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 in Southern Gaza Leaves 71 Dead
In a devastating attack on the southern Gaza Strip, at least 71 people lost their lives, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The strike, which occurred in the Khan Younis area, also left 289 others injured. Many of the injured and deceased were taken to the nearby Nasser Hospital.
The Israeli official identified the target of the strike as Mohammed Deif, believed to be the chief architect of an earlier attack that killed around 1,200 people in southern Israel. Deif has long been on Israel’s most-wanted list and has reportedly escaped multiple assassination attempts in the past. Rafa Salama, another top Hamas official, was also targeted in the strike, though details on their fate remain unclear.
This tragic incident adds tension to ongoing talks between U.S., Egyptian, and Qatari mediators, who are working to narrow gaps between Israel and Hamas regarding a proposed three-phase cease-fire and hostage release plan in Gaza. The potential killing or injury of any senior Hamas official threatens to derail these delicate negotiations.
Comments
Post a Comment