Church-State Clash in Echmiadzin: Prosecutors have sent a criminal case to court against Catholicos Karekin II and six senior bishops for refusing to reinstate a dismissed bishop, with a preliminary hearing set for 7 August and possible jail terms up to two years—an issue that could affect visitors to Armenia’s main church sites. Yerevan Hospitality Push: A $500 million hotel, entertainment, and gaming complex is planned for Yerevan, aiming to create about 1,000 jobs, while Armenia also moves ahead with a new hotel classification and star-assignment system. Marriott Backs Down on Artsakh Tours: Marriott Bonvoy dropped its “genocide tourism” package in ethnically cleansed Artsakh after international backlash, including ANCA-led action. Travel Rules Reminder: The U.S. Embassy in Armenia warns that visa overstays can lead to a permanent ban on future entry. Regional Tourism Demand: Russians show strong interest in city breaks, with Yerevan listed among top preferred destinations. Safety & Heritage Abroad: Penang authorities are reassessing heritage-building safety after a collapse injured tourists on Armenian Street—relevant for travelers watching how UNESCO areas manage aging structures.