Maritime Security: The IMO has urged ships to avoid the Strait of Hormuz amid renewed US-Iran escalation after a UAE-owned containership, GFS Galaxy, was struck and damaged, reigniting fears of shipping disruption and higher costs for global trade. Illegal Mining Crackdown: Liberia announced a new Protect Our Resources Taskforce (PORT) to strengthen inspections, enforcement, and oversight of mining licenses, royalties, environmental and labor compliance. Drug Trafficking Case: Liberia’s Joint National Security Investigation Team charged Philip Yeoh Jr. in the US$19.2 million cocaine probe tied to a Roberts International Airport shipment, as court proceedings continue. Currency & Payments: Liberia’s House approved the Central Bank of Liberia to print up to L$79 billion to replace deteriorated banknotes and ease cash shortages. Public Health: LMHRA seized counterfeit and substandard medicines worth about L$400,000 in Bong County, warning that weak testing systems leave patients exposed. Governance & Integrity: UNDP-backed stakeholders held a national dialogue on strengthening Liberia’s anti-corruption and accountability systems to improve service delivery and public trust. Energy Access: Liberia reported 86% renewable energy generation progress and highlighted Mission-300 efforts to expand clean power connections, while noting procurement and financing delays. Extractives Transparency: LEITI’s Multi-Stakeholder Group reviewed plans for the 17th and 18th EITI reports, focusing on disclosures like beneficial ownership and anti-corruption. Infrastructure: President Boakai submitted a US$30 million BADEA financing agreement for the Salayea–Konia Road Project for legislative ratification. Mining Skills Pipeline: Nimba University’s low engineering and geo-sciences graduate output raised alarm in a major mining county, with calls to boost enrollment and technical training.