UN Diplomacy & Visas: The US approved visas for Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian and FM Abbas Araghchi to attend next week’s UN General Assembly in New York, even as Washington and Tehran remain in a stalemated war. Yemen Frontline: Yemen’s army said 30 Houthi fighters were killed in clashes and airstrikes west of Taiz, with strikes also reported around Mocha. Red Sea Shipping Risk: Strait-of-Hormuz traffic stayed very low, while Bab el-Mandeb saw fewer transits—adding pressure to global energy and trade routes. Saudi-Houthi Escalation: Fresh cross-border strikes continued, and markets watched whether attacks translate into real supply losses. Energy Markets: Oil prices slid for a third straight session as disruption fears eased slightly, keeping Brent above $100. Regional Finance: Barclays expects the Bank of England to hike in November, warning Middle East conflict could push inflation higher. Defense Deals: The US cleared a proposed $24.3bn F-35 sale to Saudi Arabia (48 jets), while Italy said it will escort ships through Bab el-Mandeb without waiting for EU action. China-Iran Pressure: China privately urged Iran to rein in the Houthis after Saudi Arabia sought help to protect Red Sea shipping and oil exports.