HOUTHIS PLEDGE NOT TO TARGET EUROPEAN OR U.S. SHIPS Iran-backed Houthis have told the EU they will not target European ships in the Red Sea, according to the FT. The group said its operations near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait are not intended to disrupt international shipping. The Houthis have reportedly given similar assurances to the U.S. and appear increasingly focused on Saudi Arabian interests.

Microsoft pledged about $2 billion in additional spending in the Middle East, providing the first significant update on its business in the region since the outbreak of the US war with Iran

TRUMP PLEDGES $5,000 DIVIDEND IF GOP WINS MIDTERMS President Donald Trump pledged a $5,000 payment to every U.S. adult citizen if Republicans retain control of both chambers of Congress, a plan estimated to cost around $1.2 trillion. Trump provided no funding details, and the proposal would require congressional approval. Economists warned the payments could fuel inflation and increase federal borrowing, while Treasury markets showed little reaction, suggesting investors currently see limited odds of the proposal becoming law.