UK Politics: Keir Starmer resigned as prime minister and Labour leader, setting up a leadership contest that could elevate Andy Burnham after Streeting’s backing—while MPs and commentators debate whether the party can steady itself before the next election. US Domestic: Rick Scott blamed federal spending and regulation for soaring home prices and inflation, arguing housing affordability is being priced out by government policy. China-US Trade/Defense: China banned government procurement from 46 U.S. defense firms, including Lockheed Martin and Raytheon, escalating procurement and national-security tensions. Middle East Diplomacy: Iran’s foreign minister said Switzerland talks, with Pakistan and Qatar mediation, advanced a Lebanon ceasefire framework and eased pressure on Iran’s economy. HIV Policy: Doctors Without Borders urged governments to use legal tools to break Gilead’s monopoly on Lenacapavir to widen access and cut prices ahead of UN HIV talks. Government & Tech: Philippines expanded a multi-year Google Cloud deal to deploy enterprise AI and strengthen cybersecurity in public services. Energy & Industry: South Africa’s ports authority finalized terminal deals after a government directive, even as a court challenge threatens the contracts. Public Finance/Recruitment: India’s parliamentary panel reviewed central government vacancies and civil services recruitment, including CSAT and the roles of UPSC/SSC/DoPT. Energy Use Rules: Spain’s Basque transfer approvals moved agricultural insurance management and driver psychophysical center authorizations to the regional level.