Red Sea Security Diplomacy: Egypt and Eritrea reaffirmed that Red Sea security must stay with littoral states, rejecting “foreign interference” after Cairo talks between FM Badr Abdelatty and Eritrean FM Osman Saleh, while the US also sent a senior envoy to coordinate Horn of Africa and Red Sea priorities. Houthi Blockade Escalation: Yemen’s Houthis claimed attacks on two Saudi oil tankers and announced a maritime embargo on Saudi shipping through Bab el-Mandeb, raising fresh risks for global energy flows and shipping routes that matter to Eritrea and the region. GERD Political Fight: A new analysis argues Egypt’s long-running GERD objections are driven less by hydro-technical concerns and more by political calculations over Ethiopia’s upstream power shift. Eritrea in the Diaspora: Eritrean nationals in the UK held their annual festival in Chelmsford under “Our Resilience; Our Guarantee,” with embassy officials and community groups highlighting identity, unity, and youth engagement. Leadership Loss: Veteran freedom fighter and diplomat Minister Semere Russom died at 83; his funeral is set for 24 July in Asmara. Opposition Debate: A study calls for a redefined Eritrean opposition mission, shifting from regime-change focus toward empowering people inside the country. Youth & Innovation: National Festival 2026 showcased Eritrean youth innovations and AI-enabled creativity, with calls for stronger support from institutions.