Donald Trump has again threatened to take control of the Strait of Hormuz as he announced the reimposition of a naval blockade on Iran and demanded a 20% tariff on ships passing through the strategic waterway. The announcement caused a spike in oil prices, according to reports.
Naval Blockade and Tariffs
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump suggested the US should be known as the 'Guardian of the Strait of Hormuz.' The regime also announced it was denying passage of ships through the strait, leading to a sharp increase in oil prices. According to reports, Israel attempted to recruit Iran's former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to lead a new post-Islamic regime in Tehran.
Other News
UK counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into the death of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead at her home on Dartmoor last week. French firefighters are tackling a massive blaze in Fontainebleau forest. A person was shot dead by US immigration agents in Maine, following a similar incident in Texas. Record numbers of Chinese graduates are entering a job market unable to absorb them.
World Cup Update
Spain's captain Rodri expressed confidence ahead of their semi-final against France, stating 'we can beat them.' England faces Argentina in the other semi-final, with Lionel Messi remaining a potent threat. Victoria Beckham has become a major meme of the World Cup due to her reaction to England's quarter-final win.
Australia News
More than 2,000 cases of 'sextortion' were reported to the online safety watchdog in the last six months of last year, with men aged 18-24 most targeted. Sellers are using social media to promote illegal vapes, prompting calls for stronger penalties. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will describe AI progress as an inflection point for society. Federal police have contacted over 120 families in an investigation into a former Sydney childcare worker.
In-Depth
Adeshola Ore visits the Victorian town of Donald, where locals are dealing with the loss of 13-year-old Layla Jeffrey. Mayor Graeme Milne noted the close bonds in the small town, saying 'I would expect the kids are finding it tough going.'
