oil surges above
| |

Oil surges above $83 as Strait of Hormuz tensions …

Global oil prices continued their upward momentum on Friday, with Brent crude climbing above $83 per barrel as renewed tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz heightened concerns over potential disruptions to global energy supplies.

Brent crude futures gained 1.1 percent to reach $83.48 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose by 85 cents to $78.84 per barrel.

The latest rally marks a sharp reversal from earlier this week, when crude prices had declined amid expectations that diplomatic efforts between Iran and Oman could ease regional tensions and pave the way for smoother maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

However, investor sentiment shifted after reports that Iran, in coordination with Oman, proposed new restrictions on shipping through the strategic waterway. The proposal reportedly includes banning vessels belonging to countries considered hostile from passing through the strait and imposing substantial financial penalties on ships that violate the proposed regulations.

The renewed uncertainty over one of the world’s most important oil transit routes has reignited fears of supply disruptions, prompting traders to push oil prices higher despite earlier forecasts predicting further declines. Analysts say developments in the Strait of Hormuz will remain a key factor influencing global energy markets in the coming days.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Lou Koller, legendary Sick of It All frontman, die…

    The hardcore punk community is mourning the loss of one of its most influential voices. Lou Koller, the longtime frontman and co-founder of New York hardcore band Sick of It All, has died at the age of 59 following a two-year battle with esophageal adenocarcinoma. The heartbreaking news was announced by the band on July 24, just months before what would have marked the group’s 40th anniversary.  In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, Koller’s bandmates described him as a “beloved friend” and an “iconic frontman” whose energy, humor, and passion helped shape the identity of Sick of It All for nearly four decades. They remembered his ability to light up every stage with a smile and a sarcastic joke while connecting with fans from every corner of the world. The band also thanked supporters who donated to Koller’s medical fund during his illness, saying the overwhelming love made him feel deeply appreciated throughout his fight.  Born and raised in Queens, New York, Lou Koller founded Sick of It All with his younger brother, Pete Koller, in 1986. The band quickly became one of the defining acts of the New York hardcore scene, blending aggressive punk music with lyrics centered on perseverance, unity, and resilience. Their debut album, Blood, Sweat and No Tears, released in 1989, helped establish their reputation, while later records such as Scratch the Surface and Wake the Sleeping Dragon! cemented their influence on generations of punk and hardcore musicians.  Koller first revealed his cancer diagnosis in June 2024 after doctors discovered a tumor in his esophagus extending into his stomach. The illness forced Sick of It All to postpone touring while he underwent chemotherapy. In 2025, the singer joyfully announced that he had been declared cancer-free, giving fans hope that he would return to the stage. Sadly, the cancer later returned, and he resumed treatment while continuing to express gratitude for the unwavering support of his family, friends, and loyal fanbase.  Tributes have poured in from across the music world following the announcement. WWE star CM Punk, whose famous “It’s Clobberin’ Time” catchphrase was inspired by Sick of It All’s iconic song, thanked Koller for providing “the soundtrack” to his life. Fellow punk bands, including Dropkick Murphys and members of Rancid, also honored the late musician, remembering him as a genuine, kind-hearted figure who left an unforgettable mark on the hardcore community.  Though Lou Koller’s voice has been silenced, his influence on hardcore punk will continue to inspire musicians and fans for generations. His legacy lives on through the music he created, the community he helped build, and the countless lives he touched throughout an extraordinary career.

  • |

    Mohammad Abbas breaks Pakistan’s Test bowling record

    TAROUBA: Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas has created a new national record in Test cricket. Abbas has surpassed legendary former captain Imran Khan to achieve Pakistan’s best bowling average among pacers with at least 100 Test wickets. The 36-year-old reached the milestone during Pakistan’s first Test against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba. Abbas dismissed Brandon King and Kavem Hodge during the West Indies’ second innings. He had already taken three wickets in the first innings. The performance took Abbas to 115 Test wickets in 30 matches. His bowling average improved to 22.78. Imran Khan previously held the record with an average of 22.81. He took 362 wickets in 88 Tests during his career. Former Pakistan fast bowler Waqar Younis is third on the list. He claimed 373 wickets in 87 Tests at an average of 23.56. Abbas made his Test debut against the West Indies in Kingston in 2017. He received his Test cap from then Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq. Despite his strong domestic record, Abbas spent more than three years away from Pakistan’s Test team. He returned to the side during the tour of South Africa in December 2025. Since his comeback, he has once again become an important part of Pakistan’s pace attack. In 2026, Abbas has taken 15 wickets in three Tests. His performances also include a five-wicket haul. Abbas has also built an impressive record in first-class cricket. He has taken 894 wickets in 220 matches at an average of 20.36. Among active first-class bowlers, Abbas ranks fourth for wickets. James Anderson leads the list with 1,181 wickets, followed by Simon Harmer with 1,054 and Malinda Pushpakumara with 1,010. Abbas’ latest achievement adds another milestone to his career. His accuracy and consistency have helped him become one of Pakistan’s most effective Test bowlers.

  • | |

    Security forces intensify K-P anti-terror operatio…

    Security forces have stepped up intelligence-based operations (IBOs) across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under the Azm-e-Istehkam campaign, targeting militant hideouts and disrupting terrorist networks in several areas over the past two months, according to security sources. Officials said one of the major operations was carried out in the Khatti Killi area of North Waziristan, where security forces raided suspected militant hideouts following intelligence reports. During the operation, several terrorists were killed after an exchange of fire, while others sustained injuries and managed to flee. Security sources said troops recovered a large cache of weapons, ammunition and communication equipment from the militants’ hideouts. The recovered material is expected to assist investigators in tracing the activities and support networks of militant groups operating in the region. According to officials, the operations specifically targeted members of Fitna al-Khawarij, the term used by the state for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Authorities said the campaign was conducted with great care to protect civilians and prevent damage to local communities. Security officials emphasised that the ongoing operations are aimed at eliminating terrorist threats, restoring law and order, and ensuring lasting peace across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They reaffirmed that intelligence-led operations would continue until militant networks are dismantled and terrorism is eradicated. The latest operations are part of the broader Azm-e-Istehkam strategy launched to strengthen counterterrorism efforts nationwide. The campaign focuses on targeted intelligence operations against militant groups while enhancing the security of vulnerable areas. Last week, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said security forces had carried out more than 40,000 intelligence-based operations across Pakistan so far this year, with a significant number conducted in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said nearly 194 intelligence-based operations are being conducted daily across the country. According to the military spokesperson, security forces have eliminated more than 2,000 terrorists during 2026, reflecting the intensified pace of counterterrorism operations.

  • | |

    Jennifer Garner recalls intense paparazzi harassment

    Hollywood actor Jennifer Garner has opened up about the intense and terrifying experiences she faced with paparazzi during her marriage to ex-husband Ben Affleck, highlighting the extreme measures photogs took to capture images of her young children. ​The 53-year-old actress recalled how the non-stop presence of relentless photographers created an unsafe and hostile environment for her family on a daily basis. Garner revealed that paparazzi would frequently aggressive crowd her children, causing chaos in public settings to get marketable shots. In several terrifying incidents, photogs physically knocked over children just to snap photos of her three kids—Violet, Seraphina, and Samuel. ​The constant invasion of privacy and safety concerns eventually led Garner to join forces with fellow actor Halle Berry to actively advocate for legal reforms in California. The duo lobbied heavily for state legislation to curb aggressive celebrity photography, resulting in an anti-paparazzi bill that criminalized photographing or videotaping children without parental consent. ​Reflecting on her public life, Garner emphasized the distinct line between her career choice and her family’s right to privacy. While accepting that public scrutiny comes with acting, she noted that her children are private citizens who suffered trauma from being hunted by gangs of aggressive photographers everywhere they went. Her legal advocacy helped set a critical precedent for protecting celebrity children from aggressive press tactics across the entertainment industry.

  • | | |

    Pezeshkian says Iran seeks peace, not wider conflict

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said that Iran has no intention of prolonging the current conflict or expanding it beyond its existing scope. However, he made it clear that the country will continue to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests against any threat. Speaking at a ceremony in Tehran, the president said Iran’s policy is based on protecting its borders while avoiding any unnecessary escalation. He stressed that the country does not seek war but will not hesitate to respond if its security or independence is challenged. Pezeshkian said maintaining national security is not only the responsibility of the armed forces but also depends on the unity and solidarity of the Iranian people. He urged citizens to set aside political and social differences and work together to strengthen the country during a difficult period. The president said internal unity is one of the strongest defenses against foreign interference. According to him, divisions within society can create opportunities for outside powers to influence domestic affairs. He added that a united nation is better equipped to face political, economic and security challenges. He emphasized the need to build a strong and stable society where people enjoy confidence in national institutions and where hostile elements cannot create unrest or weaken public trust. He said Iran must focus on strengthening its social fabric to prevent enemies from exploiting internal disagreements. Pezeshkian also called for greater national cooperation to overcome current challenges. He said every segment of society has a role to play in safeguarding the country’s future and preserving stability. The Iranian president reiterated that his government remains committed to protecting the country’s borders and national interests while pursuing policies that avoid a wider regional conflict. He said Iran’s priority is to maintain security, preserve national unity and prevent conditions that could lead to further instability.

  • | | |

    Chonburi Police Clarify Investigation Details of Murdered Thai Family and Reject Online Claims Linking Murder Suspects to Officers

    CHONBURI, Thailand Chonburi Provincial Police on Sunday held a press conference and issued an official statement addressing public concerns over the discovery of three bodies of a Thai family linked to the murder of two young Russian siblings, while firmly denying rumors that the four suspects have any family or operational ties to police officers. […]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *