Germany’s Merz says Iran is humiliating US | World military spend rises to USD2.9 trillion | Anti-tobacco bill creates smoke-free generation

German Chancellor Merz stated that Iran is humiliating the US as talks stall, highlighting divisions between Washington and its European allies. In the Middle East, US-backed businessman Ali al-Zaidi is set to form a government in Iraq, while a right-wing and centrist coalition in Israel aims to challenge Prime Minister Netanyahu. Additionally, China has banned dual-use exports to seven European firms over arms sales to Taiwan.