World Maritime Day & Hormuz: Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran’s maritime presence protects commercial routes and that lasting Gulf security must be led by regional cooperation, not foreign interference. US-Iran ceasefire talks: Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi received Washington’s response to Tehran’s seven-day plan via Qatari mediators, with the sticking point reported as the order of steps—reopening Hormuz and restarting nuclear talks in exchange for lifting pressure on Iran. Iraq sovereignty shift: The US and coalition formally ended their Iraq mission as troops left remaining bases, while Baghdad marked “Sovereignty Day,” raising fresh fears about ISIS remnants and the growing role of Iran-backed militias. Iran’s economy under strain: A new report shows how even stable jobs in Tehran can require multiple incomes as war, sanctions, and rising costs squeeze families. Human rights & women’s rights: Rights groups say a woman sentenced to death over protest-related charges begged for international help, as executions reportedly resumed; meanwhile, a singer’s 74-lash sentence for performing without a hijab drew renewed outrage. Culture & lifestyle: A story from Minab recalls how a school bombing turned into a grave, spotlighting the human cost behind the headlines. Regional diplomacy: China urged Iran and the US to stick to peaceful talks and return to the Islamabad MoU framework. Aviation pressure: Turkey seized an Iranian passenger jet over unpaid debt, stranding travelers amid tightening sanctions on Iranian aviation.