Red Sea Shipping Security: Italy says it will deploy warships to protect commercial traffic through Bab al-Mandeb, warning EU delays could make the corridor “impassable” with severe economic fallout. Hormuz Disruption: Iran’s IRGC says it struck and detained a Togolese-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, while UKMTO reported a security incident near Oman—keeping pressure on global oil and tanker routing. Sanctions Targeting Maritime Finance: The US sanctioned Iran-linked crypto exchange BitBank, alleging it helps process payments tied to Hormuz passage and IRGC-linked schemes. Defense & Air Logistics: The US approved a possible $24.3B sale of 48 F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia, including engines, secure comms, training and logistics support—raising regional balance questions. Gulf Shipping Cost Shock: War-risk premiums are pushing tanker freight higher, with reports of steep VLCC rate jumps on Arabian Gulf–India routes. Regional Diplomacy for Trade Routes: China privately urged Iran to rein in Yemen’s Houthis after Saudi Arabia sought help, aiming to protect Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb energy and shipping flows. Aviation Expansion: Egyptair plans a Cairo–Singapore–Sydney relaunch in 2027, seeking “Fifth Freedom” rights to sell tickets on the Singapore–Sydney leg. Road Transport Talks: Iraq and Uzbekistan discussed a draft road transport agreement for passengers and goods. EU Waste Rules: The EU warned Turkey over waste treatment failures, threatening trade action if concerns aren’t addressed.