Iran-US tensions: President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran “withstood” the latest US-Israeli aggression thanks to national unity, and urged stronger diplomacy with neighbors, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkiye, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Egypt, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. Turkmenistan health & tech: Ashgabat is preparing to open a new ultra-modern oncology centre this year, and a separate dental centre is nearing completion with AI-powered 3D scanning and digital lab systems for faster, more precise implant work. Culture & heritage: Turkmenfilm named after Oguzhan is producing a 30-minute feature on Turkmen theatre history, while a new documentary will film across the country’s major stages. Diplomacy & regional ties: Japan’s FM Toshimitsu Motegi will visit Turkmenistan (Aug 29–Sept 4) for talks on energy, infrastructure, science and technology; the EU ambassador also wrapped up her mission after meetings at Turkmenistan’s MFA. Halk Maslahaty preparations: A conference in Uzbekistan discussed the upcoming Halk Maslahaty meeting (Sept 23) and the UN resolution “2028 – International Year of International Law.” Sports: Kyrgyzstan’s U-17 draw put Turkmenistan in Group F for AFC Asian Cup qualifiers in November, with matches in Kyrgyzstan. Trade & business: An Ashgabat workshop helped small garment firms improve costing skills, while Turkmenistan and Ukraine chambers held a videoconference on expanding SME trade links.