Iran diplomats killed in Israeli strike in Lebanon; fuel prices surge globally

Four Iranian diplomats were killed in Lebanon on Sunday in an Israeli strike, according to reports. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Russia against involvement in the conflict in West Asia following a call between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Hegseth described it as a strong call, reiterating that Russia should not be involved.

Meanwhile, global fuel prices are surging due to the escalating conflict. Average gasoline prices in the United States jumped by over 11 cents overnight. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have intensified attacks on US and allied targets across West Asia and moved to close the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global oil supplies and pushing prices above 100 dollars per barrel. The closure affects over 20 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products daily. In the UAE, essential supplies are in short supply as imports from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are disrupted.