NATO & Regional Strategy: President Erdoğan met NATO chief Mark Rutte in Ankara, as Turkey continues building its own regional power architecture amid shifting Middle East dynamics. Energy Deals: SOCAR, TotalEnergies, ADNOC and Turkey’s BOTAS signed an Absheron phase-two gas sales agreement, with deliveries to Turkey expected to start in 2029. Maritime Security: A drone attack hit a cargo vessel in the Gulf near Iraq’s Umm Qasr port, sparking a fire that was later brought under control. Defense Watch: Turkey’s new electronic warfare jet HAVA SOJ appeared in clearer imagery in a Turkish Air Force anniversary video. Human Rights & Justice: A lawyer alleged torture before the 2016 death of teacher Gökhan Açıkkollu in police custody, describing beatings and injuries. Workers’ Rights: A global union report warns labour protections are eroding even in democracies, with Turkey listed among the worst performers. Sports—World Cup: Iran named its 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., omitting Sardar Azmoun and preparing in Antalya before travel. Istanbul Culture: Kanye West drew about 118,000 fans in Istanbul despite cancellations elsewhere over antisemitism-related bans. Business/Markets: Turkey’s 1Q GDP grew 2.5% y/y, while official data reliability remains questioned by some observers.