Regional tensions are mounting across the Middle East and the Horn of Africa, with military operations, attacks on civilians, maritime incidents and diplomatic disputes dominating the latest developments.
In Yemen, forces aligned with the internationally recognised government have recaptured the strategic port city of Mocha and launched a counteroffensive against Houthi positions near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The operation, supported by Saudi air power, comes as the conflict continues to threaten security along a major international shipping corridor.
Elsewhere, Turkey, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are moving towards rapid military deployment under the Makkah Defence Pact as Riyadh seeks to strengthen its security amid threats from the Houthis.
Shipping security has also come under renewed scrutiny after a tanker was reportedly struck by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz. UK Maritime Trade Operations said crews were battling an engine-room fire following the incident.
In Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been sworn in for another five-year term as his government faces renewed regional tensions. Abiy has again called for reliable Ethiopian access to the Red Sea, pledging to pursue the objective through dialogue.
The demand has intensified a wider regional dispute, with Ethiopia seeking a dependable maritime outlet while neighbouring coastal states emphasise the sovereignty of Red Sea littoral countries.
In Sudan, the United Nations Human Rights Council has condemned drone strikes and other attacks on civilians, warning that there is “no military solution to the crisis.” The warning came as the World Food Programme said an air attack had hit a truck carrying food supplies in North Kordofan, killing one person.
And in Iran, President Masoud Pezeshkian has dismissed negotiations with the United States as “meaningless” following US attacks that he says took place during the talks. His remarks come as diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington remain under severe strain
