Red Sea Security: An Indian-flagged cargo vessel, Faize Noore Oliya, was sunk in the southern Red Sea in a suspected bomb-boat attack off Hodeidah; all 14 onboard were rescued by Yemeni government-aligned forces, as India called for an end to targeting merchant shipping. Maritime Geography: Analysts note the Bab el-Mandeb Strait—between Djibouti and Yemen—remains a key chokepoint for global trade, with tensions raising fears of wider shipping disruption. Djibouti Defense & Training: The U.S. “Silverbacks” ISR advisory unit completed its final mission at Camp Lemmonier, training Djiboutian Air Force crews on maintenance, pilot skills, and intelligence operations. Regional Cooperation: Morocco hosted an African Maritime Forces Summit in Rabat, with leaders stressing cooperation against piracy, smuggling, terrorism, and illegal fishing. Public Health: A malaria-carrying, insecticide-resistant mosquito spreading across Africa has been linked to an earlier arrival in Djibouti, now threatening urban areas as control efforts struggle. Science Diplomacy: Italy launched a new phase of research, higher education, and digital infrastructure cooperation with Djibouti under the Mattei Plan. Football (CECAFA): Omar Artan of Somalia will referee the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup final in Kigali, with Djibouti’s Liban Abdulrazack named as assistant referee. US Visa Policy: The U.S. made its refundable visa bond programme permanent, with Djibouti among affected countries and bonds up to $20,000 for some B1/B2 applicants.