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Business
Saudi Aramco profits jump 25% as Iran war drives oil prices higher
Saudi Aramco said Q1 profit rose 25% as the Iran war disrupted global oil supplies and pushed up prices. The company shifted some exports away from the Strait of Hormuz via its East-West Pipeline, which is now operating at full capacity.
Sport
Astana ends on a high with a heavyweight finale
The Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam 2026 ended in style as the heavyweights closed the show in Astana. Boris Rutovic, Anna Monta Olek, Marat Baikamurov, Elis Startseva and Inal Tasoev took gold, while Kazakhstan finished strongly with four medals and third in the table.
Iran
Fragile truce holds as US awaits Iran's response to latest proposal
Washington insists its month-long ceasefire with Iran is continuing to hold despite renewed hostilities and the recent exchanges of fire. The US says it is awaiting Iran’s response to its latest ceasefire proposal to end the war.
Sport
Judo: Strong start for the hosts in Astana
The Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam opened in style in Astana, with packed stands and top-level judo. Sukhbat Byambasuren, Amber Gersjes, Blandine Pont, Abdurakhim Nutfulloev and Faiza Mokdar all took gold, while Kazakhstan celebrated two medals on day one.
Indonesia
Indonesia volcano eruption kills three hikers on Mount Dukono
Mount Dukono erupted in North Halmahera, Indonesia, sending a massive ash cloud 10 kilometres into the sky. Three hikers, including two foreigners, were killed and 10 remain missing. Rescue teams are searching for 20 people affected near the volcano, officials said.
Business
Iraq announces huge oil find near Saudi border as Hormuz crisis bites
Iraq has the fifth largest proven oil reserves in the world, estimated at 145 billion barrels, representing about 17% of total Middle Eastern reserves and around 9% of global reserves, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).
Economy
Pacific economies face slower growth amid energy market pressure
Rising fuel and fertiliser import costs are placing growing pressure on economies across Asia and the Pacific, especially small island states that rely heavily on imports. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) says governments are accelerating energy transition and resilience measures in response.