Theatre & Heritage: Lebanon’s Lebanon International Theatre Festival opened by honoring UAE ruler Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi with a Lifetime Achievement Award, spotlighting his support for Arab theatre and cultural identity, with performances from Iraq and other countries running until Sept. 22. Food Safety & Trust: A Najaf case over wild-boar meat sold as livestock has shaken consumer confidence in Baghdad, with authorities sentencing a butcher to 10 years and framing the issue as fraud and sale of unfit meat. Iraq Court & Security: Baghdad began the trial of six French nationals accused of Islamic State links, with prosecutors warning of possible death penalties and the case set to continue after lawyers review files. Yazidi Memory & Justice: In Shengal, a burial site holding remains of ISIS genocide victims was reopened and exhumed near Şerfedîn Shrine for DNA identification, as families seek answers. Culture & Language Politics: Iran shut the French Language Center in Tehran, citing “national security” and cultural norms, amid broader Iran–France tensions. Iraq–Region Diplomacy: Iran’s president Masoud Pezeshkian is reported to travel to the US for UNGA meetings, while US and regional warnings keep tensions high. Culture in Motion: In Erbil, China’s consulate hosted a “Generation Z” youth delegation reception, encouraging more Chinese-language learning and cultural exchange in Kurdistan. Iraqi Lifestyle Abroad: A feature traces how Iraq’s masgouf fish tradition is slow-cooked over embers and has found a new audience in Dubai.