earlier commitments made during electoral campaigns.

🔗 Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/politics/Minority-calls-out-NDC-over-delay-in-passage-of-anti-LGBTQ-law-2018944

Ghana Law Society Postpones Press Conference Amid Legal Battle

The President of the Ghana Law Society (GLS), Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has postponed a scheduled press conference due to an ongoing legal dispute. This follows a high court injunction application challenging the GLS’s recent accreditation and its claimed authority to issue practising licences — functions traditionally held by the Ghana Bar Association and General Legal Council. The postponement adds complexity to the unfolding legal tussle within Ghana’s legal profession. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Ghana-Law-Society-postpones-press-conference-over-pending-lawsuit-2018942


(Last updated: 2:30 pm on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories.)

Felix Kwakye: No Special Treatment for Ken Ofori-Atta Under the Law

Ken Ofori-Atta

Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu has stated that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta cannot receive preferential treatment amid ongoing investigations into his tenure. Speaking on JOYNEWS’ AM Show, Kwakye stated that equality before the law applies to all, including Ofori-Atta, who faces probes by the Office of the Special Prosecutor over alleged financial mismanagement. He noted legal recourse exists for any unlawful institutional actions, amid Ofori-Atta’s detention by U.S. ICE following visa revocation. The comments follow public debates on fairness and potential extradition issues.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ken-ofori-atta-cannot-receive-special-treatment-under-the-law-felix-kwakye/

Police Bust Suspected Cocaine Haul on Accra-Aflao Highway

A joint intelligence-led operation by the Volta Regional Police intercepted a black Liberty Jeep (registration FK692KF) near Kpotame on the Accra-Aflao road, seizing ten parcels of compressed substances suspected to be cocaine (each ~1kg) and half a kilogram of suspected Indian hemp hidden in the vehicle’s boot. The driver, 46-year-old Nigerian national Charles Adenkule, was arrested and is assisting investigations. The estimated street value of the cocaine is GH¢1,032,650, with exhibits sent for forensic analysis. Regional Police Commander DCOP Wisdom Akorli praised the officers’ professionalism.
Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/police-intercepts-vehicle-in-drug-bust-on-accra-aflao-road/

BREAKING: Abu Trica Re-Arrested by NACOC After Court Discharge

Ghanaian socialite Frederick Kumi, alias Abu Trica, was re-arrested by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) shortly after the Gbese District Court discharged him when the state withdrew charges. The re-arrest followed an attempt to detain him in the courtroom, which reportedly upset the judge. Abu Trica and co-accused were taken to NACOC headquarters for what his legal team described as possible administrative purposes. The case relates to a U.S. indictment for an alleged $8+ million online romance scam using AI-generated profiles targeting elderly victims.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/BREAKING-Abu-Trica-re-arrested-2018893

Kpebu Alleges Some Ex-NPP Appointees Avoid Prosecution Due to NDC Campaign Funding

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has claimed that certain former New Patriotic Party (NPP) appointees implicated in corruption are escaping legal action because they financed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 election campaign. In a TV3 interview, Kpebu described Ghana’s political scene as “dicey,” suggesting pre-election “horse-trading” where financial support secures protection. He argued the lack of prosecutions against expected targets points to such arrangements, common across administrations.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Some-Ex-NPP-appointees-walking-free-because-they-financed-NDC-campaign-Kpebu-2018837

Ghana Deploys Over 130 Health Professionals to Caribbean Under Labour Exchange Programme

Ghana has begun deploying health professionals to Caribbean nations to tackle unemployment among its qualified graduates, with over 130 workers sent to Antigua and Barbuda for midwifery, mental health, and general care roles under a three-year contract. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh explained the Labour Exchange Programme addresses a backlog of more than 80,000 unemployed health professionals, with future batches planned for Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad. The initiative creates jobs abroad while filling healthcare gaps in partner countries.
Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/health/Here-s-why-Ghana-is-deploying-health-professionals-to-the-Caribbean-2018910

Minority Accuses Chief Justice of ‘Thank-You Tour’ Over Ministry Visits

The Minority in Parliament has criticized Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie’s courtesy calls to ministries like Finance and Education, labeling them a “thank-you tour” for his appointment rather than genuine consultations. They questioned his impartiality and stated they would not participate, though open to formal engagement. The visits aimed to strengthen judiciary-executive collaboration, but the accusations raise concerns about perceived bias and judicial independence. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Are-you-on-a-thank-you-tour-Minority-blasts-Chief-Justice-over-ministry-visits-2018909


(Last updated: 8:00 am on January 26, 2026. Check back for more stories)

American Streamer IShowSpeed Lands in Ghana to Massive Airport Welcome

IShowSpeed

American internet sensation IShowSpeed touched down at Kotoka International Airport on January 26, 2026, sparking scenes of excitement as stunt riders and crowds gathered in the precinct. The 21-year-old content creator’s arrival, part of his African tour following Nigeria, received support from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA). GTA Deputy CEO Abeiku Santana shared enthusiasm on X, highlighting planned cultural and fun activities to ensure a memorable visit. The lively atmosphere quickly went viral online.

Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Watch-scenes-at-Kotoka-International-Airport-as-American-streamer-IShowSpeed-arrives-in-Ghana-2018817

Ghana Cedi Emerges as Africa’s Top-Performing Currency in 2025 – IMF Data

IMF analysis ranks the Ghana cedi as the best-performing currency in Africa for 2025, appreciating over 40% against the US dollar across more than 20 major economies. This outperformance stems from Bank of Ghana policies and IMF-supported reforms, bolstered by reserves nearing US$14 billion by year-end. The strength signals potential for further stability measures in 2026. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ghana-cedi-best-performing-currency-in-africa-for-2025-imf/

Devastating Fire Engulfs Mechanic Shops at Sofoline, Destroys Over 100 Vehicles

A massive fire swept through mechanic shops in Sofoline, Kwadaso Municipality (Ashanti Region), around 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, destroying more than 100 vehicles, engines, and upholstery materials. No casualties were reported, though the cause remains unknown—some artisans suspect refuse burning. The incident has caused significant economic losses for local artisans. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/fire-sweeps-through-mechanic-shops-at-sofoline-destroys-over-100-vehicles/

Court Remands Man Over TikTok Claims of Military Plot to Assassinate President Mahama

Ahmed Hassan Abdul Razzaq, a 30-year-old laundry attendant, was remanded into police custody by an Accra court without plea after posting a TikTok video alleging two sergeants planned to kill President John Dramani Mahama. Charged with publishing false news to cause fear and panic, he admitted seeing the claim online but could not substantiate it. He returns to court on February 9, 2026. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/court-remands-man-claiming-a-military-plot-to-kill-president-mahama/

President Mahama Expresses Shock at Rapid Economic Turnaround

President John Dramani Mahama described Ghana’s swift economic recovery as surprising and beyond expectations, noting he anticipated at least two years for visible progress. Inflation fell from 23.8% to 5.4%, and the cedi appreciated 37% in one year, earning praise from IMF and World Bank observers as a model of prudent management and discipline. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/we-are-all-shocked-and-surprised-at-the-quick-turnaround-of-ghanas-economy-mahama/

Electoral Commission Confirms Full Readiness for NPP Presidential Primary

The Electoral Commission assured complete preparedness for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary on January 31, 2026, with logistics underway: ballot papers secured, materials distribution starting January 27 to regions and constituencies, and voter albums for delegates received. The process promises transparency and credibility. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/ec-assures-readiness-ahead-of-npp-presidential-primary-on-january-31/

Registrar of Companies Announces Fee Increases Effective February 2

The Office of the Registrar of Companies will raise service fees from February 2, 2026, per the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512). The adjustment aims to ensure sustainable operations and better customer experience. Full revised fee details will be available at ORC offices and online. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/registrar-of-companies-to-increase-fees-from-february-2/.

Nollywood Star Tonto Dikeh Announces Reconciliation with Ex-Husband After 10 Years

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has publicly revealed her reconciliation with ex-husband Olakunle Churchill, the father of her child, a decade after their separation filled with public disputes and personal challenges. Sharing the news on Instagram, Dikeh attributed the healing to divine intervention, humility, and prayer, writing that “what human effort could not fix, God healed by salvation” and transforming their relationship into one of peace and respect. She urged followers facing difficulties to persist in faith, love, and trust in God. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/tonto-dikeh-reconciles-with-ex-husband-10-years-after-separation/

Gold Surpasses $5,000 per Ounce for the First Time in Historic Rally

Gold prices have broken the $5,000 (£3,659) barrier per ounce for the first time, extending a remarkable 2025 rally of over 60%. Factors driving the surge include geopolitical tensions (US-NATO over Greenland, US tariffs threats), persistent inflation, a weaker US dollar, central bank purchases, anticipated Fed rate cuts, ongoing wars, and gold’s role as a safe-haven asset amid financial uncertainty. Experts note its scarcity and cultural demand in markets like India and China. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/gold-tops-5000-for-first-time-ever-adding-to-historic-rally/

Worst Floods in a Generation Devastate Mozambique: Thousands Affected, Dozens Dead

Mozambique is grappling with its worst floods in a generation, triggered by heavy rains and the Inkomati River bursting its banks, affecting over 642,000 people since early January, mainly in southern and central regions including Maputo and Gaza provinces. At least 12 deaths have been confirmed from the floods (part of 125 total rainy-season fatalities), with tens of thousands rescued—some clinging to treetops or rooftops—amid submerged homes, farmlands, and roads. International teams from Brazil, South Africa, and the UK are assisting, though challenges persist with food shortages and isolated communities. Read more: https://www.myjoyonline.com/people-cling-to-treetops-as-worst-floods-in-a-generation-sweep-mozambique/

Reckless Driving and Overspeeding Drive Surge in Ghana’s 2025 Road Crashes – NRSA

Ghana recorded 14,743 road traffic crashes in 2025, resulting in 2,949 deaths—a sharp rise from the previous year—according to the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA). Director-General Abraham Amaliba attributed the increase primarily to reckless driving and overspeeding, stressing driver behavior over road conditions. Funding constraints limited the Stay Alive campaign, but renewed efforts are expected with the Road Maintenance Fund. Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/reckless-driving-overspeeding-behind-surge-in-2025-road-crashes-nrsa/

Ghana Urged to Speed Up Shift to Clean Transport for Climate and Health Gains

The UK–Ghana Jobs and Economic Transformation (JET) Programme has called for accelerated adoption of clean transport under the Ghana Automotive Development Policy (GADP). With transport contributing nearly half of energy-related emissions and air pollution costing $3 billion annually (4% of GDP), the push aims to cut greenhouse gases, improve public health, create jobs, and meet Ghana’s 15% emissions reduction target by 2030. Recommendations include fast-tracking GADP revisions for electric vehicles and supporting financing for low-emission fleets. Read more: https://citinewsroom.com/2026/01/ghana-urged-to-accelerate-clean-transport-transition/

Kennedy Agyapong Stands Firm: No Apology for Calling Bawumia a ‘Liar’

NPP flagbearer aspirant Kennedy Agyapong has defiantly refused to retract or apologise for labeling Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his main opponent, a “liar,” responding to pressure with:

“I will not apologise. I will apologise my foot. I don’t fear anybody.”

The controversy arose amid the NPP’s Peace Pact signing for unity, where Agyapong resisted until document errors were fixed. His campaign denied circulating fake apology reports, as the row risks deepening party divisions ahead of primaries. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/I-will-apologise-my-foot-Kennedy-Agyapong-defiant-over-Bawumia-is-a-liar-claim-2018820

Ghana Armed Forces Dismiss HIV-Positive Claims Among Recruitment Applicants as ‘Fake News’

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has strongly refuted circulating reports alleging that approximately 60 percent of applicants undergoing military medical screening tested HIV positive. In an official statement, GAF described the claims—first published by classfmonline.com—as completely false and misleading. The military emphasized that the ongoing recruitment medical screening process has not yet concluded, and no results have been released or declared to date. GAF warned that such misinformation undermines public trust and the integrity of the institution, vowing to trace the originators while urging media outlets to verify information from credible sources before publication. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/GAF-breaks-silence-on-alleged-HIV-positive-claims-among-applicants-2018814

One Killed, Two Injured in Truck Overturn Accident at Breku Forest on Accra-Kumasi Highway

A tragic road accident claimed one life and left two others injured when a cement-laden Howo Sinotruk truck (registration AS-4114-24) overturned in Breku Forest near the Pra River along the Accra-Kumasi Highway on Sunday, January 25, 2026. The truck sustained severe damage to its front section. A joint rescue operation by the Ghana National Fire Service teams from Konongo-Odumase and Juaso, led by Siaw Richardson, successfully extricated the injured victims, who were rushed to Juaso Government Hospital via ambulance (GV-589-20). The body of the deceased was recovered and handed over to the police for further action. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Read more: https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/regional/One-killed-2-injured-in-Breku-forest-accident-2018821

Last updated: 8:00 am on January 26, 2026. Check back for more updates

Global Update

UK-France Led Coalition Intensifies Push to Reopen Strait of Hormuz as the World Faces Soaring Fuel Costs

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A growing international coalition led by the United Kingdom and France, now numbering nearly 30 countries, is stepping up diplomatic and military efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the vital chokepoint for global oil shipments that has been largely paralysed by ongoing conflict and attacks in the region.

The initiative gained momentum after a March 19 meeting of leaders from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan, who issued a joint statement condemning the laying of mines and repeated drone and missile strikes that have effectively halted safe commercial shipping through the strait.

The countries called on Iran to immediately cease hostilities and comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817.

Since then, the coalition has expanded significantly, with Britain and France scheduled to chair talks this week aimed at formalising a joint mission to restore safe navigation.

UK media reports indicate that defence chiefs are expected to meet in the coming days, and Britain has offered to host a follow-up summit in Portsmouth or London to finalise operational plans. Officials have stated that the coalition is prepared to act “as soon as the conditions are right.”

The urgency is being driven in part by the severe economic fallout being felt across Africa. South Africa is bracing for sharp fuel price increases due to disrupted global supply routes and India’s recent imposition of export duties on refined petroleum products.

Nigeria has already seen fuel prices rise by approximately 39% in recent weeks, while many other oil-importing African nations are struggling with higher freight costs, tighter supply, and weakening local currencies.

Reopening the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil normally passes, is seen as critical to easing global energy price pressures and preventing further economic hardship in import-dependent regions.

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Global Update

Federal Judge Orders Full Restoration of Voice of America Operations, Reinstating Over 1,000 Employees After Year-Long Shutdown

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Washington, D.C. – A U.S. federal judge has directed the Trump administration to immediately reverse sweeping cuts that had effectively dismantled much of the Voice of America (VOA), reinstating 1,042 of the broadcaster’s 1,147 employees who had been placed on administrative leave or sidelined for nearly a year.

In a strongly worded ruling issued March 18, 2026, U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth declared the administration’s actions “arbitrary and capricious” and in violation of federal law. The decision reverses moves that reduced VOA to a bare “statutory minimum” operation, severely curtailing multilingual programming and forcing the agency to halt most original journalism production.

The judge gave the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) seven calendar days to submit a detailed restoration plan, including timelines for resuming full broadcasts and returning staff to active duty. Non-compliance could trigger contempt proceedings.

The cuts stemmed from an executive order issued by President Donald Trump and were implemented under Kari Lake, his unconfirmed acting director of USAGM. Last week, Judge Lamberth had already ruled that Lake lacked legal authority to carry out the reductions due to her lack of Senate confirmation.

Major Implications for Workers

The ruling delivers immediate and substantial relief to more than 1,000 federal employees who had been in limbo since mid-2025:

  • Immediate Return to Duty — The 1,042 affected journalists, editors, producers, technicians, and support staff will be reinstated to active roles, ending prolonged administrative leave.
  • Restoration of Full Pay & Benefits — Workers regain uninterrupted salary, health insurance continuity, retirement contributions, and other federal employee protections that had been frozen or placed at risk.
  • Reclamation of Professional Mission — Employees can resume their core journalistic work after nearly a year of enforced idleness, many of whom described the period as professionally demoralizing.
  • Job Security & Seniority — The decision protects career progression, accumulated leave, and seniority rights that were threatened by the indefinite “statutory minimum” staffing model.

Patsy Widakuswara, VOA’s White House bureau chief and a lead plaintiff in the lawsuit, welcomed the outcome:

“We are eager to begin repairing the damage Kari Lake has inflicted on our agency and our colleagues, to return to our congressional mandate, and to rebuild the trust of the global audience we have been unable to serve for the past year. We know the road to restoring VOA’s operations and reputation will be long and difficult. We hope the American people will continue to support our mission to produce journalism, not propaganda.”

Broader Context

Founded during World War II, Voice of America broadcasts independent news in 49 languages to an estimated 362 million weekly listeners, often in countries with restricted press freedom. The near-total shutdown had drawn sharp criticism from press freedom organizations, former VOA staff, and foreign policy experts who argued it undermined U.S. soft power and global information access.

The Trump administration has not yet indicated whether it will appeal. President Trump has since nominated Sarah Rogers, current Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy, to lead USAGM on a permanent basis — a nomination that requires Senate confirmation.

The decision reinforces protections under the Administrative Procedure Act against politically motivated dismantling of congressionally mandated agencies and reaffirms that acting officials without Senate approval cannot unilaterally override statutory obligations.

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Global Update

How Global Nations Are Scrambling with Drastic Measures as Trump’s Iran War Triggers Historic Oil Crisis

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The escalating U.S.-led conflict with Iran, sparked by President Donald Trump’s military strikes, has unleashed what experts are calling the most severe energy crisis since the 1970s.

The situation is forcing countries worldwide to implement emergency responses to cope with soaring fuel prices, supply shortages, and economic ripple effects.

With the Strait of Hormuz effectively blockaded — halting safe passage for tankers carrying up to one-fifth of global oil — major producers like Saudi Arabia have slashed output, Iraq’s production has plummeted to less than one-third of pre-war levels, and force majeure declarations by energy firms in Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have disrupted contracts.

Beyond fuel, the crisis is choking supplies of petroleum-derived products like fertilizers, plastics, and industrial raw materials, threatening food security and manufacturing.

Nations are responding with unprecedented austerity and conservation tactics:

  • Bangladesh has shuttered all universities nationwide to curb electricity use and reduce commuting demands, aiming to stretch limited fuel reserves amid fears of broader blackouts.
  • The Philippines has mandated a four-day work week for employers in Manila and other regions, specifically to conserve energy and minimize transport fuel consumption as diesel and gasoline supplies dwindle.
  • Vietnam is grappling with widespread fuel outages, with gas stations in Hanoi displaying “sold out” signs and rationing supplies, prompting long queues and emergency imports.
  • Pakistan is hiking gas prices to discourage private vehicle use, prioritizing diesel for essential trucks and buses in a bid to maintain logistics and food distribution chains.
  • Japan has seen industrial fallout, with a major plastics plant north of Tokyo scaling down production due to shortages of petroleum-based raw materials, while aluminum smelters and other energy-intensive facilities face shutdowns.

The Wall Street Journal and CNBC have dubbed this the “biggest oil supply disruption in history,” with Brent crude prices surging amid global stockpiling. Analysts warn of cascading effects: higher fertilizer costs could spike food prices worldwide, while manufacturing halts risk supply-chain breakdowns.

Trump has described the war as benefiting “other parts of the world,” but critics argue the self-imposed crisis is backfiring, exacerbating inflation and instability far beyond the Middle East.

As diplomatic efforts falter, affected nations are bracing for prolonged economic pain unless a ceasefire restores safe passage through the strait.

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