Red Sea Security Push: Saudi Arabia is preparing a major offensive against Yemen’s Houthis and, alongside partners, has unveiled a 14-country maritime defense coalition to protect Bab al-Mandeb and Gulf of Aden shipping after Red Sea disruptions. Hormuz Shipping Tensions: Iran says the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and claims it hit two tankers while forcing four others to turn back; the U.S. disputes Iran’s claims and says commercial traffic is being managed. Damietta Port Disruption: Egypt says a drone caused a fire at Damietta, damaging two vessels including an LNG-related facility, and is investigating the origin as regional conflict fears rise for Suez-linked energy flows. Sanctions & Air Cargo Fallout: The U.S. imposed new sanctions tied to Iran-linked networks supporting Mahan Air, while Amadeus reported improving air bookings after the Middle East conflict hit travel tech results. Aviation Connectivity: The UAE and Egypt agreed to broaden air traffic rights over five years, aiming to boost passenger and belly-hold cargo capacity. IMF Support for Egypt: The IMF completed reviews unlocking about $1.8bn for Egypt, citing resilience to war spillovers—though vulnerabilities remain. Trade/Logistics Corridor: Iraq and Iran are planning a railway link via Kermanshah to connect to the Gulf and beyond, targeting higher freight and passenger volumes.