Rohingya Tragedy: UN agencies warn more than 500 people are feared dead after two boats carrying Rohingya refugees capsized off Myanmar’s coast in late June and early July, with survivors’ families left in limbo as search-and-rescue and anti-smuggling efforts are urged. Regional Security: BIMSTEC security chiefs in New Delhi, chaired by NSA Ajit Doval, endorsed new maritime law-enforcement and disaster-response guiding principles, pushing joint action against terrorism, cyber threats, organised crime, and maritime risks across the Bay of Bengal. Myanmar Conflict on the Ground: Reports say regime forces escalated attacks in Magway Region and reinforced Chin State frontlines, including arson and airstrikes that killed civilians and destroyed homes. ASEAN Myanmar Debate: ASEAN’s “calibrated engagement” with Myanmar’s military government is drawing backlash, with critics warning it could normalize the junta without real progress for the Myanmar people. Humanitarian Pressure: The UK reportedly cut aid to Myanmar to £55.3 million for the current financial year, sparking rights groups’ claims the move will cost lives. Economy & Policy: Myanmar is promoting cotton as a strategic cash crop to boost rural incomes and foreign exchange, while Telenor signals a Nordics-focused push after exiting other markets.