Middle East Shipping Risk: The U.S. paused a planned Iran strike after talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz “immediately, completely, and totally,” while Iran warned of “proportionate response” to any new aggression—keeping tanker traffic and energy logistics on edge. Maritime Fees Denial: Yemen’s Houthis rejected reports they’ll charge tolls at Bab el-Mandeb, saying safe passage is voluntary and free, a key signal for Red Sea and Gulf rerouting costs. Port & Rail Connectivity: Belarus launched the “Slavic Caravan” freight train to Uzbekistan, cutting delivery to 5–7 days and setting up an intermodal logistics center at Orsha; separately, Gwadar handled ~200,000 tonnes of transit breakbulk in three months as Pakistan pushes overland corridors toward Central Asia. Renewables for Grid Reliability: India approved PM-SSY to expand floating solar with storage (5,000 MW target) and Bihar floated a 150 MW solar + 75 MW/300 MWh battery tender; Philippines’ Visayas grid entered August with slim reserves, underscoring demand for dispatchable power. Right-to-Repair & Security: India’s NTA floated a Rs 7.5 crore 24/7 security tender after the NEET controversy, while a new sub-$300 diagnostic tablet claims subscription-free access to modern vehicle software locks. Aviation & Trade Growth: India inaugurated the Vizag (Bhogapuram) airport, positioning it as a connectivity and logistics catalyst for Andhra Pradesh.