Gulf Security Escalation: Iran and the US traded fresh blows, with Iran launching missiles and drones at Gulf states and the US striking back; Gulf governments reported interceptions and raised threat levels, while Qatar said debris from interception operations injured three people, and Oman condemned drone attacks on Musandam sites. Strait of Hormuz Dispute: Despite Iran-Oman talks in Muscat on safe navigation, Tehran moved to close the strait “until further notice,” pushing diplomacy aside and heightening fears for global shipping. Maritime Fallout: India condemned the attack on the Cyprus-flagged GFS Galaxy off Oman; 10 of 11 Indian crew were rescued, one remains missing, as search-and-rescue continues. Regional Condemnations: Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia all denounced Iranian strikes as violations of sovereignty and international law. Qatar Leadership Loss: Qatar announced the death of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani at 74, triggering four days of mourning and condolences from regional leaders. Local Life/Resilience: Qatar also reported a surge in payment transactions, while it opened its first smart mosque with solar power and water recycling.