Iran-US Escalation: Trump says the Strait of Hormuz will “soon” be declared “US territory,” while Scott Bessent promises “never-seen” economic measures and the US vows an indefinite naval blockade as ship traffic slows and Iran resumes attacks on vessels. Palestinian West Bank Siege: Israeli forces and settlers keep besieging homes in Qusra, with activists blocked from delivering aid and the Palestinian presidency warning of wider escalation; UN rights officials condemn the siege and settlement violence. Lebanon Resistance Message: Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem marks the 2006 anniversary, saying resistance prevented Israel’s goals and urging Lebanon to reject negotiations without Israeli withdrawal. Afghanistan Women’s Rights: UN warns donors not to cut funding for women’s programs under Taliban rule, citing school bans, severe restrictions, and worsening mental health. Taliban Education Clampdown: A report highlights how Taliban changes school curricula, removing past leaders and glorifying violence, while girls are barred from higher education. Makkah Accord & Regional Pacts: Pakistan’s president praises the Saudi-Turkey-Pakistan peace deal and defense cooperation plans; Egypt says it will study the Mecca defense pact legally before deciding. Israel Detention Claim: Russian-Israeli historian Artyom Kirpichenok disappeared after landing in Tel Aviv; colleagues allege Shin Bet detention as Moscow seeks answers. Culture & Media: Qatar TV marks 56 years; Israel’s National Library plans a Jerusalem docu festival themed “Uncertainty.” Sports Business: Saudi-backed funding helped move the Esports World Cup to Paris after Iran-US security concerns disrupted Riyadh plans.