Middle East Diplomacy: A US-Iran escalation is still paired with talk of “smart power” diplomacy, with experts arguing channels remain open even as strikes and Hormuz tensions intensify. Venezuela Talks: Venezuela’s interim government says formal talks with the opposition will start 1 August, with Dinorah Figuera leading—while María Corina Machado won’t represent the opposition. UK Care Support: The UK launched a cross-government action plan to identify unpaid carers earlier, expand support via a new NHS App “MyCarer” section, and roll out wider services by 2028. Heritage-to-Housing Push (UK): MPs urged faster planning approvals for converting historic buildings into homes, arguing the current system is too rigid and punitive. Nigeria Fake Agency: Nigeria arrested the head of a bogus “Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council” after a forged appointment letter sparked a corruption probe. Education Scandal (India): Two Uttar Pradesh government school teachers were suspended after viral videos allegedly show inappropriate classroom behavior. Aviation Taxes (Zimbabwe): Zimbabwe’s government acknowledged high aviation taxes may hurt competitiveness as it seeks to position the country as a regional aviation hub. Digital TV Deadline (Nigeria): Nigeria set December 2028 as the final analogue-to-digital TV switch-off deadline. Trade Diplomacy (Indonesia-EU): Indonesia said it will keep defending its fatty acid exports after a mixed WTO ruling on EU anti-dumping duties.