Oil prices jumped nearly 3% after the US launched military strikes against Iran in response to attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Fears of escalating conflict threaten a critical oil transit route.
Three Indian sailors were killed in US strikes on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions between the US, Iran, and India, with India demanding explanations and condemning the attacks.
US Congressman Rob Wittman expresses regret over the killing of three Indian sailors by a US missile strike off Oman, citing an 'unfortunate incident' under investigation.
Former environment minister Peter Garrett will lead an independent inquiry into the Aukus defence pact, launched by Labor veterans and public figures concerned about the $368bn plan's scrutiny and potential risks.
Eight major technology companies including Google, Nvidia, SpaceX, OpenAI, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Oracle and AI start-up Reflection have signed agreements with the Pentagon to deploy their AI technology on classified networks for military use. The deals aim to establish the US military as an AI-first fighting force. However, some tech workers have raised concerns about AI applications for autonomous weapons and mass surveillance. Anthropic clashed with the Pentagon earlier this year over safeguards, leading to a legal battle after the Trump administration banned federal use of its tools.
CNN investigation reveals Iran and its allies have damaged at least 16 US military installations across 8 Middle East countries since conflict began February 28, 2026. Satellite imagery shows advanced radar systems, communications infrastructure and aircraft were primary targets. Pentagon estimates conflict costs at $25 billion, though internal sources place figure at $40-50 billion. Gulf allies, particularly Saudi Arabia, have privately expressed concern over Washington's handling of the conflict.
The Pentagon has signed agreements with seven AI companies, including OpenAI, Google, and Nvidia, to integrate their technology into military networks. The move aims to establish an AI-first military force, despite ongoing controversies regarding surveillance and autonomous weapons.
