Hormuz Standoff: Iran’s Basij chief Hossein Taeb and the Persian Gulf Strait Authority rejected Trump’s claim of “total” US control, insisting the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked until Tehran’s conditions are met, as US-Iran talks stall and shipping stays disrupted. Regional Defense Pacts: Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan announced the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, setting up political and military coordination and joint exercises, while Turkey also backs a Red Sea maritime defense coalition. Lebanon-Disarmament Dispute: US and Israel denied a Reuters report that they’d already agreed on the countries for a Hezbollah disarmament verification mechanism, saying negotiations are still ongoing. West Bank Violence: The US ambassador condemned settler sieges and harassment of Palestinian families in Qusra and Kusra, as Israeli troops moved into homes and residents reported cut water and electricity. Southern Lebanon Fires: Firefighters and residents accused Israel of deliberately causing wildfires near the border, damaging forests and olive groves. Iran Executions Condemnation: The EU and 26 countries condemned Iran’s executions and use of the death penalty, triggering fresh France-Iran diplomatic clashes. Afghanistan Youth Crisis: Afghanistan’s youth face rising unemployment and uncertainty amid economic strain, with women hit hardest by restrictions. Turkey Boat Fire: A tourist boat fire off Fethiye led to the evacuation of 115 people; investigations are underway. Tech Deal: Anthropic is reportedly in talks to buy Israel’s Decart AI for about $6bn.