EU Naval Shift in Djibouti: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas says the bloc is considering expanding Aspides’ mandate to include maritime mine clearance and possibly redeploying ships if the “Coalition of the Willing” is not yet operational, as reports claim the Houthis may target Bab el-Mandeb. Hunger Spike in Djibouti: A new emergency alert points to a sharp rise in hunger, with refugees in Ali Addeh and Holl-Holl camps facing crisis-level conditions. Maritime Security Worsens: UKMTO and British military sources report a tanker boarded off Yemen, with suspected Somali pirates again active in the Gulf of Aden. Djibouti in the AI Spotlight: Djibouti is cited among countries using China’s MAZU AI early-warning system, while Djibouti also pushed national AI strategy talks with ITU and Smart Africa at WSIS 2026. Energy & Trade Risk: Analysts warn Bab el-Mandeb could become the next flashpoint after Hormuz tensions, threatening shipping costs and supply chains. Visa Update: Azerbaijan’s 2026 e-visa list includes Djibouti among only five African countries. Local Church & Economy: A Catholic bishop in Djibouti highlights inequality and the struggle of low minimum wages against high living costs, alongside Caritas support for migrants. Regional Business Angle: AfDB approved up to $110m for Ethiopia’s Aysha wind project near the Djibouti border, boosting clean power and cross-border grid links.