Maritime Security: Iran’s oil exports are moving again as fighting around the Strait of Hormuz disrupts shipping, with analysis saying more than a third of transits in recent days hugged routes near Iran’s coastline and over 34 million barrels of Iranian crude have passed since the U.S. lifted its blockade on June 18. Regional Aviation: The Comoros and Madagascar will resume direct flights after nearly four years, with the Union President saying an agreement was reached in late June and flights are expected to restart this month. Science & Environment: In Accra, scientists from 21 African countries are harmonising microplastics monitoring protocols using nuclear and isotopic techniques, aiming for comparable data to guide coastal pollution policy. Trade Policy: China has pushed a WTO proposal on trade-investment integration for industrialization, with Comoros among the co-sponsors. Digital Payments: Visa says Visa Pay is expanding across Africa, including Comoros, to help issuers launch virtual cards and mobile payment features. Independence Diplomacy: Russia and other leaders sent congratulations to Comoros President Azali Assoumani for the country’s 51st independence anniversary.