US-Iran Escalation: Trump says the US could “hit” Iran’s underground “Pickaxe Mountain” “very soon,” warning it will act if activity is detected, as the conflict is also branded “small potatoes” and “not a war” by Trump and JD Vance. Israel-Hezbollah Lebanon: Israeli strikes in southern and eastern Lebanon killed at least three and injured dozens despite a truce, with targets reported near the Ali al-Taher ridge. Saudi Defense Deal: The US approved a nearly $5bn sale of glide bombs to Saudi Arabia, aimed at boosting Riyadh’s air defense and interoperability amid regional instability. Regional Peace Diplomacy: UAE President Mohamed and Turkey’s Erdogan stressed lasting Middle East peace and security in a phone call, linking talks to the wider Iran conflict. Syria Tourism Push: Damascus hotels report improving business as Syria tries to lure tourists back, with occupancy rising in major properties. Energy & Trade Pressure: Strait of Hormuz shipping remains well below normal, while diesel prices and freight costs surge as war risks feed into global energy uncertainty. Kenya-Tata Fallout: Kenya’s Ruto orders Tata Chemicals to exit Magadi, accusing the firm of exporting raw soda ash instead of processing locally. Tech & AI in the Gulf: US Chamber launches its first AI delegation to Saudi ahead of LEAP, while AI film production is gaining momentum across the region.