Iran-Proxy Condemnation: The US and nine other Western Hemisphere governments—including the Dominican Republic—issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s “terrorist actions” and malign influence operations, pledging tighter coordination to counter alleged plots and proxy activity. Gambling Regulation: President Luis Abinader enacted a new gambling law and provisionally appointed Teófilo “Quico” Tabar Manzur to lead the newly created General Directorate of Gambling (DGJA), setting up the sector’s regulatory framework. Housing & Urban Risk: Abinader said the housing deficit fell from 806,778 units (2019) to 696,598 (2025), while CAASD and the government highlighted ravine and gully cleanups plus relocations to reduce vulnerability. Housing Deficit & Social Initiatives: The administration also outlined social programs aimed at shrinking the housing gap. ECLAC in Santiago: Abinader will inaugurate the 41st ECLAC session in Santiago, with discussions focused on regional economic, social, and environmental transformations. Sports-Tension With Haiti: Dominican authorities moved to bar Haiti from using sports facilities after stadium clashes tied to the Nations League matchup, escalating a broader diplomatic and public backlash. Trade Flip on Rice: The DR reversed US rice tariffs via Decree 635-26, defusing a DR-CAFTA dispute after a Trump request. Aviation Fuel Adjustment: Airlines welcomed Abinader’s regulated temperature adjustment for aviation fuel, saying it improves competitiveness and pricing fairness. Culture & Books: The Santo Domingo Book Fair closed with 714,322 visitors and over RD$97 million in sales, with plans to extend the 2027 edition to two weeks. Water & Environment: The government showcased major urban water and ravine interventions, including the Gurabo River cleanup as a benchmark project. Maternal Health Push: PAHO and MSD for Mothers launched a two-year initiative with the DR to reduce preventable maternal deaths and improve adolescent maternal care.