U.S. stocks edged lower as investors navigated a mix of rising oil prices, corporate earnings signals, and shifting expectations around Federal Reserve policy. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all turned down after early gains, reflecting a market grappling with geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns. Indexes Pull Back All three major indexes slipped roughly between 0.3% and 0.6%, giving back some of the previous session’s momentum. The downturn followed renewed volatility in energy markets and cautious sentiment around consumer spending. Oil Prices Add Fresh Pressure Crude prices extended their sharp rally, driven by heightened worries over a potential U.S.–Iran conflict. Brent crude climbed above $71 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovered near $66 — its biggest daily jump since October. Rising energy costs revived inflation concerns and weighed on equities. Walmart Earnings in Focus Walmart posted stronger‑than‑expected results, but its cautious pro...
Israeli Tanks Advance in Rafah, Forcing Residents to Flee Again
In a distressing escalation of violence, Israeli tanks, backed by warplanes and drones, have penetrated deeper into the western part of the Gaza Strip city of Rafah. According to residents and Palestinian medics, eight people lost their lives in this latest incursion. The tanks moved into five neighborhoods after midnight, leaving a trail of destruction and panic among the population.
The Al-Mawasi area, further west of the coastal enclave, bore the brunt of heavy shelling and gunfire. Displaced Palestinians, who had already fled their homes due to previous Israeli strikes, sought refuge in tent camps. However, even these temporary shelters were not spared as bullets and shells rained down on them.
Despite international efforts to mediate a ceasefire, the conflict persists. Israel’s stated goal of wiping out Hamas and freeing Israeli hostages remains unmet, while Gaza continues to suffer. The Rafah crossing, the primary link for most of Gaza’s population with the outside world, lies in ruins, its buildings burnt, and Israeli tanks now positioned there.
As the situation remains dire, the world watches, hoping for an end to the violence and a path toward peace. But for now, the people of Rafah face another night of horror, caught in the crossfire of a seemingly unending conflict.
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