Middle East War & Health Risks: The US expanded strikes on Iran, hitting an airport, railway station, and bridges, while forces boarded a ship to enforce a renewed blockade of Iranian ports—raising fears of wider harm to civilians and regional health systems. Regional Infrastructure Under Strain: Kuwait said Iran attacked a power and water desalination plant, threatening drinking-water supplies, as Iran and the US traded attacks across Gulf states. Iraq-Specific Safety Alerts: Reports also flagged a drone strike near Basra that hit a ship carrying American-branded cars, with officials urging vigilance as medical access could be disrupted during incidents. Public Health & Waste: Grand Ayatollah Sistani ruled that discharging untreated sewage, solid waste, and medical or chemical waste into rivers is religiously impermissible, urging authorities to provide proper disposal and treatment facilities. Healthcare Capacity & Funding: Iraq’s Central Bank reportedly launched a IQD 1.2 trillion lending initiative to support education and veterinary medicine, including financing for veterinary labs, clinics, and vaccine-related facilities. Local Health Impact: Kirkuk approved resuming fish sales in Baghdad after nearly five months of transport restrictions, easing pressure on veterinary-linked fish farming operations. Pilgrimage Injuries: At least nine Arbaeen pilgrims were killed and 12 injured in a vehicle-ramming incident in Basra, according to Iraq’s Health Ministry.