US-Iran Gulf escalation: The US says it carried out “self-defence” strikes on Iranian radar and drone-control sites near Goruk and Qeshm after Iran shot down a US MQ-1 drone; Iran’s IRGC says it retaliated by hitting a US air base linked to an attack on a telecom tower on Sirik Island, while Kuwait reported intercepting missiles and drones. Diplomacy under pressure: Iran says talks and message exchanges with Washington continue, but it will amend a potential MoU after the latest US response; Iran’s parliament speaker insists no deal without securing Iranian rights. Hormuz rules tighten: A senior Iranian diplomat says new regulations govern Strait of Hormuz maritime traffic and rejects foreign interference, with Iran reasserting control amid the standoff. Palestinian culture & rights: Qatar condemned Israeli storming of Al-Aqsa by extremists under occupation protection, calling it a violation of international law. Iraq society: Iraq will open university education centers inside Abu Ghraib to help inmate rehabilitation, including plans for women’s prisons. Archaeology in Egypt: Rare Ancient Egyptian funerary finds were uncovered in Matariya, plus a reused stone block tied to Senusret III and Osiris-Naref at Ihnasya. Culture & lifestyle: Türkiye hosted Andrea Bocelli’s Romanza 30th anniversary concert in Istanbul, with Kenan Doğulu joining on stage. Media & speech: The UK barred US commentators Cenk Uygur and Hasan Piker over anti-Israel rhetoric, sparking free-speech backlash. Saudi normalization stance: Saudi Arabia reiterated “No Palestinian State, No Normalization” on ties with Israel.