Gulf Security Escalation: Kuwait and Bahrain reported air-defense interceptions as Iran launched drone and missile attacks tied to renewed US-Iran strikes, with Kuwait’s army saying explosions heard were from intercept operations and urging residents to follow safety guidance. Red Sea Pressure: A US House Foreign Affairs hearing focused on the Houthi threat to shipping through the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab al-Mandab, stressing that any durable response must involve local coastal and port security. Qatar Mediation & Hormuz: Qatar’s officials said diplomatic efforts are intensifying to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and warned against treating closure as a fait accompli, while Doha held talks with Ecuador. Saudi-Oman Stability Talks: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met Oman’s Sultan Haitham in Jeddah to discuss regional security and cooperation. Kuwait Finance Move: Kuwait approved a decree allowing the government to borrow from its Future Generations Fund to support state finances, with strict caps and Cabinet approval. Qatar Airways Connectivity: Qatar Airways resumes flights to Saudi destinations (Qassim, Taif, Tabuk, Yanbu) for the winter schedule. Business & Tech: AWS confirmed a December 2026 launch for its first Saudi cloud region and plans an AI Zone with HUMAIN by 2028. Sports: Al Rayyan beat Al Shamal on penalties to reach the Qatar Cup final against Al Sadd. Education & Culture: Vatel Bahrain set a Sept 12 deadline for 2026–2027 applications, while Qatar University prepares its “Joud” Charity Festival (Sept 6–10).