US–Iran Escalation Hits Central Asian Trade: The U.S. struck Iranian rail and coastal infrastructure, including the Aq Taqeh Khan railway bridge tied to the China–Turkmenistan–Iran corridor, raising fears of disruption to southern freight routes as the Strait of Hormuz crisis spills into Eurasian connectivity. US–Turkmenistan Diplomacy: In Ashgabat, Senator Steve Daines met Turkmen leaders including President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Hero-Arkadag, with talks focused on energy, transport, finance, AI, and expanding bilateral cooperation. Logistics Boost for Turkmenistan: Turkmenistan’s customs and digital upgrades are supporting a stronger role as a regional transit hub, with the Middle Corridor and Trans-Caspian links highlighted as key options. Embassy Tender in Baku: Turkmenistan launched an international tender to build a new administrative building for its embassy in Azerbaijan. Energy Pressure in the Region: Uzbekistan is set to raise Russian gas imports in 2026 by nearly 50% as domestic production declines, underscoring how pipeline routes shape Central Asia’s energy security. World Nomad Games Culture: Turkmen chefs will compete in “World Nomad Cuisine” at the VI World Nomad Games, with dishes cooked in kazans on stones and judged in a modern format.