US-Iran Escalation & Energy Shock: The US carried out fresh strikes near Iran’s Chabahar port as Washington reimposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports, while Iran’s IRGC warned it could halt all Middle East energy exports—keeping oil near one-month highs and raising fears for global shipping and prices. Iraq-US Pivot: Iraq’s new PM said all remaining US troops will leave by Sept. 30, as Trump pushed “a lot of deals” and oil takeouts with Baghdad; Iran-aligned groups and Iraq’s parliament also signaled resistance to US-linked arrangements. Iraq Budget Overhaul: Iraq plans to roll out program-and-performance budgeting starting with the 2027 federal budget, beginning with the Electricity Ministry and select provinces. Israel-Palestine Flashpoints: Israeli forces stormed Al-Aqsa Mosque and chanted inside the compound; separate reports highlighted Gaza detention abuse allegations and a new Israeli program aimed at Diaspora pro-Israel advocacy. Lebanon Talks: President Joseph Aoun backed the US-sponsored framework as Israel-Lebanon talks continued in Rome. Turkey July 15 Anniversary: Türkiye marked the 10th anniversary of the failed 2016 coup with ceremonies emphasizing unity and democratic resilience. Hate Crime in the US (Religion): A Utah man was arrested for stabbing a Muslim worker multiple times, saying he intended to kill Muslims. Markets: The Indian rupee slid to 96.32 per dollar as Middle East tensions and higher crude prices weighed on sentiment; UK stocks also dipped as investors stayed cautious.