Iran’s Attacks on Gulf Energy Facilities Send Shockwaves Through Financial Markets One week after hostilities spread across the Middle East, Iran’s ongoing strikes on critical energy infrastructure in the Gulf have unsettled global markets and amplified worries about an economic downturn. The country had previously issued warnings about its readiness to retaliate against U.S.-led military actions, vowing to disrupt regional stability. Now, as the conflict intensifies, Tehran’s coordinated assaults on oil platforms, refineries, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants have escalated tensions. The latest wave of Iranian attacks targeted Azerbaijan, expanding the scope of operations into the Caucasus. Despite Tehran’s insistence that its actions are aimed at U.S. and Israeli interests, the strikes also hit key energy assets in the Gulf, which supply major global economies. The disruption of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for 20% of the world’s oil, further complicated matters. Over 200 vessels were reportedly stranded, according to Lloyd’s List, as Iranian drones and missiles struck critical shipping lanes. Qatar, a major player in the LNG market, halted production at its largest facility after Iranian drones targeted operational zones in Mesaieed and Ras Laffan Industrial City. This move sent ripples through energy trade, contributing to rising prices. Qatar’s output accounts for about 20% of global LNG supply, influencing demand in Asia and Europe. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s largest oil refinery faced shutdowns, and Iraqi oil output as well as Israeli gas fields were also impacted. Dubai’s ports, among the world’s busiest, suffered damage too. On Friday, the UK Foreign Office noted that while Iran’s attacks have slowed in frequency, the focus has shifted toward economic and energy-related targets. In a Financial Times interview, Qatar’s Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi warned that the war “could bring down the economies of the world.” He predicted that prolonged conflict would harm GDP growth globally, leading to higher energy costs, shortages, and a domino effect on manufacturing. “If this war continues for a few weeks, GDP growth around the world will be impacted. Everybody’s energy price is going to go higher. There will be shortages of some products and there will be a chain reaction of factories that cannot supply,” al-Kaabi stated. Dr. Yousef Alshammari, president of the London College of Energy Economics, emphasized that a prolonged blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a global recession. “As we move toward the summer, the risks of a global downturn may grow,” he said. “China, the largest consumer of Iranian oil, could apply political pressure, especially if energy prices surge by over 50% in Europe.” “And that is due mainly to the fact that we are in a period of low demand, and secondly, due to the fact that the global oil markets continue to be well supplied,” Alshammari added. Former U.S. ambassador to Azerbaijan, Matthew Bryza, questioned the strategic rationale behind Iran’s attacks on Azerbaijan. He noted the strikes on Turkey and Cyprus were also puzzling, suggesting they didn’t align with a rational military strategy. “Why would Iran strike Nakhchivan, a region with minimal strategic value, when it clearly wants to avoid drawing Azerbaijan into the war?” Bryza asked. “President Aliyev sent a plane and said, no, we’re not going to take any money for it. And then hours later, Iran attacked Azerbaijan. So, it makes no sense,” Bryza explained. Bryza argued that Tehran might be aiming to destabilize energy supply chains and raise prices to pressure U.S. President Donald Trump. Continued disruptions, he said, could harm Republican prospects in upcoming elections. The attacks, he concluded, seem more about sowing economic uncertainty than achieving a clear military objective.
Nepal’s early vote count puts ex-rapper’s party ahead
Nepal’s early vote count puts ex-rapper’s party ahead Early election results in Nepal suggest that Balendra Shah’s political party is gaining significant momentum, surpassing other contenders in the race for the country’s prime ministerial position. At 35, Shah, a former mayor of Kathmandu, has captured the attention of voters with his energetic campaign, positioning himself as a symbol of youthful ambition and reform. His centrist Rastriya Swatantra Party, established just three years ago, appears to be leading in 37 parliamentary seats, according to initial trends released by the election commission on Friday. This progress contrasts sharply with the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist – UML), led by former Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, which holds only three seats in the early count. Shah’s rise has been marked by his ability to connect with younger demographics, both on social media and in local communities, where calls for change have been vocal. His campaign in the Jhapa 5 constituency, a key electoral area near the Indian border, saw him challenge Oli, who is 74 years old, on his home ground. Meanwhile, the Nepali Congress, spearheaded by 49-year-old Gagan Thapa, the nation’s oldest political party, leads in five seats. Officials anticipate final results by Friday evening or Saturday, as the counting process continues for 165 directly elected seats out of a total 275 in the lower house of parliament. The remaining 110 seats will be allocated via proportional representation. Political instability has long been a defining feature of Nepal, affecting its economic growth and social stability. The country, home to 30 million people, has struggled with a largely agrarian economy and rising unemployment, issues exacerbated by systemic corruption. These challenges reached a boiling point in late September, when mass protests erupted over a social media ban, drawing thousands to the streets. The unrest escalated into violent clashes, resulting in fatalities and forcing the resignation of K P Sharma Oli. The situation highlights a broader pattern of frustration with governance, with voters increasingly seeking leaders who promise fresh approaches and accountability.
Guthrie case investigators question neighbors about any internet issues on the night she disappeared
Guthrie Case: Investigators Probe Neighbors for Internet Anomalies on Disappearance Night Following Nancy Guthrie’s mysterious vanishing, law enforcement agencies have reached out to local residents to inquire about any unusual internet outages that occurred during the evening of her last sighting. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department and FBI conducted a thorough canvass of Guthrie’s neighborhood in Tucson, Arizona, on Thursday, visiting homes to gather information from residents. Multiple homeowners shared with NBC News that the agents specifically questioned them about internet connectivity disruptions on the night she disappeared. According to neighbors, the investigators noted that several residents had mentioned intermittent internet glitches during that timeframe. Two homeowners reported that the agents also asked about video footage from January 11, though officials have not confirmed if this date is central to their investigation. Three other residents stated they were either asleep or away from their homes at the time of the abduction and could not confirm any issues with their internet service. A couple residing next to Guthrie’s home reported an odd occurrence. They noted a malfunction with one of their Ring cameras during the night of the disappearance, as it displayed the “not available” message when accessed. The couple, who have four cameras on their property, emphasized that the glitch occurred only on the camera closest to Guthrie’s house. The other devices functioned normally, and they stated they had never encountered the warning before. “That’s really weird, isn’t it?” they remarked, highlighting the unexplained nature of the event. “I’ve not looked at that closely, but yeah, I know that my team has looked at it with the FBI every angle,” said Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos when asked earlier this week about the possibility of a Wi-Fi jammer being used during the abduction. Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of TODAY co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, was last seen around 9:45 p.m. on January 31 after dinner with her daughter Annie. She was officially reported missing on February 1 after failing to appear at a friend’s house for a Sunday church service. Authorities classify the case as a potential kidnapping or abduction, though details remain scarce. Last month, the FBI released footage from doorbell cameras showing an armed and masked man with gloves in the early hours of Nancy’s disappearance. The suspect, described as between 5 feet 9 inches and 5 feet 10 inches tall and of average build, was seen wearing a black, 25-liter Ozark Trail Hiker Pack backpack. Despite the visual evidence, the man’s identity has not yet been confirmed. Meanwhile, Savannah Guthrie, who has taken a leave from her TODAY show duties, visited New York City for a studio appearance. She stated her intention to return to her role while continuing to support her family and aid in finding Nancy. The Guthrie family announced a $1 million reward for information leading to her recovery, joining efforts from the FBI and Crime Stoppers. Liz Kreutz is an NBC News correspondent. Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.
Van driver jailed after killing London student
Van Driver Jailed After Killing London Student A 27-year-old man from Southampton has received an eight-year prison sentence following a van crash that resulted in the death of a 20-year-old student near a London university campus. The incident occurred on March 18 of last year, during which Christopher Jackson admitted to causing the fatal accident through dangerous van operation. Incident Details The court was informed that the victim, Aalia Mahomed, was seated on a bench close to King’s College London’s (KCL) campus in the Strand. Jackson, who had no prior experience driving electric vehicles, was tasked with retrieving a van from Bush House in Aldwych. His vehicle struck gates near the campus, climbed a flower bed, briefly lifted off the ground, and then collided with Mahomed. The vehicle eventually halted near the wall of St Mary-Le-Strand church. The entire event lasted approximately six seconds, as revealed during the trial at the Old Bailey. The judge highlighted Jackson’s lack of experience, noting that he had “no experience of driving vans, let alone electric vans,” and emphasized the “significant level of irresponsibility” in the case. Judge’s Sentencing Remarks “It is accepted that you were pressing or pumping on the accelerator, thinking it was the brake,” the judge stated during his sentencing remarks. The judge also addressed Jackson’s defense, which had argued the crash was a “tragic accident” without involvement of excessive speed, alcohol, or drugs. However, the court ruled against this, comparing Jackson’s actions to a driver renting a car: “Any careful and competent driver would ensure they can operate the vehicle safely before setting off.” Impact on Family and Victims “When you lose a child, you don’t just lose a presence of someone in your life—you lose a part of yourself,” said Samira Shafi, Aalia’s mother. “Our beautiful Aalia had her whole life ahead of her, cut short at 20 with no warning and no goodbyes… the loss on the wider family is also immense.” In addition to Mahomed’s death, Jackson had previously been convicted of two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, which led to life-altering harm for two other KCL students, Irem Yoldas and Yamin Belmessous. He was sentenced to three years for each charge, with the terms running concurrently. Jackson will serve two-thirds of his total sentence before release on licence and has been barred from driving until passing a retest. Police Investigation Findings The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the van had no mechanical defects. Forensic analysis pointed to “unintended acceleration, exacerbated by Jackson’s panic” as a primary factor in the crash. During his interrogation, Jackson was observed leaning forward and provided no remarks about the incident. The judge, however, noted his “immediate and genuine remorse” as a key consideration in the sentencing. Further Updates This breaking news story is being updated with more details. Please refresh the page for the latest information. Stay informed with Sky News via the free Sky News app, our YouTube channel, or by following us on WhatsApp.
The Greens’ Gorton and Denton by-election win was about inclusion — not sectarianism
The Greens’ Gorton and Denton by-election win was about inclusion — not sectarianism What an electrifying night it turned out to be. Not merely because the Green Party secured our inaugural parliamentary by-election victory in Gorton and Denton. Not just for toppling a long-standing Labour majority exceeding 13,000. I never imagined I’d pen these words, not just for bringing a Green MP to the North of England for the first time. No, this triumph transcends all that. Last night marked a pivotal moment: a demonstration that a new political paradigm is emerging, one that champions hope over hostility and unity over division. The night also rekindled a sense of optimism. You can’t quantify the emotional impact – even as Labour and Reform’s disheartened supporters attempt to dismiss our inclusive campaign as something malicious. While our policies and the remarkable candidate, Hannah Spencer, played a role, they weren’t the sole factors. The real difference lay in our approach to communication. Politics in the UK has far too often spoken at people – a one-way conversation in a single language, English. Worse still, a Westminster, southern-England, privately educated version of English, as evidenced by Reform’s defeated candidate, the Kent-based Matt Goodwin. But in places like Gorton and Denton, where in some parts nearly 40 per cent of residents are Muslim, and a significant number grow up speaking Urdu, Bangla, Arabic or other languages at home, that old way of doing things simply doesn’t hold. You can communicate policy in crisp Radio 4 English, as our opponents did, but that can only get you so far. To get people to feel hope, to really understand in their hearts why politics is important, you need to speak in their own language – figuratively and literally. That’s why we produced campaign material in a number of different languages, including a viral video in Urdu. It wasn’t a gimmick or a narrow tactical ploy – it was a straightforward commitment to inclusion, making sure that people who may not feel fully heard in British politics see themselves reflected in the conversation and can engage with our message in a way that reflects and respects their lived experience. In a democracy, language should never be a barrier to participation; it should be a bridge. Some, chiefly those politicians who lost this election like Matt Goodwin, have criticised our approach as divisive or ‘sectarian’. But that interpretation misunderstands both our intention and the deeper purpose of multilingual outreach. And they certainly didn’t understand what we were saying in Urdu or in Bangla. Campaigns in other countries have shown how speaking to people in the languages they know isn’t about dividing people, it’s about inviting them in. For example, the success of Zohran Mamdani’s multilingual outreach in New York, where campaign videos in Arabic, Spanish and Urdu helped expand political conversations in communities often overlooked by mainstream politics. That was one of the keys to his victory – which was praised by many in the Labour Party who now question a similar approach. When we talk about rent, bills, the NHS, racism, or peace, those issues matter to everyone. Whether they speak English at home or Punjabi, Urdu, Somali or any other language. Multilingual campaigning recognises that reality. It says loud and clear: You belong here. Your voice counts. Your concerns matter. We told people in Gorton and Denton that our campaign was here to represent them and their community. That is precisely the kind of politics Greens want to build, one that enfranchises, rather than alienates, diverse communities. This was one part of a campaign that I am so proud of. One that has seen a 26.5% swing towards the Greens. Our victory in Gorton and Denton isn’t just increasing our representation in parliament. It’s a testament to what can happen when people feel genuinely included, when they see their experiences acknowledged, their language respected, and their participation in democracy valued, not dismissed. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy.
Essential Offline Travel Guide Apps to Explore Without Wi-Fi
Why Offline Travel Guide Apps Are a Game-Changer for Modern Travelers When planning a trip, having access to reliable information is crucial. However, not all travelers have consistent Wi-Fi connectivity, especially in remote areas, mountainous regions, or during international travel. This is where offline travel guide apps come into play. These apps allow users to explore destinations, navigate unfamiliar cities, and access essential travel tips without relying on an internet connection. Whether you’re heading to a secluded hiking trail or a bustling urban metropolis, an offline travel guide app ensures you stay informed and prepared, no matter the location or situation. The demand for offline travel guide apps has surged in recent years as travelers seek more autonomy. Traditional guidebooks are bulky and outdated, while digital apps often require constant connectivity. Offline travel guide apps bridge this gap by offering real-time updates, interactive maps, and offline access. They are especially useful for adventurers who venture into areas with poor signal or budget-conscious travelers who want to avoid expensive data roaming charges. With the right app, you can plan your itinerary, find local attractions, and even navigate using GPS—all without needing an internet connection. The Benefits of Using Offline Travel Guide Apps One of the most significant advantages of offline travel guide apps is their ability to function without an internet connection. This eliminates the need for costly data plans in areas with limited connectivity. Additionally, these apps are often lightweight, making them ideal for use on smartphones with limited storage space. Another benefit is their reliability; even if your phone loses signal, the app remains operational, providing you with continuous access to travel information. Offline travel guide apps also offer a more personalized experience. Many apps allow users to customize their itinerary, mark favorite locations, and save specific details for later reference. This feature is particularly useful for travelers who want to explore at their own pace or revisit a destination after their trip. Moreover, these apps typically include offline maps, which are essential for navigation in areas without cellular coverage. Whether you’re walking through a historic city or driving through a remote wilderness, an offline travel guide app ensures you never get lost. Top Offline Travel Guide Apps for Every Traveler Several offline travel guide apps stand out for their comprehensive features and user-friendly design. Google Maps is a top choice, offering detailed maps, public transportation routes, and offline access to locations, directions, and points of interest. Maps.me is another popular option, known for its high-quality offline maps and ability to download entire regions. It’s perfect for hikers, cyclists, and road-trippers who need accurate topographical data. For language support, Tripit and Lonely Planet Offline are excellent choices. Tripit allows users to sync their travel plans with Google Calendar, while Lonely Planet Offline provides in-depth travel guides, including photos, local tips, and cultural insights. Citymapper is ideal for city explorers, offering real-time transit updates and offline navigation. Lastly, Wikiloc is a great app for adventure seekers, as it includes offline hiking trails, photos, and user-generated content. These apps cater to different travel needs, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every journey. Key Features to Look for in Offline Travel Guide Apps When choosing an offline travel guide app, certain features can make a significant difference in your travel experience. High-quality offline maps are a must, as they provide detailed street views, landmarks, and route planning. Look for apps that support real-time navigation, allowing you to track your location and adjust your path on the go. Language support is another critical factor, especially for international travelers. Apps like Lonely Planet Offline or Google Translate integrate translation tools to help users understand local signage, menus, and directions. Additionally, features like offline points of interest (POIs) allow you to search for restaurants, hotels, and attractions without an internet connection. Some apps also include offline audio guides, which can be useful when you’re in a noisy environment or prefer listening to information while walking. How to Use Offline Travel Guide Apps Effectively To maximize the benefits of an offline travel guide app, start by downloading the app before you leave home. Most apps require you to select a specific region or country and download its data, which can take up some storage space. Once installed, familiarize yourself with the app’s interface and customize your settings, such as enabling offline mode or setting up favorite locations. During your trip, use the app’s navigation tools to explore unfamiliar areas. For instance, Google Maps lets you search for nearby attractions and view directions offline. If you’re in a remote location, Maps.me is reliable for detailed topographical maps. Don’t forget to bookmark essential spots or create a list of must-visit places for easy reference. Regularly update the app’s data before your trip to ensure it includes the latest information on transportation, events, and local changes. Tips for Maximizing the Use of Offline Travel Guide Apps To get the most out of your offline travel guide app, plan your trip in advance. Download maps and guides for your destination before departure, and verify that the app includes the latest details on accommodations, transportation, and local attractions. If you’re traveling to multiple locations, consider downloading maps for each area to avoid switching between apps. Another tip is to use the app’s offline features like augmented reality (AR) navigation or local recommendations. For example, Citymapper can suggest the best routes and public transport options even without a connection. Also, keep your app updated by syncing with your online account when Wi-Fi is available. This way, you can access the latest content and ensure your offline data stays current. Lastly, don’t hesitate to share the app with fellow travelers, as it can enhance the experience for everyone involved. The Future of Travel: Offline Apps and Digital Freedom As technology continues to evolve, the role of offline travel guide apps is becoming increasingly vital. These apps empower travelers to explore independently, reducing dependence on constant internet access. They are especially beneficial for
