WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL NEWS REVIEW – Sep 25th – Oct 2nd 2026

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

RUSSIAN DISINFORMATION OPERATION TARGETS OPPOSITION

On September 26, 2026, the opposition in the Central African Republic demanded an official investigation following revelations that Russian actors utilized artificial intelligence to target political opponents. The American company Anthropic identified and disrupted a covert influence campaign linked to the Russian paramilitary group Africa Corps, which operated through a local radio station. The operator explicitly requested the AI model Claude to generate pro-Russian, anti-French, and anti-opposition content while conducting regular surveillance on opposition political figures. Claude reportedly refused a request to identify individuals as militants to trigger security actions against them. Martin Ziguélé, spokesperson for the Republican Bloc for the Defense of the Constitution, condemned these efforts to silence political dissent under the government of President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, whose administration maintains close ties with Moscow.

ETHIOPIA

DRONE STRIKE TIGRAY OFFICIAL TELEVISION IN MEKELE

On September 27, 2026, a drone attack struck the building housing official television channel Tigrai TV in Mekele, forcing the station to interrupt its broadcast. Journalists from Tigrai TV reported hearing a loud detonation before fleeing the building. Federal authorities had suspended the outlet on September 21. Hostilities resumed on September 23 between federal forces and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, which formed an alliance with 6 other armed groups to overthrow Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. In the Afar region, Tigrayan forces captured the town of Erebti after heavy combat, advancing toward Afdera to take a strategic import road from Djibouti. No casualties were reported at the television station.

ARMY CHIEF ACCUSES NEIGHBORING NATIONS OF BACKING REBELS

On September 27, 2026, Chief of Staff of the Federal Armed Forces Marshal Birhanu Jula accused Eritrea, Sudan, and Egypt of supplying armed groups fighting federal troops in the north. Marshal Birhanu Jula stated that the Tigray People’s Liberation Front and Amhara Fano militias were receiving external support to overthrow the federal government. A local humanitarian source estimated that 150000 civilians were displaced by the fighting in Afar, where aid groups struggled to deliver food and water.

SUDAN REJECTS ALLEGATIONS OF SUPPORTING TIGRAY REBELS, FEDERAL FORCES CAPTURE ALAMATA

On September 28, 2026, the Sudanese Armed Forces formally rejected accusations made by the Ethiopian military, claiming Khartoum provided support to rebels in northern Ethiopia. Chief of Staff Marshal Birhanu Jula accused Sudan, Eritrea, and Egypt of supplying the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. The Sudanese army called these claims groundless. In turn, Sudan accused Ethiopia of supporting the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces paramilitaries by facilitating drone attacks launched from Ethiopian territory in coordination with the United Arab Emirates, allegations that both Addis Ababa and Abu Dhabi denied. Meanwhile, Ethiopian federal troops and the allied Tigray Peace Forces captured Alamata, marking their first major territorial gain. Municipal authorities confirmed that federal forces gained control of Alamata, located 15 kilometers inside Tigray on the road to Mekele, after intense combat. Hostilities between federal authorities and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed escalated since September 23. Combat also spread to neighboring regions, with Amhara Fano militias joining battles near UNESCO sites in Lalibela, while Tigrayan forces used heavy artillery to seize Erebti.

4 CIVILIANS KILLED AND 40 INJURED IN FEDERAL ARTILLERY SHELLING

On September 29, 2026, medical sources at Aydar Hospital in Mekele confirmed that federal artillery shelling killed 4 civilians and injured around 40 others in southern Tigray. Hospital staff treated 44 civilians, including 33 children, who suffered severe injuries such as loss of limbs from bombardments in Alamata and Maychew. Residents reported that 6 artillery shells struck a residential area in Maychew, killing 2 people, while heavy shelling hit a market in Alamata. The strikes occurred as federal troops advanced toward Mekele.

EXPLOSIONS TARGET MILITARY HEADQUARTERS

On October 1, 2026, powerful explosions struck the building housing the Ethiopian National Defense Forces headquarters in Addis Ababa. Diplomatic sources and local residents reported hearing loud explosions near midnight at the military complex in the capital. Following the incident, the National Intelligence and Security Service banned all drone flights over Addis Ababa. The attack represents the first military action targeting the federal capital in years. On October 2, 2026, a diplomatic source confirmed that militarized commercial drones carrying explosives were the likely cause of strikes on Addis Ababa. The Critical Threats project attributed the strikes to a drone campaign launched by the Survival Alliance, an opposition coalition including the Tigray People’s Liberation Front aiming to overthrow Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

ETHIOPIA EXPELS ERITREAN DIPLOMATS

On October 1, 2026, the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared 10 Eritrean diplomats persona non grata and announced the closure of its embassy in Asmara. Ethiopian authorities accused the Eritrean officials of engaging in activities that constituted a direct threat to national security. The decision followed statements by the Ethiopian army chief of staff accusing Eritrea, Sudan, and Egypt of supporting armed groups fighting federal troops in northern Ethiopia. The Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded by calling the action a public declaration of war driven by Ethiopian ambitions over the Red Sea port of Assab. Meanwhile, federal troops captured Maychew and recaptured Erebti while advancing toward Mekele.

ARMY EXPELS REBELS FROM AFAR

On October 2, 2026, humanitarian and military sources reported that Ethiopian federal troops repelled Tigrayan rebel forces completely out of the Afar region. Federal forces backed by pro-government Tigrayan militias regained control of territories previously seized by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, advancing along 3 axes within 100 kilometers of Mekele. Retreating Tigrayan forces looted and destroyed infrastructure, leaving civilians in northern areas without food access.

MALI

34 CIVILIANS KILLED AND TORTURED BY THE ARMY AND RUSSIANS

On September 29, 2026, Amnesty International released a report accusing the Malian Armed Forces and the Russian Wagner group of committing war crimes against civilians between 2023 and 2025. The human rights organization documented the deaths of at least 34 civilians across 7 localities in Ségou, Mopti, and Tombouctou during joint operations by Malian troops and Wagner paramilitaries, who now operate as Africa Corps. Victims were non combatants deliberately shot while fleeing, slitted, or burned alive, including 4 people killed in Tin Adanda on February 12, 2025. Two Malian drone strikes in Tombouctou killed at least 23 people, including 5 children. Testimony from 15 torture survivors revealed severe abuse at Léré and Nampala military bases, leading to 5 detainee deaths. The report noted that Fulani, Arab, and Tuareg pastoral communities were targeted based on ethnicity under the ruling junte.

NIGER

FORCED DISAPPEARANCE OF JOURNALIST

On October 2, 2026, Reporters Without Borders announced taking legal action at the United Nations regarding the forced disappearance of journalist Moussa Kaka in Niger. Reporters Without Borders submitted a request to the United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances, urging authorities to investigate the whereabouts of the 66 year old media director. Director of Reporters Without Borders Sub-Saharan Africa Bureau Sadibou Marong stated that Moussa Kaka, director of Radio Télévision Saraounia and former correspondent for Radio France Internationale, vanished on August 31, 2026, after leaving his office in Niamey. His disappearance followed a 24 hour military mutiny in the capital, which the military junte ruling since 2023 foiled with Russian assistance. The organization also petitioned Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo, Special Rapporteur for the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

NIGERIA

80 PEOPLE KIDNAPPED

On September 28, 2026, security reports confirmed that armed gangs abducted over 80 people, mostly women and children, during two separate attacks in northern Nigeria. On Saturday, armed bandits riding 50 motorcycles abducted 47 farmers harvesting peanuts in Mariga, Niger State, holding them in Ma’undu forest. On Sunday, gunmen kidnapped 40 women in Yargada, Zamfara State. Local residents Umar Abdullahi and Adamu Lawwali reported that bandits burned homes and vehicles in Magama Mairake, Yargada, and Maikogo in retaliation for local militia actions. 7825 people were kidnapped and nearly 6 million dollars in ransoms were paid between July 2025 and June 2026.

28 SKULLS AND HUMAN REMAINS DISCOVERED IN FORESTS

On September 29, 2026, police authorities announced the discovery of 28 skulls and human bones belonging to suspected kidnap victims in Abia State. Police officers discovered the human remains during operations targeting criminal camps hidden in the forests of southeastern Nigeria. No arrests were made. Security forces remain overwhelmed across Nigeria, where armed bandits and jihadist groups utilize vast forests as hideouts.

SOMALIA

3 KILLED AND 69 INJURED IN BAIDOA

On September 28, 2026, intense fighting in Baidoa between the Somali Federal Army, supported by Turkish fighter jets, and rival militias killed at least 3 people and wounded 69 others. Médecins Sans Frontières National Representative Elshafie Mohammed reported that a healthcare worker was among the dead and an MSF facility suffered severe damage during the fourth major offensive led by partisans of ousted South-West State governor Abdiaziz Laftagareen. Local administration spokesperson Mohamed Sheikh Abdullahi stated that militias utilized vehicle filled with explosives and kamikaze drones. Federal army Commander Mohamed Ali accused attackers of allying with Al-Shabaab, which militia spokesperson Ugaas Hassan denied, claiming they were fighting federal expansion and Turkish intervention under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Local residents described loud explosions and low flying F16 aircraft before pro-Laftagareen forces withdrew.

SUDAN

AIRSTRIKES HIT NYALA AND WAD MADANI, THE GOVERNMENT REJECTS CEASEFIRE

On September 27, 2026, airstrikes and drone attacks targeted the RSF stronghold of Nyala and a major fuel depot near Wad Madani. Witnesses reported 2 explosions in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur held by the Rapid Support Forces, and a drone strike that set fire to a fuel depot near Wad Madani in Al-Jazira State. Diplomatic sources revealed that the United States denied al-Burhan a visa for the UN General Assembly after he refused a conditional 3 month ceasefire proposal.

FORMER MALAWI ARMY CHIEF PROSECUTED FOR PROVIDING ARMS TO THE SUDANESE RSF

On October 1, 2026, the Anti-Corruption Bureau of Malawi arrested retired General Paul Valentino Phiri for his role in an illegal arms trafficking scheme supplying Sudanese RSF. The Anti-Corruption Bureau charged Phiri with 5 counts relating to abuse of office and trafficking. Investigations by the Platform for Investigative Journalism and the CIA revealed that heavy weaponry was flown into Lilongwe for the Malawian army before being reloaded onto aircraft destined for the Rapid Support Forces via Chad in mid-2025. Defense attorney Powell Nkutabasa confirmed his client was detained upon arriving at bureau headquarters.

LEBANON

EXPLOSIONS DEMOLISH OVER 600 SITES IN MANSOURI

On September 28, 2026, a massive explosion caused by Israeli military demolition operations shook the coastal town of Mansouri in southern Lebanon, 10 kilometers north of the Israeli border. The Israeli military reported completing an operation in Mansouri that dismantled over 600 terrorist sites and 8 tunnels. Israeli forces ordered the total evacuation of Mansouri in August 2026 and have since occupied the municipality, conducting systematic destructions including with explosives. Lebanese authorities accused Israel of systematically destroying southern villages, including homes, schools, religious sites, and energy infrastructure.

SYRIA

7 ALAWITE WORKERS KILLED IN HOMS

On September 30, 2026, unidentified gunmen shot to death 7 people and wounded 4 others in an attack targeting a bus in Homs province. State news agency Sana and a security source confirmed that the victims included engineers, workers, and an employee of the Syrian Electricity Company. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that all the deceased belonged to the Alawite minority. Shortly before the shooting, an explosion struck a gas pipeline near a major power plant outside Damascus, following another pipeline sabotage in eastern Syria 2 days prior.

PALESTINE

ISRAELI MINISTER DEMANDS ANNEXATION OF GAZA AND SOUTH LEBANON

On September 27, 2026, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich publicly called for the military annexation of southern Lebanon up to the Litani River and Gaza up to the Yellow Line. Speaking on a podcast for online media Ynet, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also advocated launching a full war in the West Bank to dismantle the Palestinian Authority. The Yellow Line currently delineates the military zone covering over 60 percent of Gaza. The Palestinian Authority condemned these statements in an official release, calling them an explicit demand for military escalation, land annexation, and the forced displacement of Palestinians to destroy prospects for an independent state.

ISRAEL POSTPONES CONTROVERSIAL E1 SETTLEMENT TENDER UNTIL AFTER ELECTIONS

On September 27, 2026, Israeli Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara ordered a 1 month postponement of the tender for 1200 settlement housing units in the E1 zone near Maale Adumim. The Attorney General’s office stated the delay prevents the tender from being utilized as illegal election propaganda before the October 27 legislative elections. Non governmental organizations including Peace Now had filed legal petitions to block the plan, which isolates East Jerusalem from the West Bank. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich accused Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara of political interference to benefit opposition candidate Gadi Eisenkot against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

ISRAEL REVOKES ACCREDITATION OF DUTCH DIPLOMATS

On September 27, 2026, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced the revocation within 7 days of diplomatic accreditations for Dutch diplomats in Ramallah. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated on social media platform X that Dutch officials must return their diplomatic documents following a Dutch ban on importing products from West Bank settlements. The Dutch ban applies to commercial businesses and personal travellers luggages inspected at Schiphol airport in Amsterdam. United States Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee expressed outrage over the Dutch measure. On September 28, 2026, Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen summoned the Israeli Ambassador. Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen condemned the measure as unnecessary during a joint appearance with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, maintaining that the Dutch prohibition on settlement goods fulfills international legal obligations.

SHIN BET FILES LEGAL COMPLAINT AGAINST TV CHANNEL FOR CENSORSHIP VIOLATION

On September 28, 2026, the Israeli internal security service Shin Bet filed a formal complaint against Channel 12 for reporting an unannounced visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the United Arab Emirates. The Prime Minister’s Office and the foreign intelligence agency Mossad stated that broadcasting news of the trip while the prime ministerial aircraft was outside Israeli airspace endangered the lives of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his wife, and delegation members. The official United Arab Emirates news agency WAM subsequently confirmed the bilateral meeting between Netanyahu and United Arab Emirates President Mohammed ben Zayed. Israeli media reported Netanyahu sought to request President Mohammed ben Zayed to deny reports that Emirati intelligence warned Israel shortly before October 7, 2023.

OVER 100 SETTLERS & RADICAL HILLTOP YOUTH RAMPAGE THROUGH WEST BANK VILLAGE

On September 29, 2026, over 100 Israeli settlers attacked the Palestinian village of Jalud, injuring 3 Israeli border police officers and burning buildings and vehicles. The riot occurred as military forces attempted to escort Palestinian resident Mahmoud al-Toubasi and his family back to their home after being displaced by prior settler violence 2 months earlier. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli President Isaac Herzog issued rare public statements condemning the rioters. Additional settler attacks occurred across the West Bank, with settlers burning 5 vehicles in Al-Mughayyir and beating 3 Palestinians in Jamala. On September 30, 2026, journalist Gianluca Pacchiani reported that an extremist movement of young Israeli settlers known as Hilltop Youth is driving escalating violence across the West Bank. Human rights analyst of Children of Abraham explained that these youth set up unauthorized outposts to seize Palestinian land. Internal messages indicated the group conducted 635 attacks across 158 villages in 12 months, injuring 409 people and burning 436 vehicles. Peace Now representative Hagit Ofran highlighted that Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich provided financial support for outpost infrastructure. United Nations data indicated that settlers averaged 6 violent attacks per day against Palestinians in 2026.

74,000 DEAD

On September 29, 2026, Israeli military strikes across the Gaza Strip killed 7 people, including senior Hamas military commander Izz al-Din al-Beik. The Palestinian Civil Defense and the Israeli military confirmed that an airstrike west of Gaza City killed Izz al-Din al-Beik, a member of the General Military Council of the Al-Qassam Brigades and commander of the Northern Brigade. Israeli armed forces stated he was targeted for directing attacks against Israeli troops. Additional drone strikes conducted by Israeli forces killed 3 civilians in Jabalia, 1 in Deir al-Balah, and 1 in Gaza City. Over 74,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023, including over 1,400 since the October 2025 so called ceasefire.

5 CIVILIANS KILLED AND 20 INJURED IN ISRAELI DRONE STRIKE ON GAZA BUS

On September 30, 2026, an Israeli drone strike destroyed a passenger bus in the Tel al-Hawa neighborhood of Gaza City, killing 5 people and wounding 20 others. Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Bassal stated that an Israeli drone fired 2 missiles into the vehicle as it transported civilians toward central and southern Gaza. Medical staff at Al-Shifa Hospital confirmed receiving 5 dead bodies alongside multiple injured women and children.

HUNDREDS OF ISRAELI SETTLERS MARCH IN NEW WEST BANK COLONIES

On September 30, 2026, hundreds of armed Israeli settlers marched between the newly rebuilt settlements of Ganim and Kadim in the northern West Bank to celebrate Sukkot. Settlements, evacuated in 2005, were reestablished under the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Settler representative Yossi Dagan declared to the crowd that the Israeli population had defeated the Oslo peace process and vowed to bring hundreds of thousands of Jewish residents to the region. 35 year old settler Yishai Gerstle expressed joy at returning with his family. Since 2023, Israeli authorities approved 104 new settlements.

A PALESTINIAN SHOT DEAD BY ISRAELI SETTLERS IN YASSOUF

On October 1, 2026, armed Israeli settlers raided the West Bank village of Yassouf, shooting and killing 51 year old Palestinian Machhour Chaher Mohammad Yassine. Mayor of Yassouf Joumaa Abdel Fattah and the Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that dozens of settlers from the nearby unauthorized outpost of Havat Anton invaded the village carrying firearms and sticks. Machhour Chaher Mohammad Yassine was killed directly outside his home, and his nephew sustained gunshot wounds. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu downplayed settler violence.

ARAB ISRAELI LEADER SAMI ABOU CHEHADEH FORCED OUT OF ELECTIONS

On October 2, 2026, Arab Israeli leader Sami Abou Chehadeh of the Balad party withdrew his candidacy for the upcoming October 27 legislative elections following pressure from the Israeli Supreme Court. The Central Election Committee disqualified Balad party leader Sami Abou Chehadeh at the request of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir after Chehadeh wrote an article referring to the October 7, 2023 attacks as a significant historical event. The Supreme Court urged him to withdraw voluntarily to avoid an official ruling. Human rights organizations criticized the decision as a severe democratic regression.

MINISTER BEN GVIR FINED FOR VIDEO THREATENING TO EXECUTE PRISONER

On October 2, 2026, the Israeli Central Election Committee fined Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir for using state prison visits to produce illegal election propaganda. On September 27, 2026, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir published a video on social platform X showing himself verbally threatening Palestinian prisoner Hassan Salameh inside his cell, stating his intention to execute him. The Committee Against Torture in Israel legal director Merav Ben-Zeev welcomed the fine, condemning Ben Gvir’s ongoing humiliation of detainees to bolster his campaign to become defense minister under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

ISRAEL SUPREME COURT AUTHORIZES ARAB LISTS FOR ELECTIONS

On October 2, 2026, the Israeli Supreme Court unanimously authorized 2 Arab majority political lists to run in the October 27 legislative elections. The Supreme Court overturned a September 23 disqualification voted by the Central Election Committee at the request of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition. The ruling allows the Raam party, led by Mansour Abbas and featuring Jewish candidate Yoav Segalovitz, and the United List coalition to contest the election. The judges also approved the individual candidacy of Member of Parliament Ofer Cassif by a 7 to 2 vote, following the voluntary withdrawal of Balad leader Sami Abou Chehadeh. Human rights group Adalah welcomed the court decision protecting political rights for Arab citizens.

GULF WAR

HOUTHI DRONES AND BALISTIC MISSILES TARGET RIYADH

On September 26, 2026, Yemeni Houthi rebels launched drone and missile attacks against Saudi Arabia, targeting the capital Riyadh and the air base of Khamis Mushait. Coalition air defenses intercepted 2 drones and 2 ballistic missiles. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged United States President Donald Trump to intervene militarily with strikes against rebels. The United Nations Security Council condemned the Houthi offensive. Saudi Grand Mufti Saleh al-Fawzan called on Saudi soldiers to stand ready and eradicate the Houthi movement.

AT LEAST 38 KILLED INCLUDING 8 CIVILIANS IN SAUDI AIRSTRIKES ON YEMENI MARKET

On September 27, 2026, Saudi airstrikes hit a market near Taez in southwestern Yemen, killing at least 38 people, including at least 8 civilians. Military spokesperson for Houthi fighters Yahya Saree reported that Saudi aircraft conducted 2 airstrikes on the market, leaving nearly 50 total casualties. Affiliated media outlet Almasirah reported the death of 5 children, while broadcasting footage of destroyed vehicles and damaged warehouses. Taez remains a primary front line between Houthi rebels and Saudi backed government troops. Houthi officials stated that Saudi military aircrafts conducted 27 airstrikes across Yemen on the previous day.

3 COMMERCIAL SHIPS STRUCK BY PROJECTILES IN HORMUZ

On September 29, 2026, 3 commercial vessels were struck by projectiles while navigating through Hormuz. The British maritime security agency UKMTO reported on September 30 that the targeted vessels included an oil tanker, a liquefied natural gas carrier, and a tank ship. No casualties were reported by maritime authorities.

2 MEN EXECUTED IN IRAN OVER JANUARY PROTESTS

On September 30, 2026, Iranian judicial authorities executed 2 men by hanging in Mashhad for their involvement in anti-government protests. Judicial news agency Mizan confirmed the executions of Ali Hemmati and Majid Nik-Andish after the Supreme Court upheld their death sentences. Authorities convicted both men of participating in January riots. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, Iran Human Rights and Together Against the Death Penalty, reported that Iranian authorities executed at least 1639 people in 2025.

SAUDI AIRSTRIKES IN SANAA

On October 1, 2026, 3 powerful explosions shook the Yemeni capital of Sanaa as Saudi military aircraft conducted strikes against Houthi targets. Houthi affiliated news agency Saba reported that Saudi forces launched an air aggression against Sanaa and several surrounding provinces.

OVER 80 KILLED IN 24 HOURS OF COMBAT IN TAEZ

On October 2, 2026, intense combat between Houthi rebels and Saudi backed government forces in Taez governorate resulted in over 80 deaths within 24 hours. Military sources confirmed that 55 anti-government fighters were killed, mostly by airstrikes, while government forces suffered 26 casualties. Houthi forces destroyed a key bridge on the highway linking government held areas to Aden and attempted to encircle the city of Taez. United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg expressed alarm over the escalating violence, destruction of infrastructure, and road blockades in Taez.

UN WARNS YEMEN HUNGER CRISIS THREATENS 35 MILLION PEOPLE

On October 2, 2026, United Nations World Food Programme officials warned that the escalating conflict in Yemen threatens to create a devastating hunger crisis. Deputy Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme Matthew Hollingworth stated in Geneva that nearly 3 out of 4 households among Yemen’s 35 million residents cannot meet basic food needs.

IRANIAN ACTRESS SENTENCED TO PRISON FOR SUPPORTING PROTESTS

On October 2, 2026, overseas Iranian rights organizations confirmed that popular actress Elnaz Shakerdoust was sentenced to 1 year in prison in Iran. Rights groups Human Rights Activists News Agency and independent media outlet Emtedad reported that Iranian appeals courts upheld the 1 year prison sentence alongside a 2 year ban on political, artistic and online activities. Iranian judicial authorities sentenced the actress for publicly expressing support for protesters killed following the January 2026 demonstrations. Elnaz Shakerdoust, who starred in over 50 films across a 20 year career, refused to attend the Fajr film festival in Tehran after stating she would no longer work in “a land smelling of blood”. In 2021, Iranian authorities previously forced her to delete an Instagram post condemning the murder of a young gay man in southwestern Iran.

AFGHANISTAN-PAKISTAN

11 KILLED IN SUICIDE BOMBING AT PAKISTANI CHECKPOINT

On September 26, 2026, a suicide bomber detonated an explosive filled vehicle at a security checkpoint in Darazinda, killing at least 11 people and wounding 18 others. Police official Saifullah Khan confirmed that the targeted security checkpoint was jointly operated by police, military, and customs services. Rescue services spokesperson Bilal Faizi reported that emergency teams retrieved 11 bodies from the destroyed post. Pakistani authorities attributed the escalation of attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to insurgent groups operating from Afghan territory, accusations denied by the Taliban administration in Kabul.

10 CIVILIANS KILLED IN PAKISTANI AIRSTRIKES IN AFGHANISTAN

On October 1, 2026, Pakistani military aircraft launched overnight strikes on Helmand and Kunar provinces in Afghanistan, killing at least 10 civilians, mostly children, and wounding 9 others. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan confirmed the civilian fatalities in an official statement following reports from the Taliban government. The Information Ministry of Pakistan stated that precision strikes targeted insurgent camps belonging to Fitna al khwarij and Fitna al Hindustan, claiming to kill 22 militants. Afghan residents reported 4 dead and 7 wounded in Safar village in Helmand, while a villager confirmed neighboring homes were destroyed. In Kunar province, a farmer rescued a woman from rubble, where a man and 4 children were killed. A NGO provided medical care to 2 wounded children in Lashkar Gah.

MYANMAR

50 CIVILIANS KILLED BY MILITARY AIRSTRIKE ON CROWDED MARKET

On September 28, 2026, a Myanmar military airstrike struck a crowded riverfront market in Kyauktaw, killing 50 civilians and injuring 58 others. Resident Aung Chay searched burned debris for his relative, while Arakan Army representatives confirmed victims were bystanders, shoppers, and market vendors. Humanitarian worker Wai Hun Aung warned the death toll could increase due to severe burns, and rescuer Naing Win Lwin urged international intervention.

MALAYSIA BEGINS FORCED REPATRIATION OF 1500 MYANMAR NATIONALS

On September 29, 2026, Malaysian authorities began deporting 1500 Myanmar nationals from Lumut naval base as part of a broader plan to return 5000 individuals. Police escorted buses transporting detainees to Lumut naval base before maritime transfer to Myanmar. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres previously stated conditions in Myanmar are unsuitable for safe returns, and human rights organizations questioned whether the repatriations were voluntary. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced plans to invite Myanmar military leader Min Aung Hlaing to accelerate returns, despite earlier detentions of Rohingya refugees in Kuala Lumpur. Recent online disinformation campaigns in Malaysia have escalated xenophobia against Myanmar asylum seekers in the country.

EASTERN EUROPE

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC WARNS CITIZENS AGAINST RUSSIAN RECRUITMENT

On September 25, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic issued a warning to citizens regarding Russian job offers leading to military recruitment for the war in Ukraine. Dominican Foreign Minister Victor Bisono raised concerns with Russian Foreign Minister Serguei Lavrov during a meeting at the United Nations General Assembly. Dominican authorities initiated the warning following social media videos posted by 28 year old Dominican citizen Juan Carlos Avila Espaillat, who was wounded while fighting for the Russian army. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated at the United Nations that Russia has recruited fighters from 47 countries, an operation that Amnesty International Secretary General Agnes Callamard characterized as human trafficking.

16 CIVILIANS KILLED IN CROSS BORDER STRIKES IN UKRAINE AND RUSSIA

On September 26, 2026, cross border bombardments between Russian and Ukrainian forces killed at least 16 people across both nations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported 2 fatalities in Zaporizhzhia, while regional official Oleksandre Ganja confirmed 2 deaths in Dnipropetrovsk and 2 deaths in Sumy. In Russian territory and occupied areas, governor Evgueni Balitski reported 3 dead in occupied Zaporizhzhia, governor Vladimir Saldo reported 3 killed in occupied Kherson, 1 civilian died in Belgorod, and a drone killed 3 people in Krasnodar following Ukrainian strikes on refineries. Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated peace talks would not resume.

8 KILLED IN RUSSIAN BOMBARDMENTS TARGETING TELECOM CENTERS, 1 KILLED BY UKRAINE

On September 27, 2026, Russian airstrikes killed 8 people across Ukraine, targeting telecom infrastructure and residential areas. Ukrainian Interior Minister Ivan Vyguivsky reported 3 Russian aerial bombs struck central Sumy, killing 2 people including a 16 year old girl. Strikes in Kyiv and Bucha killed 2 people and damaged the headquarters of mobile operator Kyivstar, which the Russian Defense Ministry confirmed targeting alongside Omega Telecom data centers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported 3 deaths in Zaporizhzhia and 1 death in Odesa. In Russian occupied Energodar, Russian appointed official Maxime Poukhov stated a Ukrainian drone killed 1 woman. Russian Foreign Minister Serguei Lavrov reaffirmed at the United Nations that Moscow would pursue its military campaign to completion.

JET DRONE STRIKES UKRAINIAN ACADEMY OF SCIENCES AND POLISH BORDER POST, MASS RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN IN RUSSIA

On September 28, 2026, Russian jet drones launched daylight attacks on central Kyiv, striking the Academy of Sciences and damaging a border post near Poland. The strike on the Academy of Sciences killed the assistant of former Ukrainian Security and Defense Council Secretary Volodymyr Gorbulin and injured 6 others. A separate jet drone hit Starovoitove, damaging a border control building 2 kilometers from Poland, prompting Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz to put air defense in alert. No casualties were reported at the border post. Regional governors Oleksandre Ganja and Oleg Synegoubov reported 4 dead in Dnipro and Synelnykova and 38 injured in Kharkiv. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree expanding military personnel by 15,500 troops.

RUSSIAN ATTACK ON KYIV ENERGY GRID KILLS 7 AND CAUSES BLACKOUTS

On September 30, 2026, a massive Russian missile and drone strike targeted energy infrastructure in Kyiv, killing at least 4 people in the capital and 3 in surrounding regions. Energy operator DTEK imposed emergency blackouts across Kyiv after severe structural damage, while Centrenergo chief executive officer Serguii Isatchenko reported a direct hit on the Trypillia thermal power plant. Local residents expressed concern over upcoming freezing winter temperatures.

UKRAINIAN COUNTER OFFENSIVE RECLAIMS 172 SQUARE KILOMETERS IN DONETSK

On October 1, 2026, an analysis by Agence France-Presse based on Institute for the Study of War data indicated that Ukrainian forces liberated 172 square kilometers of territory during a September counter offensive in Donetsk. Operation Vivaldi successfully pushed Russian forces away from the strategic cities of Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. The Institute for the Study of War reported that Russian monthly territorial gains dropped to 15.5 square kilometers in 2026, down from 405 square kilometers monthly in 2025, despite ongoing Russian advances in Zaporizhzhia and Sumy.

RUSSIAN JET DRONES WITH SPECIALIZED WARHEADS DESTROY KYIV BRIDGE

On October 1, 2026, 2 Russian jet drones struck the South Bridge over the Dnieper River in Kyiv, forcing authorities to suspend all public transit across the structure. Ukrainian presidential advisor Serguii Beskrestnov reported that Russian forces utilized specialized shaped-charge warheads on jet drones for the first time, designed specifically to slice steel infrastructure.

US AND LITHUANIAN SECURITY SERVICES WARN RUSSIAN DISSIDENT OF ASSASSINATION PLOT

On October 1, 2026, American and Lithuanian security agencies warned Russian chess champion Garry Kasparov and dissident Ivan Tyutrin that their lives were in immediate danger from Russian hitmen. Garry Kasparov, 63 year old exiled co-founder of the Free Russia Forum, confirmed receiving warnings regarding a Kremlin hit list. The United States Department of Justice indicted 5 Russian intelligence operatives, including 61 year old former colonel Youri Khrameev and his 27 year old son Kirill Khrameev of the FSB, for conspiring to execute dissidents in America and Europe. Free Russia Forum co-founder Ivan Tyutrin stated Lithuanian authorities instructed him to evacuate his home urgently.

AMERICAN JOURNALIST DETAILS RECOVERY FOLLOWING 500 DAYS IN RUSSIAN PRISON

On October 1, 2026, American journalist Evan Gershkovich spoke about his ongoing psychological recovery following nearly 500 days of detention in a Russian prison. Journalist Maria Danilova interviewed the Wall Street Journal reporter regarding his memoir This Cursed Beautiful Land, where he recalled his March 2023 arrest by FSB agents in Yekaterinburg and his subsequent detention in Lefortovo prison. Evan Gershkovich explained that recovering from captivity required extensive psychotherapy.

SOUTH KOREAN PRESIDENT DEMANDS UKRAINIAN APOLOGY OVER NORTH KOREAN POW CASE

On October 2, 2026, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung warned that Seoul will take diplomatic countermeasures if Ukraine fails to issue a public apology for revealing the transfer of 2 North Korean prisoners of war. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of violating a confidentiality agreement by announcing the transfer during his United Nations address. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriï Sybiga described the incident as a diplomatic misunderstanding and expressed hope for continued bilateral cooperation. South Korea summoned the Ukrainian representative in Seoul to convey formal protest, emphasizing the importance of security protocols.

VENEZUELA

40 POLITICAL PRISONERS RELEASED

On September 27, 2026, human rights organizations verified the release of 40 political prisoners across Venezuela following a second round of negotiations between government and opposition delegations. Non governmental organization Justicia, Encuentro y Perdon confirmed 39 releases, including 8 women detained in 2021 on charges of narcoterrorism. Confirmed releases included 6 individuals prosecuted under Operation Gedeon and Frank Cabanas, who was linked to former police inspector Oscar Perez killed during a 2018 military raid.

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE & RELATIONS

9 SERBS ARRESTED IN KOSOVO FOR 1999 WAR CRIMES

On September 27, 2026, Kosovo police arrested 9 Serbs in Zubin Potok during Operation 23 in connection with wartime atrocities committed in 1999. The police operation followed the summer discovery of mass graves containing the remains of at least 23 individuals in northern Kosovo. Authorities confirmed that identified remains included members of the Group of Intellectuals, comprising Mitrovica Albanians, doctors, professors, and human rights defenders abducted in April 1999 during the conflict between Albanian guerrillas and Serbian forces. The Serbian government office for Kosovo condemned the police action, calling it an attempt to intimidate the remaining Serb population. Over 1600 people remain missing from the 1998 to 1999 war that claimed 13,000 lives.

POLAND EXTENDS RULES OF ENGAGEMENT AGAINST ENEMY AIRCRAFTS

On September 28, 2026, Polish Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk announced an immediate extension of military rules of engagement regarding intruding foreign aircraft. Under the revised protocol, Polish operational commanders and pilots receive authorization to shoot down unauthorized aerial targets based on radar data without requiring prior visual confirmation. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that Russia would likely escalate hybrid attacks involving drones and missiles against nations supporting Ukraine. Poland is an important NATO transport hub for Ukrainian military assistance, affected by hybrid warfare.

APPEAL TRIAL OPENS IN PARIS FOR SYRIAN ACCUSED OF JOURNALIST KIDNAPPINGS

On September 28, 2026, the appeal trial of 43 year old Syrian national Kais Al Abdallah opened before the French criminal court of Paris. Kais Al Abdallah previously received a 20 year prison sentence in March 2025 for his involvement as an Islamic State member in the June 2013 abductions of French journalists Didier Francois, Edouard Elias, Nicolas Henin, and Pierre Torres in Raqqa and Aleppo. The journalists endured 10 months of severe physical abuse and mock executions before their release in April 2014. The defendant denied jihadist affiliation, claiming former membership in the Free Syrian Army that fought Bachar al-Assad. French courts previously sentenced co-accused Mehdi Nemmouche, Oussama Atar, Abdelmalek Tanem, and Salim Benghalem to imprisonment.

FORMER SRI LANKAN PRESIDENT QUESTIONED OVER FORCED DISAPPEARANCES

On September 29, 2026, former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa testified in videoconference before a Jaffna court regarding the 2011 military abduction of 2 students. The 77 year old former leader claimed memory loss when questioned about the disappearances of student activists Lalith Kumar Weeraraj and Kugan Muruganandan, who vanished near a military base while Rajapaksa served as defense secretary under his brother, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who was ousted by popular protests in July 2022, also faces judicial scrutiny over allegations of orchestrating the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed 279 people and wounded over 500. Court officials scheduled a follow up hearing for November 27.

10 IRAQI NATIONALS EXECUTED FOR TERRORISM IN NASSIRIYA

On September 29, 2026, Iraqi judicial and health authorities confirmed the execution by hanging of 10 Iraqi citizens at al-Hout prison in Nassiriya. The prisoners were executed under Article 4 of the anti terrorism law following convictions for participating in terror activities. Iraqi courts continue to issue death sentences and life terms to domestic and foreign fighters transferred from Syria. Human rights organizations criticized the judicial proceedings as rapid and deficient in fair trial guarantees. The executions coincided with the opening of trials in Iraq involving 6 French nationals accused of terrorism charges.

NAURU ANNOUNCES WITHDRAWAL FROM ICC

On September 30, 2026, the Assembly of States Parties to the International Criminal Court expressed formal concern following Nauru President David Adeang announcement that his nation will exit the tribunal. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Nauru President David Adeang characterized the Hague tribunal as irrelevant. United States President Donald Trump encouraged the withdrawal, while United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio pledged to dismantle the court following arrest warrants issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

FRENCH JUSTICE RECOGNIZES 1943 PORT OF MARSEILLE RAIDS AS CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY

On September 30, 2026, National Antiterrorist Prosecutor Olivier Christen officially designated the 1943 Marseille Old-Port roundups as crimes against humanity. Operation Sultan, executed by the French police under the supervision of Vichy government secretary general Rene Bousquet and SS leader Heinrich Himmler, resulted in the forced displacement of 20,000 residents, the bombing of 1500 homes, and 1600 deportations, including 800 Jews murdered in extermination camps. 89 year old survivor Antoine Mignemi and 76 year old descendant Fernand Riberi praised the decision following a 2019 legal complaint. The ruling represents moral reparation for atrocities first acknowledged by former French President Jacques Chirac in 1995.

US LED MILITARY COALITION COMPLETES WITHDRAWAL FROM IRAQ AFTER 12 YEARS

On October 1, 2026, the final international military forces under the United States led anti jihadist coalition departed Erbil airport, concluding a 12 year mission in Iraq. United States President Donald Trump celebrated the departure as a decisive victory on social platform Truth Social, while Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi declared the exit a triumph for national sovereignty. Kurdish military commander Sirwan Barzani expressed alarm over unprotected airspace against pro-Iranian armed groups, whose military spokesperson Jaafar al-Husseini of Kataeb Hezbollah organized celebrations in Baghdad. The Pentagon confirmed that intelligence support and training would continue.

FAO DISMISSES SENIOR DIRECTOR OVER GAZA FAMINE PROTESTS

On October 1, 2026, Benjamin Davis, director of inclusive rural transformation at the Food and Agriculture Organization, confirmed his termination after 26 years of service following his participation in Gaza famine demonstrations. Benjamin Davis stated that agency leadership dismissed him for organizing silent protests at the Rome headquarters and collaborating on a May 2026 food security report. FAO Director General Qu Dongyu publicly instructed staff members to refrain from engaging in human rights advocacy within the agency.

TOGO AND RUSSIA EXPAND PARTNERSHIP IN MINING AND ENERGY AFFAIRS

On October 1, 2026, Togolese and Russian officials concluded a 3 day intergovernmental conference in Lome aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation in mining, geology, and energy. Russian Energy Minister Serguei Tsivilev and Russian economic development official Angelina Zuikova conducted high level discussions with Togolese leadership following Tsivilev visit to the Central African Republic. Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey denied opposition allegations regarding Russian mercenaries, despite a 2025 bilateral defense treaty authorizing Russian military instructors, navy vessels, and Africa Corps operations in the Gulf of Guinea.

STARBUCKS CRITICIZED OVER STORE OPENINGS IN XINJIANG

On October 2, 2026, United States House Select Committee on China Chairman John Moolenaar and the World Uyghur Congress condemned Starbucks for opening 2 coffee shops in Urumqi, Xinjiang. Representative John Moolenaar urged the coffee chain to close the shops, citing a 2022 report by former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet that documented credible evidence of forced labor, torture, and arbitrary detention against Muslim minorities. Starbucks opened the locations at Urumqi airport and the local bazaar, while Chinese state media promoted regional tourism investments.