Iran Funeral & Regional Diplomacy: Iran has begun week-long public mourning for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Tehran expecting massive turnout and tight security as the state tries to project continuity amid economic strain and leadership transition. Energy & Shipping Security: Iran’s military command warned oil tankers to use approved Strait of Hormuz routes or face forceful response, as mediators meet in Qatar and Gulf navigation remains a key pressure point. NATO Summit in Ankara: NATO leaders meet July 7-8 with unity and keeping U.S. commitment to Article 5 front and center, while officials also worry the Middle East conflict could crowd out alliance priorities. Gulf Labor Rights: Kenya’s PM Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi begins talks in Saudi Arabia focused on stronger protections for Kenyan migrant workers, including ethical recruitment and dispute resolution. Fuel Tax Relief: Zambia extended petrol and diesel excise duty suspension and VAT zero-rating for 90 days to cushion households from Middle East-driven price pressure. Pakistan Economy Watch: Pakistan’s central bank chief projected FY26 growth above the government’s estimate, citing resilient remittances and FX reserves despite the regional crisis. Libya Energy Push: Libya reported record crude output and renewed licensing to attract foreign investment, while U.S. officials press for unified institutions. Tech & Infrastructure: A Vancouver startup Wafr says it raised $100m to cut AI data-centre water use via hyper-efficient cooling, and the UAE hosted DCIIS UAE 2026 to advance resilient, AI-ready data centre ecosystems.