Maritime Security & Trade Routes: Iran-war fallout keeps pressure on chokepoints. Over 100 days after the US-Israel-Iran war began, Strait of Hormuz saw far fewer daily transits than normal, with ships reportedly paying Iran or turning off AIS to move through. Separately, Iran’s threat to block Bab al-Mandeb—linking Yemen to Djibouti/Eritrea—raises fears of major supply-chain shocks for oil and trade. Djibouti-Ethiopia Corridor: A new look at the corridor underlines how tightly Djibouti’s port economy is tied to Ethiopian transit: port activity is estimated at about 76% of Djibouti’s GDP, with Ethiopian cargo generating roughly $1.5–$2bn a year in port fees. Shipping Connectivity: Saudi Mawani added an “SRS” service connecting Jeddah Islamic Port with Mundra (India) and the Port of Djibouti, aiming to boost Red Sea logistics and container flows. US Visa Processing in Africa: The US plans to cut visa-processing posts across Africa from nearly 50 to 20 hubs; Djibouti City is listed among the hubs, meaning applicants from non-hub countries may need to travel. Energy Prices & Inflation Risk: East Africa’s fuel stress is highlighted after protests over high prices in Kenya, Comoros and Mozambique, with the region heavily dependent on imported refined petroleum. Education & Talent: iibGroup expanded Chevening scholarships to Ethiopia (with Djibouti also included), backing leadership and capacity building.