Iran and Houthis Threaten Blockade of Bab al-Mandab Strait
A military source cited by the Tasnim News Agency stated that a "new front" would be opened in the Red Sea if the United States or Israel attempts any ground invasion of Iranian territory, specifically targeting the Kharg Island oil hub. Houthi leader Mohammed al-Bukhaiti confirmed that while they have exercised restraint so far, they are prepared to impose a total naval blockade on any vessels linked to "aggressor nations." This move would effectively create a "double chokepoint" for global energy, as the Strait of Hormuz is already facing significant disruptions.
Global Impact of a Red Sea Shutdown The Bab al-Mandab Strait is a vital maritime corridor located between Yemen and Djibouti, handling approximately 12% of total global seaborne oil trade (roughly 8.8 million barrels per day). Analysts from the Economic Times and the World Economic Forum warn that a simultaneous closure of both Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab could remove nearly 25% of the world’s oil supply from the market. Such a disruption would force ships to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, adding 12–15 days to transit times and potentially pushing Brent crude prices toward $120 per barrel, further fueling global inflation and supply chain crises.
Spider-Man Trailer Shatters World Records The official trailer for Spider-Man: Brand New Day has set a staggering world record by surpassing 1.1 billion views within just four days of its release. Data from WaveMetrix confirms that the trailer secured 718.6 million views in its first 24 hours, completely obliterating the previous records held by Grand Theft Auto VI (475 million) and Deadpool & Wolverine (365 million). The immense global interest centers on the film's "clean slate" storyline, which features Tom Holland’s Peter Parker navigating a world where his identity has been erased from everyone’s memory. The film is slated for a theatrical release on July 31, 2026.
Daulatdia Bus Tragedy Rescue Operations on Standby The large-scale rescue operation at the Daulatdia ferry terminal in Rajbari has been placed on temporary standby as of Thursday afternoon. Dewan Sohel Rana, Deputy Assistant Director of Rajbari Fire Service and Civil Defense, confirmed that while the submerged bus has been salvaged, divers remain on alert. A total of 26 bodies have been recovered so far—23 on Wednesday and three more today. Combined teams from the Fire Service, Coast Guard, and Naval Police have stated that search operations will resume immediately if any further reports of missing persons are received from families.
