Squiz Today The war puts more pressure on oil prices, and a Barbie event is not fantastic
Mar 31, 2026
Coverage of rising oil prices as regional tensions and drone strikes raise supply risks. Debate over how nearby countries are responding and the uncertainty about the conflict’s timeline. Concerns about social platforms not protecting under-16s. A major decision to end most credit card surcharges and the fallout for small businesses. A badly run Barbie festival sparks refunds and viral criticism.
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Iran Strike Drives Oil Price Spike
- Iran's drone strike on a Kuwaiti tanker in Dubai waters has pushed oil prices higher and raised fears the war could widen to Gulf states.
- US petrol hit its highest level since 2022 and discussions included reopening the Strait of Hormuz diplomatically rather than militarily.
Diverging Regional Goals Fuel Uncertainty
- Regional players differ: Iran signals openness to a peace deal if guarantees against future attacks are given, while some Gulf states want the war to continue to weaken Iran further.
- Netanyahu frames Israel's campaign as past midpoint but gives no end date, keeping uncertainty high.
No Apology After Aid Worker Death
- Australia's envoy to the National Press Club declined to apologise over aid worker Zomi Francom's death in Gaza, calling it an unintentional tragic incident.
- Francom's family is pushing PM Anthony Albanese to demand an independent inquiry after IDF disciplinary actions.