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The United States has helped double the volume of oil leaving the Gulf, with the US military now guiding tankers through shipping lanes in broad daylight. The move marks a shift from covert to openly escorted maritime operations, aimed at securing a critical energy corridor. Observers see it as a signal of Washington's commitment to keeping Gulf oil exports flowing amid regional tensions.

Anthropic claims its Claude AI helped identify a previously unknown gene-editing enzyme, a result that could matter for biotechnology if it holds up. The company itself cautions the finding has not yet been experimentally verified or peer-reviewed, and scientists are urging independent confirmation before drawing conclusions.

Scientists have produced a map of gene activity in the brain's prefrontal cortex, the region involved in decision-making, memory and personality. The work offers researchers a detailed reference for how genes are expressed across this area, which could help studies of psychiatric and neurological conditions. Details on the research team, methods and publication have not yet been widely reported.

AI company Anthropic is operating a biology laboratory, raising questions about why a firm best known for chatbots needs wet-lab capability. The reported aim is to test how far its AI models can help with real biological research, including whether they could assist in dangerous experiments. The story is drawing attention because it touches on the safety risks of advanced AI in science.

Japan is partially ending its era of ultra-cheap monetary policy in an effort to support the ailing yen, according to El País. The report frames the move as 'Operation Save the Yen' and suggests Washington's support played a role. The step marks a significant shift for the Bank of Japan after years of negative rates and massive stimulus, with markets watching closely for further tightening.

The Washington Post reports on a woman who helped lead a far-right internet movement and was subsequently attacked and rejected by the same community. The story examines how online movements often turn against prominent figures within their own ranks, highlighting the volatile dynamics and internal purges common in far-right digital spaces.

ASML, the Dutch maker of the lithography machines essential for advanced chips, says it sold 'absolutely nothing' in Europe in 2026, with its equipment going almost entirely to Asia-based chipmakers. The company is calling on the European Union to help create demand for advanced semiconductor manufacturing on the continent. The remark is drawing attention as Europe pushes to build domestic chip capacity and reduce reliance on Asian supply chains.

The Department of Homeland Security has released a report examining how Blue UAS drones can support first responders carrying out urban environment assessments. The document reviews how approved drone platforms can be used by police, fire and emergency teams to evaluate buildings, hazards and situational conditions in cities. It is aimed at helping agencies choose compliant equipment for emergency operations.

Researchers have developed a new soil test that could show how soil microbes help supply nutrients to plants. The method may clarify which microbial processes contribute to plant nutrition, with potential implications for farming practices and reducing fertiliser use. Details of the findings and their practical applications remain limited in initial coverage.

Researchers have put Bionic Reading — a formatting method that bolds the first letters of words to guide the eye — to scientific scrutiny, testing claims that it helps people read faster. The findings are being reported by science outlets, feeding a broader debate over whether the popular technique offers real benefits over ordinary text or is largely a marketing effect.

A Florida district has begun using robot rabbits to help tackle the growing population of Burmese pythons, an invasive species that has devastated local wildlife. The mechanical decoys mimic the warmth and movement of prey to lure the snakes out of hiding so they can be captured, with the aim of protecting native species.

The African Development Bank has announced a crisis response framework making up to $5.1 billion available to help African countries cope with energy and fertiliser price shocks. The facility is aimed at cushioning economies hit by supply disruptions and rising costs of fuel and agricultural inputs, supporting food security and energy access across the continent.

The University of Texas at San Antonio has received new funding to support research and training in AI safety. The investment will back academic work on making artificial intelligence systems safer and help train students and researchers in the field. The university is positioning itself as a growing hub for AI-related study in Texas.

Andy Burnham has announced an equity loan scheme aimed at helping first-time buyers get onto the property ladder and stimulating the housing market. The scheme would allow buyers to purchase a share of a home with the remainder covered by a loan, reducing upfront costs. Details on funding levels, eligibility criteria and launch dates have not yet been published, and the announcement is likely to attract scrutiny over affordability and regional impact.

Impact Public Schools is looking to acquire software that would sort students into intervention tiers, grouping them by level of academic or behavioral need. The charter network, which operates schools in the Seattle area, would use the tool to direct support resources to students flagged as requiring targeted help. The procurement has drawn attention as schools increasingly rely on data-driven systems to allocate intervention services.