Middle East Energy Security: Oil jumped more than 4% to about $88 a barrel as US-Iran hostilities escalated, with fears growing over Strait of Hormuz traffic and possible Red Sea disruption. Kuwait Infrastructure Hit: Kuwait Petroleum said repeated Iranian attacks damaged a key oil facility and injured workers, while a fire was reported at a power and desalination plant. Iraq Export Push: Iraq and Syria signed an MoU to build a crude export pipeline to Syria’s Mediterranean coast, with capacity to be set in a study; the project is aimed at diversifying routes after Hormuz disruptions. Iraq-US Deals: Iraq signed 48 agreements with US firms, including oil and electricity cooperation and work tied to a major Iraq-Syria pipeline. Solar Policy Shift (US): New Hampshire passed a law allowing plug-in “balcony” solar devices without utility approval or extra fees, as long as safety standards are met. Renewables Market Signals: Ember data says solar supplied more electricity than coal in the US for the first time on record in May. Grid Stress (Central Asia): Bishkek and parts of the Chui region faced temporary outages as extreme heat pushed the power system to its limits. Solar Industry Pressure (Germany): Germany’s solar sector warned that proposed subsidy changes could threaten billions in investment and tens of thousands of jobs. Africa Skills for Oil & Gas: Nigeria’s NCDMB and Renaissance began 12-month training for 300 young Nigerians to build oil and gas field readiness skills. Solar Growth (India): Waaree Energies secured an additional 212 MW solar module order, lifting its total commitment to 562 MW for FY 2026-27 execution.