War With Iran:

Hypersonic Missile

Obstacles to a Deal

Balance of Power

The UAE Spurs the Gulf’s Regional Realignment

Saudi-UAE tensions are reshaping a volatile region.

US Marines board the Blue Star III commercial ship during blockade operations, on April 28. — US Marines board the Blue Star III commercial ship during blockade operations, on April 28.Source: US Marine Corps

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Take our Survey

By Fiona MacDonald

April 30, 2026 at 9:59 AM UTC

Welcome to Balance of Power, bringing you the latest in global politics. If you haven’t yet, sign up here.

Oil hitting a wartime record illustrates the Iran conflict’s continued ability to upend the world two months in.