Ebola Response: WHO and Africa CDC launched a $518 million, six-month plan to help African countries prepare for, detect, and respond to Ebola cases in DR Congo, stressing one coordinated “one plan, one budget, one team” approach. Climate Watch: The World Meteorological Organization warns El Niño is highly likely to develop between June and August 2026, with a high chance it persists through at least November—raising risks for droughts and extreme weather. Tech & Science: Researchers are using AI to decode animal communication, finding distinct “vocal signatures” across colonies of African striped mice and pushing similar work on species from chimpanzees to dolphins. Markets & Tech Sell-Off: U.S. stocks slid sharply as a tech-driven sell-off hit the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, while strong jobs data boosted expectations of higher rates. Middle East Tensions: Iran and the U.S. traded missile and drone strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, with Gulf states on alert and ceasefire stability under strain. Space Update: NASA issued a rare emergency order after an air leak worsened on the ISS, briefly moving crew to a safe-haven posture. Africa Trade & Infrastructure: Kazakhstan and Hong Kong partners are boosting agricultural exports across Asia, while Europe eyes Africa’s gas pipeline ambitions as a potential new route to reduce reliance on Russian supply.