Jim Chalmers has warned inflation could rise close to five per cent as Middle East tensions push up oil prices. Treasury expects slower growth but not a recession, while markets anticipate a possible interest rate rise.

Explosions were reported across multiple Iranian cities, including Tehran and Shiraz, with witnesses describing heavy strikes. The United States confirmed that strategic bombers carried out a night mission targeting sites in Iran.

Trump called on allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz as Iran threatened ports in the United Arab Emirates and warned of attacks on regional energy infrastructure. Missile strikes, embassy attacks and mounting casualties underscored escalating tensions across the Middle East.

Donald Trump called on other nations to send warships to safeguard oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz as Iranian attacks disrupt global energy supplies. The escalating conflict has spread across the Middle East, causing heavy casualties, displacement, and economic turmoil.

After a surge of heat and strong winds, rain and thunderstorms are forecast to return to Israel on Wednesday. Flash flooding is possible in southern and desert regions as the rain spreads nationwide.

Iran threatened ports in the United Arab Emirates as President Donald Trump called on allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz. Missile attacks and military casualties highlight a widening regional conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

A drone strike hit the United States embassy in Baghdad, leading officials to urge Americans to leave Iraq immediately. The attack followed strikes that killed three members of an Iran-backed militia, as regional tensions continue to escalate.

Three Iranian women's soccer players who had sought asylum in Australia have withdrawn their requests and chosen to return home. The move leaves three team members still planning to remain in Australia after the controversy surrounding their silence during the national anthem.

Iran widened its confrontation with the United States by accusing it of launching strikes from the United Arab Emirates, as displacement crises deepen across the Middle East. Other major developments include deadly attacks in Ukraine, a foiled synagogue assault in Michigan, and domestic political and economic shifts in the United States.

One Battle After Another and Sinners lead a tightly contested Academy Awards, with major races still uncertain. The ceremony unfolds amid global tensions and industry change, as new rules and categories debut.

President Donald Trump is facing political headwinds two weeks after launching strikes on Iran, as casualties and rising energy prices fuel public concern. The conflict’s economic fallout and foreign policy ripple effects are shaping the debate ahead of the midterm elections.

Iran launched a fresh missile barrage toward Israel, triggering sirens in Tel Aviv, while Hezbollah reported direct clashes with Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. Lebanon is considering negotiations as casualties continue to rise.