Middle East Crisis Watch: US strikes hit an Iranian airport, rail station and bridges in Hormozgan as American forces boarded a ship to enforce a renewed ports blockade, while Iran and the US trade escalating fire around the Strait of Hormuz—raising risks for regional shipping and energy flows. Maritime Security: UKMTO reported a merchant vessel boarded by unauthorized personnel in the Gulf of Aden and is investigating a July 15 tanker encounter linked to military activity in the Persian Gulf, urging heightened vigilance. Climate Policy (EU): The EU proposed easing its carbon trading scheme by extending free allowances to 2038 and allowing more use of international credits, as it tries to balance climate goals with industry pressure. Heat & Health: A new analysis links hotter nights to major sleep loss worldwide, with climate-driven heat stealing hours of rest—especially in parts of Southern India and Southeast Asia. Biodiversity/Conservation: Israel’s Nile crocodile “cultivated wild animal” designation is being used to support a proposed “crocodile prison” plan, sparking legal and conservation objections. Energy Transition (Hard-to-Abate): A report warns delivery gaps in net-zero tech for heavy sectors could derail 2030 targets unless deployment, funding and scaling improve. Wildfire Tech: Satellite systems are helping detect fires early, including across the Middle East and North Africa, where fast spotting can mean the difference between small blazes and major disasters.