Tigray Crisis: Heavy fighting around Alamata in northern Ethiopia has killed at least 52 civilians over three days, with government forces reportedly taking the town and pushing toward Mekelle; clashes have also disrupted travel, leaving tourists stranded in Lalibela. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar urged an immediate end to the fighting and protection of civilians while backing dialogue under the Pretoria Peace Agreement; the UAE backed Ethiopia’s federal government, condemning attacks and warning that fighting is spreading beyond Tigray. Red Sea Fault Lines: Analysts warn the renewed Ethiopia–Eritrea tensions could widen the Horn’s instability as Yemen’s Red Sea crisis escalates, with Ethiopia accusing Eritrea, Sudan and Egypt of backing forces against Addis Ababa. Aviation & Trade: Ethiopian Airlines signed for eight Boeing 777-8Fs plus two 777 freighters, signaling long-term fleet growth. Arts & Culture: Ethiopian American novelist Maaza Mengiste received a 2026 MacArthur “Genius” grant; meanwhile, BRICS+ is spotlighting the creative economy as a major investment theme. Music: Chvrches returned with “Roses,” a sharp new single. Sports: Ethiopia’s AFCON 2027 hopes took a hit with a 1-0 loss to Senegal as qualifiers continued.