Somalia’s Political Stability Watch: AFRICOM chief Gen. Dagvin Anderson warned the U.S. will keep backing Somalia’s fight against al-Shabaab only if Mogadishu ends political infighting, as Washington weighs whether to cut UN logistical support tied to AUSSOM. Parliament & Governance: Somali Interior/Federalism minister Saadaq Aliyow resigned to run for Speaker, as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud opened the Federal Parliament’s eighth session and pushed security and democratic reforms. Trade & Business: Somalia signed into law to join the AfCFTA, a move aimed at boosting market access for local firms, exports, jobs, and investment—though implementation and infrastructure remain the big test. Security Cooperation Beyond Mogadishu: Somaliland President Cirro met U.S. Special Operations Command Africa to discuss Red Sea and Gulf of Aden security cooperation; the AFRICOM commander also reiterated the U.S. has no plans for a military base in Somaliland. Maritime Economy: Saudi-led Red Sea maritime defense plans include Somalia among coalition members, aiming to protect shipping routes that carry major trade and energy flows. Digital Payments & Security: Somalia raised concerns with WhatsApp over a new username-based chat feature, warning it could complicate tracking fraud in a mobile-money-heavy economy.