US-Iran Strikes: The US said it carried out “self-defence” strikes on Iranian radar and drone-control sites after Iran shot down a US MQ-1 drone; Iran’s IRGC retaliated by targeting a US-linked air base, while Kuwait reported intercepting missiles and drones. Ceasefire Talks Under Strain: Washington and Tehran keep trading revised MoU drafts, with Iran saying nothing is final and that it won’t accept terms without securing its rights; Trump is also pushing tougher conditions tied to Strait of Hormuz access and uranium issues. Lebanon Escalation: Israel seized the medieval Beaufort Castle and vowed to push deeper into Lebanon as Hezbollah kept firing; France urged an end to the escalation and called for UN Security Council action. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar condemned Israel’s widening ground incursion; Saudi Arabia reiterated “No Palestinian State, No Normalization.” Markets & Energy: Oil jumped as Strait of Hormuz fears returned, with Singapore warning of supply-chain strain. Domestic Fallout in Iran: Iran executed two men over alleged December 2025 protests, while reports swirl about President Pezeshkian’s authority amid internal power struggles. Human Impact: Gaza’s medical collapse is driving new disabilities, including severe hearing loss among survivors. UK Entry Bans: UK barred US commentators Hasan Piker and Cenk Uygur over criticism of Israel.