Lebanon Conflict Impacts Food & Hospitality: Israeli strikes hit Nabatiyeh, killing at least four and injuring 20, while destroying Ghandour hospital and a historic building that had housed a restaurant—damaging nearby shops and cafes. Beverage Packaging Shift: With West Asia conflict disrupting aluminium can supply, Indian beverage makers are moving more SKUs to glass and PET bottles as can prices rise and commissioning delays continue. UAE Corporate Earnings (Food & Beverage Angle): UAE listed firms’ Q2 profits jumped 28.6% to Dh79.2bn, with the food, beverage and tobacco sector among the top earners on the exchange. Saudi Hospitality Expansion: A new Saudi-managed Atheel KAFD Hotel opens in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District, adding 214 rooms and multiple dining venues. UAE/Regional Tourism & Travel: Over 140 international buyers arrived in Masvingo for Zimbabwe’s tourism expo, including contingents from the Middle East, boosting hotel and lodge demand. Kuwait Pressure on Iranian Community: A Persian restaurant in Kuwait removed “Iran” from its name amid war-related sensitivity, reflecting growing pressure on Iranian residents. Food Safety (Broader Context): A UK report lists North East eateries fined for employing illegal workers, including a Middle Eastern restaurant fined £135,000. Restaurant Openings: San Carlo has opened in Cairo West, bringing wood-fired pizza, homemade pasta and seafood to the market.