Saudi-Russia Cooperation: Saudi Arabia’s SFDA signed an MoU with Russia’s State Institute of Drugs and Good Practices to boost pharmaceutical regulation, inspections, and quality assurance, including GMP and training, on the sidelines of SPIEF. Gulf Energy Security: The Arab League chief urged the UN Security Council to act over attacks on oil tankers in the Arabian Gulf and strikes on Saudi oil installations, warning of “dangerous” escalation. Hormuz Disruption: Reports said Iran fired “warning shots” at US vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, while the US denied it; separately, an explosion near Oman’s Mina al Fahal oil loading terminal briefly disrupted operations. Nuclear Safety Alarm: Qatar reiterated condemnation of an attack on the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant at an IAEA emergency session, stressing risks to civilians, the environment, and regional security. Renewables Push in the Gulf: With Hormuz tensions tightening supply, Gulf states are accelerating overseas wind and solar investment, including Masdar’s renewable expansion and major offshore wind stakes. AI’s Environmental Cost: A UN-linked report warned AI could double electricity use by 2030 and increase water demand for cooling, raising emissions and resource pressure. Biodiversity Symbolism: A cultural piece highlighted “farasha” (butterfly) as a symbol of renewal—an angle on nature’s meaning in Arabic life.