Maritime Security Push: Djibouti issued a pointed appeal over Bab el-Mandeb, warning that a major incident there could spiral beyond the fallout seen in Hormuz disruptions—an implicit admission Djibouti can’t secure the strait alone, especially as Red Sea attacks, piracy risks, and undersea cable vulnerabilities mount. Port & Corridor Stakes: A new analysis ties Ethiopia’s survival to Djibouti’s ports, arguing that any sustained Bab el-Mandeb disruption could trigger cascading trade failures for Ethiopia’s import-dependent economy. Anti-Piracy Coordination: Djibouti Code of Conduct signatories agreed to set up a Combined DCoC Task Force for the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden, with plans to coordinate naval/coast guard action and improve rapid response with shipping industry input. Red Sea Shock to Yemen’s Trade: Reports on the closure and repeated attacks around al-Makha port show how quickly workers and traders lose livelihoods when Red Sea security deteriorates. Nile Tensions Spill Into Horn Politics: Ethiopia’s stance on building more Blue Nile dams—without “permission”—keeps Egypt on edge, with Cairo signaling military options could not be ruled out. Ethiopia Export Drive: Ethiopia is pushing banana exports by improving quality, productivity, and phytosanitary compliance to reach markets beyond Djibouti and Somalia.