Iran-US Escalation: Trump said the US will hit Iran “very hard,” with reports of renewed heavy strikes on energy infrastructure as soon as this weekend, while Iran warns the US maritime blockade could tighten into closure of Hormuz and other chokepoints. Shipping Disruption: UKMTO logged tanker incidents off Oman near the Strait of Hormuz, and CENTCOM says it has redirected dozens of commercial vessels amid blockade claims and missile/drone threats. Kuwait Air/Port Fallout: Kuwait reported it intercepted Iranian drones targeting “vital facilities,” and Kuwait International Airport remains partly disrupted (Terminal 1 closed). Naval Shortage: A top US general reportedly warned the Pentagon it lacks enough destroyers to protect both Israel and the US homeland, underlining pressure on regional defense coverage. Iraq-Turkey Oil Route: Iraq and Turkey signed a one-year deal to export 750,000 bpd via the Ceyhan pipeline as Hormuz risk hits exports. Saudi-Kuwait Trade Links: Both countries advanced a digital customs link and railway cooperation to speed truck and rail clearance across borders. Red Sea Security Push: Saudi Arabia is leading a multinational maritime defense coalition to protect Red Sea shipping lanes as Houthi attacks reshape routing. Egypt Energy Port Risk: A drone strike at Damietta port damaged gas vessels, raising fears for Eastern Mediterranean energy and shipping security.