Iran and the US remain at odds over sanctions, Tehran's nuclear programme and control of the Strait of Hormuz, even as both sides signal that they are still interested in reaching a deal more than three months into the war. Iranian leaders, however, continue to insist there will be no "surrender" to Washington, highlighting the deep mistrust that hangs over the talks.

In Syria, activity is increasing at the Baniyas Refinery, one of the country's key energy facilities. Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, workers have been helping restore fuel supplies and keep key infrastructure running as the country rebuilds after years of war.

Finally, the Atlantic hurricane season is under way, with forecasters expecting fewer storms than usual this year. Much of that outlook is tied to El Nino, a weather pattern linked to warmer ocean temperatures in the Pacific that can make it harder for Atlantic hurricanes to form and strengthen.