Gaza Mediation: Hamas chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya met Egypt’s intelligence chief Hassan Rashad in El-Alamein to push forward Trump’s 15-point Gaza roadmap, reiterating willingness to hand over administration to a technical committee—while Israel’s Netanyahu still demands Hamas disarmament before any withdrawal. Iran Media Crackdown: Iran’s parliament approved a bill to criminalise interviews and communications with “hostile media,” including US/Israeli outlets, with prison terms and intelligence-ministry controls. Hormuz Standoff: Iran doubled down that the Strait of Hormuz can’t be seized “by tweet or aircraft carrier” as Trump renews threats to declare it US territory; Iran also says it’s awaiting access for a fact-finding team in Qatar over missing pilots, while Qatar denies detaining them. Lebanon Escalation: Israel struck southern Lebanon again, killing at least 11 (including children) and injuring dozens, with Hezbollah drone attacks cited as triggers and Lebanese leaders condemning the strikes. Gulf Policy Pressure: Gulf allies reportedly grow frustrated with Washington’s Iran diplomacy, weighing whether US security reliance still makes sense. Public Health Regulation: Kuwait tightened tobacco and nicotine rules, banning online sales and advertising and adding controls on e-cigarettes and heated products. Travel Disruptions: Middle East flight disruptions hit major airports with 1,100+ delays reported across several hubs.