ASEAN Digital Push: Negotiations for the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) are finished, clearing the way for signing in November and aiming to lift the region’s digital economy from a projected $1T by 2030 to as much as $2T. Regional Trade & Logistics: Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand-linked port partners signed a cooperation deal to speed cross-border cargo flows via a new free trade zone and inland clearance depot corridor. Ebola in Congo: WHO chief Tedros visited Bunia as a rare Ebola outbreak spreads faster than the response, urging safer burials and warning that travel bans can reduce transparency. Middle East Security: Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon killed at least 15, while Lebanon’s PM called for stronger diplomacy toward a ceasefire. Somalia Power Struggle: Loyalists of an ousted state leader clashed with troops in Baidoa ahead of legislature swearing-in. Nigeria Economy: President Tinubu said Nigeria is recovering and states no longer depend on federal bailouts for salaries. AI in Governance: India launched an AI chatbot, “Samadhan Didi,” to file public grievances by voice in local languages. Fuel Shock Warning: IMF, IEA and World Bank warned of summer fuel shortages if Strait of Hormuz shipping disruptions persist. Croatia Diaspora Vote: Plenković backed constitutional changes that could expand parliamentary representation for Croatians abroad. UK Deepfake Alarm: A UK think tank warned of a “democratic emergency” after polling found many voters saw election deepfakes ahead of local polls.