Regional

In the southwestern corner of Pakistan, where the Arabian Sea meets the rugged Makran coast, Gwadar Port stands as one of the most ambitious and strategically important infrastructure projects in South Asia. Once a quiet fishing village, Gwadar is rapidly evolving into a global trade hub under the framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The port’s transformation is not just about maritime logistics; it represents a broader economic vision linking China, Pakistan, and a wider network of countries stretching across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia.

At the heart of this transformation lies China’s investment in Gwadar’s deep-water port facilities. Strategically located near the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes, Gwadar gives China direct access to the Arabian Sea, bypassing the long and vulnerable sea route through the Malacca Strait. This geographic advantage is key to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), offering the country a shorter and more secure trade path to the Middle East and Africa. For Pakistan, Gwadar is both an economic lifeline and a symbol of modernization, promising to uplift the impoverished Balochistan province through new industries, employment opportunities, and infrastructure development.

The China-Gwadar-Africa trade corridor, projected to create around 25,000 jobs and contribute up to 30% of Gwadar’s district GDP by 2027, underscores the scale of ambition behind CPEC. The port’s free zone expansion is already attracting manufacturing, logistics, and technology firms that view Gwadar as a cost-effective alternative to congested Middle Eastern ports. Chinese companies, through 2025 agreements with the Gwadar Port Authority, are investing in industrial parks, real estate developments, and energy projects aimed at turning the port into a self-sustaining economic ecosystem. These projects extend far beyond shipping; they’re setting the stage for an integrated trade hub that could reshape the economic geography of the region.

Infrastructure connectivity remains the backbone of Gwadar’s development. The construction of new highways, railway links, and power plants ensures that the port is not an isolated enclave but a vital node in the global supply chain. The planned rail corridor connecting Gwadar to Kashgar in China’s Xinjiang province will cut transport time for goods significantly, allowing trade between western China and the Arabian Sea in under a week. Complementary projects, like the Gwadar International Airport, desalination plants, and solar energy stations, are also underway to support the city’s growing economic and population base. Together, these developments represent a holistic approach to urban and industrial planning that aligns with Pakistan’s long-term economic diversification goals.

The Gwadar Free Zone, now entering its second phase of expansion, is perhaps the clearest indicator of the port’s economic potential. Modeled after successful trade zones in Dubai and Singapore, the zone is expected to house over 400 companies from sectors ranging from petrochemicals and logistics to tourism and high-tech manufacturing. The fiscal incentives, tax exemptions, streamlined customs procedures, and energy subsidies are designed to attract both local and foreign investors. As Chinese and Pakistani firms collaborate on industrial and commercial ventures, the zone is emerging as a microcosm of regional economic integration.

Sustainability, often overlooked in large infrastructure projects, is also beginning to shape Gwadar’s future. One of the more innovative developments is the introduction of solar-powered fishing boats, designed to replace diesel-run vessels that pollute the coastline. Supported by Chinese firms and local cooperatives, these boats aim to improve the livelihoods of local fishermen while reducing carbon emissions. Such projects demonstrate how economic growth and environmental responsibility can coexist when supported by technology and policy alignment.

That said, Gwadar’s journey is not without challenges. Security concerns in Balochistan, bureaucratic delays, and local dissatisfaction over land use and employment distribution continue to shadow its progress. Critics argue that without more inclusive development, ensuring that the people of Gwadar directly benefit from the port’s success, the city risks becoming an enclave that serves external interests more than local ones. Transparency in agreements, fair labor practices, and reinvestment in local education and healthcare will be crucial to maintaining social stability and long-term sustainability.

From a broader geopolitical perspective, Gwadar’s rise introduces new dynamics into the Indian Ocean trade landscape. It competes indirectly with regional ports like Chabahar in Iran (developed with Indian support) and Dubai’s Jebel Ali, both seeking to maintain their relevance in global shipping routes. For China, Gwadar enhances its strategic footprint in the Arabian Sea, complementing its investments in East Africa’s ports like Mombasa and Djibouti. For Pakistan, it’s a chance to transform from a transit economy into a trading powerhouse, leveraging its geography rather than being constrained by it.

The real measure of Gwadar’s success will depend on how effectively it integrates with surrounding economies and global trade networks. If managed wisely, the port could help rebalance Pakistan’s trade profile, attract foreign investment, and serve as a catalyst for industrial modernization. But its development must remain inclusive, transparent, and environmentally responsible to ensure that the benefits of CPEC reach beyond the port’s fences and into the lives of ordinary Pakistanis.

In essence, Gwadar Port is not merely a logistical project; it’s a statement of intent. It reflects Pakistan’s aspirations to join the ranks of regional trade powers and China’s ambition to secure diversified trade routes. As CPEC matures, Gwadar’s success will likely be judged not only by the volume of goods passing through its docks but also by the depth of prosperity it generates across borders and communities.

Recommendations

• Prioritize local employment and vocational training to ensure Baloch communities benefit directly.
• Strengthen environmental management through renewable energy initiatives and waste control.
• Enhance port security and digital surveillance for safe and efficient operations.
• Encourage public-private partnerships to diversify investment beyond China.
• Fast-track railway and power infrastructure to improve trade connectivity.
• Implement transparent governance and community engagement programs.
• Promote sustainable fisheries and ecotourism to complement trade growth.
• Align Gwadar’s development with Pakistan’s national logistics policy for long-term coherence.
• Foster maritime innovation through research centers and green port technologies.

A forum of regional countries, including India, voiced opposition to any foreign military infrastructure in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan’s regional neighbours, including India, have voiced a rare unified front by opposing foreign attempts to deploy “military infrastructure” in the country, as United States President Donald Trump presses to regain control of the Bagram airbase.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, members of the Moscow Format of Consultations on Afghanistan – which include US allies India and Pakistan – “reaffirmed their unwavering support for the establishment of Afghanistan as an independent, united and peaceful state”. The forum also includes Russia, China, Iran and Central Asian nations, all of whom strongly oppose any US return presence in Afghanistan.

The members “called unacceptable the attempts by countries to deploy their military infrastructure in Afghanistan and neighbouring states, since this does not serve the interests of regional peace and stability”.

Though the statement echoes last year’s forum language, it suggests broad regional opposition to Trump’s push to return to Bagram, which he handed over to Afghanistan’s Taliban five years ago as part of a deal paving the way for the US withdrawal from Kabul.

In backing the statement, India – a longtime US ally – navigates fraying ties with Washington and apparent rapprochement with the Taliban, which it long opposed but has in recent years cultivated ties with.

In the latest diplomatic outreach, India is set to welcome the Taliban’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi for a historic first visit to New Delhi this week, lasting from October 9-16.

After attending the Moscow forum, Muttaqi emphasised that Afghanistan will not accept any foreign military presence. “Afghanistan is a free and independent country, and throughout history, it has never accepted the military presence of foreigners,” he said. “Our decision and policy will remain the same to keep Afghanistan free and independent.”

Last month, Trump threatened “bad things” would happen to Afghanistan if it did not give back Bagram, and cited what he called its strategic location near China. The Taliban has rejected Trump’s calls to return the base.

Bagram is about 800km (about 500 miles) from the Chinese border, and about 2,400km (about 1,500 miles) from the nearest Chinese missile factory in Xinjiang.

Trump has referred to China as a key reason for wanting to retake control of Bagram, saying last month in London that the base is “an hour away from where [China] makes its nuclear weapons”.

Current and former US officials have cast doubt on Trump’s goal, saying that reoccupying Bagram might end up looking like a reinvasion, requiring more than 10,000 troops as well as the deployment of advanced air defences.

“The sheer logistics of negotiating redeployment and handing back would be extremely challenging and lengthy, and it’s not clear that this would serve either side’s strategic interests,” said Ashley Jackson, co-director at the Geneva-headquartered Centre on Armed Groups.

Bagram, a sprawling complex, was the main base for US forces in Afghanistan during the two decades of war that followed the September 11, 2001, attacks in New York and Washington by al-Qaeda.

Thousands of people were imprisoned at the site for years without charge or trial by US forces during its so-called “war on terror”, and many of them were abused or tortured.

The Taliban retook the facility in 2021 following the US withdrawal, which Trump first set in motion in his first term as president, and the collapse of the Afghan government with Joe Biden in the White House.

On Sept. 18, the Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate by 0.25%. It was the central bank’s first interest rate cut since December, as it looks to balance both sides of its dual mandate to achieve both stable prices and maximum employment.

Interest rate cuts benefit companies with more debt, including small-cap stocks. One value play that investors might be overlooking is regional banks. Here’s why.

Image source: Getty Images.

How interest rate cuts could benefit regional banks

Regional banks can benefit from interest rate cuts because their deposit costs typically adjust downward faster than loan yields. Most deposits are short-term and rate-sensitive, while many loans are fixed or repriced more slowly. This timing gap can boost net interest margins, easing pressure from prior rate hikes.

Lower rates also stimulate borrowing demand, boosting loan growth and fee income. Together, these dynamics can boost profitability and capital flexibility for regional banks during easing cycles. The primary beneficiaries are banks with strong deposit franchises, sensitivity to interest rates, and balance sheets heavily tilted toward lending.

PNC Financial is one regional bank with a relatively low deposit beta, supported by a stable, low-cost funding base and broad geographic reach, with a balance sheet tilted toward lending. By contrast, more asset-sensitive peers such as Zions Bancorp and KeyCorp, whose earnings were pressured by higher deposit costs in the rising rate environment, could see outsized margin recovery if funding cost sensitivity eases with rate cuts.

How investors could play the rebound

For investors, rate cuts create an opportunity in regional banks. As funding costs ease faster than loan yields, margins expand, credit demand rises, and earnings improve.

With valuations still compressed from pressures that emerged during the regional bank crisis a couple of years ago, regionals could deliver solid upside as monetary policy becomes a tailwind. For those interested, the SPDR S&P Regional Banking ETF (KRE -1.25%) is one way to play the rebound across a diverse group of over 140+ regional bank stocks.

Funeral services have been held for the six people killed in an Israeli strike targeting Hamas leaders in the Qatari capital Doha, as Arab leaders continue to visit the Gulf nation to express solidarity.

One coffin bearing a Qatari flag and five others bearing Palestinian flags were brought to Doha’s Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque, live footage from Qatar television showed on Thursday.

“The mood has been sombre since the death toll from Israel’s failed assassination attempt against the leadership of Hamas in Doha was announced earlier this week,” Al Jazeera’s Osama Bin Javed reported.

“We heard the Qatari prime minister giving special prayers for him at the funeral ceremony,” he added.

The Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani was also present, standing in the front row, “signalling that Qatar stands by its people, especially with those who gave their lives in this unprecedented attack on a Gulf Cooperation Council country”, Bin Javed said, reporting from the Qatari capital.

The Israeli military targeted Hamas leaders in Doha on Tuesday as they were meeting to discuss the latest Gaza ceasefire proposal put forth by US President Donald Trump.

At least six people were killed in the attack, including five low-ranking Hamas members. However, the group said its leadership survived the assassination bid.

Qatari Lance Corporal Badr Saad Mohammed al-Humaidi al-Dosari was also among the killed.

In the aftermath of the Doha attack, US President Donald Trump said he felt “very badly” about the location of the attacks and later told reporters he was “not thrilled” by Israel’s actions.

Former Israeli government adviser Daniel Levy says Israel’s attack against a Hamas delegation in Qatar sends a message not just to the Palestinian group, but to the region.

“Either get on board with our project of regional hegemony, which includes the displacement and ethnic cleansing of Palestinians, or we dare you because we have America on our side and we are unassailable militarily,” Levy said.

Arab states express solidarity

A slew of Arab and Muslim leaders descended on Doha since Israel’s unprecedented attack, including United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who met the emir on Wednesday.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also arrived in the Qatari capital to express his country’s show of support for the tiny Gulf nation. Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was expected in Doha on Thursday.

The Qatari Emir also received a verbal message of solidarity from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on Thursday, conveyed by his Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty during a meeting in Doha.

Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Abdelatty’s visit was aimed at expressing the country’s “full solidarity” with Qatar and “to discuss ways to deal with the dangerous Israeli escalation and coordinate positions” with senior Qatari officials.

Qatar will convene an emergency Arab-Islamic summit to discuss Israel’s attack, according to the state news agency QNA, a possible hint of what shape a collective regional response would take.

The summit will take place in Doha on Sunday and Monday.

The announcement came as the United Nations Security Council opened an emergency session on Thursday to discuss the attack, which was delayed a day to allow the Qatari prime minister to attend the meeting.

Hamas condemns the attack

Hamas spokesperson Fawzi Barhoum, in a televised statement on Thursday, said the Israeli attempt to assassinate Hamas’s negotiating delegation in Doha and continued threats to target the movement’s leadership abroad showed Israel’s “failure to achieve its goals” after 23 months of genocidal war on Gaza that has killed more than 64,000 Palestinians.

In the Palestinian group’s first address since Tuesday’s attack, Barhoum said that the group will keep fighting despite the assassination attempt.

“The Israeli attack cannot dent our resolve by targeting our leaders,” the Hamas spokesperson said. “The crime did not target the negotiating delegation, but rather the entire negotiation process.”

The attack on Tuesday was the first such attack by Israel on Qatar, which has been a key mediator in ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani has dubbed Israel’s targeting of Hamas leaders “state terrorism”.

“There is a response that will happen from the region. This response is currently under consultation and discussion with other partners in the region,” he told US media outlet CNN on Wednesday, adding that “the entire Gulf region is at risk”.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seemed undeterred, threatening further attacks on Qatar.

“I say to Qatar and all nations who harbour terrorists, you either expel them or you bring them to justice. Because if you don’t, we will,” Netanyahu said on Wednesday.

Israel has assassinated many of Hamas’s top military and political leaders in the last two years, such as top political leader Yahya Sinwar; military commander Mohammed Deif, one of the founders of the Qassam Brigades in the 1990s; and political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Iran’s capital, Tehran.

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the Israeli prime minister’s comments, calling them a “shameful attempt … to justify the cowardly attack that targeted Qatari territory, as well as the explicit threats of future violations of state sovereignty”.

On Thursday, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs “condemned and denounced” Netanyahu’s comments, calling them “hostile”.

“Any aggression against a GCC member state constitutes an attack on the collective Gulf security framework,” the ministry said, stressing that “the continuation of such provocative and hostile rhetoric undermines prospects for stability and pushes the region towards extremely dangerous trajectories”.

The United Arab Emirates warned Wednesday that Israel’s annexation of the occupied West Bank would cross a “red line,” and end “the vision of regional integration,” Anadolu reports.

“Annexation would be a red line for my government, and that means there can be no lasting peace,” Emirati Special Envoy Lana Nusseibeh told The Times of Israel news outlet.

“It would foreclose the idea of regional integration and be the death knell of the two-state solution,” she said.

In 2020, the UAE signed US-sponsored agreements with Israel to normalize their relations. Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco also followed suit.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said early Wednesday that Israel plans to annex 82% of the occupied West Bank to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state.

“Israeli sovereignty will be applied to 82% of the territory,” Smotrich, the leader of the far-right Religious Zionism Party, told a press conference in Jerusalem.

The far-right minister called the West Bank annexation “a preventative step” against moves by many countries to recognize Palestinian statehood.

READ: Russia urges Israel to abandon E1 settlement plan, warning it threatens two-state solution

Several countries, including Belgium, France, the UK, Canada, and Australia, announced plans to recognize Palestinian statehood during the upcoming meetings of the UN General Assembly on Sept. 8-23, joining 147 nations that already do.

On Aug. 20, Israel approved a major settlement project, called E1, which aims to split the occupied West Bank into two parts, cutting off the northern cities of Ramallah and Nablus from Bethlehem and Hebron in the south and isolating East Jerusalem.

The international community, including the UN, considers the Israeli settlements illegal under international law. The UN has repeatedly warned that continued settlement expansion threatens the viability of a two-state solution, a framework seen as key to resolving the decades-long Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

In an advisory opinion last July, the International Court of Justice declared Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory illegal and called for the evacuation of all settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

READ: Israel launches 2nd phase of offensive to occupy Gaza City

Chinese leader pledges $280m in aid to members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation at summit in Tianjin.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged regional leaders to oppose “Cold War mentality” at a gathering of a security bloc that Beijing has touted as an alternative to the Western-led international order.

In a speech to attendees of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on Monday, Xi said that member states are facing increasingly complicated security and development challenges as the world becomes “chaotic and intertwined”.

“Looking back, despite tumultuous times, we have achieved success by practising the Shanghai spirit,” Xi said.

“Looking to the future, with the world undergoing turbulence and transformation, we must continue to follow the Shanghai spirit, keep our feet on the ground, forge ahead, and better perform the functions of the organisation.”

Calling for an “equal and orderly multipolarisation” of the world, Xi said the bloc should work towards the creation of a “more just and equitable global governance system”.

The Chinese leader said Beijing would provide 2 billion yuan ($280m) in aid to member states this year and a further 10 billion yuan ($1.4bn) of loans to an SCO banking consortium.

“We must take advantage of the mega-scale market… to improve the level of trade and investment facilitation,” Xi said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko are among the more than 20 world readers attending the two-day SCO summit, which opened on Sunday in China’s northern city of Tianjin.

Established in 2001, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation began as a grouping of six Eurasian nations – China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan – but has since expanded to comprise 10 permanent members and 16 dialogue and observer countries.

Analysts say that China intends to use the gathering to promote an alternative to the United States-led global order and repair ties with India amid a shifting geopolitical environment under US President Donald Trump.

The lead singer of the regional Mexican band Enigma Norteño, Ernesto Barajas, was shot and killed on Tuesday in the municipality of Zapopan in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, according to ABC 7.

The singer was killed by two individuals riding a motorcycle, according to authorities. The prosecutor’s office of the state of Jalisco has already opened an investigation into the murder, according to ABC 7.

The band from Sinaloa is known for its “viral drug ballads,” a musical style known to glorify organized crime. Enigma Norteño has dedicated its songs to members of the Jalisco Nueva Generacion and Sinaloa cartels. The genre has been banned by a third of the states in Mexico.

The killing of Barajas comes three months after the dead bodies of five members of the Mexican regional band Fugitivo were found in the northern city of Reynosa.

In July, the Council of the Judiciary of the State of Jalisco agreed to drop the criminal case against the Mexican regional band Los Alegres Del Barranco. The band came under investigation after it displayed a photograph of a leader of the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación during a show.

In April, the Mexican government announced a music contest to encourage Mexican artists to create music that does not glorify a violent lifestyle. The competition was created to encourage musicians to write songs about love, heartbreak and peace, according to Billboard.

“While the contest won’t solve this issue overnight, and we’re not neglecting the underlying causes — for that, there’s a whole national security program — we felt it was important to create creative spaces through culture for Mexican and Mexican-American youth who are passionate about music,” Claudia Curiel de Icaza, secretary of culture for Mexico, told Billboard Español.

Authorities from the state of Jalisco did not respond to a request for a comment in time for publication.

Aug. 1 (UPI) — Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has introduced a bill in the National Assembly to regulate the funding and activities of non-governmental organizations, particularly those that receive money from abroad.

The proposal would create a mandatory registry for nonprofit entities, require regular financial reporting and allow the government to suspend or revoke operating permits if NGOs engage in “activities incompatible with the national interest.”

If approved, Ecuador would join a regional push that has taken shape over the past year in countries such as Peru, El Salvador and Paraguay.

According to the Ecuadorian government, the bill aims to bring greater transparency to the operations of NGOs, many of which it says operate without clearly disclosing their funding sources, international ties or true objectives.

“I’m not attacking NGOs. Some of them do honorable work and help people in Ecuador. Those organizations won’t have problems because they’ll be able to explain where their money comes from,” Noboa said.

Although the bill does not yet specify penalties, it would require organizations to disclose their donors, provide documentation for expenses and avoid political activities not explicitly authorized in their charters.

Civil society groups in Ecuador have voiced concern, warning the measure could open the door to arbitrary restrictions and potential censorship.

In March, Peru’s Congress passed a law expanding the powers of the Peruvian Agency for International Cooperation to audit foreign-funded projects. The law allows fines of up to $500,000 and authorizes the suspension of organizations that use those funds to bring legal action against the state — a common practice in human rights and Indigenous advocacy.

Despite opposition from more than 70 domestic NGOs and international groups, including the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and Human Rights Watch, President Dina Boluarte’s government defended the law as a way to “organize” international cooperation.

In El Salvador, the ruling-party-controlled legislature approved the Foreign Agents Law in May. The law imposes a 30% tax on foreign donations, requires registration in a special government registry and gives the executive branch authority to sanction or shut down organizations it accuses of meddling in domestic affairs.

Human rights groups have condemned the Salvadoran law, saying it restricts the work of humanitarian organizations and independent media.

In Paraguay, a regulation enacted in November 2024 requires all nonprofit organizations to register with the Ministry of Economy and Finance, file biannual reports on income and expenses and disclose any ties to international agencies.

The measure prohibits unregistered NGOs from signing agreements with the state and includes penalties ranging from suspension of activities to the permanent revocation of legal status.

Paraguayan and regional organizations have warned that the law criminalizes international cooperation and could seriously undermine human rights advocacy.

Critics say these measures echo laws previously adopted in Venezuela and Nicaragua, where “foreign agent” and “sovereignty defense” legislation has been used to shut down organizations that report human rights violations or criticize the government, under the pretext of foreign interference.

Governments backing these laws argue they aim to strengthen transparency, prevent illicit financing and block foreign influence.

But organizations including Amnesty International, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights and the IACHR warn the measures are part of a broader pattern of shrinking democratic space in the region, where state control is prioritized over civic participation.

Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman tells Al Jazeera direct talks with Cambodia are priority as deadly clashes continue.

Thailand has called for a peaceful resolution to deadly border fighting with Cambodia, saying it prefers to settle the matter through bilateral dialogue while leaving the door open to potential involvement from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) if necessary.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Nikorndej Balankura said on Friday that the situation on the ground had improved slightly although clashes had resulted in casualties. “The fighting is continuing since yesterday although the situation today seems to be a little bit better from yesterday,” he said.

Thailand has tried to reach out to the Cambodian government in the hopes of easing tensions, Nikorndej told Al Jazeera. “We have always insisted we want to resolve this matter peacefully through bilateral mechanisms. … Very unfortunately, the Cambodian side has not reacted positively.”

While Thailand insists it has the tools to resolve the issue bilaterally, it has not ruled out future mediation by regional partners. “Our doors have always been open to talks. … We are still waiting for positive reactions from the Cambodian side,” Nikorndej said.

On possible third-party mediation, he added: “It’s a bit too premature for me right now to say that we are ready for any mediation, … but if we are going to talk about anyone to step in and help, countries in ASEAN … would be best suited.”

Malaysia, which currently chairs ASEAN, has reached out to both sides. Nikorndej confirmed that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has spoken to his Thai counterpart, acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, to discuss potential regional engagement.

At least 13 Thai civilians and one soldier have been killed and 45 people have been wounded, including women and children, as fighting continues along the disputed frontier. “We are defending our territorial integrity and the Thai people,” Nikorndej added. Cambodia has reported one death on its side.

Nikorndej said the Thai military came under direct fire, which contributed to the current escalation. In response, the government has opened evacuation shelters, deployed medical teams and distributed aid to civilians displaced by the clashes.

Cambodia has alleged that Thailand first opened fire on Thursday, igniting the fighting.

Thailand has evacuated at least 100,000 people from areas near its eastern border with Cambodia, as shelling and gunfire displace civilians, reviving memories of past conflicts. Cambodian officials said about 20,000 people have evacuated from the country’s northern border.

Cambodia first took the contentious border issue to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1963. In 2011, Cambodia again went to the ICJ in relation to the Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The ICJ ruled in Cambodia’s favour and handed it control of the immediate area around the temple in 2013.

However, the court did not address any of the other disputed areas, especially those within the “Emerald Triangle”, a shared border region between Cambodia, Laos and Thailand, where troops also frequently clash.

Thailand has refused to acknowledge the ICJ’s jurisdiction in this issue. Tensions have simmered until this year’s acute escalation.

The shake-up comes after the men’s side suffered its worst season with nine defeats in 10 games that drew a total losing sequence of 18 matches, a run that only ended last weekend with a 31-22 victory in the second Test against Japan.

“The current rugby system in Wales, which includes national teams, professional clubs, community clubs, academies, universities and schools isn’t delivering consistent success on the field and isn’t currently financially sustainable given the likely investment required, even with the recent actions taken to increase financial resources,” the WRU said.

“The WRU is therefore considering a more radical strategy focused on maximising investment and reforming the whole structure of professional rugby in Wales, amongst other options.”

Despite Israel’s considerable military power in the Middle East, it can never achieve regional hegemony—a position that requires unquestionable dominance over all competitors and acceptance of its authority by neighboring countries. Since its establishment in 1948, Israel, relying on its military superiority and broad Western support, particularly from the United States, has managed to establish significant influence in the region. However, Israel’s ambitions to become the dominant power in the Middle East face structural, political, and social obstacles that go beyond its military capabilities. Israel’s recent attacks on Iran in June 2025, under the operation “Lion Rising,” are an example of the country’s aggressive efforts to weaken its rivals and demonstrate its authority. However, these actions have only led to greater regional instability and strengthened resistance against Israel. As Stephen Walt, a professor of international relations at Harvard, argues, true hegemony requires political acceptance and regional legitimacy—something Israel, due to its policies, is unable to achieve.

Limitations of Military Power

With a military budget of $27.5 billion in 2023 and access to advanced technologies, Israel possesses one of the region’s most powerful militaries. Its attacks on Lebanon, Syria, and recently Iran, which targeted both military and civilian infrastructure, demonstrate its ability to strike heavy blows against its competitors. However, military power alone is not sufficient for hegemony. A regional hegemon must be able to fully suppress its rivals or compel them to accept its authority—a challenge Israel has failed at. For example, despite weakening Hezbollah and other resistance groups after attacks in 2023 and 2024, these groups continue to act as a resilient force against Israel. The June 2025 attacks on Iran, while causing significant damage, have not been able to fully halt Iran’s nuclear program. Reports suggest that the Fordow facility remains operational, and Iran is able to accelerate its pursuit of nuclear capabilities. These failures highlight that Israel’s military power, while destructive, cannot lead to lasting dominance, as regional resistance against it persists.

Lack of Regional Legitimacy

Hegemony requires acceptance and legitimacy among regional countries, something Israel lacks due to its aggressive and occupation-driven policies. The occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, the siege and bombing of Gaza, and the repression of Palestinians, condemned by human rights organizations as gross violations of human rights, have painted Israel as a repressive force. These policies have not only angered Palestinians but have also prevented regional countries, including powerful players like Turkey and Qatar, from accepting Israel as the dominant power. Even countries that have established diplomatic relations with Israel, such as the UAE and Bahrain, maintain these relations largely for strategic reasons and under Western pressure, not out of acceptance of Israel’s hegemony. Furthermore, recent attacks on Iran, conducted amidst nuclear negotiations, have exacerbated regional anger and strengthened Iran’s position as a force of resistance against Israeli aggression. This lack of legitimacy is a significant barrier to Israel’s hegemonic ambitions.

Geopolitical Complexity of the Middle East

The Middle East is a region of multiple actors and conflicting interests, making it practically impossible for any country, including Israel, to achieve hegemony. Iran, despite economic and military pressures, still maintains significant influence in Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen, although its proxy networks have been weakened. Turkey, with its own regional ambitions, and Saudi Arabia, with its vast financial resources, are also powerful competitors unwilling to accept Israeli dominance. Even the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, which was seen as a blow to Iran, failed to shift the balance of power in Israel’s favor, as new actors like Sunni groups backed by Turkey entered the fray. Hegemony requires military superiority over a mix of rivals, but Israel has not been able to establish full dominance even over a single actor like Iran, which, despite recent attacks, still has the ability to respond. These geopolitical complexities, combined with persistent regional resistance, prevent Israel from achieving hegemonic status.

Dependence on the West and Strategic Fragility

Despite its military power, Israel is heavily dependent on the support of the United States and Europe. Annual U.S. military aid of $3.8 billion and political backing in institutions like the United Nations form the backbone of Israel’s power. However, this dependence creates a strategic vulnerability. If Western support decreases—either due to changes in U.S. domestic policies or global pressure for Israel to be held accountable for human rights violations—Israel will lose its ability to maintain its current position. True hegemony requires strategic self-sufficiency, which Israel lacks. Moreover, aggressive actions like the “Lion Rising” operation increase the risk of drawing the U.S. into a broader conflict, which could reduce Western support. This fragility shows that Israel, rather than a hegemon, functions more as a player dependent on foreign powers.

Global Consequences of Israel’s Actions

Israel’s efforts to weaken its rivals, such as the recent attacks on Iran, have not led to hegemony but have instead exacerbated regional and global instability. These attacks, carried out amid nuclear negotiations between Iran and global powers, disrupted diplomatic efforts and increased the risk of a broader conflict. These actions could disrupt the global energy supply chain, as Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz plays a critical role in oil and gas markets. Additionally, the anger generated by Israel’s aggressive policies has sparked widespread protests in the Muslim world, raising the risk of political and security instability on a global scale. These consequences, rooted in Israel’s actions, show that the pursuit of hegemony not only remains unattainable but leads to further instability.

The Need for Peace, Not Domination

Israel cannot become the hegemon of the Middle East because true hegemony requires a combination of military power, political legitimacy, and regional acceptance—elements Israel lacks. Israel’s long-term security lies not in military domination but in achieving a lasting political agreement with its neighbors, including the Palestinians. Israel’s aggressive policies, from occupying Palestinian territories to attacking Iran, have only strengthened regional resistance and pushed the country further from its hegemonic goal. The world must recognize this reality and, instead of blindly supporting Israel’s actions, focus on diplomacy and dialogue to establish lasting peace in the Middle East. Only through this approach can the endless cycle of tension and conflict be broken.

Accusing Western leaders of ‘unconditional support’ to Israel, Turkish leader says his country will not allow Middle East borders to be redrawn ‘in blood’.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan says Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is the “biggest obstacle to regional peace” and that Israeli attacks on Iran right before a new round of nuclear talks with the United States aimed to sabotage the negotiations.

Addressing Arab League diplomats during a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul on Saturday, Erdogan urged countries with influence over Israel not to listen to its “poison” and to seek a solution to the fighting via dialogue without allowing a wider conflict.

Israeli attacks on Iran show that Netanyahu “and his government … do not want any issues or any matters to be solved diplomatically,” said Erdogan.

“Netanyahu’s Zionist ambitions have no other purpose than to drag our region and … the whole world into a big disaster,” he added.

Erdogan accused the Western leaders of providing “unconditional support” to Israel. He said Turkiye would not allow borders in the Middle East to be redrawn “in blood”.

“It is vital for us to show more solidarity to end Israel’s banditry – not only in Palestine but also in Syria, in Lebanon and in Iran,” he told the OIC gathering.

The 57-member OIC, founded in 1969, says its mission is to “safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony”.

Speaking before Erdogan, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan accused Israel of leading the Middle East towards “total disaster” by attacking Iran.

“Israel is now leading the region to the brink of total disaster by attacking Iran, our neighbour,” he said. “There is no Palestinian, Lebanese, Syrian, Yemeni or Iranian problem but there is clearly an Israeli problem.”

Al Jazeera’s Sinem Koseoglu, reporting from Istanbul, said Turkiye as the current OIC chair sees itself well-placed in helping to find a resolution to the Israel-Iran conflict.

“It is a NATO member country placed between the Western and Muslim worlds, and has strong bilateral relations with Iran, the Western world and the United States. And until a few years ago, it had strong relations with Israel,” she said.

On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said his country was only prepared to engage with the US if Israel stops its attacks on Iran.

“Iran is ready to consider diplomacy once again and once the aggression is stopped and the aggressor is held accountable for the crimes committed,” said Araghchi.

“We support the continuation of discussion with [Britain, France, Germany and the EU] and express our readiness to meet again in the near future.”

The United States is preparing a partial evacuation of its embassy in Iraq and has authorised “the voluntary departure” of dependants of US personnel from locations across the Middle East, including Bahrain, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, as regional security concerns rise.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement on Wednesday that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had authorised the departure of military dependants in the region and that CENTCOM was “monitoring the developing tension”.

Orders for all nonessential personnel to depart the US Embassy in Baghdad – which was already on limited staffing – was based on a commitment “to keeping Americans safe, both at home and abroad”, the Department of State said.

Speaking on Wednesday evening, US President Donald Trump said the order to move staff out had been given because the region “could be a dangerous place”.

“We’ll see what happens. We’ve given notice to move out, and we’ll see what happens,” Trump said.

Trump then added in reference to Iran: “They can’t have a nuclear weapon, very simple. We’re not going to allow that.”

Uncertainty has been growing in recent days as talks between the US and Iran over its nuclear programme appear to have hit an impasse.

US news broadcaster CBS reported late on Wednesday that US officials have been informed that Israel is “fully ready” to launch an attack on Iran and that Washington “anticipates” that Tehran could retaliate by targeting “certain American sites in neighbouring Iraq”.

Al Jazeera’s Alan Fisher, reporting from Washington, DC, said there have been clear signs in recent days of high-level discussions between senior military officials and the Trump administration amid concern around the ongoing talks with Iran over its nuclear programme.

“Donald Trump has in the last couple of days … expressed his concern that a deal might not be able to be done,” Fisher said.

“Therefore, we are seeing, effectively, the partial evacuation of the embassy in Baghdad with non-military personnel and non-essential staff being moved out. And the voluntary evacuation of other embassies in the region,” he said.

“They’ve done this sort of thing before,” Fisher said, noting the Baghdad embassy was partially evacuated previously over “concerns that the embassy could become a target for Iranian-aligned militias in Iraq”.

“Clearly, there is some concern that the discussions with the Iranians aren’t going well. Or, it could be that this is all designed to put pressure on Iranians. Because, you will remember, that Donald Trump said that if they couldn’t get some sort of deal, then … there could be some sort of military action against the Iranians.”

As reports of US embassy staff and dependants departing the Middle East region emerged, Iran’s mission to the United Nations posted on social media that “Iran is not seeking a nuclear weapon, and US militarism only fuels instability”.

“Threats of ‘overwhelming force’ won’t change the facts,” the Iranian mission said.

“Diplomacy – not militarism – is the only path forward,” it added.

Threats of “overwhelming force” won’t change facts:
Iran is not seeking a nuclear weapon, and U.S. militarism only fuels instability.

CENTCOM’s legacy of fueling regional instability, through arming aggressors and enabling Israeli crimes, strips it of any credibility to speak on…

— I.R.IRAN Mission to UN, NY (@Iran_UN) June 11, 2025

Separately, Iranian Defence Minister General Aziz Nasirzadeh told reporters earlier that he hoped talks with the US would be successful, though Tehran stood ready to respond to any aggression.

“If conflict is imposed on us, the opponent’s casualties will certainly be more than ours, and in that case, America must leave the region, because all its bases are within our reach,” he said.

“We have access to them, and we will target all of them in the host countries without hesitation.”

The next round of talks – the sixth – between the US and Iran on limits to Tehran’s nuclear programme in exchange for lifting sanctions on the country have been tentatively scheduled for this weekend in Oman, according to reports, and Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is still scheduled to attend.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONAL PLAYOFFS

BASEBALL

FRIDAY’S RESULTS

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION II

#8 Rancho Bernardo 8, #4 Eastlake 4

DIVISION IV

#2 Ridgeview 7, #3 Estancia 5

DIVISION V

#1 Corcoran 4, #4 Nuview Bridge 0

SATURDAY’S SCHEDULE

(Games at 4 p.m. unless noted)

FINALS

DIVISION I

#7 Patrick Henry (23-10-2) at #1 St. John Bosco (29-4), 1 p.m.

DIVISION II

#8 Rancho Bernardo (20-13) vs. #6 Point Loma (22-12-1) at Dana Middle School, 1 p.m.

DIVISION III

#5 University City (22-12) at #2 Mt. Carmel (23-12), 10:30 a.m.

DIVISION IV

#2 Ridgeview (23-11) at #1 Wilmington Banning (24-9)

DIVISION V

#3 Pioneer (19-14) at #1 Corcoran (27-4)

SOFTBALL

FRIDAY’S RESULTS

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION II

#6 Eastlake 3, #2 Westlake 0

SATURDAY’S SCHEDULE

(Games at 4 p.m. unless noted)

FINALS

DIVISION I

#2 Chula Vista Mater Dei (26-7) at #1 El Modena (23-9)

DIVISION II

#6 Eastlake (22-11-1) at #1 El Cajon Christian (24-8-1)

DIVISION III

#2 Legacy (26-7) at #1 Point Loma (27-6-1)

DIVISION IV

#2 Woodlake (29-1) at #1 Pioneer Valley (21-12)

DIVISION V

#2 Orcutt Academy (17-11-1) at #1 Rancho Mirage (21-10)

CIF SOCAL REGIONAL FINALS

SATURDAY’S RESULTS

BASEBALL

DIVISION I

#1 St. John Bosco 4, #7 Patrick Henry 0

DIVISION II

#8 Rancho Bernardo 2, #6 Point Loma 1

DIVISION III

#5 University City 3, #2 Mt. Carmel 1

DIVISION IV

#2 Ridgeview 1, #1 Wilmington Banning 0

DIVISION V

#3 Pioneer 4, #1 Corcoran 3

SOFTBALL

DIVISION I

#2 Chula Vista Mater Dei 12, #1 El Modena 3

DIVISION II

#6 Eastlake 2, #1 El Cajon Christian 1 (12 innings)

DIVISION III

#1 Point Loma 4, #2 Legacy 1

DIVISION IV

#2 Woodlake 4, #1 Pioneer Valley 3

DIVISION V

#2 Orcutt Academy 6, #1 Rancho Mirage 1

On the day he turned 17, Jack Champlin gave himself his own best birthday present, one he got to share with his teammates.

The junior right-hander needed 27 pitches to retire all seven batters he faced to wrap up St. John Bosch’s 4-0 shutout of San Diego Patrick Henry in the Southern California Regional Division I championship game.

“I’m going to dinner with my family and my girlfriend,” he said when asked what he would do to celebrate. “I’m not sure where yet, but there are a lot of good places around here and we’ll make a decision.”

Champlin pitched in all seven playoff games for the Braves, picking up two wins and five saves, giving up no runs allowed in 11 2/3 innings.

“I don’t really feel the pressure … as a closer you need to have confidence in your stuff and I’m just happy to be put in that position,” said Champlin, who fielded a grounder back to the mound and underhanded a toss to first base for the final out of the season. “We knew our starter [Brayden Krakowski] had pitched earlier in the week and only had 14 outs remaining, so the gameplan was for me to come in after that or before if necessary. As it turned out I was able to finish each playoff game with the ball in my hand every single time.”

Krakowksi allowed three hits and got all the support he needed in the first inning, as James Clark led off the bottom half with a triple and scored on a single by Noah Everly. Miles Clark added a two-out RBI single. In the next inning St. John Bosco doubled its lead when James Clark hit an RBI double and later scored on an infield single by Jaden Jackson.

St. John Bosco closer Jack Champlin struck out three of the seven batters he faced to earn the save Saturday afternoon against Patrick Henry.

St. John Bosco beat eighth-seeded San Diego St. Augustine 2-1 in the first round and No. 5 Villa Park 7-4 in the semifinals in a rematch of the Braves’ 4-3 nine-inning triumph in the Southern Section Division 1 quarterfinals.

Patrick Henry had lost 3-0 to Granite Hills in the San Diego Section Open Division final but after back-to-back victories over two of the best Southern Section teams in Santa Margarita and Crespi, the Patriots (23-11-2) came to Bellflower confident they could upset the No. 1-ranked team in California.

It did not happen. Instead, the Braves notched their 19th consecutive win, 30th in 34 games and capped an historic campaign, which included a 3-2 walk-off victory over Santa Margarita to capture the program’s first Southern Section crown May 30 after losing to Beckman 2-1 in eight innings in the Division 3 title game last season.

“We’ve proven ourselves,” Champlin said in the midst of a celebration on the same field where he and his returning teammates rallied to defeat Bakersfield Christian 5-4 and claim the Division III regional championship last June.

Champlin took the hill with one out in the top of the seventh inning in last year’s regional final, got the final two outs, and was credited with the win when the Braves scored the game-ending run on a balk in the bottom of the inning.

Saturday’s achievement was even sweeter because it was accomplished at the highest level and was a testament to second-year coach Andy Rojo, who held the first-place plaque high and declared “We won the West!” as his players surrounded him.

“It’ll take a lot for any team to match what we’ve done winning by three titles in one year — the Trinity League championship, the Southern Section Division 1 championship and the regional Division I championship,” said Rojo, who got his squad to the top of the mountain despite losing 12 players to graduation — including pitcher Anthony Cosme (Cal Poly Pomona), center fielder Julian Villasenor (Washington State) and first baseman Zach Woodson (Pepperdine). “Tomorrow will be two months since we lost a game (the Braves last suffered defeat on April 8 against Santa Margarita). I couldn’t be more proud.”

St. John Bosco is one win a way from a rare Triple Crown — winning championships in the Trinity League, Southern Section Division 1 title and Southern California Division I regional.

The Braves (29-4) advanced to the regional final with a 7-4 win over Villa Park on Thursday in the semifinals. They will play host to Patrick Henry from the San Diego Section at 4 p.m. Saturday for the title.

Noah Everly had two hits and two RBIs while Jaden Jackson had two hits. Jack Champlin pitched in his sixth playoff game, getting his fourth save. He has yielded no runs in 9 1/3 playoff innings. He also had an sacrifice fly in the bottom of the sixth when the Braves scored two runs. Aidan Young had two hits for Villa Park.

Patrick Henry 5, Crespi 3: Tyson Bobo threw a complete game for Patrick Henry. The Celts played without several of their senior standouts.

Point Loma 6, San Dimas 4: The Pointers advanced to the Division II final. Michael Hall had a two-run home run.

Banning 3, Rancho Mirage 2: The Pilots have made it to the Division IV final, scoring three runs in the sixth inning. Angelo Duarte had the big hit in the inning.

Softball

El Modena 8, Poway 6: Parker Mayes hit a walk-off two-run home run in the bottom of the ninth inning in the Division I semifinal. El Modena will host Chula Vista Mater Dei at 4 p.m. Saturday. Mater Dei defeated Bonita Vista 5-4. It was Mayes’ second home run of the game.

Legacy 2, St. Bonaventure 1: Brianna Gonzalez hit a home run and Yesenia Villegas had an RBI single during a two-run fifth inning to lift Legacy into the Division III championship game. Savannah Medina threw a complete game.

SOCAL REGIONAL PLAYOFFS

BASEBALL

THURSDAY’S RESULTS

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION I

#1 St. John Bosco 7, #5 Villa Park 4

#7 Patrick Henry 5, #3 Crespi 3

DIVISION II

#6 Point Loma 6, #7 San Dimas 4

DIVISION III

#5 Universal City 9, #1 Dos Pueblos 1

#2 Mt. Carmel 3, #3 Venice 2 (9 innings)

DIVISION IV

#1 Wilmington Banning 3, #5 Rancho Mirage 2

DIVISION V

#3 Pioneer 3, #7 High Tech SD 2 (10 innings)

FRIDAY’S SCHEDULE

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION II

#8 Rancho Bernardo at #4 Eastlake, 12:30 p.m.

DIVISION IV

#3 Estancia vs. #2 Ridgeview at Bakersfield College, 6 p.m.

DIVISION V

#4 Nuview Bridge at #1 Corcoran, 4 p.m.

SATURDAY’S SCHEDULE

(Games at 4 p.m. unless noted)

FINALS

DIVISION I

#7 Patrick Henry at #1 St. John Bosco

DIVISION II

#6 Point Loma vs. #8 Ranco Bernardo / #4 Eastlake

DIVISION III

#5 University City at #2 Mt. Carmel

DIVISION IV

#3 Estancia / #2 Ridgeview at #1 Wilmington Banning

DIVISION V

#3 Pioneer vs. #4 Nuview Bridge / #1 Corcoran

SOFTBALL

THURSDAY’S RESULTS

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION I

#1 El Modena 8, #5 Poway 6 (9 innings)

#2 Chula Vista Mater Dei 5, #3 Bonita Vista 4

DIVISION II

#1 El Cajon Christian 1, #4 Monache 0

DIVISION III

#1 Point Loma 3, #4 Olympian 0

#2 Legacy 2, #3 St. Bonaventure 1

DIVISION IV

#1 Pioneer Valley 10, #4 Rio Hondo Prep 0

#2 Woodlake 13, #3 Irvine University 8

DIVISION V

#1 Rancho Mirage 9, #4 Culver City 5

#2 Orcutt Academy 10, #6 Hueneme 0

FRIDAY’S SCHEDULE

DIVISION II

#6 Eastlake at #2 Westlake, 4 p.m.

SATURDAY’S SCHEDULE

(Games at 4 p.m. unless noted)

FINALS

DIVISION I

#2 Chula Vista Mater Dei at #1 El Modena

DIVISION II

#6 Eastlake / #2 Westlake at #1 El Cajon Christian

DIVISION III

#2 Legacy at #1 Point Loma

DIVISION IV

#2 Woodlake at #1 Pioneer Valley

DIVISION V

#2 Orcutt Academy at #1 Rancho Mirage

SOCAL REGIONAL PLAYOFFS

BASEBALL

WEDNESDAY’S RESULTS

FIRST ROUND

DIVISION I
#7 Patrick Henry 2, #2 Santa Margarita 0

DIVISION II
#8 Rancho Bernardo 4, #1 Fountain Valley 2
#7 San Dimas 6, #2 Santa Maria St. Joseph 3

DIVISION IV
#3 Estancia 2, #6 Mary Star of the Sea 1

DIVISION V
#4 Nuview Bridge 14, #5 Port of Los Angeles 3

THURSDAY’S SCHEDULE
(All games at 4 p.m. unless noted)

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION I
#5 Villa Park at #1 St. John Bosco
#7 Patrick Henry vs. #3 Crespi at Hartunian Park

DIVISION II
#8 Rancho Bernardo at #4 Eastlake, Friday
#7 San Dimas ar #6 Point Loma

DIVISION III
#5 Universal City at #1 Dos Pueblos
#3 Venice at #2 Mt. Carmel

DIVISION IV
#5 Rancho Mirage at #1 Wilmington Banning
#3 Estancia at #2 Ridgeview, Friday

DIVISION V
#4 Nuview Bridge at #1 Corcoran, Friday
#7 High Tech SD at #3 Pioneer

Note: Finals in all divisions Saturday at higher seeds.

SOFTBALL

WEDNESDAY’S RESULTS

FIRST ROUND

DIVISION I
#5 Poway 4, #4 Ayala 1

DIVISION IV
#3 Irvine University 5, #6 Marquez 3

THURSDAY’S SCHEDULE
(All games at 4 p.m. unless noted)

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION I
#5 Poway at #1 El Modena
#3 Bonita Vista at #2 Chula Vista Mater Dei

DIVISION II
#4 Monache at #1 El Cajon Christian
#6 Eastlake at #2 Westlake, Friday

DIVISION III
#4 Olympian at #1 Point Loma
#3 St. Bonaventure at #2 Legacy, 3 p.m.

DIVISION IV
#4 Rio Hondo Prep at #1 Pioneer Valley
#3 Irvine University at #2 Woodlake

DIVISION V
#1 Rancho Mirage at #4 Culver City
#6 Hueneme at #2 Orcutt Academy

Note: Finals in all divisions Saturday at higher seeds.

SOCAL REGIONAL PLAYOFFS

BASEBALL

TUESDAY’S RESULTS

FIRST ROUND

DIVISION 1

#1 St. John Bosco 2, #8 St. Augustine 1

#5 Villa Park 5, #4 Granite Hills 4 (9 innings)

#3 Crespi 4, #6 Mater Dei 3

DIVISION II

#4 Eastlake 4, #5 Glendora 1

#6 Point Loma 6, #3 El Camino Real 4

DIVISION III

#1 Dos Pueblos 10, #8 St. Anthony 2

#5 University City 5, #4 Birmingham 2

#3 Venice 5, #6 Trinity Classical Academy 2

#2 Mt. Carmel 5, #7 Elsinore 0

DIVISION IV

#1 Wilmington Banning 3, #8 Lemoore 2

#5 Rancho Mirage 7, #4 Ramona 3

#2 Ridgeview 13, #7 Riverside Notre Dame 3

DIVISION V

#1 Corcoran 9, #8 LA University 5

#3 Pioneer 6, #6 Mountain View 3

#7 High Tech SD 3, #2 Fillmore 1

WEDNESDAY’S SCHEDULE

FIRST ROUND

DIVISION I

#7 Patrick Henry at #2 Santa Margarita, 12 p.m.

DIVISION II

#8 Rancho Bernardo at #1 Fountain Valley, 3:15 p.m.

#7 San Dimas at #2 Santa Maria St. Joseph, 4 p.m.

DIVISION IV

#6 Mary Stat of the Sea at #3 Estancia, 3:45 p.m.

DIVISION V

#5 Port of Los Angeles vs. #4 Nuview Bridge at Mystic Field

THURSDAY’S SCHEDULE

(All games at 4 p.m. unless noted)

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION I

#5 Villa Park at #1 St. John Bosco

#3 Crespi vs. #7 Patrick Henry or #2 Santa Margarita

DIVISION II

#4 Eastlake vs. #1 Fountain Valley or #8 Rancho Bernardo

#6 Point Loma vs. #7 San Dimas or #2 St. Joseph

DIVISION III

#5 Universal City at #1 Dos Pueblos

#3 Venice at #2 Mt. Carmel

DIVISION IV

#5 Rancho Mirage at #1 Wilmington Banning

#3 Estancia or #6 Mary Star of the Sea at #2 Ridgeview

DIVISION V

#5 Port of Los Angeles or #4 Nuview Bridge at #1 Corcoran

#7 High Tech SD at #3 Pioneer

Note: Finals in all divisions Saturday at higher seeds.

SOFTBALL

TUESDAY’S RESULTS

FIRST ROUND

DIVISION II

#1 El Cajon Christian, bye

#4 Monache 3, #5 Long Beach Poly 2

#6 Eastlake 3, #3 Bakersfield Christian 2

#2 Westlake 5, #7 Rancho Bernardo 3

DIVISION III

#1 Point Loma 9, #8 Port of Los Angeles 2

#4 Olympian 7, #5 West Ranch 6

#3 St. Bonaventure 6, #6 Southwest EC 5

#2 Legacy 5, #7 Elsinore 4

DIVISION IV

#1 Pioneer Valley, bye

#4 Rio Hondo Prep 9, #5 Taft 3

#2 Woodlake, bye

DIVISION V

#1 Rancho Mirage 9, #8 San Diego Lincoln 8

#4 Culver City 20, #5 Westchester 7

#6 Hueneme 9, #3 North Hollywood 4

#2 Orcutt Academy 17, #7 Cathedral City 0

WEDNESDAY’S SCHEDULE

FIRST ROUND

DIVISION I

#5 Poway at #4 Ayala, 4 p.m.

DIVISION IV

#6 Marquez at #3 Irvine University, 2 p.m.

THURSDAY’S SCHEDULE

(All games at 4 p.m. unless noted)

SEMIFINALS

DIVISION I

#5 Poway or #4 Ayala at #1 El Modena

#3 Bonita Vista at #2 Chula Vista Mater Dei

DIVISION II

#4 Monache at #1 El Cajon Christian

#6 Eastlake at #2 Westlake

DIVISION III

#4 Olympian at #1 Point Loma

#3 St. Bonaventure at #2 Legacy

DIVISION IV

#4 Rio Hondo Prep at #1 Pioneer Valley

#6 Marquez or #3 Irvine University at #2 Woodlake

DIVISION V

#1 Rancho Mirage at #4 Culver City

#6 Hueneme at #2 Orcutt Academy

Note: Finals in all divisions Saturday at higher seeds.