Fast, factual wire coverage from across Malaysia and the region.
The United States has advised its citizens in West Asia to consider departing the region amid escalating tensions with Iran, warning of potential flight disruptions and security threats to American interests.
US authorities suspect Iranian-backed hackers targeted approximately 30 water systems across Minnesota over two days in late July, with methods matching known Tehran-affiliated groups.
Oil prices tumbled about 5% to two-week lows on cautious optimism that a pause in US-Iran hostilities could pave the way for diplomatic talks. However, fundamental supply disruptions through critical maritime chokepoints remain unresolved.
The UN has raised alarm over approximately 6,000 seafarers marooned on roughly 400 vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, caught between escalating US-Iran hostilities. Many face severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Iran and Pakistan's top diplomats have reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability during talks at an SCO meeting, emphasising dialogue and de-escalation as tensions mount following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement.
Oil markets rallied Friday as US-Iran hostilities intensified and Iran signalled Houthi allies to prepare for a Red Sea blockade, threatening global energy supplies and reinforcing geopolitical risk premiums.
Qatar has forcefully rejected Israeli media reports suggesting it would participate in military action against Iran, stating such claims aim to sabotage its regional mediation efforts and destabilise the Gulf.
The United States military has launched a second wave of strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure, with the Trump administration emphasizing accountability and warning Tehran to modify its behavior amid escalating regional tensions.
The Malaysian Embassy in Doha has instructed Malaysians in Qatar to remain vigilant and adhere to security measures issued by Qatari authorities, as tensions between the United States and Iran intensify in the region.
The US military has enabled safe passage of more than 800 commercial vessels and 380 million barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz since early May, despite escalating military tensions with Iran.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations has maintained a severe security alert for the Strait of Hormuz following unprovoked attacks on merchant vessels. The waterway remains critical to global shipping despite escalating US-Iran military tensions.