Iran Economic Pressure: US Treasury chief Scott Bessent says Washington will impose the “toughest sanctions in history” and “collapse” Iran, calling it a “one-two punch” with a naval blockade and maximum economic isolation; Trump warns any country offering a “lifeline” to Tehran faces “tremendous economic consequences,” while Iran dismisses the threats as “economic terrorism” and vows to use more “devastating” weapons if war resumes. China Pushback: China condemns the US economic war, saying sanctions won’t solve the crisis, as Washington urges Beijing to “get with the program.” Energy Shock: Oil prices hover near $94 as the US-Iran standoff squeezes supply and keeps Strait of Hormuz risk front and center. Regional Diplomacy: Egypt’s Nile-dam leverage is tested as Ethiopia advances new Blue Nile projects after GERD, with Cairo leaning on diplomacy and pressure rather than stopping construction outright. Egypt-Palestine Ties: Palestinian President Abbas awards Egypt’s ambassador the “Star of Jerusalem,” highlighting Cairo’s support for the Palestinian cause. Somalia Piracy: Pirates hijack a Cameroon-flagged ship carrying Turkish weapons off Puntland; six Indians are among the crew, and the ship’s status remains unclear after a reported airstrike. Archaeology: New finds at Tell Abu Seifi in Sinai link Ramses II-era inscriptions to the lost city of Mesen and the Exodus story. Egypt Economy: The Egyptian pound firms against the dollar and euro as markets weigh regional tensions and Hormuz-linked risks; lemon exports surge to about $59.7m in the first five months of 2026.