Red Sea Security & Trade Routes: Saudi Arabia and 13 other countries announced a multinational maritime defense alliance to protect freedom of navigation through Bab al-Mandeb, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, as Iran-backed Houthi attacks keep disrupting shipping and energy supply lines. Eritrea–Horn of Africa Risk: An American geopolitical analyst warns Eritrea’s “proxy strategy” could destabilize the Horn by keeping Ethiopia politically and economically weak, echoing concerns raised in regional security discussions. Eritrea Business & Community Support: In Haikota sub-zone, Barentu, 400,000 Nakfa raised by government employees and business community members was distributed to 80 families of martyrs (5,000 Nakfa each), alongside visits and briefings at local enterprises including an oil factory and metalworks facility. Ethiopia Conflict Escalation Watch: The banned TPLF faction in Ethiopia launched renewed public mobilization and war propaganda, with leaders saying preparations are underway for confrontation with the federal government—raising fears of renewed instability. US Visa Policy Shift Affecting Eritrea: The US says routine visa services will be discontinued at its Abuja embassy and 24 other African missions from August 1, with applicants directed to regional hubs; Eritrea’s Asmara is listed among affected posts.