Cross-border diplomacy: Pakistan says US-Iran talks in Doha show “positive progress” after Qatar and Pakistani mediators met both sides, with the next round planned after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s funeral processions. Regional security: The Taliban claimed airstrikes on an alleged ISIS hideout in Balochistan while Islamabad said it intercepted and shot down four drones, as tensions keep rising. Disaster & safety: Heavy monsoon rains and flash floods across Pakistan left at least 14 dead and dozens injured, while Lahore also saw a deadly roof collapse at an under-construction house that killed a child and injured others. Heritage & minorities: A 125-year-old gurdwara in Punjab’s Farooqabad was allegedly demolished without NOC, triggering Sikh protests and international condemnation; authorities ordered restoration and an inquiry. Economy & policy: Inflation eased to 11.1% in June; World Bank urged reforms to the NFC Award formula; Pakistan raised the Climate Support Levy on petrol to Rs5/litre under IMF-linked changes. Transport & cities: PIA resumed direct Lahore–Manchester flights after six years; Lahore airport will temporarily close runways daily during monsoon bird-risk hours; Lahore Traffic Police warned of license suspensions for reckless driving. Tech & telecom: PTA reported 9,200 telecom theft/vandalism incidents in 11 months affecting about 16% of cellular infrastructure, and Pakistan has no law yet declaring internet an essential service. Sports & ties: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed MoUs to build a modern cricket stadium in Jeddah and expand security cooperation.