Spain's government said it will take reciprocal measures if Italy does not lift border controls on travelers from Spain by Aug. 9.

MarineTraffic shows at least seven commercial vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours: six entered the Persian Gulf (five cargo, one tanker) and one entered the Gulf of Oman (cargo). Over the same period at least 30 commercial vessels passed the Bab el‑Mandeb: 20 entered the Red Sea (13 cargo, seven tankers) and 10 entered the Gulf of Aden (eight cargo, two tankers). Iran and Oman are negotiating management of the Strait of Hormuz, which could establish agreed shipping lanes and protection measures for commercial traffic. Ongoing GPS interference continues to complicate navigation and transits in the region.

China's gold reserves stood at 76.08 mln ounces at end‑July, up from 75.44 mln at end‑June; the PBOC has increased gold holdings for a 21st consecutive month.