Good evening. Tesla's comeback story continues as shares rally on a 17% profit jump, though the numbers still mark the second-weakest performance in five years. The electric vehicle giant is betting heavily on AI and robotics to fuel future growth, but investors seem relieved that the worst of last year's struggles may be behind them. Meanwhile, global energy markets are teetering on the edge of disaster as Iran seized two container ships in the Strait of Hormuz, pushing oil back above $100 a barrel and creating a dangerous standoff with the US despite Trump's ceasefire extension.
Pakistan's military leader Asim Munir is making an unlikely bid to mediate between Washington and Tehran, taking an unconventional approach that highlights just how combustible the situation remains. The ripple effects are already being felt across supply chains, with China's export-driven economy taking hits from the Middle East conflict even after weathering Trump's earlier tariffs. Closer to home, the UK struck a £662 million deal with France to tackle small boat crossings with riot-trained police, while a concerning study reveals that fears of tax penalties are actually stopping people from seeking promotions or pay rises.