Defence Diplomacy: Somalia’s State Minister for Defence Omar Ali Abdi met Russia’s Deputy Defence Minister Vasily Osmakov in Moscow to explore strengthened bilateral security cooperation, as Mogadishu seeks to modernise its forces and deepen partnerships. South West State Crisis: Heavy fighting in Baidoa pitted federal troops against fighters loyal to ousted regional leader Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, with officials saying attackers were repelled and bodies recovered; the clashes come as South West State prepares to swear in newly elected lawmakers ahead of leadership votes. Foreign Policy Tensions: Somalia’s ambassador to Kenya attended an Israeli embassy event in Nairobi despite no formal ties after Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, a move likely to inflame debate over Mogadishu’s stance toward Israel and Somaliland. Media Rights Under Pressure: The International Press Institute warned of rising attacks, arrests and intimidation of journalists in Somalia during election season, citing incidents including the arrest of Shabelle TV staff covering forced evictions. Regional Security & Law: Somalia condemned missile and drone attacks on Kuwait and urged restraint and dialogue to prevent escalation. Elections & Governance Watch: New South West State lawmakers were sworn in in Baidoa, underscoring the fast-moving political transition tied to regional leadership elections. Somaliland in the Spotlight: Kenya halted a planned Nairobi event commemorating Somaliland’s independence day, with organisers reporting detentions and uncertainty over the legal basis. Public Health Preparedness: IGAD urged urgent regional preparedness against the Ebola outbreak in the Horn, calling for cross-border surveillance and coordinated response. International Aid Reform: The EU announced an overhaul of humanitarian response in conflict zones including Somalia, prioritising protection and reducing aid dependency.