Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran warned ships against crossing outside designated routes and said unauthorized passage won’t be covered by safe-transit guarantees, as an Iranian strike hit a vessel in the Strait and threatened to derail the fragile US-Iran understandings. US-Iran Nuclear Talks: The IAEA chief said Iran’s promises require “very strong” verification and pushed for access to nuclear sites, while reports say inspectors could be allowed soon as talks continue. Gulf Diplomacy: Iran rejected a US-GCC statement after Rubio’s Manama push on missiles, drones and Hormuz, with Tehran and Gulf states still far apart on security and navigation. Regional Security & Lebanon: Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem demanded Israel withdraw unconditionally from occupied Lebanese areas, rejecting normalization as Israel-Lebanon talks drag on. Iran Domestic Symbolism: Ashura crowds marked the day after Khamenei’s assassination, with Iran vowing never to forgive, keeping tensions high. Turkey Watch: Ahead of a NATO summit in Ankara, Turkish courts issued arrest warrants for 103 people tied to alleged terrorism links. Afghanistan Rights: The Taliban imposed a nationwide smartphone ban for government officials, with activists warning it will further restrict information access. World Cup (Turkey–USA): Turkey beat the US 3-2 on a stoppage-time winner, ending the Americans’ perfect group run but they still advance to the knockout stage.