Hirshabelle Politics: Hirshabelle Vice President Yusuf Hagar Dabageed warned elections in Hiiraan can’t proceed without a prior political agreement, amid leadership tensions and accusations President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reneged on a Hawadle leadership pledge. Counterterror & Security: Somali Gorgor commandos and special forces seized the Geel-gub area and key bases in Middle Shabelle from al-Shabab, aiming to expand government control and restore services. Maritime Security: Puntland confirmed pirates released the hijacked merchant ship “Sward” and its 17 crew near Garacad after a reported ransom payment. Humanitarian Preparedness: SoDMA met UN humanitarian officials on flood preparedness, pushing early and anticipatory action to reduce climate-disaster impacts. Health System Reform: Somalia’s Health Ministry and IRC discussed improving healthcare quality and patient safety, including a unified national monitoring approach and a National Healthcare Quality Strategy. Governance & Oversight: Somalia’s Auditor General office attended an ARABOSAI workshop in Tunis on international public-sector accounting standards to strengthen financial reporting and audits. Diplomacy: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met Muslim World League leadership to boost cooperation on countering extremist ideology and supporting social cohesion.