Oil prices declined after signals that the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global crude shipments, could soon reopen following recent tensions. Traders responded to eased supply fears, though the situation remains fluid. A prolonged closure would have disrupted global energy markets, so any progress toward reopening carries major economic implications.

Cybercriminals exploited a vulnerability in offline hardware wallets to steal more than $130 million in cryptocurrency. The attack targeted users who believed their funds were secure in cold storage, highlighting risks even in supposedly offline devices. This major theft underscores the need for stronger security measures in crypto storage.

Texas is pausing new data center connections to the power grid, with the governor calling for audits of the facilities. The move comes amid concerns over energy demand and grid reliability. Existing and future projects will now face scrutiny before receiving grid access, impacting the state's booming data center industry.

The US Army is set to officially acquire high-energy laser weapons through a landmark deal, marking a major step in fielding directed-energy systems. The move signals a shift in modern warfare capabilities, offering potential for lower-cost interception of drones and missiles.

The Trump administration acknowledged it was aware of deaths linked to an outbreak of severe diarrheal illness but delayed publicly reporting the cases. The delay raises concerns about transparency and the speed of public health warnings, potentially worsening the outbreak's impact.

New NAPLAN results show Australian school students' reading and writing skills have worsened, with one in three failing to meet national benchmarks. The decline highlights growing concerns about literacy and numeracy standards across the country's education system.

Police in Melbourne are investigating an anti-weapons protest as a potential terrorist act allegedly connected to far-left extremists. The unprecedented move raises concerns about the application of counter-terrorism laws to political demonstrations and the criminalization of dissent. This could set a significant legal precedent for how peaceful protests are treated in Australia.

Aboriginal community police officers in Australia's Northern Territory have launched legal action against NT authorities, alleging racial abuse and discrimination from colleagues and superiors. The lawsuit claims the officers endured racist treatment while carrying out their official duties. The case spotlights systemic racism within policing institutions and may drive demands for accountability and reform.

As Beirut marks the anniversary of the devastating 2020 port explosion, renewed Israeli strikes have brought fresh destruction to the city. The new wave of violence complicates remembrance and deepens Lebanon's ongoing crisis.