Middle East Escalation: Iran launched its first direct strike on Israeli targets, analysts say, after Israeli action in a third country—shattering a fragile ceasefire and raising fears of a wider regional war. Gaza Negotiations: Cairo talks on a Gaza ceasefire are stalled over Hamas disarmament, with weapons the only major sticking point despite progress on other terms. EU/Regional Diplomacy: Georgia, Turkey and Azerbaijan signed a joint declaration after an Istanbul meeting, focusing on regional security and peacekeeping. China-North Korea: Xi Jinping wrapped up a visit to Pyongyang, agreeing with Kim Jong Un to strengthen top-level design and strategic guidance for China-DPRK ties. Sweden Nuclear Policy: Sweden received another state-aid application for a new nuclear project near Gävle, moving the plan into government negotiations and EU review. Kenya Ebola Row: Protests against a proposed U.S.-funded Ebola quarantine facility have turned into a sovereignty and transparency dispute, with court orders to disclose agreement details. Nigeria Elections Prep: Parties are racing to settle post-primary disputes and finalize candidate lists as INEC opens the 2027 nomination portal. Armenia Politics: An election observation mission says Armenia’s vote was politically competitive, while analysts argue the opposition should keep its parliamentary mandates. UK/Scotland Party Fallout: Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney declined to say whether he’ll cooperate with a Westminster inquiry tied to the SNP’s Peter Murrell scandal.