Middle East Energy Shock: Markets tracked fresh US-Iran flare-ups as Trump threatened “VERY HARD” strikes and possible moves against Kharg Island, while the Strait of Hormuz disruption kept energy-inflation fears alive and pushed the ECB to raise rates for the first time since 2023. G7 Diplomacy: Europe and G7 allies head into a France summit aiming to narrow differences with Trump on Iran, Ukraine, and trade, with Arab leaders invited to the broader talks. Climate Risk: NOAA confirmed El Niño is forming and could become one of the strongest on record, raising odds of heat, floods, droughts, and fires. Tech Talent Mobility: Vienna-based JobMetasearch launched an AI platform to match non-EU tech workers with visa-sponsored roles across Europe and auto-tailor resumes. Health Tech & Biotech: QubeHealth-Pay closed a Series A at Rs 416 crore to expand healthcare payments, while Vertex presented new CASGEVY® data for younger patients at EHA. Humanitarian Tech in Gaza: UAE’s “Step of Hope” prosthetics program uses 3D scanning and secure data transfer to fabricate custom limbs and localize manufacturing. Regional Infrastructure: EtihadWE awarded a $285M EPC desalination contract for a Fujairah SWRO plant, boosting water security. Sports Medicine: Aspetar supports Arab teams at World Cup 2026 with injury prevention and rehab backed by sports-science expertise.