U.S.-Iran Escalation Hits Transit Corridors: Washington’s renewed strikes on Iranian rail and coastal infrastructure are again putting Central Asia’s southern routes under pressure, with reports of damage to the Aq Taqeh Khan railway bridge on the China–Turkmenistan–Iran corridor—an issue that matters for regional logistics and energy flows. U.S.-Turkmenistan Diplomatic Push: In Ashgabat, U.S. Sen. Steve Daines met President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Hero-Arkadag (Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov), with both sides stressing expanded cooperation in fuel and energy, transport, finance, banking, and AI, plus continued political dialogue. Energy Trade Signals: The IEA says Russian gas deliveries to Uzbekistan could rise by more than 40% by 2026 (to over 10 bcm), while Uzbekistan’s domestic production declines—highlighting how pipeline infrastructure and regional interdependence shape energy security. Logistics and Transit Positioning: Turkmenistan’s customs upgrades and digitalization are credited with strengthening its role as a regional transport hub, with emphasis on the Middle Corridor and Trans-Caspian links. Migration Cooperation Talks: Turkmenistan and Belgium discussed a legal framework for migration cooperation, including identity checks, document restoration, and consular support. Embassy Construction Tender: Turkmenistan launched an international tender to build a new embassy administrative building in Azerbaijan. Demography Agenda in Ashgabat: UNFPA marked World Population Day with discussions on barriers facing young people, including housing and employment.