A partially recognised state in the Horn of Africa
Kosovo has formalised its inclusion in the United Nations‑mandated International Stabilization Force, joining contributors from Albania, Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan and Uganda. The move appears to advance the Gaza peace framework supported by the Trump plan, though deployment faces political and operational hurdles.
Algeria has severed diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates, accusing Abu Dhabi of repeated "provocative and hostile" actions and giving the UAE ambassador 48 hours to leave. Algeria has closed its airspace to UAE-registered aircraft while allowing commercial flights to and from Algiers until the end of 2026. The UAE has said it hopes the move will be temporary.
Djibouti is grappling with a surge in arrivals of Yemen-bound refugees, with thousands arriving by sea as fighting in Yemen drives displacement. Officials warn the pace risks straining the Horn of Africa nation’s limited resources while international agencies mobilise aid and support.
The Houthis have intensified their grip on Yemen’s western coast, pushing into Mocha and nearby Red Sea fronts. Displacement has surged, with tens of thousands fleeing to camps in Yemen and neighboring Djibouti as major shipping routes face heightened risk. The humanitarian outlook remains dire with millions needing aid.
Voters show broad support for reforms to shore up Social Security as fund depletion looms in 2032; surveys indicate rising awareness and willingness to accept tax hikes or benefit adjustments, with Republican and Democratic voters largely aligned.
Somalia has announced parliamentary and presidential elections scheduled for 2027 as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's term transitions, amid opposition resistance and regional pushback over party-based electoral reforms. The government says the process aims to reinforce democracy, while critics warn of potential fragmentation and conflict.
Ethiopia's federal government has moved to intensify operations in Tigray as Eritrean forces are reported to be active alongside allied groups. The conflict has returned to the fore, sparking fears of a regional war and severe humanitarian consequences for millions previously dependent on aid.
Colombia has opened its embassy in Jerusalem, restoring diplomatic ties with Israel after severing them in 2024 over Gaza. The move is welcomed by Colombian and Israeli officials as a step to rebuild dialogue and security and trade cooperation. Protests in Bogota contest the decision amid ongoing Gaza war coverage.
Colombia has restored diplomatic relations with Israel and opened an embassy in Jerusalem, marking a shift from the Petro era. The move is celebrated by officials in both countries and signals a strengthened security and trade partnership, with priority given to dialogue and mutual benefits for citizens.
Trump has described Somaliland as a separate country, prompting celebrations in Hargeisa and rallies in Somaliland and among diaspora, while Somali authorities caution against premature recognition. Israel already recognizes Somaliland, and U.S. recognition remains uncertain.
Fighting in northern Ethiopia has intensified after Mekelle’s fall, with rival factions forming a broad opposition alliance. A caretaker administration is being set up, while Eritrea accuses Ethiopia of aggression; both sides accuse each other of escalating the crisis. The conflict threatens regional stability and the ongoing humanitarian toll remains dire.
Authorities say rebel forces are collapsing and urge fighters to enter a disarmament program, while government troops and allies conduct security operations. A drone strike near Mekelle has killed several civilians as fighting continues three weeks after rebels lost the regional capital.
Somaliland has formalised ties with Israel, prompting objections from Somalia and other states. Israel has recognised Somaliland, and diplomats have opened an embassy; Mogadishu calls for reversal and warns of heightened Red Sea tensions.