Israel-Lebanon Talks in Rome: Lebanon’s delegation says it won’t join discussions until Israel starts withdrawing from two “pilot zones,” while Israel links any pullout to conditions that Hezbollah stay out and the Lebanese army can hold the areas. Knesset & Draft Law: The Knesset approved a law elevating Torah study as a “foundational value,” amid IDF Chief of Staff warnings that related draft-exemption moves would “shatter” trust and worsen soldier shortages. West Bank Settlements: Israel signed an $2.3B framework deal to expand settlements with 12,000 new homes and infrastructure. EU Trade Curbs: EU foreign ministers weigh options to restrict trade with illegal settlement goods, but admit “there is still a way to go” toward consensus. US-Israel Military Link: A US-Israel defense technology cooperation provision (Section 219) is criticized as locking in deeper intelligence and weapons R&D ties that future presidents may struggle to unwind. Iran Escalation & Hormuz: The US restarted strikes and moved to reimpose a Hormuz blockade while proposing a 20% cargo fee; Iran retaliated and targeted regional US-linked assets. ICC Pushback: Marco Rubio unveiled a campaign to dismantle the International Criminal Court, framing it as a threat to US sovereignty. Gaza Medical Detention: The family of detained Gaza hospital director Hussam Abu Safiya says his health is deteriorating after months in Israeli custody. Elections Watch: Israel’s October 27 election date is set, with coverage focusing on who could challenge Netanyahu.