Iraq–Oman Anti-Corruption: Iraq and Oman signed an anti-corruption cooperation MoU in Doha, focusing on integrity promotion, information sharing, complaint handling, asset recovery, and training. AI & Cybersecurity in the Region: Google Cloud’s Qatar/Oman/Bahrain/Iraq lead says AI rollouts must come with stronger security, better data control, and investment in AI skills as organizations scale. Space Tech in Focus: Planet Labs’ Pelican-12 satellite has arrived at Cape Canaveral for a SpaceX rideshare launch, aiming for faster data delivery and improved imaging. Iran–US Targeting Upgrade: Reports say Chinese satellite and geospatial support helped Iran improve precision strikes and ship tracking around the Strait of Hormuz, with Russia also possibly involved. Energy Logistics Pressure: Gulf of Oman ship-to-ship transfers hit capacity as Saudi boosts exports via Hormuz after Red Sea disruptions, pushing up tanker demand and shipping costs. Carbon Capture Spotlight: Iran’s Carbon Bared reached finalist status for a CO2 recovery and utilization project at Tehran’s oil refinery in the 2026 WPC Energy Excellence Awards. Iraq Tech/Research: Iraq’s University of Technology explores academic partnerships in Spain.