Times reporters answered reader questions about the war with Iran, its economic fallout and other pressing issues.

On energy and markets, reporters explained that oil is traded globally, so disruptions in the Middle East can raise gasoline prices and rattle stock markets even if the United States produces much of its own oil. Historically, wars tend to cause short term market drops but have limited long term effects, though sustained energy shocks could fuel inflation or recession. Food supplies are also under strain from both war and climate change, with fertilizer disruptions affecting major agricultural producers and likely leading to higher grocery costs.

On national security, intelligence officials say a large scale attack on American soil is unlikely, though smaller acts of sabotage or targeted violence remain possible. Researchers are also studying whether certain diabetes and weight loss medications might help treat addiction, but evidence remains preliminary.

Retailers defend self checkout as a way to offer flexibility and reduce labor costs, even as some shoppers find it frustrating. In politics, experts note that while presidents are exempt from certain conflict of interest laws, modern leaders have generally avoided personal financial gain from policy decisions, making the scale of former President Donald Trump's business profits while in office unusual though not clearly illegal.