Middle East Energy & Shipping: Global institutions warned that the Middle East war is straining energy supplies and hitting vulnerable economies, with Strait of Hormuz disruption a key risk as the US weighs a draft MoU that would keep commercial transit open without fees while easing its blockade—though Iran is also reasserting control and ordering designated routes plus IRGC Navy authorization. Maritime Security: Qatar reiterated opposition to permanent Hormuz transit tolls, saying fees would raise consumer prices, while the UKMTO flagged threats as “critical” and CENTCOM reported disabling a Gambia-flagged vessel and redirecting 115 ships. Air Cargo Costs: WorldACD data showed global air cargo rates up 36% year on year in mid-May, with Middle East/South Asia the steepest movers. Logistics Digitization: Oman launched an electronic transport document for truck freight to improve regulation and reduce irregular practices. Port & Trade Corridors: Malaysia’s Perlis Inland Port (PIP) opened alongside cooperation linking Belawan and Penang to strengthen ASEAN–East Asia connectivity. Transit & Safety: A woman was killed in a stabbing aboard a MARTA train in Atlanta; rail service disruptions followed. Tech & Supply Chains: Matternet raised ~$33M to expand FAA-certified drone delivery, targeting food, retail and healthcare. AI Policy: A White House AI fight over regulation vs competitiveness spilled into staff clashes after Trump declined to sign an AI executive order.