OCA

Azerbaijan's state oil company Socar has announced it will lower fuel prices at its service stations across Italy, following a similar cut by Eni. The price reductions ease pressure on Premier Giorgia Meloni's coalition, which faces calls to impose a windfall tax on energy companies ahead of the next election.

The European Union has urged member states to reduce energy demand and fill gas storage facilities as it keeps watch over an emerging price crisis in Europe's energy markets. The appeal, reported by Bloomberg and carried by Japanese outlets, reflects concern that tight supplies could push prices higher and strain households and industry across the bloc in the coming months.

Hurricane Polo is being tracked off the Pacific coast, with forecasters watching whether its trajectory could bring rain, surf, or humidity to the Southern California region. ABC7 Los Angeles is covering what the storm's path could mean for the area. Interest centers on how close the hurricane will come and whether any effects will reach the coast.

Southern California is preparing for the effects of Hurricane Polo, with residents and officials getting ready for heavy rain, flooding and dangerous surf. News outlets in Los Angeles are tracking the storm's path and urging people in low-lying and coastal areas to stay alert as conditions develop over the coming days.

Starbucks is closing stores across the United States, and a published list details which locations have already shuttered and in which states. The coffee chain has been pruning underperforming outlets as part of a wider restructuring, prompting customers to check whether their local branch is affected. The closures have become a talking point as lists of affected cities and states circulate widely online.

Congress appropriated $1.3 billion in funding that the Trump administration has not spent, leaving money allocated by lawmakers unused. The report raises questions about whether the administration is deliberately withholding funds that were approved by Congress, a move that could spark disputes over executive authority and the power of the purse.

An Israeli Channel 14 news presenter has framed the potential electoral defeat of Benjamin Netanyahu, who has led Israel through the war that began on October 7, as a colossal and historic disaster not only for the country but for the entire world. The remarks, described by critics as apocalyptic, have drawn attention to the channel's close alignment with the prime minister and the charged atmosphere surrounding Israeli politics ahead of elections.

Homeowners are increasingly opting to renovate their existing properties rather than sell and relocate, as high mortgage rates and limited housing inventory make moving less attractive. The trend suggests many are choosing to invest in their current homes while waiting for market conditions to improve, keeping renovation demand steady despite broader challenges in the real estate market.

Lawmakers, veteran advocates and military families are marking Veterans Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, drawing attention to the ongoing crisis of suicide among former service members. The observance is being used to push for greater awareness, better access to mental health care, and continued federal action to support veterans struggling after their service.

A co-creator of the HBO comedy 'Barry' is developing a new comedy series inspired by a cocaine trafficking ring uncovered at Penn State University, according to a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette report. The project draws on the real-life drug operation connected to the campus. Further details about the network, cast, or release timeline have not been announced.

A San Antonio church has had feral cats removed from its property, and the relocation is now drawing questions from locals. It remains unclear who carried out the removal, where the cats were taken, and whether animal welfare groups were involved. Residents and animal advocates are seeking answers about the circumstances and the cats' fate.

Arizona State University's MODL initiative is working to bolster the resilience of local elections through the use of artificial intelligence. According to The State Press, the effort applies AI tools to help election systems withstand disruptions and maintain integrity. Details on specific projects or partners are limited, and the university has not commented further.