Maritime Security: Maldives has joined a Saudi-led multinational maritime defense alliance to safeguard freedom of navigation through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, with the charter signed by the Maldives Chief of Defence Force. Foreign Affairs: President Muizzu strongly condemned an attempted Houthi drone attack targeting Makkah, reaffirming Maldives solidarity with Saudi Arabia. Energy & Cost of Living: Maldives and the World Bank discussed expanding renewable energy to cut fuel-import spending, while Malaysia announced a special meeting to mitigate higher electricity bills for households affected by subsidy targeting. Trade & Logistics: Blue Dart appointed R.S. Subramanian as Managing Director from Nov 30, as Maldives Customs reiterated it bears no responsibility for last week’s Sinamale’ Bridge tanker incident. Tourism & Partnerships: Malaysia highlighted growing Maldivian arrivals and more tourism options beyond Kuala Lumpur, while Visit Maldives partnered with Qatar Airways and Emirates for destination promotion ahead of ATM activity. Tourism Industry Pressure: European tour operators urged Maldives to delay a GST amendment taxing foreign travel agents, citing short lead time and operational gaps. Business & Infrastructure: Parliament approved Maldives membership in the maritime alliance; separate coverage also points to ongoing regional shipping and route-security concerns.