Oil prices rose by more than five per cent on Wednesday as President Donald Trump declared that the interim agreement with Iran on peace was over.

Trump said this following U.S. strikes on Iran in reaction to attacks on three ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

The price of Brent crude oil jumped 5.6% to more than $78 a barrel. U.S. benchmark crude surged 5.8% to $74.55 a barrel.

“For me, I think it’s over,” Trump responded when asked about the status of the ceasefire.

“It’s just a waste of time dealing with them,” he said while describing Iranian leaders as “sick” and “vicious, violent people.”

He spoke ahead of the two-day NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey.

Crude prices had declined recently from spikes well above $100 a barrel to around the levels they were at before the war with Iran began in late February.

Iran and the United States agreed as part of their interim deal on ending the war to allow ships to pass through the Strait without paying charges for 60 days.

But Tehran has insisted it must control the vessels’ routes and vowed to later charge fees for passage.

The ships attacked Tuesday all appeared to be using a route close to Oman’s shore, rather than one ordered by Tehran.

The upsets for oil markets have coincided with waves of worries that the craze for artificial intelligence-related shares has pushed prices past the amount of gains in productivity and profits likely to result from massive investments in computer chip production capacity and data centers.
Analysts said the latest developments have significantly increased uncertainty over the future of negotiations and heightened concerns about stability in the global oil market.

The Chief Commodities Analyst at SEB, Bjarne Schieldrop, said the breakdown of talks had cast serious doubt on the planned 60-day negotiation process, adding that oil prices closer to $80 per barrel better reflect current market conditions.

Fresh diplomatic tensions have emerged between Ghana and South Africa after the Ghanaian government declined to host South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for a planned state visit, citing concerns over the reported killing of a Ghanaian citizen and alleged xenophobic attacks against its nationals. 

The decision follows the death of 40-year-old Bashiru Isak, whom Ghana says was killed during demonstrations associated with renewed attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa on June 30, 2026.

Officials in Accra said the postponement of the visit reflects Ghana’s growing concern over the security of its citizens residing in South Africa.

They maintained that ensuring the safety of Ghanaians abroad must take precedence over high-level diplomatic engagements.

President Ramaphosa had been expected in Ghana during the first week of August for a state visit aimed at reinforcing the longstanding relationship between both countries.

The visit was also expected to provide an opportunity for discussions on bilateral cooperation and concerns surrounding attacks on foreign nationals.

However, Ghanaian authorities indicated that the prevailing situation made it difficult to proceed with the visit until issues surrounding the reported killing and the welfare of Ghanaian citizens were adequately addressed.

As part of its response, the Ghanaian government has formally protested to South African authorities over Isak’s death and expressed broader concerns about the safety of Ghanaians living in the country.

According to Ghanaian officials, Isak was shot dead during what they described as “anti-immigrant demonstrations linked to ongoing xenophobic attacks” in Cape Town’s Khayelitsha township.

South Africa has rejected that account, insisting that Ghana’s claims are inaccurate.

Authorities in Pretoria said no fatalities were recorded during the June 30 demonstrations, which attracted thousands of protesters in different parts of the country.

South Africa’s Justice Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, accused Ghanaian authorities of circulating incorrect information capable of damaging South Africa’s reputation.

“It is concerning that Ghanaian authorities continue to communicate false information about South Africa regarding developments on irregular migration,” she said in a statement.

“The spread of false information to perpetuate the false narrative that South Africa is xenophobic is unacceptable,” she added.

The disagreement has placed renewed attention on the safety of African migrants in South Africa, where previous incidents of violence against foreign nationals have repeatedly drawn concern from governments across the continent.

Although the latest dispute has strained relations, Ghana and South Africa remain two of Africa’s closest diplomatic and economic partners, with cooperation spanning trade, investment, regional integration and continental affairs. Officials from both countries are expected to continue diplomatic engagements as efforts are made to resolve the disagreement and preserve their longstanding bilateral ties.

The Ghanaian government had earlier petitioned the African Union (AU) over the killing of one of its citizens, a 40-year-old fashion designer, Mr. Bashiru Isak, who was allegedly shot dead during anti-immigrant violence in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, South Africa.

The Ghanaian government described the incident as a senseless act of xenophobic brutality.

As international travel continues to expand, many countries are introducing flexible visa policies to attract tourists, remote workers, students, and long-term visitors.

While some destinations limit tourists to short stays of a few weeks, others provide extended visitor visas that allow travelers to spend several months exploring their culture, economy, and natural attractions.

Long visitor visas have become increasingly popular among travelers who prefer slow tourism, where they can experience a country more deeply rather than rushing through short trips.

The following countries are among those offering some of the longest visitor visa options available:

1. Georgia

Georgia remains one of the top destinations for travelers seeking a long stay, with eligible visitors able to remain for up to 365 days. The country’s welcoming visa policies, affordable cost of living, and unique blend of European and Asian cultures have made it attractive to tourists and remote workers.

2. Mexico

Mexico offers visitors the opportunity to stay for up to 180 days on a tourist visa. Known for its beaches, historical sites, and vibrant traditions, the country has become a preferred destination for travelers looking for extended holidays and cultural experiences.

3. Canada

Canada allows many visitors to stay for up to six months per entry. With its famous natural landscapes, multicultural cities, and high quality of life, the country continues to attract tourists who want enough time to explore destinations such as national parks, major cities, and scenic regions.

4. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom provides a standard visitor visa that allows travelers to stay for up to six months. Visitors can use this period for tourism, visiting family and friends, attending short courses, or exploring the country’s historic landmarks and cultural attractions.

5. Panama

Panama offers visitors stays of up to 180 days, making it a popular choice for travelers interested in tropical environments, modern cities, and business-friendly surroundings. Its location also makes it a convenient gateway between North and South America.

6. Peru

Peru allows tourists to stay for up to 183 days, giving visitors enough time to explore its famous historical and natural attractions. The country is particularly known for destinations such as ancient archaeological sites, mountain landscapes, and diverse cultural heritage.

7. Australia

Australia provides flexible visitor visa options, with some travelers eligible for stays ranging from three months to as long as twelve months. Its beaches, wildlife, major cities, and outdoor attractions make it a popular choice for extended international travel.

8. New Zealand

New Zealand allows visitors to stay for up to nine months within an 18-month period. The country attracts travelers with its breathtaking scenery, including mountains, lakes, forests, and coastal landscapes, making it ideal for those interested in long-term exploration.

9. Thailand

Thailand remains one of Asia’s most popular travel destinations due to its affordable lifestyle, rich culture, and famous tourist attractions. Visitors can receive stays ranging from 30 to 90 days, with possibilities for extensions and longer-term visa arrangements.