Penal Code Overhaul: Algeria’s lower house approved amendments to the Penal Code that expand the death penalty to intentional arson (including forest and field fires) and to child abduction cases involving torture, sexual assault or mutilation, with rights groups warning the move could invite irreversible judicial error after a long moratorium since 1993. Human Rights Backlash: Amnesty International called the change “deeply retrograde,” criticizing rushed parliamentary handling and broad wording that could cover incitement and facilitation, including online. Energy & Industry: Algeria hosted the second meeting of energy ministers for the SoutH2 hydrogen corridor, aiming to turn political commitments into concrete deals on volumes, pricing, infrastructure and long-term purchase contracts linking Algeria to Europe via Tunisia. Culture & Diplomacy: Algeria’s Culture Ministry signed an executive cooperation program with Russia through 2030, targeting joint work in cinema, theater, music, training and heritage, plus reciprocal cultural events. Local Life: A Jijel school case has drawn attention after a pupil reportedly studies alone while a family disputes planned closure and enrollment for her younger brother. Transport Boost: Air Algerie launched direct Doha–Algiers flights, adding another link in Algeria’s regional connectivity. Sports Spotlight: Riyad Mahrez is reportedly nearing a club deal with Qatar’s Al-Shamal, while Algeria’s broader football scene continues to draw headlines across friendlies and qualifiers.