Middle East Escalation: The US and Iran traded fresh strikes for a seventh straight night, hitting bridges and energy-linked sites and disrupting shipping around the Strait of Hormuz, pushing oil higher and raising fears of wider regional spillover. Ukraine-Russia Energy Fallout: Ukrainian drones killed at least seven and injured dozens in Russian regions, with reports of strikes hitting logistics and an oil facility—another reminder that energy and supply chains are now front-line targets. South Asia Gas Crunch: West Asia conflict is squeezing LNG flows across Asia, with India facing an estimated ~1.5 million tons per month shortfall that could hit power, fertiliser and industry. Policy for Cheaper Power: In Britain, Octopus Energy urged market reforms ahead of Andy Burnham’s start, including shifting energy levies off bills and changing wholesale pricing to cut household costs. Renewables on the Ground: Bangladesh is stepping up energy audits and renewables incentives to cut waste and imported fuel exposure; Pakistan’s Sindh is accelerating solar home system kits for low-income households; and the Philippines’ DOE is expanding rooftop solar for government buildings in Western Visayas. Regional Deals: Iraq and Syria moved to restore the long-closed Iraq-Syria crude pipeline, while Nepal and India advanced plans to expand cross-border power trade. Clean Energy vs Local Rules: Ireland’s Mayo renewable strategy was ratified despite a regulator pushback over a settlement buffer zone—showing how local planning can shape project timelines. Energy Transition Legal Watch: India’s E20 ethanol policy faces fresh scrutiny after a consumer court ruling ordering Maruti Suzuki to replace a vehicle or pay damages.