Episode Details

Today Updates - 12 March 2026 - Iran War Escalation, Oil Prices and Australia Housing Scam on Radio Haanji

Thursday's edition of Today Updates on Radio Haanji 1674 AM arrives with one of the heaviest news loads of the week, covering a Middle East conflict that is now rippling into global energy markets, domestic Australian stories with direct consequences for families and communities, and a full set of local updates that listeners across Melbourne need to start their Thursday informed. Host Ranjodh Singh guides the bulletin with clarity, covering the stories that matter most to the Punjabi and Indian community in Australia this morning.

World Updates

The conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel has reached a point where its consequences are being felt far beyond the immediate region. Among the most significant developments this week, Iran's Fars news agency has reported retaliatory strikes on oil infrastructure in response to United States drone attacks. Strikes on oil-producing and processing facilities carry an immediate impact on global supply chains, and the energy markets have responded accordingly, with crude oil prices reaching 93 dollars per barrel. Iran has further claimed that oil prices could cross 200 dollars per barrel in the future if the conflict continues on its current trajectory — a forecast that would have severe economic consequences for import-dependent nations around the world, including Australia.

Israel has continued military operations in Lebanon, with reports indicating that 14 people were killed in the latest strikes, bringing the total death toll in Lebanon to more than 500. The scale of casualties in Lebanon reflects the degree to which the conflict has expanded well beyond its initial flashpoints and is now affecting civilian populations across multiple countries in the region. The Lebanese government and international humanitarian organisations have called for restraint, but the military operations have continued.

Iran has denied reports of an attack on its newly appointed commander-in-chief, pushing back against claims that were circulating in regional media. The denial is a significant development in itself, as the targeting of military leadership would represent a major escalation in the conflict. The situation remains fluid and unverified claims continue to circulate alongside official statements, making clear and accurate journalism more important than ever for communities trying to understand what is actually happening.

Turkey has publicly expressed support for Iran amid the ongoing conflict, adding another regional power to the increasingly complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the war. Turkey's position reflects the broader divisions within the region and signals that the conflict is drawing in countries with their own strategic interests in its outcome. The involvement of additional actors complicates any pathway toward de-escalation and is being closely watched by international observers.

What Is Happening in Australia - Housing Scam, ADHD Medicines and Energy Concerns

Victoria has been shaken by a housing scam that has resulted in the arrest of three individuals. The details of the alleged scam are under investigation, but the development adds to a period of intense scrutiny on housing practices in the state. For the Indian and Punjabi community in Australia, many of whom are navigating a difficult housing market as renters, buyers or investors, any evidence of fraudulent activity in the sector is a matter of direct concern. The arrests are expected to lead to further legal proceedings, and the case will be watched closely by consumer advocates and community members alike.

The Australian Energy Market Commission has raised concerns about the electricity demands being generated by artificial intelligence data centres. As AI infrastructure expands rapidly across Australia, the AEMC has flagged that existing electricity system