Iran–Tajik Energy Talks: Tehran and Dushanbe moved toward a long-term energy deal after meetings in Tehran, with Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref proposing a union of Persian-speaking countries while both sides discussed removing bureaucratic hurdles and expanding oil and gas cooperation. Badakhshan Border Tensions: Negotiations between a dissident Taliban commander, Juma Khan Fateh, and Taliban leadership in northeastern Badakhshan remain unresolved after days of fighting, as Tajikistan protests alleged border spillover and a civilian death tied to clashes. Dushanbe HIV Case: Tajik police detained 10 people suspected of intentionally infecting others with HIV, with cases reportedly involving exposure of more than 60 people and potential 3–10 year prison terms. Regional Power Politics: Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan gave conflicting accounts of what caused a four-country blackout, with different reported disconnection times and a continuing investigation. Taliban’s Five-Year Reality Check: Coverage marking five years since the Taliban took Kabul highlights ongoing isolation, rights concerns, and renewed diplomatic engagement by regional states despite mounting internal and external pressures. Water and Energy Projects: Tajik and Japanese officials discussed energy and water cooperation, including a new Dushanbe electrical substation and reconstruction of the Varzob-2 hydropower plant. Labor Migration Pressure on Central Asia: Russia’s plan to tie foreign workers to specific employers and regions from 2027 is raising fears of more informal work and deeper labor shortages, with many affected workers from Central Asia.