Qatar-Egypt Investment Push: Qatari Diar officially launched Phase 1 of the $29.7bn Alam Al Roum mixed-use coastal project on Egypt’s North Coast, with $3.5bn in direct cash investment and first phase handover targeted for 2030—positioning it as a tourism and urban-sustainability engine, not just real estate. Gaza Peace Roadmap Clash: Israel’s Netanyahu rejected Trump’s 15-point Gaza plan, saying troops won’t withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed, while Egypt urged all parties to honor the roadmap and keep humanitarian access and stabilization force plans on track. Iran “Low-Key” Pressure Strategy: Trump signaled a wait-and-see approach toward Iran—“low keying it” with economic pressure rather than new strikes—while Iran reiterated strict conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, keeping energy markets tense. Hormuz Shipping Uncertainty: Reuters noted Hormuz traffic remains far below normal as Iran and Oman near a corridor arrangement but Tehran still demands sanctions relief, asset releases, and compensation. Arab AI Sovereignty Call: An Arab forum in Tangier backed an Arab-African AI model and proposed a sovereign center for investments, data and AI to support entrepreneurship and smarter cities. Kuwait Agriculture Investment Plan: Kuwait’s government flagged a sharp drop in agricultural investment and outlined reforms to attract capital and boost local know-how, including hydroponics and vertical farming. Korek Telecom Regulatory Fight (Iraq): Korek Telecom challenged Iraq’s communications regulator over a suspension order, arguing the commission lacks authority to cancel a prior settlement. Tourism Connectivity (Kuwait-Egypt): Jazeera Airways added flights to Egypt, bringing direct weekly services from Kuwait to 126 and expanding routes to Sharm El Sheikh, Alexandria, Sohag and Hurghada. Saudi Tourism Growth Signal: WTTC said Saudi travel and tourism is 14.1% of GDP and expects the region to be the fastest-growing tourism market through 2036.