SYDNEY, April 2 (Reuters) - Australia will provide up to A$1 billion ($693 million) in interest-free loans to critical ‌businesses, including transport operators and fertiliser producers, Prime Minister Anthony ‌Albanese will say on Thursday, as they grapple with surging fuel costs. The support package ​comes as the Iran war disrupts global fuel supplies, driving up prices and fuelling concerns of availability as Australia imports more than 80% of its fuel.

Tens of thousands participated in the traditional peace marches held throughout Germany over the Easter weekend, organizers reported on Monday. Events had been held in more than 100 locations, the Bonn-based Peace Cooperative said.

Influenza is on the rise. Flu activity was "high" or "very high" in 32 states and jurisdictions, as of Dec. 30, according to the CDC.