WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL NEWS REVIEW – Jan.10th – 16th 2026

SUDAN

GOVERNMENT RETURNS TO KHARTOUM AFTER WAR DISPLACEMENT

On January 11, 2026, Sudanese Prime Minister Kamel Idris announced the government’s return to Khartoum, two and a half years after moving to Port-Soudan due to the conflict. Idris pledged to restore hospitals, education, electricity, water, and sanitation services. The army retook the capital in March 2024, and more than 1 million people have since returned, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). However, basic services remain devastated, with the UN estimating $350 million needed for infrastructure rehabilitation.

UN WARNS OF IMMINENT FOOD AID SHUTDOWN

On January 15, 2026, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned that food aid stocks in Sudan could be exhausted by the end of March without immediate additional funding. Ross Smith, WFP’s emergency response director, stated that $700 million is urgently required to continue operations until June. Over 21 million people, nearly half the population, face acute food insecurity. Famine has been confirmed in El-Facher (North Darfur) and Kadougli (South Kordofan), with similar conditions suspected in Dilling. The UN recently delivered over a ton of humanitarian supplies to El-Facher for the first time since May 2024. US envoy Massad Boulos noted ongoing mediation efforts, but a diplomatic source said no ceasefire proposal is currently on the table.

NIGERIA

28 FREED AFTER KIDNAPPING IN DECEMBER

On January 10, 2026, Nigerian security forces secured the release of 28 Muslims, including women and children, kidnapped on December 21, 2025 while traveling to a celebration. Authorities did not specify the circumstances of their release. Ransom payments remain illegal in Nigeria, though such practices are widely suspected.

US DELIVERS MILITARY AID TO NIGERIA

On January 13, 2026, the US Africa Command (Africom) announced the delivery of essential military supplies to Abuja, to support ongoing anti-jihadist operations. This follows US airstrikes on December 25, 2025, when 16 missiles from MQ-9 Reaper drones targeted Islamic State-linked fighters in Bauni Forest, Sokoto state, an unusual location for jihadist activity in Nigeria. The strikes were authorized after US President Donald Trump accused Nigerian armed groups of persecuting Christians and the Nigerian government of inaction, claims denied by Abuja. Nigeria’s government confirmed the security partnership had been “strengthened,” with Nigerian military aircraft now relying on US reconnaissance for their own strikes.

MALI

JIHADISTS TARGET INDUSTRIAL SITES, KIDNAP 4

On January 12, 2026, armed jihadists attacked three industrial sites and abducted four civilians in western Mali’s Kayes region. About 160 militants on motorcycles participated in the raids, according to Wamaps, a Sahel-focused journalism group. Ibrahima Diawara, CEO of Stones factory producing calcium carbonate, lime, and plaster near Bafoulabé, reported “considerable damage,” while two other nearby factories were also burned. A local official confirmed the kidnappings and called for increased security. The attacks, unclaimed as of January 12, align with the JNIM strategy to cripple Mali’s economy by targeting fuel convoys and industrial sites, causing fuel shortages and power cuts in Bamako.

UGANDA

UGANDA’S “MILITARY STATE”: OPPOSITION LEADERS DETAINED

On January 13, 2026, relatives of detained Ugandan opposition figures gathered at the home of Kizza Besigye, imprisoned for over a year, highlighting the country’s deteriorating human rights record. Kampala Mayor Erias Lukwago called the upcoming elections a “showdown” between Ugandans and their president. Besigye was abducted in Kenya in 2024 and secretly transferred to a Ugandan military prison on treason charges. Winnie Byanyima, Besigye’s wife and UNAIDS director, described Uganda as a “military state” with institutions “captured” by head of State Museveni. Police and military recruits are used to infiltrate and disrupt opposition activities. The government has also restricted Starlink imports.

UGANDA BLOCKS INTERNET AHEAD OF ELECTIONS

On January 13, 2026, Uganda cut off internet access nationwide, two days before presidential and parliamentary elections, citing the need to curb misinformation and electoral fraud. The Uganda Communications Commission ordered the shutdown, which AFP journalists confirmed in Kampala. Netblocks reported a “nationwide disruption.” The move contradicts government assurances that internet would remain open. Museveni, 81, held his final campaign rally as the shutdown began, drawing thousands of supporters. Opposition figures and NGOs condemned the blackout, with Reporters Without Borders and Human Rights Watch warning of rising repression. At least five journalists have been assaulted since September, and ten NGOs were recently ordered to halt operations. The UN and Amnesty International have documented widespread intimidation, including the arrest of 400 opposition supporters and the killing of one in November.

BOBI WINE PLEDGES PROTESTS IF ELECTION FRAUD OCCURS

On January 12, 2026, Ugandan opposition leader and presidential candidate Bobi Wine said he would call for protests if President Yoweri Museveni’s government commits election fraud. With 20 million registered voters, Museveni, seeking a seventh term after 40 years in power, appears set to win due to his control over state and security institutions. Bobi Wine said that Museveni’s regime “responds to everything with violence,” but insisted non-violent protest could prevail. Amnesty International reports at least 400 NUP supporters arrested in recent months, with one killed in November.

UGANDANS VOTE

On January 15, 2026, Ugandans voted in presidential and parliamentary elections marked by heavy police presence, internet blackout, and widespread intimidation. Polling stations opened in Kampala, but delays were reported elsewhere. The Daily Monitor published a guide on “protecting your home during elections,” reflecting public anxiety. The UN condemned the climate of “generalized repression.” Police warned against “criminal acts” and deployed newly recruited auxiliary agents.

BOBI WINE PLACED UNDER HOUSE ARREST

On January 16, 2026, Uganda’s electoral commission announced preliminary results showing Yoweri Museveni leading with 76.25% of the vote, while Bobi Wine trailed at 19.85%. Wine’s party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), reported that security forces had surrounded his home, effectively placing him under house arrest. Police vehicles and officers were seen outside his residence. Wine accused the government of “massive ballot stuffing” and arresting party officials during the internet blackout. Technical issues marred voting, and final results are expected by January 17.

ETHIOPIA-ERYTHREA

ETHIOPIA SEIZES AMMUNITION ALLEGEDLY SENT BY ERITREA

On January 14, 2026, Ethiopian police announced the seizure of over 56,000 rounds of ammunition in the Amhara region, allegedly sent by Eritrea to arm the Fano armed group, Amhara ethnic rebels fighting federal authorities. The munitions, transported by truck, transited through Tigray with the help of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), according to Ethiopian police. TPLF vice-president Amanuel Assefa dismissed the claims as “unfounded allegations,” suggesting Addis Ababa seeks to undermine the 2022 Pretoria peace accord. Eritrea’s Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel later called the accusations “false pretexts for war,” as tensions escalate between the two nations. Eritrean President Issaias Afwerki had declared on state TV that Ethiopia’s ruling party had “declared war” on Eritrea.

LEBANON

ISRAELI STRIKES IN THE SOUTH KILL ONE

On January 11, 2026, Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed one person and targeted alleged Hezbollah infrastructure. The Lebanese Health Ministry reported a fatal strike on a car in Bent Jbeil, while the Israeli military claimed it hit a Hezbollah “terrorist”. Israeli warplanes also struck Kfar Hata, Mahmudiyeh, al-Dimasqiyeh, al-Bureij, and Jezzine, causing significant damage.

UN PEACEKEEPERS REPORT ISRAELI FIRE ON THEIR POSITIONS

On January 12, 2026, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) reported that an Israeli Merkava tank fired three shells within 150 meters of its peacekeepers near the Lebanese-Israeli border. UNIFIL stated that its troops were also targeted by laser from the tanks, calling the incident a “grave violation” of UN Security Council resolutions. Such attacks on identifiable UN personnel have become “regular to a worrying degree,” the force warned. Israel maintains a presence in five strategic areas of southern Lebanon, despite the November 2024 ceasefire.

STRIKES HIT THE EAST

On January 15, 2026, the Israeli military struck targets in eastern Lebanon, including the towns of Sohmor and Machgara in the Bekaa Valley, after ordering civilians to evacuate. The Lebanese news agency Ani reported strikes on two houses in Machgara and additional attacks in the east.

LEBANON CHARGES 4 WITH KIDNAPPING FOR MOSSAD

On January 15, 2026, Lebanese judicial authorities charged four individuals, including a Franco-Lebanese, with kidnapping retired General Ahmad Shoukr on behalf of Israel’s secret services. Shoukr disappeared on December 17, 2025, in the Bekaa Valley. His brother, Hassan Shoukr, was involved in the 1986 capture of Israeli pilot Ron Arad. The suspects allegedly worked for Mossad “for sums of money.” Mossad is accused of regularly recruiting Lebanese informants for operations, including a 2024 pager bomb attack on Hezbollah members.

PALESTINE

HEAVY RAINS DESTROY GAZA’S MAKESHIFT CAMPS, WORSEN HUMANITARIAN CRISIS

On January 9, 2026, heavy rains and strong winds devastated makeshift camps across the Gaza Strip, leaving displaced families without shelter. The UN reported that December’s storms affected 65,000 households, with some camps completely flooded. A displaced resident from Khan Younès, described tents as unable to withstand the weather. Nearly the entire population has been displaced at least once since October 2023. Aid organizations warn of worsening conditions, citing Israeli restrictions on humanitarian access.

HAMAS ACCUSES US OF COVERING ISRAELI STRIKES THAT KILLED 13 IN GAZA

On January 9, 2026, Hamas official Bassem Naïm accused the US of “covering” for Israeli airstrikes that killed 13 Palestinians, including 5 children, despite the ongoing ceasefire. The Gaza Civil Defense reported the deaths, while the Israeli military later claimed the strikes targeted Hamas “terrorists” preparing attacks. Naïm denounced Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s “insistence on evading his commitments” and sabotaging the ceasefire agreement.

UNICEF: OVER 100 CHILDREN KILLED IN GAZA SINCE CEASEFIRE

On January 13, 2026, UNICEF reported that at least 100 children, 60 boys and 40 girls, have been killed in Gaza since the October ceasefire, averaging one child death per day. UNICEF spokesperson James Elder cited airstrikes, drone attacks, tank and infantry fire as causes. Gaza’s Health Ministry put the toll at 165 children, with seven more dying of hypothermia in early 2026. Elder warned of untreated psychological trauma and suffocating living conditions. He also condemned Israel’s January 1 suspension of 37 foreign NGOs, calling it a blockade on vital aid and witness accounts. Since October 2023, over 70,000 people have been killed, and 80% of Gaza’s buildings are destroyed or damaged.

HAMAS PLANS INTERNAL ELECTIONS TO REPLACE DECEASED LEADERS

On January 12, 2026, Hamas sources announced plans for internal elections in early 2026 to replace leaders killed in the war with Israel. The process will elect a 50-member Shura from Gaza, the West Bank, and abroad, which will then choose an 18-member Political Bureau and its leader. Khalil al-Hayya and Khaled Mechaal are seen as leading candidates. Al-Hayya, 65, is the movement’s chief negotiator and has military support, while Mechaal, 69, is a former Political Bureau head based in Qatar. Hamas has operated with a temporary five-member bureau since 2024.

ISRAELI FORCES KILL MAN IN HEBRON

On January 11, 2026, Israeli forces shot and killed Shaker Falah Ahmad al-Jaabari, 58, in Hebron, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

NETANYAHU’S CHIEF OF STAFF ARRESTED OVER CLASSIFIED LEAKS

On January 11, 2026, Israeli police arrested Tzachi Braverman, Netanyahu’s chief of staff, on suspicion of obstructing an investigation into the leak of a classified document from Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar to German media in September 2024. The leak was used to bolster Netanyahu’s argument for continued military pressure. Former advisor Eli Feldstein accused Braverman of attempting to suppress the probe. Opposition leader Yair Lapid called for Braverman’s suspension as ambassador to the UK.

ISRAEL KILLS SIX IN SOUTHERN GAZA

On January 14, 2026, the Israeli military claimed killing six armed Hamas fighters in western Rafah. The clash followed what Israel called a “flagrant violation” of the ceasefire. The truce remains precarious, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

BEDOUIN COMMUNITY FORCED OUT BY ISRAELI SETTLER VIOLENCE

On January 14, 2026, the Bedouin village of Ras Ein al-Auja in the occupied West Bank began dismantling homes and livestock enclosures after sustained attacks by Israeli settlers. Farhan Jahaleen, a resident, stated that 50 of 130 families had left, with 20 departing on January 8. Settlers diverted the village’s water source in May 2025 and repeatedly cut electricity and irrigation lines. Naïf Zayed and Naaman Ehrizat described constant harassment and the impossibility of defending their homes without risking arrest. The Israeli army acknowledged the incidents. International observers call the strategy “pastoral colonialism,” aiming to displace Palestinian herders.

US LAUNCHES PHASE 2 OF GAZA PLAN

On January 14, 2026, US envoy Steve Witkoff announced the start of “Phase 2” of Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan, focusing on Hamas’s disarmament, governance and reconstruction. A 15-member Palestinian committee, agreed upon by all parties, will administer Gaza under a US-led Peace Council. Witkoff warned Hamas to fulfill its obligations, including returning the body of Israeli hostage Ran Gvili, or face “serious consequences.” Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar facilitated the talks.

PALESTINIAN ENGINEER ALI SHAATH TO LEAD GAZA RECONSTRUCTION

On January 15, 2026, Ali Shaath, a civil engineer and former Palestinian Authority official, was named to head Gaza’s transitional reconstruction committee. Born in 1958 in Khan Younès, Shaath studied in Egypt and the UK and held senior roles in planning, infrastructure, and international cooperation. He emphasized the need to “build anew,” not just reconstruct, and outlined priorities: shelter for 2.2 million displaced Gazans, water purification, and debris management, proposing to push rubble into the Mediterranean to expand Gaza’s land. Both Hamas and Fatah have expressed support, though Fatah’s official endorsement remains pending.

SYRIA

KURDISH STRONGHOLDS IN ALEPPO UNDER SIEGE: 21 CIVILIANS KILLED

On January 7, 2026, the Syrian army launched a major offensive against Kurdish-held neighborhoods in Aleppo, targeting Cheikh Maqsoud and Achrafieh. By January 10, the army claimed to have ended operations in Cheikh Maqsoud, asserting control and announcing the transfer of Kurdish fighters to Tabaqa. However, Kurdish forces denied the claim, stating that fighting continued. The clashes, the deadliest in Aleppo since the fall of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, killed at least 21 civilians and displaced 155,000 residents. Civilians like Imad al-Ahmad and Nahed Mohammad Qassab described fleeing their homes, with some still trapped inside. The Syrian government suggested “humanitarian corridors” for civilians to leave, while Kurdish official Elham Ahmed insisted on maintaining local Kurdish protection.

KURDISH FIGHTERS EVACUATE ALEPPO AFTER DEADLY CLASHES

On January 11, 2026, the Kurdish SDF announced the evacuation of their fighters from Aleppo’s Cheikh Maqsoud and Achrafieh neighborhoods after days of heavy fighting. Civilians returned to find destroyed homes and looted property. The Syrian army confirmed the departure of SDF convoys, while crowds in Qamichli vowed revenge for the fallen. The SDF reported forced displacements and abductions. US envoy Tom Barrack and President al-Chareh both called for calm, but tensions remained high as negotiations over Kurdish autonomy stalled.

SYRIAN ARMY DEPLOYS REINFORCEMENTS EAST OF ALEPPO

On January 14, 2026, the Syrian army sent reinforcements to Deir Hafer, east of Aleppo, and warned civilians to avoid Kurdish positions ahead of a planned offensive. President Ahmad al-Chareh reiterated calls for Kurdish integration into the state. The Kurds accused the army of bombing civilian sites, including a post office and bakery, and warned of a broader conflict. The army demanded the Kurdish armed groups to withdraw from Deir Hafer to the Euphrates, declaring the area a “closed military zone.”

SYRIAN ARMY ADVANCES ON KURDISH TERRITORY

On January 15, 2026, the Syrian army massed troops in Aleppo. Local residents accused Kurdish forces of preventing evacuations and using civilians as human shields, a charge denied by SDF spokesperson Farhad Shami. The Kurdish administration warned of a “new war” and urged international intervention. President al-Chareh, in an interview, called on SDF leader Mazloum Abdi to cooperate, rejecting current Kurdish demands for autonomy.

YEMEN

SEPARATIST LEADER CALLS FOR PROTESTS IN ADEN, DEFIES SAUDI ARABIA

On January 15, 2026, STC leader Aidarous al-Zoubaidi, accused of “high treason” and removed from Yemen’s Presidential Council, called for mass protests in Aden, his first public statement since disappearing over a week ago. In a message broadcast by the pro-STC Aden Independent Channel, al-Zoubaidi urged supporters to rally for southern independence and the release of STC members detained in Saudi Arabia. His whereabouts remain disputed: Saudi officials claim he fled to the UAE, while the STC insists he is still in Yemen. The call to protest follows Saudi-led forces’ recent reversal of STC territorial gains and the movement’s January declaration of an independent southern state. The STC, backed by the UAE, seeks to restore South Yemen, which existed from 1967 to 1990.

IRAN

KHAMENEI VOWS NO RETREAT

On January 9, 2026, Iran’s head of State Ali Khamenei declared the Islamic Republic would “not retreat” against protesters, as demonstrations entered their 13th day. Khamenei denounced “saboteurs” and accused the US of interference, while state TV showed pro-regime rallies and damage allegedly caused by protesters. Internet remained cut off, with connectivity at 1% of normal levels. The Revolutionary Guards vowed to protect the regime, and the judiciary promised “maximum punishment” for “rioters.” Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the last shah, called for more protests.

PROTESTS INTENSIFY, HOSPITALS OVERWHELMED

On January 11, 2026, protests spread across Iran despite a 60-hour internet blackout. Videos showed large crowds in Tehran and Mashhad, while footage depicted families identifying bodies at a Tehran morgue. A AFP-authenticated video showed dozens of bodies in black bags outside Kahrizak morgue, south of Tehran. At this date, the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) confirmed 116 deaths, including 37 security personnel. Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR) and Hengaw linked the bodies to protest repression, calling it a “crime of considerable gravity.” Rights groups accused security forces of using live ammunition. The Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) warned of a “massacre,” with hospitals overwhelmed and blood supplies dwindling. Police announced major arrests. The US and Iran exchanged threats. Internet and mobile lines remained cut, raising fears of a higher death toll.

REGIME ORGANIZES RALLIES, DEATH TOLL RISES SIGNIFICANTLY

On January 12, 2026, State media reported dozens of security deaths, while IHR confirmed 192 protester deaths and warned of up to 2,000. The MEK opposition group claimed over 3,000 killed. Thousands of regime supporters rallied in Tehran’s Revolution Square, waving Islamic Republic flags and honoring security forces killed in “riots.” Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf vowed war on “terrorists.” Internet remained cut. Authorities jammed Starlink terminals on a large scale, cutting off a key tool for protesters to bypass internet blackouts. Experts called it unprecedented, noting Iran’s advanced network control and possible Russian assistance. Starlink’s low-orbit satellites, while harder to block than traditional internet, were vulnerable to localized jamming. IHR raised the death toll to 648, with 10,000 arrests, and warned of possible 6,000 deaths.

INTERNATIONAL CALLS RESTORED, INTERNET REMAINS CUT

On January 13, 2026, international phone lines were restored in Iran, but internet access remained blocked since January 8.

AT LEAST 3,428 DEAD

On January 14, 2026, Norway-based IHR reported at least 3,428 protesters killed since the start of the uprising, with over 10,000 arrests. The updated figure came from sources within Iran’s health and education ministries. IHR called it a “minimum” and warned of even higher numbers. Iran’s judiciary vowed “rapid” and “public” trials for detained protesters, as rights groups warned of the first execution, Erfan Soltani, 26, scheduled for January 14. Judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei visited a Tehran prison, promising swift justice for “arsonists” and “decapitators.”

EASTERN EUROPE

RUSSIAN STRIKES KILL 4, UKRAINE IN DARKNESS

On January 13, 2026, Russian strikes killed at least 4 people and injured 6 near Kharkiv, hitting a Nova Poshta postal warehouse and a children’s sanatorium. Oleg Synegoubov, Kharkiv’s regional governor, confirmed the casualties, while witness Andriï Pidnebesny described the blast’s devastation. In Odessa, 47,000 households lost power after attacks on DTEK energy facilities. Six more were injured in Odessa’s city center. Kiev also faced blackouts as temperatures plunged to -15°C. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriï Sybiga and President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the targeting of civilian infrastructure, urging allies for more air defenses.

UKRAINIAN DRONES KILL TWO IN ROSTOV AND BELGOROD

On January 14, 2026, Ukrainian drone attacks killed 2 people and injured several in Rostov-on-Don and Belgorod. In Rostov, a residential building caught fire, killing one man and wounding four, including a 4-year-old child, according to Governor Iouri Slioussar. In Belgorod, a woman died and a man was injured when their car was destroyed, reported Governor Viatcheslav Gladkov. Ukraine has intensified drone strikes on Russian energy infrastructure in response to daily Russian bombardments.

MYANMAR

MYANMAR HOLDS SECOND PHASE OF JUNTA-ORGANIZED ELECTIONS

On January 11, 2026, Myanmar held the second phase of legislative elections, widely seen as a sham to legitimize military rule. The junta’s proxy party, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), won 90% of seats in the first phase. International observers and the UN condemned the polls as neither free nor fair, with opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi imprisoned and her party dissolved. Analysts say the junta seeks diplomatic cover and investment, while resistance groups dismiss the process.

GRAPHIC TESTIMONIES OF ROHINGYA GENOCIDE AT ICJ

On January 13, 2026, The Gambia presented evidence at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, accusing Myanmar’s military of systematically killing, raping and burning Rohingya men, women and children during the 2017 crackdown in Rakhine State. Gambian lawyer Tafadzwa Pasipanodya described soldiers decapitating elders, gang-raping women and children, and throwing infants into rivers before burning villages. The Gambia accuses Myanmar of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention. Over 1.17 million Rohingya now live in squalid camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Myanmar’s legal team will respond starting January 16. A ruling could take months or years, with no enforcement mechanism, but a favorable decision would increase political pressure on Myanmar. On January 16, 2026, Myanmar dismissed genocide allegations at the ICJ, calling them “unfounded.” Presidential Minister Ko Ko Hlaing argued that the 2017 military operations were justified counterinsurgency measures against “terrorists”.

BANGLADESH SUMMONS MYANMAR AMBASSADOR OVER BORDER CLASHES

On January 13, 2026, Bangladesh summoned Myanmar’s ambassador to protest cross-border violence between Myanmar’s junta and rebel groups, which injured a 12-year-old girl and a fisherman in Cox’s Bazar. Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry called the unprovoked gunfire a “flagrant violation of international law.” The ambassador pledged to prevent further incidents. Bangladesh also arrested 53 suspected Myanmar rebels.

SECRET TALKS FORM NEW REBEL ALLIANCE

Reports indicate that in late November 2025, 19 armed groups formed the Spring Revolution Alliance (SRA) to unify resistance against Myanmar’s junta. Led by Khun Bedu of the Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF), the alliance includes the Bamar People’s Liberation Army (BPLA) and the National Unity Government (NUG). The SRA aims to coordinate regional forces without centralizing command, addressing past fragmentation. Key figures include Maung Saungkha (BPLA) and Zaw Wai Soe (NUG). The alliance seeks to pool logistics, intelligence and weapons, and resolve territorial disputes among rebel groups. The junta, backed and equipped by Russia and China, has recently regained some ground.

LATIN AMERICA

VENEZUELAN ARMED GROUP VOW TO FIGHT

Venezuelan paramilitary groups, known as colectivos, expressed shock and anger, blaming “many betrayals” for the American operation which led to Maduro’s capture. Willians of the Boina Roja collective and Jorge Suárez both vowed readiness to fight, despite technological inferiority compared to US forces. The colectivos, armed and influential in working-class neighborhoods, have rallied behind interim leader Delcy Rodríguez, appointed by the Supreme Court and backed by the military. While they provide social services and security, critics accuse some factions of extortion and criminal activity. Alfredo Canchica of Fundación 3 Raíces dismissed rumors of further betrayals, insisting loyalty to Maduro’s legacy remains strong.

COLOMBIAN REBELS UNITE AGAINST THE US

On January 15, 2026, Antonio García, commander of Colombia’s ELN guerrilla group, pledged support for a united front with other armed factions to resist potential US military action in the region. The proposal, initially made by Ivan Mordisco of the FARC dissidents, follows Maduro’s capture and rising tensions with Washington. García stated the ELN would join any effort to “defend the homeland against foreign aggression” and accused the US of seeking to exploit Colombia’s natural resources. ELN and FARC dissidents control an estimated 9,400 fighters and are involved in drug trafficking and illegal mining along the porous Venezuela-Colombia border. Colombian President Gustavo Petro and US President Donald Trump agreed to “joint actions” against the ELN.

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

CHINA BACKS TANZANIA DESPITE PROTEST VIOLENT CRACKDOWN

On January 10, 2026, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, reaffirming China’s “solid support” despite the repression of October 2025 protests, which left 2,000 dead. Wang congratulated Tanzania on its “smooth elections,” condemned foreign interference, and pledged to deepen economic ties. China is Tanzania’s top investor, with trade and infrastructure projects worth billions.

TRUMP SHARES POST SUGGESTING RUBIO AS CUBA’S NEXT LEADER

On January 11, 2026, US President Donald Trump reposted a social media suggestion that Secretary of State Marco Rubio should become Cuba’s next leader. The post followed the US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a deadly raid on January 3, 2026.

NEPAL’S FORMER KING WARNS OF NATION’S COLLAPSE AFTER 2025 UNREST

On January 11, 2026, Nepal’s ex-king Gyanendra Shah expressed “deep concern” over the country’s future, four months after deadly protests toppled the government. The demonstrations, led by Gen Z activists against elite corruption, left 77 dead. Shah criticized political leaders for ignoring youth demands, warning of national “disappearance.”

SOMALIA CUTS ALL TIES WITH UAE OVER SOMALILAND

On January 12, 2026, Somalia’s government canceled all agreements with the United Arab Emirates, including security and defense pacts, citing “hostile actions” that undermine national sovereignty. The decision follows Israel’s recognition of breakaway Somaliland, perceived as UAE-backed, and reports that UAE facilitated the escape of a Yemeni separatist leader via a Somali port. The move affects UAE-managed ports in Berbera (Somaliland), Bosaso (Puntland), and Kismayo (Jubaland).

UK PAYS COMPENSATION TO GUANTÁNAMO DETAINEE OVER TORTURE CLAIMS

On January 12, 2026, the UK government paid “significant” compensation to Abu Zubaydah, a Palestinian detainee held at Guantánamo Bay for 20 years without trial. Zubaydah, 54, was the first CIA prisoner subjected to “enhanced interrogation” after 9/11, including 83 waterboarding sessions. His lawyers argued UK intelligence was complicit in his torture, sending questions to the CIA for his interrogations. The US later admitted he was never a member of Al-Qaeda. The UK did not confirm or deny involvement, citing national security. Zubaydah remains detained, deemed a “threat” by US authorities.

TANZANIA: EVIDENCE OF SUMMARY EXECUTIONS

On January 12, 2026, a UK-based NGO reported that Tanzanian security forces carried out “summary executions” during the October 2025 anti-government protests, which left over 2,000 dead. The Centre for Information Resilience analyzed 185 images, videos, and satellite data, confirming the use of live ammunition against fleeing protesters, including a pregnant woman in Arusha, and possible mass graves in Dar es Salaam and Mwanza. Internet was cut for five days, and authorities threatened to prosecute those sharing evidence.

RUSSIA EXPELS BRITISH DIPLOMAT OVER ESPIONAGE

On January 15, 2026, Russia expelled Gareth Samuel Davies, a British diplomat accused of being a spy. The FSB claimed Davies worked undercover as a second secretary at the UK embassy. Moscow warned of “decisive symmetrical retaliation” if London escalates. Davies was given two weeks to leave Russia.