Natural Resources Watch: In Shaheed El Hafed, SONREP launched a new Sahrawi Observatory report on Western Sahara’s natural resources and environmental protection, urging more research and student involvement to document impacts for international forums. Environmental Cost Under Scrutiny: The report “Plunder Footprint” reframes extraction by mapping the full environmental footprint of mining, transport, processing, storage and export—arguing harm can’t be reduced to resource value alone. Irreversible Damage Warning: Sahrawi Petroleum and Gas Authority head Dr. Ghali Zbeir warned exploitation effects may become irreversible, tying ecosystem damage to people’s health, economy and livelihoods. Mines, Wall, and Ecosystems: SMACO operations director Ghaithi Ennah said Morocco’s military wall, landmines and explosive remnants threaten civilians while contaminating land, disrupting valleys and wells, and damaging natural systems. UN Peacekeeping Update: MINURSO in Laayoune welcomed new Force Commander Major General Jawwad Ahmed, appointed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, as the mission prepares for the next mandate stretch. Diplomacy With Tech & Trade Links: Morocco and Israel agreed to upgrade to full embassies and exchange ambassadors, with direct flights and economic deals targeted by end-2026—under the Abraham Accords framework. Heat & Cities Research: A peer-reviewed study using satellite and climate data found Morocco’s cities don’t share one heat pattern, with Laayoune included among five cities showing different urban heat behaviors.