Maritime Security & Trade: A new wave of shipping network changes is pushing cargo away from Asia’s mega-hubs toward secondary regional ports, as carriers decentralize routes after Red Sea disruption and keep rerouting for safer, more diversified supply chains. Fuel Transition Watch: Wärtsilä warns low-carbon bunker adoption is getting harder as IMO delays leave rules fragmented and without a clear carbon-cost mechanism—raising the financial risk for shipping lines. Horn of Africa Geopolitics: A fresh analysis highlights China’s expanding “String of Pearls” footprint, including Djibouti, and the dual-use role of Chinese research vessels—raising concerns for Indian sea-lane security. Djibouti in the Spotlight: A commentary argues the U.S. should recognize Somaliland to improve security around the Bab el-Mandeb chokepoint, where Djibouti sits at the center of global container and oil flows. Regional Governance: IGAD’s executive secretary pushes back on anonymous allegations of mismanagement, saying accusations must meet basic standards and that member-state oversight structures matter. Culture & Creative Economy: The Doha Film Institute announced 48 spring grant projects across 39 countries, including Djibouti-based filmmakers.