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Pressure is mounting on the US and Iran to strike a deal to fully re-open the Strait of Hormuz so crucial oil and gas ships can sail through as normal. The federal energy minister Chris Bowen says that no industries in Australia are immune from the impacts of the fuel crisis as the government faces pressure to provide financial help to the construction industry.  Westpac's chief economist warns its forecasting another three interest rate rises due to disruptions from oil flowing through the Strait of Hormuz, citing the cost of building materials as a key concern. Press the 'Follow' or '+' button on this show page to add us to your playlist, so you never miss an episode. For more news, politics and current affairs podcasts go to ABC listen.

The highest-level negotiations between the United States and Iran in more than 40 years will take place this weekend. Management of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to be a key discussion point.  But ahead of the negotiations, Lebanon's capital Beirut is cleaning up after the largest Israeli bombardment since the beginning of the conflict, with over 300 people killed. 

The U-S first lady Melania Trump has made a surprise white house address to claim she never had a friendship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In the past months there's been renewed scrutiny over the Epstein case with millions of files released showing the extent of his connections to the rich and powerful including President Donald Trump Mrs Trump complained in her speech about what she described as mean spirited attempts to smear her by association with Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell.

On the second day of the US and Iran's shaky ceasefire, there is growing concern that the Strait of Hormuz is not being opened up and shipping companies will have to pay a hefty toll, that could keep prices high at the bowser.

US President Donald Trump is criticising Iran for not letting ships through the all important Strait of Hormuz and is warning the regime about charging vessels for safe passage.  New South Wales police are appealing for public help to find a convicted pack rapist who escaped custody while receiving hospital treatment. Press the 'Follow' or '+' button on this show page to add us to your playlist, so you never miss an episode. For more news, politics and current affairs podcasts go to ABC listen.