Red Sea Shipping Shock: Houthis-linked reports say the Bab el-Mandeb Strait is “completely closed” to Israeli maritime traffic, while Iran warns it could block Bab al-Mandab and even Hormuz if hostilities escalate—raising fresh risks for Djibouti’s port-driven trade and regional logistics. Djibouti–Ethiopia Corridor Watch: A new analysis reiterates how tightly Djibouti’s economy is tied to Ethiopian transit—port activity is a major GDP driver and most Ethiopian international trade routes through Djibouti. Connectivity & Cable Expansion: Ethiopia’s push for regional energy connectivity highlights power links involving Djibouti, and a separate EU-backed digital investment plan points to Djibouti’s role in the Blue Raman submarine cable Africa extension. Trade Routes by Sea: Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) adds a Jeddah–Mundra–Djibouti service to boost container flows across the Red Sea. Growth Signals: IMF projections put Djibouti among Africa’s faster-growing economies in 2026, supported by its strategic shipping position. US Visa Hub Reshuffle: The US plans to cut Africa visa-processing missions to 20 hubs, including Djibouti City, reshaping travel logistics for business travelers.