US-Iran Whiplash Diplomacy: Trump says he cancelled threatened strikes on Iran after talks reached Iran’s top leadership and “final points” were approved, with a possible signing in Europe “over the weekend,” while Iran’s foreign ministry insists no final decision is made and warns US actions are affecting the process. Strait of Hormuz Stakes: The proposed framework would reopen Hormuz and extend a ceasefire, but shipping and regional security remain tense as both sides trade strikes and Iran claims renewed threats to close the waterway. Gulf Politics & Mediation: Qatar, the UAE and Pakistan are cited as key intermediaries as Gulf states urge de-escalation and condemn attacks. West Bank Christian Under Pressure: Israeli settler violence in Taybeh, the last fully Christian town in the occupied West Bank, has sparked fears for the community’s survival. Civil Society Push for Two States: Israeli and Palestinian civil society groups meet in France to urge international support for a two-state solution as settlement expansion and annexation concerns grow. Culture & Expression: Cartoon satire at Instituto Cervantes in Athens highlights comics as a gateway to reading and debate. Heritage & Discovery: Saudi Arabia announces a rock inscription in Medina linked to Caliph Umar, adding to early Islamic records. Tourism Partnerships: Saudi Arabia plans deeper tourism cooperation with France and Indonesia, focusing on training, investment and visitor exchange. Lebanon Human Cost: Israeli strikes in Tyre wound hospital staff, with all three city hospitals hit since the war began. Fashion Spotlight: Turkish designer Murat Aytulum discusses fashion’s future through storytelling and character-making. Science in the Spotlight: A Turkish eye-drop project for Fuchs’ dystrophy earns top recognition in the US and moves toward clinical trials.