US-Iran War: The conflict is now in its seventh month, with a US report saying Iran has shown it can absorb heavy strikes while using mines and drones to pressure US capabilities, and that Washington’s military and political position in the region is weakening. Shipping & Energy: The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with reports of mine-clearing progress and renewed calls at the IMO for practical steps to restore freedom of navigation; the war is also driving a surge in global energy import costs, adding up to $330bn over six months. Diplomacy Signals: Pakistan says the US-Iran talks “window” is not closed even after a MoU expiry, while Iran continues to say diplomacy is possible if pressure eases. Gaza/West Bank Violence: Masked Israeli settlers attacked an NBC News team and a Palestinian woman in the West Bank, as Israeli strikes in Gaza and the West Bank continue amid election-linked tensions. US Domestic Fallout: A federal judge ruled Trump-era visa and deportation actions targeting pro-Palestinian student advocates unconstitutional, citing free speech limits. Regional Politics: Kuwait’s FM visited Japan as both sides stress stability; US travel advisories for Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and Bahrain keep warning of Iran-linked risks. Economy/Costs: Europe braces for winter with EU gas storage at a 13-year low, while households face higher energy bills tied to Middle East disruption.