Iran-US Tensions & BRICS Diplomacy: Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian told a New Delhi gathering he will not surrender to US and Israel “bullying,” warning pressure has reached a “critical and dangerous stage” as sanctions and strikes intensify. West Asia Navigation Talks: Iran says Gulf littoral states will meet in Oman next Monday to discuss safe Strait of Hormuz routes, with officials pointing to prior understandings on temporary shipping lanes. Saudi Energy Under Strain: Saudi Arabia temporarily shut its East-West oil pipeline after multiple drones/missiles attacks from Iraq hit the Riyadh and Madinah regions, injuring people and damaging infrastructure; Riyadh is holding off retaliation while Baghdad investigates and dismissed a Maysan commander. Shipping Chokepoints Escalate: With Strait of Hormuz already disrupted, reports say Iran and allies are also targeting the Bab el-Mandeb corridor, raising fears of wider fuel-price shocks. US-Iran War Messaging: Trump renewed vows to end the Iran conflict after November elections and linked the fight to 9/11, while US officials claim Iran-linked maritime attacks are escalating. Egypt Daily Hardship: Egypt’s bread subsidy cuts are biting hard, with hundreds of thousands losing support and prices rising sharply. 9/11 Accountability Fight: A 9/11 widow confronted US leaders at the 25th anniversary ceremony, accusing Washington of protecting Saudi interests and demanding more transparency.