Mecca Defence Pact: Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan signed the “Mecca Joint Defence Agreement,” treating an attack on one as an attack on all, with Turkey’s FM Hakan Fidan stressing it’s not aimed at Iran (or any other state) unless attacked. Regional Security Diplomacy: Turkey floated Egypt as a possible future member once technical issues are resolved, while the OIC and other Muslim-majority partners welcomed the pact as a step for collective stability. Hormuz Talks With Conditions: Iran and Oman say they are “very close” on Strait of Hormuz shipping arrangements, but Tehran insists reopening depends on US demands being met, including ending threats and lifting sanctions; Oman calls talks “positive” and condemned ship attacks. Maritime Flashpoints: Bahrain and the UAE condemned a missile attack on an ADNOC tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a violation of international law and a threat to navigation. Yemen Humanitarian Fallout: Saudi attacks drew condemnation from Yemen’s human rights bodies, including claims of war crimes in Sa’ada and Taiz, as Yemen’s forces also launched operations against Houthi positions. Saudi Domestic Incident: A loud explosion was reported in Jubail with fire at gas facilities, with causes unclear. Qatar Digital Sovereignty & Economy: Qatar pushed for digital maps as a sovereign asset, while property data showed resilience with residential sales up 23.6% in Q2. Pakistan Trade & Science: Pakistan’s ambassador said imports of US soybeans exceed 1 million tonnes annually, and Pakistani students won one gold and three silver medals at the International Nuclear Science Olympiad in Jeddah.