Somalia Security Transition: Somalia held a domestic security conference in Mogadishu as AU drawdown and aid cut fears collide with al-Shabaab pressure and federal-state political deadlock, with National Security Adviser Aweys Haji Yusuf arguing the shift is planned and Somalia can manage the vacuum. Media & Identity Rules: A federal communication forum in Mogadishu pushed tighter social media controls, including requiring identity numbers for accounts and demanding content align with “culture, security and national interests,” with al-Shabaab cited as the reason. Education Access: With GPE support, over 15,725 previously out-of-school Somali girls returned to class, including 15 new girls’ schools and scholarship coverage for thousands. Climate Shock Watch: El Niño is strengthening, bringing higher flood risk in parts of East Africa and drought risk elsewhere—raising alarms for food, water, and health. Red Sea Diplomacy: Somaliland’s leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” pitched U.S. recognition in Washington, framing the territory as a key bulwark for Red Sea security. Human Rights at Borders: A Somali man living legally in the U.S. was sent to Guantánamo despite having no criminal record, highlighting harsh immigration enforcement. Regional Condemnation: Somalia condemned Houthi attacks on civilian and economic targets in southern Saudi Arabia, warning the escalation threatens Red Sea security. Film & Community: Somali-Canadian director Ilhan Abdullahi released the trailer for debut feature “Lifeline,” a Somali-cast drama tackling youth, community ties, and alleged racial profiling. Violence in Puntland: A respected Gaalkayo businessman was shot dead in a suspected clan revenge attack, prompting investigations and renewed grief.