Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran’s IRGC says it destroyed a U.S. Saildrone Explorer near the Strait of Hormuz, as maritime traffic remains disrupted and Brent jumps above $107. Gulf Diplomacy: Trump tells Axios he’s weighing renewed large-scale attacks on Iran ahead of a UN General Assembly meeting with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman. Regional Economic Hit: A UN ESCWA official says the Iran war and shipping disruption cost Arab economies about $150bn in the first month (around 4% of regional GDP), with Bahrain convening an Arria-formula session on safe navigation. Bahrain Maritime Enforcement: Bahrain’s Coast Guard ran a joint inspection campaign in Muharraq to check safety equipment, licences, AIS use, and fishing compliance, taking legal action over violations. Youth & Skills: Bahrain’s Youth Affairs Minister highlights the country’s youth empowerment strategy and AI upskilling push, including training ambitions for Bahrainis. Tourism Investment: Bahrain will host the International Tourism Investment Forum (ITIF) in January 2027 with UN Tourism, aiming to attract ministers, investors and project financing. Banking & Fintech: ila Bank launches fully digital personal loans via its app, with a campaign offering customers a chance to win back up to BD20,000; Khaleeji Bank’s “Al Waffer” wins Best Raffle Account in Bahrain 2026. Local Business Expansion: Ramsis Engineering opens a Basra office to expand mechanical engineering and oilfield services for Iraq’s energy and industrial sectors.