China Overseas Military Footprint: Satellite images reviewed by Reuters show light attack jets (likely K-8s) and dozens of support vehicles at China’s newly operational China-Laos joint training facility near Vientiane, raising questions about whether Ban Keun could become a more permanent Chinese air foothold in mainland Southeast Asia. Red Sea Security & Djibouti-Ethiopia Trade: Yemen’s internationally recognized government says it retook areas around Bab el-Mandeb, including Mokha’s coast and towns near the strait, while Houthis deny the claims and strike targets in Saudi Arabia—another reminder that disruptions here can quickly hit the Djibouti corridor and Ethiopia’s sea access. Ethiopia’s FX Push: Ethiopia targets 10.1% growth and aims to cut inflation below 10% as the National Bank schedules $840m in dollar auctions for commercial banks. Horn of Africa Politics: Djibouti President Guelleh congratulated Ethiopia’s PM Abiy on re-election, reaffirming strong bilateral ties as renewed fighting threatens regional stability. Djibouti Sports Governance: Police occupied the Djibouti Football Federation headquarters amid a move by club presidents to oust federation president Souleiman Waberi. Regional Poverty Watch: The World Bank says Pakistan holds nearly half of the region’s extreme poor, linking rising poverty to weaker incomes and jobs.