Environmental Rights Under Pressure: Amnesty International calls the conviction of environmental activist Esra Işık a “devastating blow,” after she was found guilty for peaceful protest against an urgent expropriation paving the way for coal mine expansion in Muğla’s Akbelen Forest. Higher Education Crackdown: Observers warn Turkey’s Official Gazette decree ordering the closure of Istanbul Bilgi University may signal a renewed crackdown on higher education, with critics saying the move came without prior warning despite recent quality accreditation. NATO, Energy and Security Link: As NATO leaders gather in Ankara, coverage highlights growing pressure to accelerate defence spending and broaden security priorities, including energy security and the risks tied to major maritime routes like the Strait of Hormuz. Urban Development Cooperation: Oman and Türkiye sign an MoU to boost housing, urban planning and real estate investment, with Türkiye’s environment and climate ministry involved in the framework for sustainable city development. Shipping Route Shifts: Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd plan a renewed attempt to route one service via the Suez-Red Sea corridor, citing assessments of security and contingency plans if conditions worsen.