Maritime Security: Shots fired and boarding attempts continue between Somalia and Yemen, with EU-linked MSCIO urging vessels to keep heightened vigilance after incidents near Aden and a tanker reportedly able to speed up and prevent a skiff from boarding. Horn of Africa Diplomacy: Egypt and Djibouti’s foreign ministers rejected unilateral actions that undermine sovereignty and regional stability, while also pushing joint work on energy, logistics, ports, maritime connectivity and infrastructure. Digital Connectivity for Djibouti: The EU-backed Blue-Raman cable extension is set to link Djibouti with Somalia, Kenya and Tanzania, alongside a €102m EU-Kenya Digital Partnership—aimed at boosting bandwidth, lowering costs and strengthening regional internet resilience. Port and Trade Performance: The World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index flags Durban as the world’s most improved port in 2025, citing reduced waiting times—an example of how operational reforms can cut shipping costs and improve reliability. Aviation Safety: The EU updated its air safety list, banning 154 airlines including carriers from Djibouti and other countries, affecting which airlines can fly or overfly EU airspace. Business & Growth Lens (Djibouti): A new op-ed argues Djibouti’s growth remains exposed to external shocks and debt, stressing the need for more inclusive development as Red Sea and Middle East tensions raise freight and insurance risks.