Iran-US tensions and possible talks: Trump says he’s open to negotiations with Tehran but insists Iran must not get nuclear weapons, as a brief pause in strikes eased pressure on Gulf shipping and oil markets while both sides signal diplomacy could restart. Middle East maritime risk: Oman and Iran report progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and managing traffic, including proposals for regional cooperation and safer routing. US domestic fallout from the Iran war: Congressional and media divisions are widening over alleged gaps in reported US casualties, with accusations of cover-ups adding political strain at home. Berlin Pride attack: Police shot dead suspect Abdul Ballout after a van and machete attack at a Pride event killed one and injured dozens, renewing debate over antisemitism and Islamist terrorism concerns. Serbia’s diplomacy push in Asia: Serbia’s FM Marko Đurić meets Philippines and Chile counterparts in Manila, seeking stronger ASEAN ties and backing for Expo 2027 Belgrade. Governance and integrity reforms: A civil society group urges anti-corruption law changes to separate state roles from party posts and strengthen integrity planning for officials and parties. Local politics and elections: Zambia police allegedly tried to block opposition leaders from a campaign rally ahead of August 13 polls, while India’s opposition bloc weighs whether to end its Parliament protest over the NEET paper leak row. AI and energy policy: New Zealand Greens call for a one-year moratorium on new AI data centres, arguing current consent rules lack community input and could strain power and water.