Middle East War & Shipping Security: Iran and the US traded fresh strikes again, with Iran firing ballistic missiles and drones after US attacks near the Strait of Hormuz; Jordan said it intercepted most missiles, while Kuwait reported drone responses. Energy Markets: The renewed flare-up pushed oil higher and revived inflation worries, with global bond yields jumping as investors priced in tougher rate expectations. G20 Diplomacy: G20 finance talks ended with a final statement backed by all but China, while China dissented on Strait of Hormuz language as Russia’s finance minister attendance drew European complaints. Nuclear Watch: The IAEA said Syria tried to build a nuclear reactor in Deir Az Zor under Bashar al-Assad, confirming cooling infrastructure consistent with a reactor. Regional Power Play: Xi Jinping’s rare visit to Egypt signals China’s push to deepen influence as US sanctions loom over Iran links. US Navy Presence: The USS Abraham Lincoln docked in Thailand after a record Middle East deployment, with Pattaya preparing for a major crew visit amid a crackdown on sex tourism. Business & Society: Cisco was found by the US EEOC to have violated civil rights of Middle Eastern and Muslim employees, citing racist and Islamophobic messages. Tech/Finance: Kenya’s Upesi topped Sh20bn in cross-border digital transfers, reflecting rising demand across Africa and the Middle East.