Trials of new Ebola vaccine set to begin

UK regulators have approved human trials for a new Ebola vaccine, utilizing technology from the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to combat the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Geopolitical tensions have intensified as the United States reinstated a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, following retaliatory strikes between U.S. and Iranian forces. In Russia, Ukrainian drone attacks on oil refineries have crippled fuel production, forcing the government to lower quality standards and restrict exports. Japan is currently overhauling its counterintelligence laws after investigations revealed that its dual-use technology is being diverted to support Russian military operations. Environmental crises remain prominent, with Spain battling severe, climate-driven wildfires and China managing the extensive infrastructure damage and economic disruption caused by Typhoon Bavi. The program also honors the career and cultural impact of the late actor Sam Neill, who died at age 78.