Bahrain Security: Bahrain’s air defence intercepted and destroyed three missiles and several drones, with the Bahrain Defence Force blaming Iran for attacks on civilian infrastructure. Regional Markets: US stocks slid in a risk-off session as US-Iran tensions flared again, lifting oil prices and weighing on tech and financials; ASX futures also pointed lower on Middle East jitters and higher yields. Renewables Policy: Bahrain’s government asked the Shura Council to rethink a draft renewable energy law, arguing existing rules already cover grid connections and that a stand-alone statute could complicate power-sector updates. AI in Business: KPMG and Anthropic announced a global alliance to embed Claude into KPMG’s tax and private equity delivery, aiming to power agentic workflows with a focus on security and governance. Digital Payments: Kyrgyzstan’s national payment operator, with Alipay+, launched international QR payments for ELCARD Mobile users, expanding cross-border payments in multiple currencies. Education Tech: A Bahrain-based admissions platform, Canmore Place, is set to streamline university and foundation applications across the Gulf via a web app and Progressive Web App. Infrastructure Progress: Bahrain’s sewerage upgrade in Al Qadam and Jibla Habshi reached 52% completion, adding pumping stations, pipelines and networks for about 414 properties. Archaeology: Japanese archaeologists unearthed what they call a potentially oldest Dilmun royal tomb, with DNA analysis planned on remains and grave goods. Tech & Finance Event: Bahrain Bourse announced “The Market 2.0: Bahrain 2026” in December, focusing on AI, automation and modern trading infrastructure.