Hormuz Tensions: Trump rejected Iran’s seven-day proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, keeping pressure on Tehran as US forces continue escorting major shipping flows. Workplace Reality Check: A new look at Europe’s “wellbeing” finds many employees are struggling due to income, housing and job insecurity—not just workplace culture. EU AI Push: The EU’s industrial AI envoy urged commissioners to prioritize practical AI use to boost productivity, not just building frontier models. Philippines-ASEAN EV Strategy: The Philippines’ electric vehicle push is being framed as a regional ASEAN project, with cross-border policy and ecosystem-building at the center. UN Health Systems: Abu Dhabi’s “Future Health” convening at UNGA 81 focused on shifting health care toward prevention and risk prediction at scale. AI Safety at UN: Singapore called for UN talks on an AI convention, warning about loss of control, misuse by rogue actors, and erosion of public trust. US-China Business Ties: USCBC president says strong economic links are “absolutely essential,” stressing innovation and mutual dependence. Africa Higher Education Reform: African leaders and partners in Ghana urged universities to reshape curricula, research and industry links to drive jobs and growth. Gaza Aid Cut: Britain cut UN food funding for Gaza by 78%, forcing WFP to slash the number of people it can feed. US Fuel Economy Rollback: Trump approved lower CAFE standards through 2031, rolling back Biden-era EV-linked rules. EU Gas Methane Risk: Ghana faces possible loss of EU gas market access if it doesn’t curb methane and end routine flaring.