West Bank Business Hit: Israeli bulldozers demolished dozens of Palestinian-owned shops and small businesses near al-Eizariya, tied to the disputed E1 road corridor—sparking fresh fears that the project will reshape movement and squeeze local livelihoods. UAE Liquidity Signal: UAE Banks Federation chair AbdulAziz Al Ghurair says the country has seen “hardly” any fund outflows from regional conflict, pointing to strong bank liquidity and relief support for individuals and SMEs. Digital Banking Push: Omla Community Bank won in-principle CBUAE approval to launch in Umm Al Quwain with an AI-powered model aimed at entrepreneurs and micro, small and medium firms. Jerusalem Dialogue vs. Tension: President Herzog and Gal Gadot urged “enough of the hatred” at a Jerusalem conference focused on dialogue amid deep polarization. SME Finance Toolkit: Emirates Development Bank highlighted sector-focused financing and support for tech, food security, healthcare and more. Counter-Drone Contracts: Hydrix signed a binding deal with NIOA to develop counter-drone fuze and payload integration for Australia’s growing defense spend. Cross-Border Payments Watch: State Department warns travelers not to rely on US peer-to-peer apps abroad, since some don’t work internationally. Trade Pressure: UK business groups criticized the King’s Speech for missing relief on energy bills, business rates and employment costs as Middle East-linked costs rise. UAE Banking Award: NBK was named “Best Bank in Kuwait 2026,” citing digital and AI investment.