US-Iran Economic Pressure: The US launched “Operation Economic Outcast,” expanding secondary sanctions meant to “sever every economic lifeline” to Iran, targeting sectors like digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping, plus about 60 individuals, firms and vessels tied to Iran’s oil revenue, weapons procurement and cyber activity—while warning countries and companies that keep dealing with Tehran could face dollar-system penalties. Oil Market Watch: Oil prices slid after the announcement, with Brent down about $2.2 and WTI down about $2.1 as traders took profits and questioned how hard Washington will enforce the new secondary sanctions. Iraq Oil Sector Tension: Iraq’s North Gas pushed back on planned oil-sector reforms, saying operational needs, workers’ rights and maintenance funding must be protected during a time-limited trial—after protests erupted over new crude pricing rules that could cut refinery revenues by 30%. Hormuz Costs & Route Shifts: TotalEnergies’ CEO said shipping a supertanker through the Strait of Hormuz now costs about $20 million, and the firm is backing pipeline projects to bypass the chokepoint, including an Iraq-to-Syria route. Security & Finance in Iraq: Iraq’s Federal Intelligence and Investigations Agency said it dismantled a fraud network selling dollars via social media and stealing via digital wallets, while also shutting down related platforms. Regional Update: The US removed Syria from its state sponsor of terrorism list, a move Syria says will help reopen the door to investment and reconstruction.