WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL NEWS REVIEW – Mar. 21st – 27th 2026

SUDAN

ATROCITIES REVEALED IN RSF DETENTION CENTERS

On March 20, 2026, witnesses reported systemic torture and deaths within RSF detention centers in El-Fasher. 120 men were held in a suffocating container where some died of asphyxia. Survivors described being beaten with wooden bars, having fingernails pulled and being denied water. A woman suffered a miscarriage after being beaten and sexually assaulted for six weeks. The United Nations reported that 260 people died in a week during a cholera outbreak at the local pediatric hospital, another jail where over 2,000 men were crowded. The RSF allegedly transferred 6,000 detainees to Tagris prison in Nyala. Some survivors moved to Tawila after being released.

FATAL DRONE STRIKE ON DARFUR UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

On March 22, 2026, an attack on the El-Daein University Hospital killed at least 70 people, including 13 children, 2 nurses and 1 doctor. 146 people were wounded (including 8 health professionals). The strike destroyed pediatric and gynecological departments along with medical stocks. The World Health Organization condemned the violence against health workers and patients. Hala Khudari, a deputy representative for the WHO, stated the facility is no longer operational after suffering severe damage to its emergency and outpatient departments. According to the NGO Emergency Lawyers, two drones belonging to the Sudanese Army carried out the bombardment. The RSF claimed the military used Turkish « Akinji » drones. The Sudanese Army denied direct responsibility. This incident occurred in the capital of East Darfur, a region largely controlled by RSF paramilitaries.

ESCALATION OF BORDER COMBAT AND URBAN STRIKES

On March 23, 2026, strikes in the paramilitary-held town of Lagawa killed at least 15 people and injured 23. The RSF accused the Sudanese Army of conducting systematic drone campaigns against residential areas and markets. Simultaneously, fighting broke out near the Ethiopian border at Gurt, a strategic army position. The Sudanese Army 4th Infantry Division claimed to have repelled an assault. However, the RSF and its ally, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, SPLM-N, stated they « liberated » the area while capturing weapons. The United Nations special envoy Pekka Haavisto is monitoring the situation as the war has displaced at least 11 million people.

UN REPORTS MASSIVE CIVILIAN CASUALTIES FROM DRONES

On March 24, 2026, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights announced that drone strikes killed over 500 civilians between January and mid-March. Marta Hurtado, a spokesperson for the High Commissioner, specified that most deaths occurred in Kordofan. During the first two weeks of March 2026 alone, more than 277 civilians were killed, three-quarters by drones. Marta Hurtado urged member states to halt arms transfers fueling the conflict.

RSF SEIZE STRATEGIC ETHIOPIAN BORDER TOWN

On March 24, 2026, paramilitaries claimed control of Al Kurmuk in the Blue Nile region after intense fighting against the regular army. The RSF and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, SPLM-N, announced they « liberated » the strategic town and two neighboring localities. A pro-army government representative admitted the situation was critical for the remaining forces. Combat had been ongoing during the two previous days for this key position on a road linking Sudan to Ethiopia. The Sudanese Army has previously accused Ethiopia of allowing drone launches from its territory. Meanwhile, the United Nations envoy Pekka Haavisto arrived in Khartoum to meet General Abdel Fattah al-Burhane. Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates continue to deny providing logistical support or hosting RSF camps, despite reports mentioned by Egypt to the UN Security Council.

GOVERNOR ACCUSES ETHIOPIA OF SUPPORTING PARAMILITARY INVASION

On March 25, 2026, the pro-army governor of al-Kurmuk, Abdelatty al-Faki, accused Ethiopia of supporting the paramilitary offensive on the strategic border town. Abdelatty al-Faki described the attack as an « invasion » launched from within Ethiopian territory. He reported that 433 families fled to Damazin while others sought safety across the border. These accusations echo statements by Mustafa Tambour, leader of an allied militia, and Egyptian reports to the UN Security Council regarding RSF camps in Ethiopia. Satellite imagery analyzed by the AFP and AfriMEOSINT showed developments at a military base in Menge and the Asosa airport, where United Arab Emirates aircraft frequently land.

WIDESPREAD DRONE STRIKES KILL 28 CIVILIANS

On March 26, 2026, medical sources confirmed that 2 new drone strikes in areas held by rival factions killed at least 28 civilians. One strike hit the Saraf Omra market in North Darfur, an area controlled by the RSF, killing 22 people including 1 infant, and wounding 17. Another strike, attributed to the RSF, hit a truck in North Kordofan in army-held territory, leaving 6 dead and 10 wounded. Gassim Cherif Mahamat, the Chadian Information Minister, warned of a “proportionate response” after the strike in Tiné.

GUINEA

KEY PERPETRATOR OF 2009 MASSACRE DIES IN CUSTODY

On March 25, 2026, the prison administration announced the death of Aboubacar Sidiki Diakité, alias « Toumba », a key figure convicted of crimes against humanity. Aboubacar Sidiki Diakité, who was approximately 50 years old, died at 04:35 in the Samory Touré military hospital in Conakry. The former head of the protection unit for ex-dictator Moussa Dadis Camara was serving a 10-year prison sentence for his role in the September 28, 2009, massacre. On that day, security forces killed at least 156 people using firearms and bayonets and wounded hundreds of others during an opposition rally. At least 109 women were raped during the violence. Aboubacar Sidiki Diakité is the second convict from this case to die in detention following the death of Colonel Claude Pivi in January. Colonel Claude Pivi had served as security minister under Moussa Dadis Camara.

ZIMBABWE

OPPOSITION FIGURES ARRESTED AMID CONSTITUTIONAL DISPUTE

On March 21, 2026, the Constitution Defenders Forum (CDF) announced the arrest of opposition figure Tendai Biti and several other activists in Mutare. Tendai Biti, a former Finance Minister, was organizing a rally against a proposed constitutional reform to extend the term of President Emmerson Mnangagwa by 2 years (from 2028 to 2030). David Coltart, Mayor of Bulawayo, condemned the detention. Additionally, the student union Zinasu reported that 1 student leader was kidnapped at Chinhoyi University after opposing the reform during a meeting.

ETHIOPIA-ERITREA

DEADLY HUNGER IN TIGRAY DISPLACEMENT CAMPS

On March 23, 2026, Gebreselassie Tareke, director at the Tigray social affairs bureau, announced that 1,309 people died of hunger and lack of medicine in displacement camps over 3 years. Following the 2020-2022 war between the TPLF and federal forces backed by local militias, about 1 million people remain displaced. That conflict caused at least 600,000 deaths according to the African Union. Tensions remain high between federal authorities and regional leaders, accused of ties with Eritrea, while Eritrean soldiers occupy territory in violation of peace accords. Nationalists from the Amhara region also claim western Tigray. Most vulnerable populations reside in Shire and Hitsats.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

VIOLENCE AGAINST JOURNALISTS ESCALATES IN EASTERN REGIONS

On March 25, 2026, Reporters without borders reported that violence and pressure against journalists increased following conflict intensification in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Since January 2025, at least 8 journalists were imprisoned by M23 or military intelligence. Two journalists were held in containers alongside 80 detainees. M23 imposed ideology training on 4 journalists while censorship by the Conseil supérieur de l’audiovisuel et de la communication (CSAC) grew in Kinshasa. According to the Union nationale de la presse congolaise (UNPC), approximately 90 journalists fled their homes between 2023 and early 2025. This climate of fear has led some reporters to stop investigating certain facts to ensure their survival.

M23 WITHDRAW FROM SEVERAL EASTERN LOCALITIES

On March 26, 2026, local and humanitarian sources announced that the M23 armed group abandoned several localities in the Lubero territory without combat. M23 fighters withdrew from Kipese and villages near Lake Edward during the night of March 23 to March 24. The Kivu Security Tracker (KST) confirmed that M23 left at least 12 villages in the previous days. Pro-Kinshasa militias occupied some areas after the departure. While M23 members claimed this was a simple rotation, the movement follows a Washington meeting on March 17 and March 18 where delegates from the DRC and Rwanda discussed measures for a peace agreement. Combat persists near Minembwe in South Kivu as the region remains ravaged by conflicts for over 30 years.

LEBANON

SURGEON TREATS WOUNDED CHILDREN, DEADLY STRIKES & FIREFIGHTS IN THE SOUTH

On March 21, 2026, surgeon Ghassan Abou Sittah reported a « race against time » to save critical pediatric cases at the American University Hospital of Beirut. Between operations, the specialist described daily injuries including brain trauma, lesions and torn limbs resulting from Israeli strikes. He mentioned 3 sisters who required surgeries every 48 hours to remove necrotic tissue and clean wounds for reconstruction. Official records show 118 children dead and 370 wounded. Ghassan Abou Sittah noted that 4 hospitals in southern Beirut were lost to bombardment. He emphasized that transferring wounded children from rural areas like Nabatiyeh or Bekaa is dangerous because Israeli forces target ambulances. His youngest patient, a 4-year-old, lost his parents and 3 brothers in a bombardment. Through the Ghassan Abu Sittah Children’s Fund, he provides medical care and global support for child victims from poor backgrounds. On the same day, Hezbollah reported 4 hours of direct clashes using light weaponry and rockets against Israeli troops in Khiam and Naqoura. An Israeli strike on Bint Jbeil killed 1 person and injured 2 others. US ambassador Michel Issa praised President Joseph Aoun’s proposal for direct talks with Israel after meeting Patriarch Béchara al-Raï, although Michel Issa doubted Israel’s intent to end combat. Since March 2, the war has killed over 1,000 people and displaced 1 million. Israeli army’s spokesperson Ella Waweya stated the battle against Hezbollah is just starting.

ISRAELI MINISTER ORDERS DESTRUCTION OF BRIDGES & HOUSES, FRIENDLY FIRE KILLS A CIVILIAN

On March 22, 2026, Defense Minister Israël Katz ordered the military to destroy all bridges over the Litani River and accelerate the destruction of border homes “like in Beit Hanoun and Rafah”. This « wave of strikes » across southern Lebanon aimed to expand a « buffer zone ». An internal investigation revealed that Ofer « Poshko » Moskovitz, a civilian initially reported as a Hezbollah rocket victim, actually died from Israeli artillery shells fired at an incorrect angle. The Israeli army expressed regrets for this « operational error » to the Moskovitz family. Hezbollah claimed to target Israeli soldiers in Misgav Am with rockets. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir announced that the army would intensify operations to repulse Hezbollah from the border.

PRISONNERS OF WAR & DIRECT ENGAGEMENTS

On March 23, 2026, the Israeli army announced the capture of two elite Hezbollah al-Radwan force fighters in southern Lebanon who were preparing anti-tank strikes. Concurrently, an Israeli strike on an apartment in Hazmieh killed Moammad Ali Kourani, alias hajj Sadek or Abou Alaa, a member of the Iranian Al-Qods force. Mayor Jean Asmar announced measures to restrict displaced persons. Moammad Ali Kourani had previously escaped a March 4 raid that killed 1 person. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam claimed Iranian Revolutionary Guard members were directing Hezbollah operations. Israel also bombed the Dallafa bridge and a projectile, likely from a « non-state actor », hit the FINUL headquarters in Naqoura. Direct engagements between the Israeli army and Hezbollah also occurred in Naqoura, including in the city hall. Hezbollah also launched rockets and drones at al-Qaouzah, targeting Israeli troops. Israeli spokesperson Ella Waweya reiterated that military pressure would intensify. Hezbollah deputy Hussein al-Haj Hassan accused Israel of holding 20 Lebanese prisoners, including Atwi Atwi, a party leader. The official death toll rose to 1,039 people.

LEBANON EXPELS IRANIAN ENVOY

On March 24, 2026, Israeli raids killed 5 people in Tyre and 3 near Beirut, including a 4 year old girl in Bshamoun. Victims discovered their home in ruins despite being outside Hezbollah strongholds. In Tyre, archaeologist Nader Saqlaoui reported that Israeli strikes on the UNESCO site of Al-Bass killed a family of 8 near ancient remains. He described finding human remains on a museum roof. Culture Minister Ghassan Salamé denounced strikes on sites with no military presence while David Sassine noted artifact transport to Beirut is dangerous. An Israeli unit killed 1 person and wounded 1 another during an incursion in Halta. The Israeli rescue organization Magen David Adom reported that 1 woman was killed in northern Israel by rockets. Lebanese death toll rose to 1,072 deaths since March 2, including 121 children. Moreover, the Lebanese government expelled the Iranian ambassador for interference following claims that Iran directed Hezbollah operations. This move sparked a protest from Hezbollah, which demanded the ambassador stay. Defense Minister Israël Katz announced that Israeli forces are maneuvering to reach the Litani River, roughly 30 kilometers deep in the Lebanese territory.

IRANIAN MISSILE INTERCEPTION TRIGGERS REGIONAL TENSION

On March 25, 2026, the Lebanese army announced that an Iranian Qadr-110 ballistic missile caused explosions north of Beirut. The 16 meter missile exploded at high altitude, injuring several people with debris in Jounieh and Sahel Alma. Israeli raids in Nabatiyeh, Aadloun and the Mieh Mieh camp killed 9 people and wounded 23 others. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel is expanding a « buffer zone » in Lebanon. The military claimed to have dismantled Hezbollah command centers and a weapon depot. In Tyr, 20,000 people remained under siege, including elderly people who lack medicine. Deputy Mayor Alwan Charafeddine warned of a humanitarian catastrophe if the last bridge was destroyed like the others. Disaster manager Mortada Mhanna assisted displaced residents despite receiving Israeli evacuation orders. Total casualties reached 1,094 deaths, including 42 health workers. while 3,119 people were wounded. Hezbollah engaged an Israeli tank and soldiers near the border while firing rockets at Kiryat Shmona.

ISRAEL CLAIMS SEVEN HUNDRED MILITANTS KILLED

On March 26, 2026, Lieutenant-Colonel Nadav Shoshani claimed that Israeli forces killed about 700 Hezbollah members since March 2. Israeli strikes killed 5 people in Nabatiyeh and Bint Jbeil, while at least 1 Israeli soldier was KIA. Hezbollah intensified attacks, claiming to have targeted the Israeli Defense Ministry in Tel-Aviv. Hezbollah leader Naïm Qassem rejected negotiations « under fire » and demanded the government stop « criminalizing » its military actions. Negotiators Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, JD Vance and Marco Rubio discussed a 15 point peace plan involving a 1 month ceasefire. Experts Guillaume Lasconjarias, Orna Mizrahi and Joost Hiltermann noted that Israel might prolong combat despite talks between Washington and Tehran. The official death toll rose to 1,116 deaths including 121 children.

CLOSE QUARTERS BATTLE

On March 27, 2026, Hezbollah reported close quarters combats against Israeli troops in the southern villages of Bayada and Chamaa. Israeli aviation launched strikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs and southern Lebanon, killing at least 7 civilians. Raids in Saïda killed 4 civilians, while a strike in Bekaa killed a pregnant woman and wounded 7 others. Nicolas Von Arx of the International Committee of the Red Cross warned of the worsening humanitarian crisis after meeting President Joseph Aoun. The official death toll rose to 1,142 people: 122 children, 937 men, 83 women and 42 health workers, with over 3,315 wounded and 1 million displaced. Hezbollah claimed over 90 attacks, including a rocket that killed 1 man in Nahariya. ANI press agency reported that Israeli units conducted raids in Halta, opening fire on residents and killing 1 person.

PALESTINE

CIVILIANS KILLED NEAR GAZA RE-ENTRY LINE

On March 19, 2026, the Gaza Civil Defense reported that 4 people were killed by Israeli military strikes in northern Gaza. Strikes hit the Al-Tuffah and Al-Zeitoun neighborhoods east of Gaza City. While the Al-Chifa hospital received the bodies of 4 civilians, the Israeli army stated that its troops identified and eliminated 4 “terrorists” near the « line yellow ». This escalation occurred as the Rafah crossing briefly reopened after a closure ordered on February 28. Concurrently, the military announced the previous elimination of Mohammed Abou Chaleh, the Hamas military intelligence chief in Khan Younes, who was accused of participating in the planning of the October 7, 2023 massacre. The Gaza Ministry of Health recorded at least 677 Palestinian deaths since the October 10, 2025 truce began. The Israeli army reported 5 soldiers killed in its ranks during this same period.

SURGEON DESCRIBES PEDIATRIC CATASTROPHE IN WAR ZONES

On March 21, 2026, surgeon Ghassan Abou Sittah reported a « race against time » to save children wounded by Israeli bombardment. The Palestino-British specialist, who previously spent 43 days in Gaza in 2023, treated critical injuries including brain trauma, missing limbs and shrapnel wounds. He highlighted the case of 3 sisters needing surgery every 48 hours to remove necrotic tissue and clean wounds for reconstruction. Through the Ghassan Abu Sittah Children’s Fund, he provides medical and psychological support to children from poor backgrounds facing the destruction of their family units.

SETTLERS LAUNCH LARGE SCALE ARSON RAIDS

On March 22, 2026, Palestinian residents reported that approximately 200 Israeli settlers set fire to homes and vehicles in the northern West Bank. Attackers from the Homesh colony targeted Fandaqumiya, where houses were destroyed, including with Molotov cocktails thrown through windows. In Jalud, a medical center was torched and Hebrew graffiti was spray-painted on the mosque. The Palestinian Red Crescent and the Wafa agency confirmed vehicle arsons in Qaryout and at least 3 wounded Palestinians. The Israeli army dispatched forces to stop the « criminal arsons ». Eyal Zamir, the Army Chief of Staff, expressed public concern over settler violence. Since March 2, 6 Palestinians have been killed by settlers. Total casualties in the West Bank since October 7, 2023, reach 1,050 Palestinians and 45 Israelis.

INVESTIGATION REVEALS FRIENDLY FIRE KILLED ISRAELI CIVILIAN

On March 22, 2026, an Israeli civilian identified as Ofer « Poshko » Moskovitz was killed at the Misgav Am kibboutz by Israeli military fire. Initial reports from emergency services suggested the 30 year old man died when a Hezbollah anti-tank missile hit his car. However, an Israeli army investigation later revealed « several serious failures and operational errors ». The military confirmed that 5 Israeli artillery shells intended to support troops in southern Lebanon were fired at an incorrect angle and struck Misgav Am instead of the enemy target. The army expressed deep regret and offered condolences to the Moskovitz family for the breach of required protocols.

FATAL STRIKE ON DISPLACEMENT CAMP

On March 25, 2026, a 22 year old man identified as Abdoul Rahmane Qanbour was killed during an Israeli air strike south of Deir el-Balah, Gaza. The Martyrs of Al-Aqsa hospital confirmed the death and reported 7 others wounded at the All-Sitt displacement camp. Mahmoud Bassal, spokesperson for the Gaza Civil Defense, described tents in flames following the bombardment. Concurrently in East Jerusalem, border guards killed 21 year old Qassem Shqérat in Jabal Mukaber. Police claimed Qassem Shqérat attempted to seize an agent’s weapon during a raid against « terrorist suspects », leading to his death and the arrest of 3 others. Furthermore, authorities expelled 11 Palestinian families from Silwan. The Israeli NGO B’Tselem warned that this marks the start of a displacement wave threatening 2,200 people under a 1970 property law designed to “judaize” the neighborhood.

DEATHS DURING MILITARY INCURSIONS

On March 27, 2026, the Ministry of Health in Ramallah announced that Israeli military fire killed 2 Palestinians north of Jerusalem. Moustapha Asaad Hamad, aged 22, bled to death in Kafr Aqab after a bullet hit an artery in his leg. His father, Asaad Hamad, stated the army entered at midnight, triggering clashes. Later, 46 year old Ahmed Saleh Abou Leil died from injuries sustained during a raid in the Qalandia camp. The Israeli army confirmed operations against stone-throwers, stating they fired at « principal instigators ». These raids took place within the « Capital Shield » operation launched in 2026. Tolls in the West Bank since the Gaza war began reach 1,053 Palestinians and 46 Israelis.

PALESTINIAN ACTIVIST PLOT THWARTED IN THE US

On March 27, 2026, in the US, the FBI thwarted an imminent assassination plot against Nerdeen Kiswani, leader of the Palestinian rights group Within Our Lifetime. At least 1 person was arrested in Hoboken, New Jersey, USA. Nerdeen Kiswani accused the Betar movement and Republican politician Randy Fine of encouraging violence against her family. Randy Fine had publicly commented on choosing between dogs and Muslims.

INVESTIGATION DETAILS WAR CRIME ACCUSATIONS AGAINST ELITE UNIT

On March 29, 2026, an investigation by Le Monde detailed systematic war crimes committed by the Israeli Golani Brigade. The unit escalated violence, under Lieutenant-Colonel Tomer Grinberg command, killed in December 2023. The brigade captured the Gaza Parliament. On March 23, 2025, the Sayeret Golani elite unit massacred 14 Red Crescent rescuers and 1 UN employee, north of Rafah. The New York Times revealed that soldiers executed survivors after 6 minutes of firing. Brigadier Major Nikolai Ashurov was the only officer sanctioned, for an « incomplete report”, while Lieutenant David Cohen supported him. The brigade also used tanks to strike Nasser Hospital, killing 22 people including 5 journalists. General Yehuda Vach implemented « Kill Zones » where any Palestinian was considered a target and shot, regardless of their status under IHL. Journalist Younis Tirawi and the NGO of former Israeli security forces members, Breaking the Silence, also documented the destruction of Lebanese villages like Tayr Harfa by the Golani Brigade. The unit remains popular in Israel and includes fighters of 30 nationalities, including French citizens.

IRAN-GULF-ISRAEL-US

16 BILLION WORTH OF WEAPONS

On March 21, 2026, Admiral Brad Cooper of the Centcom announced that the United States army destroyed an underground Iranian facility in the Strait of Hormuz housing cruise missiles, intelligence sites and radar equipment. That same evening, Iranian ballistic missiles equipped with heavy warheads struck Arad and Dimona in southern Israel. In Arad, a direct hit on the city center injured at least 84 people, including 10 serious cases, and caused severe structural damage to 3 buildings. Another missile crashed 5 kilometers from the Israeli Dimona nuclear research center, injuring 30 people and destroying residential properties. The rescuers organisation Magen David Adom reported an event of massive scale with residents cut off from contact. Operations to find people under rubble took hours. Benjamin Netanyahu recognized a difficult night while Tehran described these strikes as a response to an attack on the Natanz nuclear site. The US approved weapon sales worth over 16 billion dollars to United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

ISRAEL TARGETS TEHRAN & A JAPANESE PRISONER LIBERATED

On March 22, 2026, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi announced that Iran released 1 unidentified Japanese citizen while a second individual, potentially a NHK employee, remains detained. The Japanese minister Toshimitsu Motegi had pressured Abbas Araghchi for this release. Concurrently, the Israeli army launched strikes against infrastructures in the heart of Tehran.

MORE STRIKES & MORE VICTIMS

On March 23, 2026, a second wave of attacks hit northern, central, eastern and western districts of the Iranian capital. Simultaneously, United States forces targeted a radio transmitter in Bandar Abbas, killing 1 security agent and injuring 1 another. Facing a Donald Trump ultimatum to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Iran threatened to mine the Gulf’s waters and target United States desalination plants and power grids. Mirjana Spoljaric of the ICRC warned that strikes on nuclear sites like Natanz and Dimona risked a point of no return. Israeli spokespersons Effie Defrin and Eyal Zamir announced that Israel was prepared for several weeks of combat against Iran and Hezbollah. While the Iranian health ministry estimated 1,200 civilian deaths earlier in the month, the NGO HRANA reported at least 1,407 civilians killed, including 214 children since the escalation. The NGO Hengaw also documented an earlier strike in Naqadeh that killed 11 workers.

CLUSTER MISSILES HIT TEL AVIV, US DEPLOYS PARATROOPERS & CASUALTIES IN BAHRAIN

On March 24, 2026, in Israel, a direct strike by an Iranian cluster missile on a Tel-Aviv apartment building injured 4 people who inhaled smoke. Mayor Ron Huldai inspected the building which had its facade torn open. Later, another barrage hit Bnei Brak and Givat Shmuel, injuring 12 people, including 6 minors and a 23 year old man with shrapnel wounds. In southern Israel, 3 Beduins (a 40 year old man, a 26 year old woman and a 2 month old infant) were injured by missile debris. Tehran authorities arrested 466 people for using the internet to spread “propaganda”. The Iranian Atomic Energy Organization reported that a projectile struck the Bushehr nuclear plant enclosure, causing no critical damage. The Pentagon prepared to deploy 3,000 paratroopers from the 82nd airborne division in the region and a US strike killed paramilitaries in Iraq. The Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Chia al-Soudani announced he would accelerate the end of the anti-jihadist coalition following the strikes. In Bahrain, a Moroccan employee for the UAE army was killed in an Iranian attack that injured 5 others. Skylar Thompson of HRANA and Awyar Shekhi of Hengaw highlighted the difficulty of documenting victims due to the internet blackout.

RUSSIA EVACUATES NUCLEAR STAFF

On March 25, 2026, Alexeï Likhatchev, head of Russian nuclear company Rosatom, announced the evacuation of 163 Russians from the Bushehr nuclear plant to the Armeno-Iranian border. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt warned that Donald Trump would « unleash hell » if Tehran refuses to comply with US plans.

CASUALTIES IN THE GULF AMID PEACE PLAN RUMORS

On March 26, 2026, Iranian missile debris killed 2 people and injured 3 others in Abu Dhabi. In Nahariya, Israel, a 30 year old man was killed by shrapnel from a strike. Iranian missiles also injured 6 people in the city of Kafr Qassem where cluster bombs damaged vehicles. Mayor Haitham Taha confirmed the use of sub-munitions while the rescue organization Magen David Adom treated victims. A 11 year old girl suffered a heart stroke during an alert in Safed. Abdel Malek al-Houthi, leader of the Yemeni Houthis, threatened immediate military intervention. To reinforce security in Tehran, Rahim Nadali, from the Revolution Guards, announced that the minimum age for Bassidj volunteers was lowered to 12 years old. Three explosions were heard in northern Tehran under heavy rain. Rumors emerged of a 15-points peace plan involving Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, JD Vance and Marco Rubio, including a 1-month ceasefire.

MASSIVE AERIAL CAMPAIGN TARGETS IRANIAN CAPITAL

On March 27, 2026, at the UN, Iranian minister Abbas Araghchi accused the United States of a « calculated » attack on a Minab school that killed 175 students and teachers. The UN called for an impartial investigation while Mohaddeseh Falahat, mother of 2 victims, pleaded for justice. Ahmad Alavi from the Iranian government reported that strikes damaged 120 museums and historical sites, including the Golestan Palace. HRANA’s toll reached 3,329 deaths in Iran, including 221 children and 1,167 combatants. In Bahrain, authorities have arrested approximately 200 people since February 28 for pro-Iranian activities. Naji Fateel reported the arrest of his son Hussein Fateel for protesting with a photo of Ali Khamenei. The Institute for democracy BIRD reported the death in custody of 32 year old militant Mohamed Almosawi, whose body showed signs of torture. Niku Jafarnia from HRW confirmed credible reports of this death. The Israeli army conducted large scale strikes in Tehran against ballistic missile production sites and launchers. The Revolution Guards responded by striking military and energy targets in Israel, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and United Arab Emirates, including a Patriot maintenance hangar. Kaitlin Martin, an expert at the analysis firm Chainalysis analyzed over 10 million dollars in cryptoassets that left Iranian exchanges between February 28 and March 2. Craig Timm, a member of the anti-money laundering association Acams, stated that wallets linked to the Revolution Guards received over 3 billion dollars last year to bypass sanctions or fund the Yemeni Houthis. Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, denied reports from Trump administration officials that the Chinese Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation supplied equipment to Iran.

AFGHANISTAN-PAKISTAN

REPRESSION OF FREE EXPRESSION INTENSIFIES IN ISLAMABAD

On March 22, 2026, human rights defenders reported a growing crackdown on dissent following the arrest of activists during the International Women’s Day march. Mavra Bari was detained for 12 hours in a crowded cell alongside 30 other people, including men and children, where she was beaten. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had claimed to support women’s empowerment but Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch documented rising instances of arbitrary detention and judicial harassment. Digital rights activist Usama Khilji highlighted the cases of human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari and her husband Hadi Ali Chattha who are serving long prison sentences for social media posts. Journalist Sohrab Barkat has been held without trial since last year for alleged misinformation. During the march, journalist Sehrish Qureshi was also detained without cause while inquiring about arrested colleagues. Harris Khalique, secretary general of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, denounced excessive legal restrictions. The Committee for the Protection of Journalists noted that at least 7 journalists were killed in 2024 while others faced forced disappearances in the country.

PAKISTANI SHELLING KILLS CIVILIAN IN KUNAR

On March 22, 2026, the Afghan government announced that a Pakistani mortar shell killed 1 civilian in the eastern province of Kunar. Hamdullah Fitrat, the deputy spokesperson for the Taliban government, specified that the strike occurred in the Shanpat area of the Nari district. The attack also injured 1 woman. This violation of the temporary truce mediated by Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, occurred amidst a conflict that intensified on February 26. While the truce was set to end on Monday night, cross-border tensions remain high as Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of hosting TTP fighters. Since February 26, over 115,000 people have been displaced.

PAKISTAN PLEDGES TO “ERADICATE TERRORISM” AS TRUCE EXPIRES

On March 23, 2026, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to « eradicate the terrorist threat » as a temporary ceasefire with Afghanistan neared its end. Concurrently, Abdul Mateen Qani, spokesperson for the Afghan Interior Ministry, reported that the identification of victims from the March 16 strike on a Kabul medical center continues. The Taliban authorities reported a toll of 408 dead and 265 wounded from that aerial bombardment. Jacopo Caridi, director for the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) in Afghanistan, described the scene where bodies were blown apart by the explosion. Sharafat Zaman, spokesperson for the Health Ministry, urged families to help identify remains. Since February 26, at least 76 Afghan civilians have been killed in addition of the hospital strike. China and the UN Secretary General have offered to mediate a permanent peace agreement.

CROSS BORDER ATTACKS KILL 2 CIVILIANS IN EASTERN DISTRICTS

On March 25, 2026, local authorities in the Kunar province reported that Pakistani attacks killed 2 civilians over two days. Ziaur Rahman Spin Ghar, the head of Information and Culture for the province, stated that artillery fire killed 1 person in the Nari district. In the neighboring Sarkani district, Pakistani soldiers used artillery and drones to kill 1 another civilian. Afghan forces reportedly responded by targeting Pakistani military posts. These incidents follow the collapse of the Aïd el-Fitr truce on Monday night. Islamabad continues to justify its « open war » (declared on February 27) as a necessary measure against TTP militants while Kabul denies providing them refuge. Verification of the exact death toll remains difficult due to the inaccessibility of the border regions. At least 76 civilians were previously confirmed dead since February 26.

OVER FOUR HUNDRED DEAD AFTER PAKISTANI HOSPITAL STRIKE

On March 26, 2026, Kabul residents held a second funeral ceremony at the Eid Gah Mosque for victims of the March 16 Pakistani strike on the Kabul hospital. Sharafat Zaman, the spokesperson for the Afghan Health Ministry, announced an updated toll of 411 deaths and 263 injuries after 2 people died of their wounds and another body was recovered. According to government data, over 100 victims have been buried in mass graves on a Kabul hill. While Islamabad claims to have targeted a military objective, the UN and international NGOs condemned the destruction of the treatment center.

EASTERN EUROPE

RUSSIAN FORCES SEIZE BORDER VILLAGE NORTHERN UKRAINE

On March 22, 2026, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced that its forces captured Potapivka in the Soumy region. According to a military statement, units from the North Groupment took control of the small village located near the Russian border.

EU CONCERNED BY SENSITIVE DATA LEAKS TO MOSCOW

On March 23, 2026, the European Commission expressed deep concern over reports suggesting Hungary leaked sensitive data to Russia for several years. An article in the Washington Post alleged that Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto regularly informed his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov about confidential EU discussions in real-time. Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper requested « clarifications » from Budapest, emphasizing that mutual trust is fundamental for the union. Peter Szijjarto dismissed the allegations as « fake news », while Prime Minister Viktor Orban denounced a « grave attack » against Hungary during his re-election campaign. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and German officials expressed exasperation, noting that Viktor Orban continues to block a 90 billion euro loan to Ukraine.

MASSIVE RUSSIAN DRONE CAMPAIGN TARGETS UKRAINIAN CITIES

On March 24, 2026, Russia launched approximately 1,000 drones and 34 missiles at Ukraine during one of the largest daylight aerial assaults since the 2022 invasion. Military spokesperson Iouriï Ignat noted the unprecedented scale of the daylight strikes. The total 24 hour bombardment killed at least 8 civilians, 5 during the night and 3 during the day, and wounded dozens. In Ivano-Frankivsk, 2 people died and 4 were injured after strikes hit a maternity hospital and 10 buildings, according to regional head Svitlana Onychtchouk. Mayor Andriï Sadovy reported that strikes on the Unesco historical center of Lviv injured 13 people and damaged a 17th-century complex. Regional leaders Vitali Dyakivnych in Poltava, Ivan Fedorov in Zaporijjia, Yaroslav Shanko in Kherson, Oleg Grygorov in Soumy and Oleksandr Ganja in Dnipropetrovsk documented casualties. A 76 year old woman was injured in Dnipropetrovsk and a minibus driver was wounded in Soumy. Volodymyr Zelensky and Andriï Sybiga accused Russia of using « Shahed » drones to conduct « deliberate terror » against civilians.

UKRAINIAN DRONES STRIKE STRATEGIC RUSSIAN OIL TERMINAL

On March 25, 2026, Ukrainian drones struck the strategic port of Ust-Luga in the Gulf of Finland after traveling over 900 kilometers. Ukrainian security services and the General Staff claimed responsibility for hitting a petroleum terminal and a combat icebreaker at the Vyborg shipyard. Governor Viatcheslav Gladkov confirmed 1 death in Belgorod, while governor Vladimir Saldo reported 2 deaths in Russian-occupied Kherson. The massive attack also resulted in 2 Ukrainian drones falling in Estonia and Latvia with one hitting an Estonian power plant chimney without causing casualties. In Kronstadt, Governor Alexandre Beglov reported damage to residential windows.

PERSISTENT BORDER STRIKES IN BELGOROD

On March 26, 2026, reports detailed the impact of daily Ukrainian missile and drone strikes on the Russian border city of Belgorod. Governor Viatcheslav Gladkov announced that 3 people were killed during the previous days, including one victim whose car was hit near the border. Emergency services chief Nikolaï Lebedev stated that responders conduct up to 1,000 missions daily when strikes intensify. Despite the deployment of anti-drone nets and concrete shelters, 25 people were previously killed in a single December 2023 attack.

PEACE TALKS REACH STALEMATE AMID REGIONAL CONFLICTS

On March 26, 2026, Finnish President Alexander Stubb warned that peace negotiations regarding Ukraine have reached a deadlock. During a meeting in Helsinki, Alexander Stubb stated that the war in Iran has significantly diverted international attention from the Ukrainian conflict. He suggested that United States negotiators have exhausted their options, leaving the status of Donetsk and occupied territories as the primary obstacles. Volodymyr Zelensky echoed these concerns, reporting no real progress after his delegation returned from the United States. Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal urged continued financial pressure on Russia, arguing that politeness is perceived as weakness by Moscow. The summit also focused on cracking down on the Russian « ghost fleet » of oil tankers used to bypass sanctions.

MYANMAR

ROHINGYA REFUGEES FACE SEVERE FOOD RATION CUTS

On March 25, 2026, humanitarian officials in Dacca reported that Rohingya refugees from Myanmar face a significant reduction in food aid. Approximately 1,000,000 refugees living in Cox’s Bazar since 2017 are affected by the World Food Programme decision to cut rations. The WFP budget decreased after Donald Trump cut a large part of United States humanitarian aid last year. Starting April 1, the monthly allowance of 12 dollars will be reduced to 7 dollars for less vulnerable groups and 10 dollars for intermediate categories. Only 1/3 of the most at risk will keep the full 12 dollars. Sayed Ullah, head of the United Council of Rohingya questioned how anyone can survive on 7 to 10 dollars and feared refugees would resort to illegal activities as the government forbids them from working officially.

JUNTA CHIEF PREPARES FOR POTENTIAL TRANSITION TO PRESIDENCY

On March 27, 2026, the military junta in Myanmar celebrated the Armed Forces Day with a parade in Naypyidaw. Min Aung Hlaing, the junta chief who took power in a 2021 coup against Aung San Suu Kyi, reviewed thousands of soldiers accompanied by armored vehicles. Soe Win, the military’s second in command, told the Global New Light of Myanmar that leadership changes would occur after the celebrations, potentially allowing Min Aung Hlaing to become president. Parliament will begin selecting a president next week following legislative elections where pro-military parties won without opposition. Observers denounced the process as a maneuver to exclude the opposition as voting was impossible in rebel-held zones. The monitoring group ACLED reported that over 90,000 people have been killed since the war began. The United Nations noted that 3,700,000 people are displaced.

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE & RELATIONS

THIRTY-TWO BODIES EXHUMED FROM MASS GRAVE IN KERICHO

On March 24, 2026, Kenyan authorities exhumed 32 bodies, including 7 adults and 25 children, from a mysterious mass grave in the Rift Valley. Forensic doctor Richard Njoroge, from the Ministry of Medical Services, stated that some remains were dismembered and found in bags, possibly originating from morgues or hospitals. The police opened an investigation. This discovery follows the 2023 Shakahola forest massacre where hundreds died in a cult-related tragedy.

FORMER FRONTEX DIRECTOR INVESTIGATED FOR COMPLICITY IN CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY

On March 24, 2026, a judge was appointed to investigate Fabrice Leggeri, the former director of the EU agency Frontex and current far right political figure. The Ligue des Droits de l’Homme (LDH) and lawyer Emmanuel Daoud accuse Fabrice Leggeri of complicity in crimes against humanity and torture for organizing a « migrants hunt » from 2015 to 2022. LDH alleges he encouraged interceptions by Libyan authorities at the price of human lives. The OIM reports 82,000 migrants dead or missing since 2014, with 34,000 in the Mediterranean Sea.

SIKH ACTIVIST WARNS UNITED NATIONS OF INDIAN REPRESSION

On March 24, 2026, Canadian citizen Moninder Singh, president of the Sikh Federation of Canada, denounced a global campaign of Indian assassinations before the United Nations. Moninder Singh reported an imminent threat against him, his wife and 2 children. He cited the 2023 murder of his friend Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Vancouver. While former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India, current Prime Minister Mark Carney has sought commercial normalization with India. UN special rapporteur Ben Saul expressed alarm that oppression against Sikhs seems to be worsening.

LEGAL ACTIONS TARGET FRENCH UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS WITH ISRAEL

On March 25, 2026, syndicates and associations filed appeals to suspend partnerships between French and Israeli universities. Petitioners including the French Jewish Union for Peace and Nidal argue these ties facilitate a genocide in Gaza. Lawyer Damia Taharraoui stated that universities like Tel Aviv, Bar Ilhan, Reichman, Ben Gourion or the Hebrew University of Jerusalem assist in apartheid. Thomas Nayal, administrator of Nidal, noted that students are being silenced for opposing these links. The Ministry of Higher Education defended the partnerships, citing academic autonomy over political reasons.

UN DECLARES AFRICAN SLAVE TRADE THE GRAVEST CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY

On March 25, 2026, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming the African slave trade the gravest crime against humanity. Supported by 123 votes, the text faced opposition from the United States, Israel and Argentina, while 52 countries including the United Kingdom and EU members abstained. Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned the « racist ideology » used to justify slavery. US representative Dan Negrea and French representative Sylvain Fournel argued against the legal basis for reparations or the « competition » between historical tragedies.

MEXICO DENOUNCES THIRTEEN DEATHS IN UNITED STATES CUSTODY

On March 25, 2026, the Mexican government reported that 13 of its citizens died over the past year during anti-immigration raids or in ICE custody. President Claudia Sheinbaum demanded respect for human rights and condemned current detention conditions. One victim was a 19 year old in Florida. In 2025, at least 30 people died in ICE custody.

RECORD CASUALTIES ON EASTERN MIGRATION ROUTE

On March 25, 2026, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that 922 migrants died or disappeared in the Red Sea in 2025. Mission chief Tanja Pacifico called this the deadliest year for the route connecting the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula. Most victims were from Ethiopia, where at least 1,300 people died of hunger in Tigray camps. Many migrants seeking work in the Gulf remain blocked in Yemen.

SEARCH FOR FORTY-SEVEN BODIES IN KOSOVO MASS GRAVE

On March 25, 2026, teams in Perzhina began exhuming a mass grave hoping to recover 47 bodies from the 1998-1999 war. Kushtrim Gara, head of the government commission for the missing people, accused Serbian forces of exhuming and moving bodies to Belgrade. Forensic anthropologist Ditor Haliti explained that identifying the 250 to 300 sets of remains in Pristina is difficult. Approximately 1,600 people remain missing.

GLOBAL NUCLEAR ARSENALS INCREASE AMID RISING CONFLICTS

On March 26, 2026, a report stated that the number of deployed nuclear warheads rose to 4,012 last year. Nuclear states, Russia, United States, France, United Kingdom, China, India, Pakistan, Israel and North Korea, possess a total of 12,187 weapons. The New Start treaty recently expired.

NICOLAS MADURO APPEARS IN NEW YORK COURT FOR DRUG CHARGES

On March 26, 2026, Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro appeared before a Brooklyn federal court three months after his capture. He and his wife Cilia Flores face charges of narcoterrorism. Judge Alvin Hellerstein presided over hearings Current leader Delcy Rodriguez continues negotiations while Donald Trump claims de facto control over the country.

FRANCE CONDEMNED FOR HIDING CIRCUMSTANCES OF 1944 MASSACRE

On March 27, 2026, a Paris court condemned the French State for hiding the circumstances of the 1944 massacre of French-African soldiers. Approximately 1,300 soldiers revolted over unpaid wages, which provoked retaliation from the French army. While colonial authorities reported 70 deaths, an official report given to the Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye estimated 300 to 400 victims. Emmanuel Macron admitted the massacre in 2024. Senegalese Colonel Saliou Ngom confirmed that archaeologists are still exhuming bodies. The court noted that France lied by calling victims « deserters ».

SYRIAN MILITIA LEADER TRIED IN GERMANY FOR CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY

On March 27, 2026, the trial of a 41 year old Syrian national began in Berlin for crimes against humanity and murder. The accused allegedly led a pro-regime unit that brutally tortured opponents of Bashar Al-Assad. Prosecutors stated that militiamen used tasers and clubs to kill a protester and to silence political dissent. The court will use the legal principle of
universal jurisdiction. A judgment is expected in July after 20 hearings.