California Faces Fuel Uncertainty as Last Middle East Oil Tanker Arrives
Gas prices have surged above $6 per gallon in California, with the arrival of the last oil tanker from the Middle East adding to uncertainty. The New Corolla, carrying about 2 million barrels of crude oil, docked this week, raising concerns about future supply as the state grapples with the nation's highest fuel costs.
California Energy Commission Vice-Chair Siva Gunda told legislators on Tuesday that the state can meet fuel demand for the next six weeks with its current supply. However, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted global oil shipments, and while markets have continued to receive oil that was already in transit, the long-term outlook remains precarious.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump issued a new ultimatum to Tehran, demanding acceptance of a deal to end the war or face intensified US bombing. US Central Command reported firing on an Iranian-flagged oil tanker attempting to breach the blockade.
Negotiations between Washington and Tehran are reportedly close to a memorandum of understanding, with Axios reporting progress. Pakistani officials told the Guardian that an initial framework could be agreed within 48 hours, though talks remain difficult.
Epstein Suicide Note Unsealed
A federal judge unsealed an alleged suicide note written by Jeffrey Epstein on Wednesday, revealing his defiant words. Epstein's cellmate, Nicholas Tartaglione, said he found the note after Epstein's first suicide attempt in July 2019. The note reads, in part: "They investigated me for months – FOUND NOTHING!!! It is a treat to be able to choose one’s time to say goodbye." The Guardian has not verified the note's authenticity, and it was unsigned.
Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship
Investigators are racing to determine the origins of a deadly hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship, which has killed three passengers. One person is in intensive care in South Africa, and three others were evacuated. A Swiss passenger who left the ship earlier tested positive. Concerns mount over 23 passengers who disembarked on Saint Helena on April 23, with some returning to the US. The ship is headed to Tenerife after Spanish authorities granted docking permission, though the Canary Islands president expressed concern.
Other News
- Democratic candidate Chedrick Greene won a special election in Michigan, preserving party control of the state senate.
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Pope Leo at the Vatican on Thursday.
- A Moscow university is training operatives in Russian military intelligence, including election meddling and hacking, documents reveal.
- A judge ruled the federal government can keep 2020 election ballots from Georgia's Fulton County seized by the FBI.
- 60% of Americans believe the US is no longer welcoming to immigrants, per an AP-NORC poll.
Climate and Energy
Shell reported $6.9 billion in first-quarter profits, a 115% jump from the previous quarter, driven by soaring energy prices during the Iran war. Climate campaigners criticized the company for profiting while millions suffer from high fuel costs.
Culture and Miscellany
Newly discovered recordings of Arthur Miller reveal his thoughts on his marriage to Marilyn Monroe, saying she wanted a husband who was a "father, lover, friend and agent." Also, Melanie C's new album "Sweat" features a typo spelling her name as "Melanine C," joining a history of album cover fails.
