Shell Deal: Shell Oil Products U.S. agreed to buy the remaining 67% stake in Tri Star Energy, moving from 33% to 100% ownership and adding about 320 fuel and convenience retail sites in Tennessee and nearby states, with supply agreements for 552 dealer locations—expected to close by end-2026 after regulatory clearance. Middle East Shipping Risk: Mauritania condemned attacks on a Saudi oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz and simultaneous strikes across the region, underscoring ongoing threats to energy shipping routes. Strait of Hormuz Operations: The U.S. escorted 40 commercial vessels carrying 18 million barrels through Hormuz in a wartime high, while also fending off drone and missile threats—keeping oil prices supported amid supply fears. Markets & Inflation Watch: Oil jumped on renewed U.S.-Iran tensions, pushing up Treasury yields and raising inflation worries across major economies. Venezuela Oil Accords: U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright oversaw multibillion-dollar energy deals with Chevron, GE Vernova and Eni tied to Venezuela’s expanded U.S. control over large oil reserves, with production targets now in focus. Power Leadership: CS Energy named former GLNG CEO Stephen Harty as its new CEO starting Sept. 28, as the company points to improved performance. Local Efficiency Grants: Washington state commerce awarded nearly $30m for energy upgrades, including funding for Ferndale School District and Western Washington University. Natural Gas Policy Fight: A U.S. House subcommittee hearing argued state and local natural gas bans raise costs for households and strain electric grids. Fuel Price Snapshot: GasBuddy reported diesel and gasoline price variation across U.S. counties, with diesel often hovering above $5/gal in several regions and E85 commonly in the low-$2s.