A former senior Iranian official admitted in a resurfaced interview that Iran initially sought to build a nuclear bomb. The comments have fueled debate as the United States and Israel conduct strikes aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities.

Oil prices dropped sharply as hopes of renewed United States and Iran talks eased supply fears. However, major disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional tensions continue to pose significant risks to global energy markets.

Slow-moving fuel protests caused traffic disruption across Northern Ireland, including near Belfast City Airport. Ministers warned that blocking roads could endanger lives, while protesters demanded action on rising energy costs.

Israel's shekel has reached a 30-year high against the United States dollar, nearing 3 shekels to the dollar. Optimism over regional diplomacy, rising defense exports, and strong technology sector fundraising are boosting the currency.

The Geneva watch fair has opened amid uncertainty caused by the Middle East war and ongoing economic pressures. Analysts warn that export growth may stall as the luxury sector faces weaker demand and geopolitical risks.

Donald Trump has urged the United Kingdom to expand North Sea oil and gas drilling, saying Aberdeen should be booming. The British government defended its shift toward renewable energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cast doubt on the causes and economic risks of climate change, urging global institutions to focus on growth over climate policy. His remarks conflict with scientific consensus that fossil fuels are driving rising global temperatures.

Donald Trump criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for refusing to support action against Iran, questioning her courage and Italy’s commitment to Western security. Italian leaders defended Meloni and reaffirmed the country’s national interests and constitutional opposition to war.

Metula, Israel's northernmost town, has been heavily affected by cross-border fire from Hezbollah. Casualties have been reported on both sides as fighting between Israel and the Lebanese armed group intensifies.

Israel and Lebanon are set for rare direct talks in Washington, District of Columbia to address months of conflict. Hezbollah has rejected the negotiations, casting doubt on hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough.

Lebanon and Israel have launched rare direct talks in Washington as regional tensions escalate. The negotiations coincide with fresh Hezbollah attacks and a United States naval blockade aimed at pressuring Iran back to the negotiating table.

Israel is investing heavily in bioconvergence to drive economic growth across multiple sectors. A 548.5 million shekel national program aims to build a globally competitive ecosystem through coordinated government action.