Hormuz Security & Shipping: Iran again warned oil tankers to use its approved Strait of Hormuz routes or face a “forceful response,” as US-Iran indirect talks in Doha wrapped up with no clear breakthrough and Gulf markets stayed cautious. Bahrain as Regional Hub: A US CENTCOM-led 12-nation security dialogue in Bahrain reaffirmed commitment to keeping commerce flowing through Hormuz, with defense cooperation and air-and-missile coordination on the agenda. Diplomacy Under Strain: Reports say the US is urging Iran to drop proposed transit fees and is exploring ways to unfreeze Iranian funds to keep shipping open, while Iran insists Hormuz is under its command, not CENTCOM. Bahrain Business & Talent: StartUp Bahrain Pitch (powered by Tamkeen) crowned “Robot Ahmed” and “Evoha” among winners, while General Assembly Bahrain signed an MoU with Infiniteware to expand AI and digital talent pathways. Energy Supply Chain: GCC Petroleum Cooperation Committee meeting in Bahrain focused on strengthening energy supply chains and integration across member states. Tourism & Events: Bahrain’s tourism ministry pushed events-sector growth via public-private partnerships, linking the sector to hospitality, retail, transport, logistics and creative industries. Aviation Connectivity: Air India Express fully restored West Asia services, including Salalah and Kuwait, improving travel links for the Bahrain-based diaspora and business travelers.