Middle East Conflict & Security: A new study by Uppsala Conflict Data Program and PRIO reports record levels of state-based wars in 2025, with 65 conflicts and rising fatalities—highlighting how the Middle East remains a hotspot of overlapping fighting. Lebanon Frontline Developments: Israel published an expanded map of its southern Lebanon “security zone,” showing troops operating several kilometres deeper, while Israel says it’s still in talks with the U.S. over keeping deployments despite a U.S.-Iran framework calling for an end to fighting on all fronts. Sanctions & Finance: The U.S. Treasury’s OFAC designated Hizballah-aligned Lebanese officials and expanded targets tied to a Hizballah-associated business network, including links reaching into Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Oman. Syria-Related Diplomacy: Lebanon received assurances from Syria that Damascus will not interfere in Lebanese affairs amid renewed regional speculation. Cyber & Civil Society Tech: Cloudflare said it blocked 38.5 billion attacks on civil society groups via its Project Galileo, with long-running DDoS campaigns standing out as deliberate. Syria Energy/Infrastructure Signals: Reporting also points to renewed regional energy routing discussions, including pipeline rehabilitation plans that could affect Syria’s role in transit and supply routes. Healthtech in Syria: Syrian healthtech Moadna reportedly raised $50,000 in early-stage funding, a small but notable win for local innovation.