World Cup Politics in Seattle: FIFA says rainbow flags will be allowed inside Lumen Field for Friday’s Egypt-Iran “Pride Match,” despite objections from both federations, while Iran insists no LGBTQ+ promotional activities be tied to the match program. Iran-U.S. Tensions at Hormuz: Iran reportedly fired a projectile at a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fresh alarms for the fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire and for Gulf oil flows that many Middle East economies depend on. Diplomatic Friction in NATO: Iran seized on NATO chief Mark Rutte’s claim that Italy and Romania supported U.S. strikes against Tehran, triggering denials from Rome and adding pressure on fence-sitters like India. Armenian Genocide Recognition: Israel’s foreign minister Gideon Saar says he will push a draft resolution for official recognition, with a Knesset vote expected. Ashura and Resistance Messaging: Iran marked Ashura with leaders framing Imam Hussein’s legacy as a call to resist oppression, amid ongoing Iran-Israel-U.S. fallout. Syrian Frontline Notes: A monitoring group says Israeli forces entered Quneitra countryside, briefly detaining and questioning civilians. Cultural Heritage Return: Greece returned six ancient Egyptian figurines after trafficking investigations, including items linked to Abydos. Sports Spotlight: Turkey beat the U.S. 3-2 in a dead rubber as the Americans head to the Round of 32; Australia and Jordan also set up key final-group scenarios.