Damascus Security Shock: Explosions near the Four Seasons hotel in central Damascus wounded 18 people, including four police officers, as French President Emmanuel Macron met Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa—one device reportedly placed in a car and another in a garbage bin. Gulf Shipping Tensions: Iran says US-Iran final nuclear talks won’t start while military threats continue, as reports claim missiles hit commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of escalation and renewed shipping risk. Iran’s Funeral Politics: Massive multi-city rites for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei continue, with Qom prayers drawing huge crowds and officials framing the moment around “revenge” and defiance. Gaza Ceasefire Fight: Hamas reiterates full commitment to the US-backed Gaza plan after the governing body was dissolved, accusing Israel of sabotaging implementation. Culture & Identity in Iraq: A memorial corner in Kirkuk honors Turkmen singer “Haba,” aiming to keep Qoriyat vocal heritage alive for younger generations. Sports With a Human Message: Egypt coach Hossam Hassan says anyone unmoved by Palestinians is “not human,” using World Cup media attention to press for compassion. NATO in Ankara: NATO allies unveil new defense-industry initiatives at the Ankara summit, signaling a push for stronger deterrence and European responsibility.