US-Iran Ceasefire Watch: Markets steadied as negotiators pushed a draft 60-day ceasefire extension, with the Strait of Hormuz reopening a key prize—though Israel’s strikes on Lebanon and fresh missile incidents kept the region on edge. Lebanon & Gaza Humanitarian Strain: UN officials reported intensified Israeli airstrikes forcing new evacuations in Lebanon and continued aid restrictions in Gaza, with attacks on healthcare adding to the crisis. Energy & Inflation Spillover: Oil and fuel pricing stories kept tying back to Middle East risk—Philippines labor reverted to a five-day workweek from June 1 after energy-saving measures, while aviation demand and costs remained pressured by higher jet fuel prices. Aviation Disruption: AirAsia Indonesia will drop key Australia routes from June 18, citing sustained Middle East-driven jet fuel costs. Regional Finance & Rates: South Africa’s central bank raised rates to 7% amid Iran-war-linked inflation risks, while Qatar’s stock market showed resilience on banking and energy support. Crime & Cyber Crackdown: The FBI seized about $8bn in crypto and arrested hundreds in an international scam crackdown spanning Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Local Governance: Australia’s housing ministers met to coordinate plans to boost supply and affordability amid broader economic uncertainty.