G7 Diplomacy and Sanctions: G7 leaders meeting in Evian reaffirmed they will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons and backed free passage in the Strait of Hormuz, while also signaling stronger sanctions on Russia, including its oil and gas sectors. Ukraine Military Support: The same summit pushed for more air defenses and interceptors for Ukraine, with talk of possible licenses to let Ukraine expand domestic weapons production. Middle East Deal Watch: Coverage around Trump’s Iran deal and renewed pressure for Russia to negotiate fed into the G7’s push to reopen key shipping routes and reduce global energy vulnerability. Philippines Politics: In Manila, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian was elected Senate president, with Sen. Vicente “Tito” Sotto III named president pro tempore, reshaping leadership after weeks of Senate tension. Sri Lanka Legal Move: Former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa filed to block arrest tied to the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, arguing he could be detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. Armenia Regional Outreach: SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev congratulated Armenia’s PM Nikol Pashinyan, praising progress in modernizing public life and boosting Armenia’s international standing. South Africa Governance: The DA reshuffled its national unity government team, demoting Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and appointing Willie Aucamp to handle the Foot-and-Mouth disease crisis. New Zealand Fire Funding: New Zealand’s government said it will review alternatives to the insurance levy that funds Fire and Emergency New Zealand.