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 Airstrike Eliminates Senior Hezbollah Commander in Southern Lebanon
In a significant escalation of hostilities, an Israeli airstrike has killed a high-ranking commander in Hezbollah’s elite Radwan forces, according to security sources. The commander, identified as Habib Maatouk, was targeted in southern Lebanon on Thursday.
Maatouk had recently assumed his position following the death of his predecessor, Ali Ahmed Hassin, who was also killed in an Israeli strike earlier this year. The latest attack is part of ongoing tit-for-tat violence between Israel and Hezbollah, which has intensified since October 2023 when Hezbollah declared a “support front” with Palestinians following a major Hamas attack on southern Israel.
The airstrike hit the border villages of Safad El Batikh and Jmaijmeh, resulting in multiple casualties. Eighteen wounded individuals were taken to Tebnin government hospital, with two reported in critical condition. The conflict has led to significant destruction in Lebanese border towns, reminiscent of the 2006 Israel-Lebanon war.
This incident underscores the fragile and volatile nature of the region, with both sides continuing to engage in aggressive military actions. The international community remains concerned about the potential for further escalation and the humanitarian impact on civilians caught in the crossfire.
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