US-Iran Economic Standoff: Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian defended the Trump-signed MoU as the best route out of “neither war nor peace,” but warned investment will stay blocked while uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz persists. Strait of Hormuz Risk: Iran’s top security official Mohsen Rezaei escalated threats, saying any country joining Washington’s “economic war” will be treated as an enemy and that Tehran could stop oil exports from the Gulf. Sanctions Pressure: Reuters reports Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araqchi dismissed new US sanctions as “desperate” and said repeated pressure plans have failed. Regional Mediation: Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir is set to visit Tehran to revive stalled US-Iran talks after the MoU’s 60-day window expired. Lebanon Outlook: The World Bank projects Lebanon’s economy will shrink 6.4% in 2026 as renewed conflict with Israel derails recovery. Palestinian Trade: Palestine’s registered goods trade deficit widened 34% in June as imports rose faster than exports, with Israel dominating both flows. Cyber & Energy: Iran-linked hackers shut down a small UK power generator for four days, prompting new guidance for energy firms. Business & Travel: Safaryar Holidays says MENA passenger traffic to Istanbul jumped 52% in 2025 as average stays shortened.