Security & Alliances: Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan signed the Mecca Joint Defence Pact, promising that an attack on any member will be treated as an attack on all—often compared to NATO’s Article 5, but framed as strategic insurance rather than a full alliance. Disaster Response: A deadly 7.7 quake in eastern Indonesia has left nearly 13,000 displaced across Flores, with thousands sleeping outside as aftershocks continue and aid access remains a concern. China Leadership Watch: Xi Jinping marked late leader Jiang Zemin’s 100th birth anniversary, urging the party to carry forward Jiang’s legacy while warning of “major tests” amid slower growth and external frictions. India Energy Resilience: India set new LPG production targets for refineries, with Reliance getting the largest quota, aiming to build a domestic buffer after West Asia disruptions. Regional Economy: Thailand’s Q2 GDP grew 1.9% year-on-year, beating forecasts as private investment offset softer consumption and weaker public spending. Aviation & Trade: Navi Mumbai International Airport welcomed its first foreign freighter cargo, signaling a push to expand international cargo routes. Tech & Cybersecurity: APT36-linked malware cluster targeted South Asia telecoms and critical infrastructure, using multiple new malware families. Society & Rights: Manipur protests escalated over demands to update the NRC before the census, with torch rallies and marches across key areas.