Trilateral Defence Deal: US President Donald Trump hailed the Saudi-Türkiye-Pakistan “Mecca Joint Defence Agreement” as a “BIG, BOLD, IMPORTANT FIRST STEP,” saying the pact helps the region defend itself more meaningfully; the agreement treats an attack on one signatory as an attack on all and calls for deeper military coordination, joint exercises, and defence-tech collaboration. Saudi Capital Markets: Saudi Arabia’s Capital Market Authority appointed Mazen Al-Sudairi as CMA chairman, aiming to deepen the market, broaden instruments and investors, and strengthen global links under Vision 2030. Space & Research: NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope study points to a possible “black hole star,” led by Hyderabad-born MIT astronomer Rohan Naidu. Higher Education Rankings: Three Saudi universities improved in the 2026 world rankings, with Taif University jumping 219 places to 408th. Smart Infrastructure: East Consulting Engineering Company (ECEC) signed an MoU with Siemens Smart Infrastructure to expand cooperation in energy, industry, water, data centers, and MEP projects. Tech for Daily Life: OMODA & JAECOO pushed smart parking tech (SIVP) aimed at easing real-world driving and parking challenges for Gulf users. Education Camp: Arabian Gulf University launched a “Gulf Medical Camp” for 60 students from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, mixing lectures and hands-on medical experiences. Energy Security Angle: A report on nuclear power’s import dilemma highlights the risk of swapping fossil fuel dependence for imported uranium needs. Telecom Offers: BSNL rolled out new plans including a satellite phone option for remote/national-security use, with bookings starting Aug 15.