US-Iran Escalation: Fresh missile and drone exchanges hit the Gulf as Kuwait’s main airport was struck again, killing at least one and injuring dozens, while the US said it intercepted incoming projectiles and struck Iranian military sites near Qeshm Island—raising fears the fragile ceasefire is slipping. Ceasefire Talks Under Strain: Iran says it has frozen back-channel communication with Washington over Israel’s Lebanon campaign, while US officials insist negotiations are still moving, with monetary compensation and nuclear concessions emerging as key sticking points. Lebanon Front Intensifies: Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi warned any attack on Beirut would trigger a “full-scale resumption” of war, as Israel presses its Lebanon offensive and rejects linking a Lebanon ceasefire to wider talks. Gulf Security Fallout: Kuwait expelled Iranian diplomats after attacks on civilian facilities, and regional states condemned the strikes as oil and markets react to renewed risk. Domestic Politics in Israel: Bennett attacked the comptroller election process, alleging the government is being run “like a mafia,” as opposition challenges the vote’s legality. Economy Watch: The Fed’s Beige Book points to a widening “K-shaped” divide, with energy-linked inflation hitting middle- and low-income households harder. Defense Industry: Reports highlight surging demand for weapons tied to the Iran war, while US-Iran tensions also drive fresh sanctions and enforcement against technology smuggling to Iran.