Syria Energy Disruption: A gas pipeline explosion near the Tishreen Power Plant outside Damascus forced three gas-fired plants (Deir Ali, Al-Nasiriyah and Tishreen) offline, cutting electricity output and extending scheduled outages while crews cooled and isolated the damaged section. Iran–US Tensions & Markets: Trump said the US has “near-total control” of the Strait of Hormuz and claimed unprecedented oil movement, as Iran said it received a US counterproposal via Qatar to reopen the strait and end the war—though talks hinge on the order of steps. Saudi Energy Security: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman warned the world faces an “energy crisis with uncertain outcomes,” stressing continued oil supply and maritime security cooperation. Regional Diplomacy: Azerbaijan’s deputy PM met Iranian officials in Tehran, including Iran’s oil and energy ministers, to review joint projects. US Fuel-Price Politics: With Iran-linked fuel volatility, US states including Ohio moved to gas tax holidays, underscoring how Middle East supply risks are feeding domestic affordability pressure ahead of midterms. US–Korea Energy Deals: Trump announced South Korea investment plans for a Texas gas-fired power plant, eight nuclear plants, and an Alaska LNG pipeline.