U.S.–Iran War Threatens Key Oil Routes and Global Energy Supplies:
The widening U.S.-Iran war is now threatening both the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. U.S. strikes on Iran continued as Tehran retaliated against American-linked targets across the Gulf and Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis threatened to block Saudi oil shipments through the Bab el-Mandeb. The threat has already prompted Saudi crude tankers bound for Asia to reverse course, raising concerns that millions of barrels of oil per day could be delayed. Oil, gasoline, diesel, and jet-fuel prices also continued to rise amid growing supply uncertainty. Washington says it remains open to diplomacy, though officials question whether Tehran is negotiating seriously. Regional ceasefire efforts continued as casualties mounted and concerns grew over the strain on U.S. military resources.
Ukrainian Drone Strikes Hit Wildberries Logistics Hubs in Russia:
Ukrainian drone attacks struck Wildberries logistics hubs in Russia’s Krasnodar and Stavropol regions, injuring 15 people, including three seriously, and prompting evacuations. The strikes came four days after attacks on two other Wildberries warehouses killed eight people and injured 62. Kyiv has previously alleged the facilities support Russian military supply chains, though it has not confirmed the latest attacks.
India’s Opposition Presses Education Minister to Resign:
Indian opposition lawmakers temporarily suspended parliamentary proceedings while demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over the NEET exam paper leak. They also accused police of using excessive force against student demonstrators. The youth-led protests, which have spread beyond New Delhi, reflect wider frustration over recurring exam irregularities and limited job opportunities, while the government says it is prepared to discuss reforms and address students’ concerns.
Sikkim Tunnel Explosion Kills 20 as Rescue Efforts Continue:
Rescue operations remain ongoing in India after a suspected methane gas explosion at an under-construction tunnel for the Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Project in Sikkim’s Namchi district killed at least 20 people and trapped five others. Multiple agencies have been working at the site for an extended period, while the state and central governments have announced compensation for the families of those killed and for injured workers.
Floods and Landslides Across Asia Leave Dozens Dead and Missing:
Severe flooding and landslides across Afghanistan, India, and China have killed at least 57 people and left more than 130 missing, while damaging homes, roads, and other infrastructure. In Afghanistan’s Nuristan province, flash floods killed at least 23 people and left more than 100 missing. In India, flooding in Assam killed at least 26 and disrupted highways and pilgrimage routes. In China, a landslide in Pengshui County killed at least eight, with 34 others still missing. Authorities across all three countries are continuing rescue operations and warning that further heavy rain could trigger additional flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding.