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Escalating Middle East conflict has choked the world's busiest oil passage, pushing crude prices past $100 per barrel with warnings of a surge to $167 or higher. A prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz threatens a severe energy and trade shock, potentially reducing global trade growth significantly and deepening economic uncertainty worldwide.

Cybersecurity giant Cloudflare is laying off over 1,100 employees globally, citing a major reorganization for the 'agentic AI era'. The company's internal AI usage has surged dramatically, prompting a rethink of its structure to enhance customer value and speed. Departing staff receive industry-leading severance packages, including pay through 2026 and extended healthcare.

Scorpions possess remarkable engineering skills, reinforcing their claws and stingers with metals like zinc, iron, and calcium. This metal enrichment, passed down through generations, enhances their grip and striking power. Interestingly, a trade-off exists in metal allocation between claws and stingers, with zinc playing a crucial role in strengthening thinner claws and potentially aiding venom delivery.

India is experiencing extreme heatwaves, with temperatures soaring and heatwaves arriving earlier and with greater intensity. This is exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to strengthen. The heat poses significant health risks and economic challenges, impacting daily life and livelihoods across the nation. Adaptation and mitigation strategies are crucial for navigating this growing crisis.

El Nino conditions are expected to return soon, influencing global weather patterns and potentially weakening monsoon systems. This comes as parts of India, particularly Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, are experiencing severe heatwaves with temperatures soaring. Authorities are taking measures to combat the heat and prepare for potential monsoon challenges.

Coinbase is cutting about 14% of its global workforce, impacting around 700 jobs. This move is driven by the evolving role of artificial intelligence in operations and ongoing crypto market fluctuations. The company aims to streamline its structure and enhance efficiency. Restructuring is expected to conclude by the second quarter of 2026.

There is a lot that Darjeeling could learn from Champagne when it comes to protecting its legacy. As the 87 odd estates in the Himalayan foothills gear up to educate the world about their authentic GI tagged teas, we get a whiff of what’s brewing

Raj Shamani's podcast featured a live Burmese python, offering a unique lesson on wildlife. Wildlife explorer Paul Rosolie demonstrated the snake's incredible biology and immense strength, highlighting its defensive nature. The segment underscored how fear often stems from misunderstanding, as the python reacted only when stressed, proving a powerful, memorable demonstration of animal behavior.

Fresh reports reveal internal Pentagon discussions exploring punitive measures against Nato allies, including Spain, for perceived lack of support during the Iran conflict. These discussions, alongside President Trump's continued questioning of US commitment, expose deep divisions within the alliance, raising questions about its future and European security.

The Bengals made a blockbuster trade, sending their 10th overall pick to the Giants for star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. This move signals the team's commitment to winning now and keeping quarterback Joe Burrow happy. By acquiring a proven veteran, Cincinnati aims to immediately bolster their defense and support their franchise player, putting immense pressure on the upcoming season.

Extreme heat poses a health risk, shifting cooling from comfort to necessity. While ACs offer superior protection by reducing temperature and humidity during heatwaves, they can cause dryness if misused. Fans are effective in moderate heat but can worsen exposure in extreme conditions. A balanced approach using both, with mindful habits, is key to staying healthy.