US-Iran Doha Talks: Indirect U.S.-Iran technical talks are set to begin in Doha under Qatari and Pakistani mediation, with no direct meetings between Washington and Tehran as both sides argue over ceasefire terms and next steps for a final deal. Strait of Hormuz Leverage: Iran’s negotiators insist Hormuz is “non-negotiable” and its top negotiator calls the strait its “greatest instrument of power,” while shipping traffic partially resumes and disputes continue over whether any fees/tolls will be charged. Diplomacy vs Hard Lines: Iran says it won’t meet top U.S. envoys, while its defense leadership reiterates missile and drone capabilities are a red line. Markets Watch: Oil prices swing on talk headlines and uncertainty, with Gulf stocks rising early despite caution. Regional Security: Israel carries out demolitions and roadworks across southern Lebanon as ceasefire frictions persist, and it tests an upgraded Iron Dome/laser-linked Iron Beam air-defense integration. Counterterror Moves: Iran deploys special forces to western borders after attacks on security personnel, while Israel reports a suspected stabbing attempt in Lod. Arab Parliament Position: The Arab Parliament speaker urges any U.S.-Iran understandings to include Arab/GCC security concerns and keep the Palestinian cause central. Afghanistan Spillover: Pakistan rejects India’s claims over “targeted actions” against terrorist infrastructure in Afghanistan.