Strait of Hormuz Diplomacy Stalls: Oman postponed a Monday meeting between Iran and Gulf states on shipping arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz, citing the need to create “conditions conducive to a constructive dialogue,” as Bahrain ruled out attending and tensions keep pressure on global oil flows. Maritime Attacks Continue: Iran said an Iranian container ship was hit near Hengam Island, killing one crewman and injuring four, while Tehran also postponed briefings on its contested shipping management. Iran-UAE “Turn the Page”: Iran’s president said Tehran and Abu Dhabi agreed to “turn the page” after a constructive exchange on BRICS sidelines, despite months of deterioration since the war began. Regime Power Struggle: A New York Times report says hardliners allegedly acted in the Strait without key authorization, fueling questions over who truly holds authority in Iran amid the Supreme Leader’s absence. Yemen Escalation: Fighting intensified as Houthis attacked Saudi Arabia and government forces struck back near the Red Sea, raising risks to Bab el-Mandeb and energy supplies. Sanctions Evasion: A Financial Times report says Iran is using bitcoin and crypto channels for cross-border settlements while the central bank reportedly turns a blind eye. US-Iran War Fallout: Oil prices jumped after fresh strikes tied to Hormuz and Saudi disruptions, while Trump again floated staying in Iran to “keep the oil.”