Strait of Hormuz Escalation: Iran says it will announce a new “restricted” maritime zone outside Hormuz, starting from the US naval blockade line and extending into parts of the Gulf, warning any vessel entering could be put on a sanctions list; the US Central Command dismissed Tehran’s claim it struck an unmanned US vessel as a “total lie,” while Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf vowed “faster, heavier and more painful” retaliation. Energy Markets: Oil prices extended gains as tit-for-tat tanker and warship attacks raised fears of prolonged supply disruption; Brent and WTI rose, with Hormuz traffic sharply reduced and costs feeding into inflation pressure. Israel–Lebanon Fallout: Israel’s strikes in southern Lebanon killed seven and hit infrastructure, as the Arab League condemned the attacks and urged international action to halt escalation. Israel Domestic Pressure: Israel approved expansion plans for a Jewish school for settlers in Hebron, a move Palestinians say violates prior arrangements. Business & Travel: Delta is ramping up Middle East service via Atlanta and Boston, with Riyadh set for new nonstop flights later this year, while Tel Aviv service remains unclear. MENA Startups: Startup funding in MENA more than doubled in August to $375m across 27 deals, led by the UAE. Regional Energy Investment: Nigeria used Middle East Energy 2026 in Dubai to push for power-grid and infrastructure buildout, pitching energy security as a long-term, institution-led project.