Lebanon–Israel diplomacy: The first day of U.S.-mediated Lebanon–Israel talks in Rome ended “constructive” as both sides pushed the framework for two southern “pilot zones,” with Israel saying it’s ready to move forward on withdrawal while Beirut insists on immediate pullout before other issues. Gulf shipping risk: After the Strait of Hormuz pressure campaign, Iran signals a wider chokehold by targeting the Bab el-Mandeb gateway via Yemen’s Houthis, raising fears for Red Sea trade and oil prices. U.S.–Iran escalation: The U.S. restored a naval blockade on Iranian ports and continued strikes, while Trump said attacks will continue “until I say it’s enough,” and canceled a planned Strait of Hormuz toll after one day. Aviation safety: EASA warned airlines to avoid parts of Gulf airspace (UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar) due to deteriorating security and missile/drone risks. Defense tech scrutiny: Elbit Systems’ Tzayad program drew backlash after claims it generated 850,000 “real-time intel targets” and thousands of battle plans across Gaza and Lebanon. Local tech/industry: Tinol Paints expands into Canada via a manufacturing partnership, and Brookaire touts same-day commercial air filter delivery using a multi-center distribution network. Health/education: UKZN optometry academic Vanessa Moodley was appointed to lead global optometry education at the World Council for Optometry.