US-Iran Diplomacy & Gulf Security: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio landed in Bahrain as part of a UAE-Kuwait-Bahrain tour to win over skeptical Gulf allies over the proposed US-Iran accord, stressing Washington will not undermine partners’ security and reiterating that no country should charge tolls on the Strait of Hormuz. Bahrain-US Relations: Bahrain welcomed Rubio ahead of the GCC–US ministerial meeting, reaffirming ties under C-SIPA and backing continued diplomacy for a “peaceful and sustainable” resolution that protects sovereignty, non-interference and freedom of navigation. Lebanon Flashpoint: Israel’s Defence Minister said the IDF will not withdraw from southern Lebanon, complicating US-mediated efforts and raising doubts about how far the Iran peace track can go. Oil & Shipping Outlook: As more tankers transited the Strait of Hormuz, crude prices slid to multi-month lows, with Brent around $73.8/bbl, while UN-linked efforts to evacuate stranded sailors were reported. Bahrain Social & Governance: Bahrain’s authorities reportedly intensified a crackdown on the Shia community ahead of Ashura, including raids and arrests at religious gatherings. Sustainability & Capital Markets: Bahrain submitted its Third Voluntary National Review to the UN, while the Public Administration Institute hosted Bahrain Bourse leadership on capital market development.