Red Sea Shipping Security: US Africa Command warns that growing Houthi–Al-Shabab ties could combine maritime access, training and smuggling routes, raising the risk of attacks across the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea. Piracy & Maritime Safety: Pakistan says four of 10 crew from hijacked MV Honour 25 will arrive in Karachi, while three dead are being repatriated; Puntland also reports five seafarers killed during a rescue/crackdown, with vessels later freed. Fertilizer & Food Supply: UN officials warn Hormuz shipping disruptions could worsen food insecurity, citing Somalia among countries getting 50–60% of fertilizer from the Gulf, with a temporary transit mechanism proposed. Trade Corridors: Analysis highlights Ethiopia’s heavy reliance on Djibouti (about 96.7% of seaborne cargo), making Bab el-Mandeb disruptions a direct cost hit for fuel, inputs and household goods. Regional Politics & Security: Somalia’s president moves through Ethiopia and Djibouti amid claims Ethiopia may withdraw thousands of ENDF troops from Somalia—Mogadishu says it was not informed. Energy & Industry: Kenya and Dangote break ground on the $16bn Lamu refinery (700,000 bpd), but critics note pre-construction studies are not publicly available. Governance: Somalia’s Somali Regional State (Jigjiga) appoints a new executive council after reelection, covering security, finance, agriculture, trade and infrastructure.