Israel-Iran Tensions: A CNN report says Israeli special forces and Mossad units were stationed in southern Azerbaijan during the Iran conflict, including drone and intelligence missions; Azerbaijan’s embassy in Washington rejected the claims as unfounded. Armenian POW Pressure: In Washington, the ANCA-backed Brad Sherman amendment advanced in the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, urging Azerbaijan to immediately and unconditionally release Armenian POWs and political prisoners. Foreign Policy Framing: Hikmet Hajiyev told the Trans-Caspian Forum that peace and conflict resolution have opened new opportunities for Azerbaijan’s foreign policy, while also stressing Turkic-world cooperation as a growing political reality. Regional Diplomacy: Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov met Serbia’s leadership during an official visit, focusing on military cooperation and defense industry ties. Digital Child Protection: Azerbaijan is preparing new rules for children’s access to digital platforms, including age-verification and stronger parental oversight, as officials cite high social-media use among minors. Economy Snapshot: Azerbaijan’s economy was flat in the first five months of 2026 (0.0% growth), with non-oil expansion not fully offsetting weakness in the oil-and-gas sector. Culture & Sports: Silk Road–2026 festival showcased Azerbaijani culture abroad, while Baku is set to host major European billiards events this July.