OIC Leadership: Mauritania’s Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed was elected Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation at the OIC’s 23rd Extraordinary Session in Jeddah, taking over from Hissein Brahim Taha and pledging to deliver results “through action, not just words.” Diplomacy in Motion: The news drew international backing, including calls by Pakistan’s FM Ishaq Dar with Saudi and Türkiye counterparts, where Mauritania’s appointment was formally congratulated and coordination on the upcoming R4 meeting was agreed. Migration & Coast Guard: Mauritania reported the rescue of 161 migrants off Nouakchott after a week at sea from The Gambia, including 17 minors, with all taken to a reception centre as authorities continue anti-smuggling operations. Sahel Security Debate: A wider Sahel security analysis highlights how military-led states’ shift away from French support and toward Russia has not yet translated into better protection for civilians. Energy & Trade Links: Mauritania’s ministers continued regional engagement—Germany talks on economic cooperation and Sahel Alliance preparations, plus China and Algeria discussions on fishing, ports, hydrocarbons, electricity, and training. Culture & State Projects: President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani inaugurated a new “Heritage City” in Ouadane as part of the Mada’in al-Turath festival, blending heritage preservation with public-sector development.