The 7 Iran’s new supreme leader; rising gas prices; how difficult people can age you; and more
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Mar 9, 2026 Coverage of Iran’s new supreme leader and what that selection could mean for regional tensions. How war-driven supply shocks and disruptions pushed up gas prices. Practical tips for protecting your budget against economic shocks. Reports on cargo theft targeting high-value tech. A study linking difficult people to signs of accelerated aging.
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Hardline Succession Secures Iran's Theocracy
- Iran appointed Mushtabah Khamenei, son of Ali Khamenei, as the new supreme leader consolidating hardline theocratic control.
- His selection came after Ali Khamenei's death on day one of the U.S. and Israel attack and signals defiance toward President Donald Trump.
War Drives Energy Prices And Supply Chain Strain
- The assault on Iran disrupted energy routes and closed the Strait of Hormuz, sending global oil prices up and U.S. gas to $3.45 per gallon from $2.98 a week earlier.
- Air freight cuts from closed airports like Dubai reduced capacity ~20%, interrupting electronics, pharmaceuticals, and metals shipments.
Administration Reverses Course With Centralized Hiring
- After mass federal job cuts last year, the Trump administration is reversing course with a hiring push under new rules centralizing decisions.
- New classifications ease hiring aligned with presidential priorities and expand political appointee roles, raising nonpartisanship concerns.