Iran-US Escalation: Iran’s IRGC says it struck two tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and turned four back, while the Iranian army claims drone attacks hit Kuwait’s Ahmad al-Jaber Air Base—amid US denials and fresh claims of damage at bases in Jordan. Gaza Deal & Disarmament: Trump announced a Hamas disarmament roadmap with phased Israeli withdrawal; Hamas says it agreed, but Islamic Jihad disputes the reported terms and Hamas links any disarmament to Israel’s withdrawal. Lebanon Heritage Under Fire: Israel carried out a massive 700-tonne blast near UNESCO-listed Beaufort Castle, saying it targeted Hezbollah tunnels; Lebanon warns vibrations may have damaged the site. Iraq Pilgrimage Politics: Arbaeen in Iraq saw unusually prominent Iranian flags despite Najaf guidance to avoid political promotion, sparking mixed reactions. Kirkuk Cemetery Protest: Residents in Kirkuk protested the clearing of a 110-year-old cemetery for an investor project, calling it a breach of religious and humanitarian values. Culture Clash: Boy George quit West End’s Jesus Christ Superstar after backlash over a pro-Israel AI-assisted song. Sanctions & Crypto: A report alleges an Iran-linked online gambling and Dubai crypto network helped move ~$4bn while evading sanctions. Egypt Tourism Push: Egypt plans a new e-visa system using QR codes to target 30m tourists by 2030.