ICC Sanctions Clash: The US imposed sanctions on International Criminal Court president Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, escalating Washington’s fight with the Hague tribunal; the ICC called it an attack on judicial independence, while Japan and the Netherlands’ foreign minister Tom Berendsen criticised the move. Dutch Health & Media: Dutch health inspectorate IGJ fined major media outlets for “advertising” prescription weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, arguing coverage went beyond approved diabetes use—sparking press-freedom backlash. EU Tobacco Tax Push: Brussels is advancing higher cigarette taxes and new minimum duties for e-cigarettes, heated tobacco and nicotine pouches, with unanimous EU support needed. Energy Security: Gas storage levels in Germany and the Netherlands hit record lows for this time of year, adding pressure as Europe watches supply risks. Local Governance & Public Safety: A quarter of Dutch dentists now have foreign diplomas, reflecting long training shortfalls; meanwhile, residents in The Hague report a year-long rat infestation. Transport & Competition: Virgin Trains won a key regulatory step to run cross-Channel services from 2030, challenging Eurostar.