Global tensions escalate with Iran blockade disrupting aid, Russia claiming Mali victories, US-Venezuela diplomatic thaw, and regional conflicts threatening international stability

Oil prices surge past $126 a barrel as Trump threatens to maintain Iran naval blockade for months, with NGOs warning the crisis is preventing food, fuel and medicine from reaching millions in desperate need across the Middle East.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei defies US blockade, declaring Iran will establish new legal frameworks for the Strait of Hormuz and retain nuclear capabilities amid escalating tensions.

Russia's Africa Corps claims it prevented a coup in Mali after rebels seized towns, though reports indicate Russian mercenaries retreated as Al-Qaeda-linked militants killed the defense minister and exposed the partnership's failure.

First commercial US flight lands in Caracas after seven-year suspension as diplomatic relations normalize following Nicolás Maduro's capture, marking a significant shift in US-Venezuela relations.

Somali piracy resurgence feared as three vessels have been hijacked in a week, with pirates exploiting international naval resources diverted to the Middle East over Iran war.

US Justice Department charges Sinaloa governor and nine other Mexican officials with drug trafficking, weapons offences and kidnapping in connection with the Sinaloa Cartel's operations.

UK investigates attacks on Jewish targets in north London and across Europe for possible links to Iran, with counter-terror police treating incidents as terrorism amid rising antisemitic hate crimes.

US aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford to leave Middle East after 10 months at sea for repairs, reducing military firepower in region as Trump administration continues pressure on Iran for ceasefire.

Pakistani security forces kill 13 Indian-sponsored terrorists in two foiled infiltration attempts along Pak-Afghan border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, highlighting ongoing border security challenges.

Brazil's congress overrides President Lula's veto to approve bill reducing prison sentence of former president Jair Bolsonaro, with measure now awaiting Supreme Court confirmation.