Iran-US Tensions: President Trump said he canceled planned strikes on Iran, tying the pause to a “rapid” deal that would include reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending Iran’s nuclear threat, after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged de-escalation; Iran denies it asked for a halt and warns any further action will be met with a “decisive and proportionate response.” Regional Security & Travel: The U.S. State Department issued fresh alerts urging Americans across the Middle East to consider leaving or prepare to depart on short notice, citing possible escalation, flight cancellations, and airspace closures. Energy Pressure: With Hormuz traffic disrupted, Europe faces a winter gas squeeze as storage remains low and prices stay elevated, while oil markets swing on renewed strike threats. Politics in Washington: A report says Israel has become a wedge issue in Democratic primaries, with support for Israel among Democrats eroding and candidates critical of Israel gaining ground. Aviation & Trade Links: Riyadh Air launched direct Riyadh–Kuala Lumpur flights, while IndiGo marked 20 years with plans for wider international expansion. Infrastructure in East Africa: Taifa Gas is nearing completion of a Sh320 billion LPG terminal in Kenya, aiming to reshape cooking gas supply and boost Mombasa’s role as an LPG hub. Local Economy: In the Philippines, transport groups will meet regulators to discuss fare increases as oil-price shocks keep squeezing public transport operators.