Strait of Hormuz Security: A tanker (AL SALAM II) was hit by an “unknown projectile” near Khasab, Oman, causing a fire that was extinguished; UKMTO and JMIC say crew were safe and no environmental impact was reported, but they warn mine risks and other harassment/surveillance threats keep traffic at single-digit levels. Oman-Iran Shipping Talks: Iran and Oman are discussing a temporary corridor and mine-clearing plan to manage navigation, with reports that military vessels may be excluded from parts of the route while a longer-term plan is developed. Diplomacy Push: Qatar’s PM and foreign minister met Iran’s leadership to de-escalate and restore freedom of navigation, including joint mine-clearing and a temporary shipping corridor concept. Climate & Oceans: KAUST research links most severe coral bleaching in the Red Sea and Arabian region to back-to-back ocean and air heatwaves, stressing compounding heat stress that accelerates in the northern Red Sea. Oman Development Focus: Oman’s Industrial Strategy 2040 highlights smart manufacturing and 30 priority industrial activities across clusters, including environmental industries and renewable energy.