WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL NEWS REVIEW – Jan.24th – 30th 2026

SUDAN

ARMY BREAKS SIEGE OF DILLING

On January 26, 2026, the Sudanese army announced it had broken the 18-month siege of Dilling in South Kordofan, securing both northern and southern approaches to the city. The military claimed to have inflicted heavy losses on the RSF during the operation. The RSF did not immediately comment. The RSF had recently shifted focus to Kordofan after capturing El-Facher in Darfur, intensifying sieges in the oil and gold rich region. The UN previously confirmed famine in Kadougli and fears of similar conditions in Dilling persist due to ongoing insecurity and restricted access.

OVER 3 MILLION DISPLACED RETURNED HOME

On January 26, 2026, the UN’s International Organization for Migration reported that over 3.3 million Sudanese displaced by nearly three years of war had returned home by November 2025. The majority (75%) were internally displaced. Khartoum saw the highest number of returnees (1.4 million), followed by Al-Jazira state (1.1 million). The government announced plans to return to Khartoum after its recapture in March 2025. Despite relative calm in army-held areas, RSF drone strikes continue and heavy fighting persists in southern regions.

SYSTEMATIC SEXUAL VIOLENCE

Sudan’s Minister of Social Affairs Sulaiman Ishaq al-Khalifa described the widespread use of sexual violence, including rape, sexual slavery and trafficking, as a systematic weapon of war by the RSF in Sudan’s conflict. Over 1,800 rapes were documented between April 2023 and October 2025, with 87% attributed to the RSF. The minister, considered a women’s rights activist, stated that violence is used for ethnic cleansing and to prolong the war, with victims ranging from 1-year-old children to 85-year-old women. Survivors reported rapes by foreign mercenaries from West Africa, Colombia and Libya. The UN and ICC have opened investigations into war crimes, including mass rapes in El-Facher, Darfur, where perpetrators reportedly filmed and celebrated their acts. Many victims are forced into marriage to hide their trauma, and families often remain silent.

TANZANIA

MISSING BODIES & MASS GRAVES

New reports from the opposition reaffirm that Tanzanian security forces killed over 2,000 people, including protesters and bystanders, during a crackdown on post-election unrest in Dar es Salaam. Journalist Manenos Selanyika, 40, was shot dead by security forces while fetching food, his family told the AFP. His body was never returned, and after a week of searching hospitals, relatives held a symbolic burial in Lambo village near Mount Kilimanjaro. Sheila Gyumi’s husband, a motorbike courier, also disappeared on election day; whereabouts remain unknown. Families accuse authorities of burying victims in unmarked mass graves, a claim the government denies. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, re-elected with 98% of the vote in a disputed poll, dismissed allegations of excessive force. The Centre for Information Resilience documented the use of live ammunition by security forces and identified probable mass graves via satellite imagery. Media coverage was severely restricted, and journalist Godfrey Thomas was charged with treason for reporting on the violence. Witnesses and rights groups report widespread fear of reprisals.

NIGER

NIGER JUNTA ACCUSES FOREIGN COUNTRIES OF SPONSORING ATTACK

On January 28, 2026, presumed jihadists attacked Niamey’s airport, prompting a 30-minute firefight before a Nigerien and Russian counteroffensive. Niger’s Defense Minister Salifou Modi reported 4 soldiers wounded, 20 attackers killed, including allegedly a French national, and 11 arrested. Junta leader General Abdourahamane Tiani praised Russian forces for their support and directly accused French President Emmanuel Macron, Benin’s President Patrice Talon, and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara of sponsoring the assailants. State television broadcast images of the aftermath and the junta chief’s visit to the base, reiterating claims of foreign-backed destabilization. The junta, in power since the July 2023 coup, maintains tense relations with France and Benin, both of which deny involvement.

MOZAMBIQUE

GAS BOOM AMID INSURGENCY

On January 29, 2026, TotalEnergies officially resumed its Mozambique LNG project in Cabo Delgado province, home to Africa’s largest private energy investment and over 5,000 billion cubic meters of natural gas. The project, alongside ENI’s Coral Sul and ExxonMobil’s upcoming venture, could make Mozambique a top 10 global gas producer by 2040. However, the region has faced a deadly jihadist insurgency since 2017. TotalEnergies faces French legal action for alleged negligence in protecting locals, while Mozambican and Rwandan forces struggle to contain the violence. The IMF projects 10% growth by 2029, but corruption scandals and security risks threaten the windfall.

ETHIOPIA-ERYTREA

HUMAN TRAFFICKING LINKED TO LIBYA: 22 ARRESTED

On January 28, 2026, Ethiopian police announced the arrest of 22 people suspected of trafficking 1,800 migrants, resulting in two deaths, 15 disappearances, and the extortion of over 11.5 million euros. Victims were lured with false promises of European entry but were held hostage in Libyan warehouses, forced to call families for ransom. Ethiopia remains a major departure point for migrants heading to Libya or Yemen, with 890 deaths or disappearances recorded on the Eastern Route in the first nine months of 2025. Five traffickers were sentenced to death in August 2025.

ETHIOPIA-TIGRAY CLASHES RESUME

On January 29, 2026, heavy fighting erupted between Ethiopian federal troops and Tigrayan forces in Tsemlet (western Tigray), a zone also claimed by Amhara regional forces. The clashes, involving artillery and drone strikes, mark the first direct confrontations since November 2025 and raise fears of a return to the 2020–2022 war, which killed at least 600,000 people. Ethiopian Airlines suspended all flights to Tigray, citing “operational reasons,” a move not seen since the 2022 peace accord. Anonymous diplomatic, security, and local sources confirmed the fighting, while a journalist in Mekelle reported growing anxiety in the regional capital. Amhara and Eritrean forces remain in Tigray despite the peace deal’s withdrawal clause. Analyst Kjetil Tronvoll warned of serious escalation risks and possible foreign intervention on the Tigrayan side.

BURKINA FASO

POLITICAL PARTIES DISSOLVED

On January 29, 2026, Burkina Faso’s military government announced plans to dissolve all political parties, alleging their role in fostering division and weakening social cohesion. The decision follows a 2022 coup led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who has since intensified the repression of dissent. Minister Émile Zerbo stated that the dissolution aims to preserve “national unity”. Traoré’s regime, which rejects Western influence and democracy, also extended his rule by five years via a charter adopted in May 2025. Party assets would be transferred to the State.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

ADF REBELS MASSACRE 25 FARMERS IN NORTHEASTERN DRC

On January 25–26, 2026, at least 25 farmers, 17 men and 5 women, were killed by ADF rebels near Otmaber and Bwanasula villages in Irumu territory, Ituri province. The victims, working in remote cocoa fields, were reportedly bound and hacked to death with machetes. Several others were taken hostage. Local civil society leader Léon Undemutau Manzaleke and human rights defender Christophe Munyanderu confirmed the toll, while a humanitarian source described bodies left in the bush. The ADF, allied with the Islamic State, persist in attacks despite joint Congolese-Ugandan military operations. Irumu territory administrator Siro Simba blamed the civilians for defying safety orders, prohibiting farming in the area.

LEBANON

LEBANON CALLS FOR NEW INTERNATIONAL FORCE AFTER UNIFIL WITHDRAWAL

On January 24, 2026, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam stated that Lebanon would require “an international presence, preferably under the UN,” following the planned withdrawal of UNIFIL in 2027. Speaking in Paris, Salam proposed a mixed force of observers and peacekeepers, citing the long-standing Israel-Lebanon conflict. He confirmed the launch of phase two of Hezbollah’s disarmament between the Litani and Awali rivers, and announced a donors’ conference for the Lebanese army in March.

ISRAELI AIRSTRIKES KILL 3

On January 25, 2026, Israeli airstrikes killed 3 people and injured 5 others in southern Lebanon, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The strikes targeted areas between Khirbet Selm and Kfardounine, and the village of Derdaghya. The Israeli army claimed it hit a Hezbollah weapons manufacturing site in the Bekaa region. Despite the November 2024 ceasefire, Israel continues regular strikes. Over 350 people have been killed by Israeli fire in Lebanon since the ceasefire.

HEZBOLLAH THREATENS REGIONAL ESCALATION IF IRAN IS ATTACKED

On January 26, 2026, Hezbollah’s deputy leader Naïm Qassem warned that any US attack on Iran would be considered an attack on Hezbollah and would “set the region ablaze.” Speaking at a rally in Beirut’s southern suburbs, Qassem stated Hezbollah would “choose in time how to act” and would not remain neutral. He also warned of retaliation if Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei were assassinated.

PALESTINE

ISRAELI STRIKE KILLS 2 GAZA TEENS NEAR HOSPITAL

On January 24, 2026, Gaza’s Civil Defense reported that two Palestinian teenagers aged 13 and 15 were killed by an Israeli drone strike near Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia, northern Gaza. The Israeli army stated it targeted two “terrorists” who had crossed the demarcation line. The army insisted the deceased were “terrorists” and not children. Gaza’s Civil Defense also reported a third fatality from an Israeli quadcopter strike in Jabalia, which the Israeli army did not immediately confirm. Since the October 10, 2025 ceasefire, the Gaza Health Ministry reported 477 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces, while Israel recorded 4 soldiers killed.

ISRAEL ANNOUNCES LIMITED REOPENING OF RAFAH CROSSING

On January 26, 2026, Israel announced a “limited reopening” of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, restricted to pedestrians and subject to Israeli inspection. The move follows the Trump administration’s 20-point peace plan and the October 10, 2025 ceasefire. The crossing’s reopening had been delayed by Israel’s demand for the return of the last Israeli hostage’s remains. The crossing is critical for humanitarian aid, but Israel insists on strict controls.

ISRAEL RECOVERS LAST HOSTAGE BODY

On January 26, 2026, Israel recovered the body of Ran Gvili, the last remaining hostage from the October 7, 2023 attack. The Forum of Hostage Families called it the end of an “unimaginable” struggle. Nine Palestinian prisoners were also released to Gaza. The event opens the way for the ceasefire’s second phase: Hamas disarmament, Israeli withdrawal and international stabilization force deployment.

NETANYAHU WARNS AGAINST ELECTIONS

On January 27, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that holding elections now would be “a mistake” as his government faced the risk of losing its parliamentary majority over the budget vote. Failure to pass the budget would constitutionally trigger early elections.

HAMAS READY FOR “FULL TRANSFER” OF GAZA GOVERNANCE TO NATIONAL COMMITTEE

On January 28, 2026, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem announced the group’s readiness for a “full transfer of governance” in Gaza to the National Committee for Gaza Administration, a established under the US-backed ceasefire plan. Qassem stated all ministries and security apparatus are prepared to hand over responsibilities, but called for Rafah’s full reopening “without Israeli restrictions.” The Committee, led by Ali Shaath, is to administer Gaza during a transitional period.

TEN COUNTRIES URGE ISRAEL TO ALLOW AID INTO GAZA

On January 28, 2026, foreign ministers from ten countries, including France, Canada and the UK, called on Israel to allow “unhindered” humanitarian aid into Gaza, citing the “disastrous” situation. They urged Israel to lift restrictions on NGOs, reopen all crossings and implement Rafah’s two-way reopening. The statement followed Israel’s demolition of the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem, which the countries condemned as an “unprecedented act” undermining UN operations.

ISRAELI COURT DELAYS DECISION ON JOURNALISTS’ ACCESS TO GAZA

On January 28, 2026, the Foreign Press Association (FPA) expressed deep disappointment after Israel’s Supreme Court again delayed ruling on journalists’ access to Gaza. The court requested the government provide updates by March 31, 2026, citing classified security arguments presented in closed sessions. The FPA criticized the secret process, stating it “opens the door to continued arbitrary and indefinite closure.” Since October 7, 2023, Israel has barred most foreign journalists. The FPA represents hundreds of international journalists and has been petitioning the court since 2024.

ISRAELI AIRSTRIKE KILLS 3 IN SOUTHERN GAZA

On January 30, 2026, the Israeli army conducted airstrikes in Rafah, southern Gaza, killing three people it described as “terrorists” emerging from a tunnel. The army stated it targeted eight individuals, killing three and pursuing the rest. The strike occurred near the Rafah crossing.

ISRAEL DENIES GAZA’S 71,000 DEATH TOLL

On January 30, 2026, the Israeli army denied Gaza’s Health Ministry figure of over 71,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023. Lieutenant-Colonel Nadav Shoshani stated on X that the information “does not reflect official data” and any updates would come through official channels. The denial followed an unsourced Haaretz article claiming Israel had accepted the Hamas-run ministry’s estimate. The ministry, whose figures the UN considers reliable, reports over half the dead are women and children. Israel continues to dispute the numbers.

RED CROSS CHIEF URGES GLOBAL ACTION ON GAZA’S “DRAMATIC” SITUATION

On January 30, 2026, ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric called on the international community to address Gaza’s “dramatic” humanitarian crisis, following the first phase of the ceasefire that secured the release of 195 hostages and 3,472 Palestinian detainees. Spoljaric urged states to ease restrictions on items like water pipes and generators, essential for rebuilding infrastructure. She highlighted the ongoing suffering of Gaza’s 2.2 million residents, many living under rubble and lacking basic services.

SYRIA

EUROPEAN JIHADISTS TRANSFERRED TO IRAQ

On January 23, 2026, the US began transferring high-ranking IS detainees, including Europeans, from Syria to Iraq. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Chia al-Soudani called on European countries to repatriate their nationals during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron. The transfers follow the withdrawal of Kurdish forces from prisons in northeast Syria, raising concerns about security gaps. The UN warned of volatile conditions in al-Hol camp, where over 23,000 IS-affiliated individuals, including 6,280 foreigners, are detained. The EU expressed alarm over potential escapes, while the HCR resumed water and bread deliveries after a three-day interruption.

SYRIAN FORCES RELEASES 126 MINORS FROM KURDISH-RUN PRISON

On January 24, 2026, Syrian state media reported the release of 126 minors from Al-Aqtan prison in Raqqa province, previously managed by Kurdish forces. The prison, now under Syrian army control, held members of the Islamic State. Syria and Kurdish forces extended their ceasefire by 15 days to support the US transfer of up to 7,000 IS detainees from Syrian prisons to Iraq. The Syrian Defense Ministry confirmed the extension, while the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) stated the move aimed to de-escalate and protect civilians. The ceasefire, declared on January 23, followed Kurdish territorial concessions to Syrian government forces. Earlier, 150 high-ranking IS detainees, including Europeans, were transferred to Iraq.

RUSSIAN FORCES WITHDRAW FROM KURDISH-HELD AIRPORT

On January 27, 2026, Russian forces withdrew troops and heavy weapons from Qamishli airport in Syria’s Kurdish-held northeast, according to a military source. Equipment and arms were transported to Russia’s Hmeimim base in western Syria. Russia, a former ally of ousted President Bashar al-Assad, had deployed to Kurdish areas in 2019 under a Turkey agreement. The US also maintains a military presence in northern Syria, while Russia retains bases in Tartous and Hmeimim.

FRENCH LAWYERS DENOUNCE “ILLEGAL TRANSFER” OF 47 FRENCH PRISONERS TO IRAQ

On January 27, 2026, French lawyers Marie Dosé and Matthieu Bagard condemned the “illegal transfer” of 47 French IS suspects from Syria to Iraq. The lawyers met 13 detainees in Baghdad, who reported torture and inhumane conditions in Iraqi prisons. The detainees, including a young adult taken to Syria as a child, were transferred from Dêrik prison in July 2025. France’s embassy in Baghdad confirmed consular support for the detainees.

SYRIA AND KURDS REACH AGREEMENT

On January 30, 2026, Syria and the Kurdish-led SDF announced a “comprehensive” agreement to integrate Kurdish forces and administration into the Syrian State. Syrian security forces will deploy in the Kurdish strongholds of Hassaké and Qamichli, while Kurdish forces will be reorganized into three brigades within the Syrian army. The agreement undermines Kurdish autonomy hopes. Syrian President Ahmad al-Chareh is determined to regain control over all Syrian territory.

SYRIA DECLARES AL-HOL CAMP A “SECURITY ZONE”

On January 30, 2026, the Syrian army declared al-Hol camp, housing IS-affiliated individuals, a “closed security zone” after taking control from Kurdish forces. The camp holds Syrians and about 6,200 foreign women and children from 42 countries. An anonymous humanitarian worker reported detainee escapes during the security transition. NGOs warned of rapidly deteriorating humanitarian conditions, with food, water, and medicine shortages.

YEMEN

UN ENDS MISSION IN HODEIDA

On January 27, 2026, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution to terminate the UN Mission to Support the Hodeidah Agreement (UNMHA) within two months, citing Houthi obstruction. The mission, established in 2019 to monitor the ceasefire in the strategic Yemeni port city of Hodeidah, will end on March 31. US representative Tammy Bruce stated, “Houthi obstructionism has deprived the mission of its purpose.” The UK-sponsored resolution passed with 13 votes in favor and abstentions from Russia and China. Danish representative Christina Markus Lassen noted that while UNMHA had stabilized the region for six years, the operational environment deteriorated due to arbitrary detentions of UN staff by Houthi authorities. The conflict has worsened Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, with the UN warning of further deterioration in 2026 due to food insecurity and reduced international aid and staff.

IRAN

STATE TV BROADCASTS FORCED CONFESSIONS

On January 26, 2026, Iranian state television broadcasted at least 240 forced confessions from detainees, which was denounced by civil society as a tactic to suppress dissent following the January protests. Detainees confessed to violence, foreign funding and social media activity. UN Special Rapporteur Mai Sato condemned the practice. The confessions were described as aiming to legitimize state repression and deter further protests. Notable cases include Shervin Bagherian, an 18-year-old facing execution, and detainees accused of sending protest images to the US.

IRAN ENCOURAGES INJURED PROTESTERS TO GO TO THE HOSPITAL

On January 26, 2026, Iran’s Health Ministry urged protesters injured during recent demonstrations to seek hospital treatment, despite reports from human rights groups that security forces were arresting wounded individuals in medical facilities. The ministry stated, « If you are injured, do not try to treat yourself at home and do not worry about going to a medical center. » Human rights organizations, including the Center for Human Rights in Iran, reported that security forces had arrested protesters in hospitals.

IRANIAN ONG CONFIRMS OVER 6,000 DEATHS, INVESTIGATES 17,000 MORE

On January 27, 2026, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) confirmed 6,126 deaths during Iran’s January protests, including 5,777 protesters, 86 minors, 214 security forces, and 49 bystanders. HRANA is investigating an additional 17,091 potential related deaths. Over 41,880 arrests were reported. Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) reported 3,428 protester deaths, warning the total could exceed 25,000.

US DEPLOYS CARRIER TO GULF, ANNOUNCES MILITARY EXERCISE

On January 27, 2026, the US announced a multi-day air exercise in the Middle East, coinciding with the deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to the Gulf. The exercise aims to demonstrate the US ability to deploy and sustain combat air power across the region. Tensions escalated following Iran’s deadly crackdown on protests, with Trump threatening strikes but later hinting at potential negotiations. The US deployed ten warships, matching the fleet size used in the recent Venezuela operation. A US official confirmed the armada includes three destroyers, three littoral combat ships, and F-35C stealth fighters. The US also maintained a significant military presence in the Region, with the following bases :

• Bahrain: Naval Support Activity Bahrain, hosting the US Fifth Fleet and Central Command’s naval forces.
• Kuwait: Camp Arifjan and Ali al-Salem Air Base.
• Qatar: Al-Udeid Air Base, hosting US Central Command’s advanced components and the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing.
• UAE: Al-Dhafra Air Base, home to the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing and MQ-9 Reaper drones.
• Syria: US forces remain at several sites as part of anti-ISIS operations.
• Iraq: US troops are withdrawing by September 2026, per a US-Iraq agreement. Iran warned that its missiles could target these bases if attacked.

EASTERN EUROPE

RUSSIAN STRIKES KILL 1, INJURE 27 IN KIEV AND KHARKIV

On January 23, 2026, Russian bombardments across Ukraine left at least one person dead and 27 injured in Kiev and Kharkiv. Air raid alerts covered the entire country overnight. In Kiev, one person was killed and four injured, with damage reported in five districts, including a private clinic. Mayor Vitali Klitschko noted disruptions to heating and water supplies amid temperatures below -10°C. In Kharkiv, 19 people were injured after 25 Iranian-made Shahed drones struck residential buildings, a shelter for displaced people, a hospital and a maternity ward. Mayor Igor Terekhov described a nearly two-and-a-half-hour attack. The strikes occurred as Russian, Ukrainian and American negotiators met in Abu Dhabi for the first time to discuss ending the four-year war, with territorial disputes remaining the main obstacle.

RUSSIAN STRIKES KILL 12, GROUND FORCES MOVE FORWARD

On January 27, 2026, Russian attacks killed 12 people and damaged a passenger train and energy infrastructure. In Kharkiv, a drone struck a train wagon carrying nearly 200 passengers, killing 5 and injuring at least 2. In Odessa, three bodies were recovered from rubble after a drone attack, with 30 injured, including two children and a pregnant woman. Governor Oleg Kiper reported extensive damage to residential buildings and public facilities. DTEK energy company reported “enormous” damage to one of its plants. In Sloviansk, a Russian bomb killed a couple and injured their 20-year-old son, according to the Donetsk regional prosecutor’s office. The Russian Defense Ministry announced the capture of Koupiansk-Vouzlovy in Kharkiv and Novoiakovlivka in Zaporijjia.

HUNGARY LAUNCHES PETITION AGAINST UKRAINE’S SUPPORT

On January 27, 2026, Hungary launched a “national petition” against EU support for Ukraine, as announced by Secretary of State Janos Nagy. The petition, sent to Hungarian citizens, opposes further financing of the war, long-term funding for Ukraine and energy price increases. Prime Minister Viktor Orban, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, faces declining poll numbers amid economic stagnation and public discontent.

2 MILLION MILITARY CASUALTIES

On January 27, 2026, a US think tank reported nearly two million military casualties (KIA, WIA and MIA) in the Ukraine war. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimated Russia suffered 325,000 deaths and 1.2 million total casualties, while Ukraine lost 100,000–140,000 soldiers and 500,000–600,000 total casualties. The UN reported over 15,000 civilian deaths and 40,600 injuries since February 2022, with 2025 being the deadliest year. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously stated Ukraine lost nearly 46,000 soldiers, a figure analysts consider underestimated.

RUSSIAN STRIKES KILL 3

On January 28, 2026, Russian strikes killed three people. In Bilogorodska, a suburb southeast of Kiev, two people were killed and four injured. In Dnipropetrovsk, a 46-year-old man was killed and five injured. Attacks also caused injuries in Odessa, Kryvyi Rig and Zaporijjia.

6 KILLED IN RUSSIAN STRIKES ACROSS SOUTHERN AND CENTRAL UKRAINE

On January 29, 2026, Russian strikes killed six people in southern and central Ukraine. Three died in Vilniansk after drone attacks set residential buildings on fire, according to Governor Ivan Fedorov. Two more were killed in Kherson and one in Kryvyï Rig. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned of a “humanitarian catastrophe” in Ukraine due to relentless Russian strikes, leaving hundreds of thousands without heating and electricity in freezing temperatures. The EU announced €145 million in emergency aid and 947 generators to help Ukrainians cope with the cold. The EU also pledged €50 million to protect Naftogaz’s distribution network. New sanctions against Russia are being prepared, including a ban on maritime services for Russian “shadow fleet” oil tankers and luxury exports.

MYANMAR

JUNTA’S ELECTIONS DENOUNCED AS SHAM BY UN

On January 23, 2026, UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews called on the world to reject the results of Myanmar’s “sham” legislative elections, organized by the military junta. Andrews stated the junta designed the elections to ensure a landslide for its political proxy, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), by banning credible opposition, imprisoning popular figures, suppressing the press, and using coercion to force reluctant voters to the polls. He warned that international recognition of the results would delay a true resolution to Myanmar’s crisis and make governments complicit in legitimizing military rule disguised as civilian governance.

MYANMAR JUNTA’S PARTY WINS LANDSLIDE IN DISPUTED ELECTIONS

On January 30, 2026, Myanmar’s election commission confirmed the junta-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) won 339 of 420 parliamentary seats (over 80%) in elections held in December 2025 and January 2026. The vote, canceled in dozens of constituencies due to civil war, was marred by forced voting, repression, and the exclusion of opposition parties.

UN REPORTS 170 CIVILIANS KILLED IN AIRSTRIKES DURING ELECTIONS

On January 30, 2026, the UN reported at least 170 civilians were killed in 408 military airstrikes during Myanmar’s election period (December 2025–January 2026). UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Jeremy Laurence and Myanmar team head James Rodehaver warned the toll could rise due to communication blackouts and fear of reprisals. On January 22, an airstrike in Bhamo, Kachin State, killed at least 50 civilians in a populated area with no reported combatants. The UN also documented forced voting, including 100 villagers detained and coerced to vote in Sagaing Region. The junta’s elections, boycotted by rebels and condemned internationally, are considered as unlikely to end the civil war.

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

BANGLADESH COURT SENTENCES THREE EX-POLICE CHIEFS TO DEATH FOR 2024 REPRESSION

On January 26, 2026, a Bangladesh court sentenced three former police chiefs, including Dhaka’s Habibur Rahman, to death for ordering live fire on protesters during the 2024 unrest that toppled ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The crackdown killed at least 1,400 people. Five other officers received prison terms. Prosecutor Tajul Islam called the verdict a confirmation of “crimes against humanity.”

UN CALLS FOR LESSONS FROM HOLOCAUST TO COMBAT VIOLENT HATE

On January 26, 2026, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk urged the world to learn from the Holocaust and reject hate and dehumanization. He warned that racism is rising, fueled by hate speech in medias. Türk emphasized that the Holocaust began with silence and injustice, not concentration camps. He called for using human rights tools to prevent history’s darkest chapters from repeating, noting that modern society has unprecedented access to information and education to recognize the dangers of exclusion. Meanwhile, fact-checkers and Holocaust experts warned of a surge in AI-generated fake images of Holocaust victims, used for profit or revisionist propaganda. Historian Jens-Christian Wagner noted some images depict well-fed prisoners to downplay camp conditions. Memorial sites also reported increased disrespect and far-right incidents, especially in rural eastern Germany.

AUSTRALIA CANCELS VISA OF ISLAMOPHOBIC INFLUENCER

On January 26, 2026, Australia revoked the visa of Israeli influencer Sammy Yahood, known for calling Islam a “repugnant ideology”. Immigration Minister Tony Burke stated, “Spreading hate is not a valid reason to visit.”

ICC PRESIDENT WARNS OF SYSTEMATIC THREATS TO RULE OF LAW

On January 27, 2026, ICC President Tomoko Akane warned that the rule of law is “systematically” under threat, with the court facing unprecedented pressure, coercive measures, and attempts to undermine its function. The US imposed sanctions on ICC judges for issuing arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while Russia sentenced ICC prosecutor Karim Khan and judges in absentia for warrants against President Vladimir Putin.

CHINA & RUSSIA PLEDGE TO STRENGTHEN STRATEGIC COORDINATION

On January 27, 2026, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun and Russian counterpart Andrei Belooussov agreed to “strengthen strategic coordination” and joint responses to security risks, according to Chinese state media. Belooussov cited the need to analyze threats following US actions in Venezuela and Iran. China, while officially neutral on the Ukraine war, is accused by Western governments of providing Russia with critical military and economic support.

FAMILIES OF TRINIDADIANS KILLED IN US STRIKE SUE FOR DAMAGES

On January 27, 2026, families of Chad Joseph, 26, and Rishi Samaroo, 41, filed a lawsuit against the US government for the October 14, 2025, strike off Venezuela that killed them and four others. The US claimed the boat carried drug traffickers; the families call it an “extrajudicial killing” without evidence. Families seek accountability while the US Justice Department deemed such strikes lawful. In December, a Colombian fisherman’s family filed a similar complaint with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.

NORTH KOREA TO UNVEIL NEXT NUCLEAR DETERRENCE PLANS

On January 27, 2026, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced plans to reveal the “next step” in the country’s nuclear deterrence at an upcoming ruling party congress, citing “complex international events” and US threats. The tests followed US sanctions on Venezuela’s Maduro and Trump’s threats against Iran.

FRANCE HALTS GAZA SCHOLARS PROGRAM DUE TO RAFAH CLOSURE

On January 28, 2026, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed the suspension of new enrollments for Gazans in the PAUSE emergency program for threatened scientists and artists, citing logistical issues due to the Rafah crossing closure. Barrot stated, “It would be misleading to give hope to these laureates when the crossing is blocked.” Researcher Marion Slitine noted 21 laureates and 115 family members remain trapped in Gaza.

US JUDGE GRANTS ASYLUM TO CHINESE ACTIVIST WHO INVESTIGATED UYGHUR CAMPS

On January 28, 2026, a US immigration judge granted asylum to Guan Heng, 38, who filmed suspected Uyghur detention sites in China’s Xinjiang region in late 2021. Guan Heng, detained by ICE, documented several locations as potential detention centers before fleeing China and entering the US illegally via South America. His lawyer, Chen Chuangchuang, called Guan’s actions “extraordinarily morally courageous.”

The US has 30 days to appeal. China denies allegations of detaining over a million Uyghurs, claiming its policies combat extremism and promote economic development.