China–Laos Military Expansion: China has opened a joint air support and training center at Ban Keun Airport in Laos, part of a wider push to extend military reach across key sea lanes—Djibouti’s role as a PLA logistics hub is again in the spotlight. Djibouti Corridor Under Strain: With Bab el-Mandeb risk rising, Ethiopia’s near-total reliance on the Djibouti corridor is turning from a planning issue into a cost shock for fuel, factory inputs, and household goods as insurance and delays climb. Red Sea Shipping Pressure: EU states are still short on warships for the Aspides escort mission, leaving merchant traffic waiting; Italy says it will raise its contribution only if others match it. Piracy and Seafarer Losses: The IMO mourned five deaths during the Honour 25 rescue in the Gulf of Aden; injured crew are being flown onward, underscoring ongoing maritime security needs. Ethiopia–Eritrea Break: Ethiopia closed its Asmara embassy and expelled diplomats after a drone strike, with Eritrea severing ties—raising fears of a wider Horn conflict that could spill into regional trade routes. Fuel Infrastructure for Ethiopia–Djibouti: Scholars say the Damerjog–Dewele petroleum products pipeline will improve fuel security and deepen Ethiopia–Djibouti economic ties. Yemen Hunger Spike: UN agencies warn renewed fighting is driving record household hunger levels, with displacement and disrupted food supplies worsening fast. Regional Labor Snapshot: Djibouti topped Africa for take-home pay in a new ranking, while Kenya placed 10th—an economic signal for East Africa’s consumer and workforce pressures.