WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL NEWS REVIEW – Mar. 14th – 20th 2026

SUDAN

RSF PARAMILITARIES LAUNCH COORDINATED MULTI-FRONT ASSAULTS

On March 16, 2026, RSF paramilitaries launched coordinated attacks in Kordofan to isolate strategic cities and along the Chad border. RSF fighters simultaneously targeted Bara in North Kordofan and Dilling in South Kordofan to seize routes leading to El-Obeid. A paramilitary source stated forces retook Bara, a strategic axis connecting army-controlled Khartoum to El-Obeid. Military sources reported RSF and Abdelaziz al-Hilou from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North attacked Dilling from 3 axes but were repelled. RSF also launched new assaults on Tina and Kernoi near the border with Chad.

SECRET UAE AIR BRIDGE FUELS SUDANESE CIVIL WAR VIA NEIGHBORING NATIONS

On March 17, 2026, an A300 cargo plane likely departed Fujairah for Addis Ababa to support a reorganized UAE weapons network for the RSF. The aircraft, registered in Central African Republic, CAR, as TL-AIT, was previously owned by Gewan Airways, a subsidiary of NG9 Holding partially held by the conglomerate of the brother of UAE President Mohammed Ben Zayed. RSF, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Daglo « Hemetti », continues a war against the army commanded by General Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman Al-Bourhane. Certain sites indicate the plane and a second A300, TL-ARU, are operated by Invicta Air Cargo, created in August 2025 in Bangui. Analyst Charles Bouessel notes Emirati economic investments in CAR, following a March 6, 2025 agreement between Mohammed Ben Zayed and Faustin-Archange Touadéra, facilitate arms deliveries. Chad President Mahamat Idriss Déby faces pressure for aiding RSF supplies. Egypt, supporting the army under Abdel Fattah Al-Sissi, struck RSF positions on November 5, 2025. Libya remains a corridor too via Khalifa Haftar.

DEADLY DRONE STRIKE HITS TCHADIAN BORDER TOWN

On March 18, 2026, a drone from Sudan killed at least 17 people in the border town of Tiné, Chad. A local official and military source confirmed the deaths from an RSF drone. The RSF denied responsibility on Telegram and blamed the Sudanese army. Chad President Mahamat Idriss Déby ordered the military to retaliate against any attack from Sudan after closing the 1,400 kilometer border in late February following repeated incursions. RSF previously claimed control of Tina, across from Tiné, on February 21, following their October seizure of El-Facher.

SOUTH SUDAN

MASS DISPLACEMENT AS THE ARMY TARGETS OPPOSITION STRONGHOLD

On March 17, 2026, Unicef estimated that 100,000 people fled South Sudan for Ethiopia during March after the South Sudanese army ordered civilians to evacuate an opposition controlled area. Fighting between government forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and opposition militias loyal to Riek Machar has intensified in Jonglei state. Unicef reported that 25% of children under 5 who fled are suffering from malnutrition. Since January, 28 health facilities in Jonglei have been destroyed. The hospital in Akobo was looted and closed.

BURKINA FASO

DEADLY JIHADIST ASSAULTS KILL 12 IN CENTRE-EAST

On March 15, 2026, suspected jihadists killed at least 12 people during a series of attacks targeting military detachments and civilian volunteers in several localities. In Dourtenga, numerous terrorists launched an assault around 17:00, killing 9 civilian volunteers including their chief and a woman. One resident reported that the shooting lasted over 1 hour while attackers looted and burned several shops. Security sources also noted additional attacks in the center-north and northwest over the weekend. Although the military junta claims to have reclaimed nearly 75% of the territory, experts and the NGO Acled note that tens of thousands have died since 2015. In February, the Al-Qaeda affiliate Group to Support Islam and Muslims, JNIM, claimed attacks that killed over 130 people in 10 days. Following the Dourtenga massacre, many residents fled the village on Monday fearing new incursions.

MOZAMBIC

NAVY KILLS AT LEAST 13 FISHERMEN

On March 15, 2026, Mozambican armed forces killed at least 13 fishermen near Calugo village in the northern Cabo Delgado province. A security source stated that members of the Mozambican navy opened fire on a fishing boat around 07:00, killing 15 people and wounding several others. The NGO Acled confirmed 13 deaths, while a local figure estimated between 13 and 15 fatalities. The military reportedly suspected the fishermen of being insurgents affiliated with the Islamic State. The conflict in Cabo Delgado has caused approximately 6,500 deaths since 2017, including 800 during the Palma attack in 2021.

NIGERIA

NIGERIAN FORCES REPEL JIHADIST RAIDS IN MAIDUGURI AND DAMBOA

On March 16, 2026, around midnight, suspected jihadists from Boko Haram and ISWAP attacked a military post in Ajilari Cross near Maiduguri. A resident reported hearing gunfire for at least 40 minutes and saw 4 bodies. Another resident saw the insurgents approaching the community on foot. Police spokesperson Nahum Kenneth Daso confirmed that security forces repelled the assault and a simultaneous attack in Damboa. A spokesperson for the emergency agency Nema also reported the incidents. These raids follow coordinated attacks last week that killed soldiers and civilians.

MULTIPLE BOMBINGS ROCK MAIDUGURI MARKET AND HOSPITAL

On March 16, 2026, several explosions hit Maiduguri in the evening, causing dozens of injuries at the city market and university hospital. Borno State government spokesperson Dauda Iliya confirmed the blasts and stated that authorities were working to determine the total number of victims. Idris Suleiman Gimba from the National Blood Service Commission reported an additional explosion near the city post office. An AFP journalist at the hospital observed dozens of wounded people seeking treatment. These attacks occurred less than 24 hours after the army repelled a jihadist assault in the Ajilari Cross suburb.

ETHIOPIA-ERITREA

AI GENERATED IMAGES FUEL TENSIONS BETWEEN ETHIOPIA AND ERITREA

Artificial intelligence generated content is intensifying online animosity between Ethiopia and Eritrea during a period of military escalation. Social network users use IA to publish fake images showing tanks in Assab, Ethiopian military leaders chasing Eritrean President Issaias Afwerki, or depictions of Abiy Ahmed being arrested by Eritrean forces. Specialist Kjetil Tronvoll warns that fabrications feed real anger, especially as digital knowledge remains low in Ethiopia, which ranks 112 out of 149 countries for digital skills. Expert and journalists emphasize that these videos construct a false reality that risks driving political discourse toward confrontation.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

ADF REBELS STRIKE GOLD MINING SITES IN ITURI PROVINCE

On March 15, 2026, ADF rebels linked to the Islamic State attacked gold mining sites near Muchacha in northeastern Ituri province. Authorities reported several deaths and the destruction of facilities by fire after the overnight assault. Police administrator Matadi Muyapandi suspected ADF rebels were assisted by Mai-Mai militias during the raid on sites where Chinese nationals operated a mine. Civil society leader John Vuleveryo confirmed 2 civilian bodies were recovered but noted the death toll could rise due to limited access. 7 soldiers were wounded in an ambush while attempting to repel the attackers and several people were kidnapped. Following the violence, Chinese nationals fled toward Bandengaido and local residents were displaced.

SEVENTEEN CONGOLESE MIGRANTS DROWN NEAR COMOROS COAST

On March 19, 2026, Interior Minister Mohamed Ahamada Assoumani announced that at least 17 Congolese migrants drowned after being abandoned by smugglers. The victims were part of a group attempting to reach the French department of Mayotte from the Comoros archipelago. UN representative James Tsok Bot noted that while such movements have occurred for 5 years, this is the first time bodies have been recovered. Survivors including a 25 year old man reported that smugglers dropped them on a sandbank at Mitsamiouli claiming they had arrived in Mayotte. 30 people survived while 4 others are missing. The survivor recounted fleeing the M23 conflict in North Kivu, DRC, and traveling through Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, before a 7 day boat journey.

LEBANON

TEACHERS KILLED IN BEIRUT DRONE STRIKE, 14 MEDICAL STAFF KILLED

On March 13, 2026, an Israeli drone strike killed two teachers on a Lebanese University campus in the southern suburbs of Beirut. The Israeli military announced the elimination of Murtada Hussein Srour, allegedly a member of the Hezbollah air unit and chemistry lecturer at the university. A separate Israeli air strike on a primary health care center in Burj Qalawiya killed at least 12 medical staff including doctors and nurses. Another strike in Sawaneh killed 2 paramedics. One more attack on that same day hit the UNIFIL Nepal battalion headquarters in Mays al-Jabal, though there was no confirmed injuries. NGO official Carl Skau noted that 14% of the country is now under evacuation orders.  

RESIDENTIAL BUILDING STRUCK IN NORTHERN BEIRUT & DIRECT COMBATS

On March 14, 2026, an Israeli strike hit a residential building in the Nabaa-Bourj Hammoud district north of Beirut. Local residents expressed fear as the area had been spared in previous conflicts. An additional strike targeted a car in Haret Saida near the southern coast. Around 21:20, Hezbollah reported direct clashes with the Israeli army in the southern town of Khiam. Fighters used small arms and rockets during the engagement. The group also claimed to target Israeli forces in 3 other border villages. The Ministry of Health announced that the death toll has reached 826 people including 106 children and 31 medical personnel.

UN PEACEKEEPERS UNDER FIRE DURING SOUTHERN PATROLS

On March 15, 2026, UNIFIL reported that peacekeepers were fired upon 3 times by suspected non-state armed groups in South Lebanon. Patrols returned fire in self-defense and no injuries were reported. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire to stop potential war crimes. This follows earlier strikes on the UNIFIL Nepal battalion headquarters in Mays al-Jabal and the wounding of 3 Ghana peacekeepers the previous week.

HAMAS OFFICIAL ASSASSINATED IN SAIDA, 3 DEATHS IN THE SOUTH

On March 15, 2026, an Israeli strike on a residential building near Saida killed Hamas official Wissam Taha. The strike also wounded 3 children and caused residents to flee in panic. 3 people were killed in a separate Israeli attack in Qatrani. Hezbollah claimed a missile strike against the Palmachim air base in central Israel.

NIGHT BOMBARDMENT HITS BEIRUT SOUTHERN SUBURBS

On March 15, 2026, the Israeli military bombed several neighborhoods in the southern suburbs of Beirut after issuing evacuation orders. At this date, over 850 people have died and 830,000 have been displaced in 13 days.

ISRAEL ANNOUNCES GROUND OPERATIONS IN SOUTH LEBANON

On March 16, 2026, the Israeli military launched “limited and targeted ground incursions” along the border. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that displaced Lebanese living south of the Litani river will not return home until Northern Israel is secured. Strikes and combats occurred in the area of Khiam.

SYRIAN PRISONERS TRANSFERRED FROM LEBANESE JAILS TO DAMASCUS

On March 17, 2026, Lebanon transferred 137 Syrian detainees to Damascus under a prisoner exchange agreement. Judicial sources confirmed 106 inmates from Roumié and 31 from Tripoli were moved via the Masnaa border post. Syrian official Iyad al-Hazzaa stated the mechanism covers nearly 300 convicts serving long sentences. This agreement excludes cases of rape and murder but includes hundreds accused of terrorism.

LEBANESE SOLDIERS KILLED IN THE SOUTH, MORE STRIKES HIT BEIRUT

On March 17, 2026, Israeli strikes in South Lebanon killed 3 Lebanese soldiers and wounded 4 others. Army commander Joseph Aoun condemned the attacks for hindering efforts to extend state authority. 5 Lebanese soldiers were also wounded in Nabatiye. Hezbollah launched a rocket barrage targeting 12 Israeli towns and multiple naval and air bases. On the same day, Israel ordered the evacuation of 14% of Lebanese territory and struck several Beirut neighborhoods including Kafaat and Haret Hreik. A resident in Aramoun was wounded. NGO director Jihan Kaisi reported that shelters in Saida are full and cannot accept more arrivals. The death toll was updated to 912 deaths in 2 weeks.

ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE DESTROYED & MULTIPLE DEATHS INCLUDING AL-MANAR TV OFFICIAL

On March 18, 2026, Israeli forces struck 5 Al-Amana gas stations and branches of the Al-Qard al-Hassan financial society, linked to Hezbollah. Strike locations included coastal areas and the south. Hezbollah continued retaliatory rocket fire toward Northern Israel. Bridges over the Litani river and near Saida and Nabatiyeh were destroyed to isolate the region. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated the army will not allow the use of state infrastructure for Hezbollah logistics. Another Israeli strike in central Beirut killed Mohammed Cherri, the political programs director for Al-Manar television. Cherri died alongside his wife while their children and grandchildren were wounded. Panic ensued in Tyre after evacuation orders for the entire city. 4 more people were killed in a separate strike on Baalbeck.

MASS EXODUS FROM RED ZONE TO SATURATED CITIES & DEADLY BOMBINGS HIT BEIRUT

On March 18, 2026, thousands of residents fled the red zone designated by Israel, south of the Zahrani river toward the city of Saida. Displaced families reported incessant drone activity and deaths of local workers. NGO leader Jihan Kaisi and entrepreneur Haidar Bitar noted that Saida is saturated. In this city, a car strike killed 2 people including a Civil Defense rescue worker. More strikes hit the densely populated Zoqaq al-Blat, Basta and Bachoura districts of Beirut. The Ministry of Health reported at least 12 deaths and 41 wounded while DNA tests are being used to identify remains. Israeli spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued urgent warnings for several villages to move north of the Zahrani river. He announced plans to strike all bridges over the Litani river. Over 1,000,000 people have been displaced nationwide to that day.

POWER PLANT CRIPPLED BY ISRAELI STRIKE & RUSSIAN JOURNALISTS WOUNDED

On March 19, 2026, a major power plant in Bint Jbeil was put out of service following an Israeli air strike. “Electricité du Liban” confirmed the facility has completely stopped production and repairs will be very costly. The plant serves several towns in the Tyre and Bint Jbeil districts. On the same day, two RT journalists including Steve Sweeney were wounded by an Israeli missile strike in South Lebanon. A video showed Sweeney wearing a press vest just before the explosion. Russian spokesperson Maria Zakharova and the embassy in Beirut condemned the act as intentional. The army claimed it provided warning for the area to be evacuated. The Ministry of Health announced that 1,001 people including 118 children have been killed since March 2. The updated toll includes 79 women and 40 health workers. At least 2,584 people have been wounded during the two-week conflict.

HEZBOLLAH TARGETS BORDER TROOPS AS AERIAL STRIKES CONTINUE

On March 20, 2026, Hezbollah reported targeting Israeli soldiers in 6 border villages and striking a Merkava tank. Simultaneously, the Lebanese press reported Israeli warplane strikes on several towns in the Tyre and Bint Jbeil districts. Ground incursions have continued for several days.

PALESTINE

ARAB CITIES IN ISRAEL LACK ADEQUATE BOMB SHELTERS

On March 13, 2026, residents in northern Arab towns in Israel condemned the poor state of public shelters during rocket attacks from Hezbollah and Iran. Sakhnin Mayor Mazen Ghanayem stated his city lacks any proper public refuge while municipal official Kassim Abou Raïa shared video of his wife and daughter seeking cover under a porch during an alert. A 2025 state report found 33% of Israelis lack protected space, rising to 70% in northern Arab localities. The Association for Civil Rights in Israel previously highlighted this disparity compared to Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

6 DEAD IN RECENT ISRAELI STRIKES ACROSS GAZA STRIP

On March 14, 2026, Civil Defense officials reported that 6 people were killed in Israeli strikes over the previous 24 hours. A strike in Khan Younis killed 2 police officers and 1 civilian before dawn. Another strike on the evening targeted a group of civilians in east Gaza City, killing 3 people whose bodies were taken to Al-Chifa hospital. These events occur despite a ceasefire in place since October 10, 2025. The Ministry of Health reported that at least 658 Palestinians have died since the truce began.

5 PALESTINIANS WOUNDED DURING SETTLER RAID NEAR BETHLEHEM

On March 14, 2026, a group of settlers attacked residents in the Rashayda area near Kisan by firing live ammunition. Mayor Musa Abayat reported that 5 Palestinians were wounded, including 2 by gunfire, and that settlers stole 100 sheep. Attackers used firearms, knives and stones. The military intervened and arrested 3 Palestinians. 2 settlers who fired weapons were detained and had their arms confiscated after 1 Israeli civilian was injured.

SETTLER GUNFIRE KILLS PALESTINIAN DEFENDING HOME IN QUSRA

On March 14, 2026, Amir Moatasem Odeh died from wounds sustained during a settler attack in Qusra. Mayor Hani Odeh reported that settlers opened fire on residents attempting to defend their houses south of Nablus. The Israeli military confirmed the 28 year old man was killed by shots fired by Israeli suspects. Data indicates that at least 1,049 Palestinians and 45 Israelis have been killed in the West Bank since October 2023.

DEADLY SETTLER INVASION OF ABU FALAH KILLS 3

On March 15, 2026, details emerged regarding a settler attack on Abu Falah where 3 Palestinians died, in the night of March 7 to 8. Milia Hamayel recounted how her 30 year old son, Thaer Hamayel, was killed alongside Farea Hamayel while defending the village from 70 masked settlers. Ibrahim Hamayel and Mouath Qassam, who was beaten with a baton, described how attackers destroyed farms. A third villager died from tear gas inhalation. The Israeli NGO B’Tselem reported an intensification of ethnic cleansing efforts under the cover of the war with Iran.

ISRAELI FORCES KILL COUPLE AND CHILDREN IN TAMMOUN

On March 15, 2026, dozens of Palestinians attended the funeral of a family of 4 killed by Israeli security forces in Tammoun. A 37 year old man, his 35 year old wife and their 2 sons aged 5 and 7 were fatally shot at a roadblock. Wafa news reported 2 other children, aged 8 and 11, were wounded by bullet fragments. Security forces stated they opened fire when a vehicle accelerated toward them.

ISRAEL ANNOUNCES PARTIAL REOPENING OF RAFAH CROSSING

On March 15, 2026, Israel announced that the Rafah crossing would partially reopen on March 18 for limited movement. The border had been closed since February 28. Reopening will occur in coordination with Egypt and under European Union mission supervision. This announcement coincided with a Hamas delegation reaching Cairo to meet Egyptian officials and UN representative Nikolaï Mladenov.

9 POLICE OFFICERS KILLED IN GAZA STRIKE

On March 15, 2026, an Israeli strike on a police vehicle in central Gaza killed 9 officers including Colonel Iyad Abou Youssef. The Ministry of Interior stated the personnel were monitoring markets and maintaining security during Ramadan in Al-Zawaida. The hospital al-Aqsa received the bodies The Israeli military stated it was verifying the information.

PREGNANT WOMAN AMONG 4 KILLED IN NUSEIRAT BOMBING

On March 15, 2026, Israeli forces bombed a home in the Nuseirat refugee camp killing 4 civilians. It was reported that a pregnant woman was among the victims of the strike. The Ministry of Health in Gaza stated that 663 Palestinians have died since the truce began.

IRANIAN MISSILE DEBRIS FALLS ON JERUSALEM HOLY SITES

On March 16, 2026, Israeli police reported that Iranian missile fragments fell near the Al-Aqsa mosque and the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre. Interceptions over the Old City resulted in debris hitting a roof near the basilica and damaging a car on the Temple Mount esplanade. A residential building in the Ras el-Amoud neighborhood of occupied East Jerusalem was also damaged.

UN WARNS OF ETHNIC CLEANSING IN THE WEST BANK

On March 16, 2026, a report from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights revealed that 36,000 Palestinians were forcibly displaced in 1 year. He called for an immediate end to settlement expansion and the evacuation of all settlers. The report documented 1,732 incidents of settler violence and the approval of over 64,000 housing units in illegal colonies. These mass expulsions coincide with large scale displacements in Gaza, raising concerns about a concerted policy of ethnic cleansing. Transferring populations in occupied territory constitutes a war crime.

ISRAELI MILITARY CHIEF CONDEMNS UNACCEPTABLE SETTLER ATTACKS

On March 18, 2026, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir described settler attacks against Palestinians as morally and ethically inacceptable. The Chief of Staff stated these criminal acts cause enormous strategic damage to military efforts. Former minister Meirav Cohen also denounced the rise of Jewish terrorism in parliament while 100 former security officials signed a letter warning of organized pogroms.

IRANIAN MISSILE SHRAPNEL KILLS 4 WOMEN IN WEST BANK

On March 18, 2026, around 21:30, debris from an intercepted Iranian missile destroyed a hair salon in Beit Awa. The Palestinian Red Crescent and Wafa news reported that 3 women aged 17, 36 and 50 died instantly while a 32 year old pregnant woman died later. Neighbor described the scene where fragments scattered over 200 square meters. 8 other people were wounded including a girl who lost her mother. This event marks the first Palestinian deaths caused by Iranian attacks.

4 KILLED IN GAZA CITY STRIKES

On March 19, 2026, Israeli air strikes killed 4 people in the Al-Tuffah and Al-Zeitoun neighborhoods of east Gaza City. Civil Defense and Al-Chifa hospital confirmed receiving the bodies of 2 groups of civilians. Simultaneously, the military announced it eliminated Mohammed Abou Chaleh, the military intelligence chief for the Khan Younis brigade. Authorities claimed Abou Chaleh planned the October 7 massacre and violated the current ceasefire.

FIFA FINES ISRAELI FOOTBALL FEDERATION FOR REPEATED DISCRIMINATION

On March 19, 2026, FIFA sanctioned the Israel Football Association, IFA, with a fine of 150,000 Swiss francs for anti-discrimination violations. The disciplinary commission cited racist behavior by Beitar Jerusalem fans and militaristic messages from Maccabi Netanya officials. UN experts had previously identified at least 8 clubs playing in occupied land.

UN SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR ACCUSES ISRAEL OF SYSTEMATIC TORTURE AGAINST PALESTINIANS

On March 20, 2026, UN expert Francesca Albanese published a report titled Torture and Genocide alleging systematic brutality against Palestinian detainees. The UN special rapporteur for occupied territories claimed thousands have been subjected to exceptional physical and psychological abuse since October 7, 2023. The report is based on 300 testimonies and written contributions.

SYRIA

SYRIAN ARMY REGAINS CONTROL OF RMEILAN BASE

On March 14, 2026, the military took control of the Rmeilan base in Hassaké province following the withdrawal of the United States-led international coalition. The new Syrian government has recently expanded its presence into northeastern regions previously held by Kurdish forces. American troops also vacated the Al-Tanf and Shadadi bases and started withdrawing from Qasrak. This week, the government appointed Kurdish military leader Sipan Hamo as regional Deputy Defense Minister.

IRAN-GULF-ISRAEL-US

ISRAEL KILLS IRANIAN INTELLIGENCE LEADER, COLLATERALS REPORTED

On March 14, 2026, the military announced the elimination of two high-ranking Iranian intelligence officials during a targeted strike in Tehran. Abdollah Jalali-Nasab and Amir Shariat from the Khatam al-Anbiya command center were killed in the attack. Iranian media reported that missile strikes on an industrial zone in Isfahan killed 15 people. The Ministry of Heritage confirmed that 56 historic sites including the Palais du Golestan and Naqsh-e-Jahan square were damaged by bombardments.

US ATTACKED IN IRAQ & LIMITED PRESS ACCESS

On March 14, 2026, a drone and missile attack targeted the United States Embassy in Baghdad while two members of the Brigades du Hezbollah were killed in separate bombings. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth faced criticism for restricting media access at the Pentagon. Experts including Steve Warren and Roger Stahl highlighted a severe lack of transparency regarding military operations.

ISRAEL THREATENS THOUSANDS OF TARGETS, IRAN USES CLUSTER BOMBS

On March 15, 2026, Israeli military spokesperson Effie Defrin announced that thousands of targets remain identified for future strikes in Iran. Authorities reported that half of the missiles fired by Iran are now equipped with submunitions which disperse small explosive charges over wide areas. 8 people were injured in Central Israel during repeated alerts. Police commissioner Shlomi Schlezinger noted that missiles are targeting crowded urban centers. In Bahrain, explosions hit Manama where officials reported 2 deaths. 5 people were wounded by rockets at Baghdad airport near a United States diplomatic facility. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that 700 missiles and 3,600 drones have been launched since the start of the escalation. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire. Analyst Torbjorn Soltvedt warned that Iran continues to regularly target energy infrastructure. At this date, a total of 12 deaths was reported in Israel.

PALESTINIAN CIVILIAN KILLED BY IRANIAN MISSILE IN ABU DHABI

On March 16, 2026, a Palestinian civilian died when a missile struck his car in the Al Bahia area of Abu Dhabi. Authorities reported the incident occurred during ongoing Iranian strikes against the United Arab Emirates.

CIVILIANS KILLED IN IRANIAN ATTACKS IN THE GULF

On March 16, 2026, foreign workers including Ahmad Ali and Murib Zaman Nizar were killed by drone debris. Dubai airport reopened after a drone attack while Saudi Arabia intercepted 61 drones. Iranian judicial chief Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei called for the rapid execution of defendants affiliated with the United States and Israel. Experts including Joe Bodnar and Alexios Mantzarlis warned of AI-generated fake news proliferating, feeding disinformation and hate speech.

TOP IRANIAN SECURITY LEADERS ELIMINATED, COLLATERALS IN IRAQ & KUWAIT

On March 17, 2026, Israel confirmed the elimination of Ali Larijani and Gholamréza Soleimani during overnight operations in Tehran. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Larijani, the secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, and Soleimani, the head of the Bassidj, were killed. Larijani was described as the de facto leader since the death of Ali Khamenei. In Iraq, 4 people including 2 Iranian advisors were killed in the Baghdad residential district of Jadriya. The United States Embassy was again targeted by drones and rockets while Erbil experienced multiple explosions. Kuwait reported that 2 medical staff members were injured by falling debris. Iranian authorities arrested 10 alleged foreign spies in Khorassan Razavi, who were accused of collecting information on sensitive sites.

IRANIAN INTELLIGENCE MINISTER MURDERED, SEVERAL COLLATERALS IN ISRAEL

On March 18, 2026, Israeli forces killed Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmaïl Khatib as the air campaign expanded to major energy facilities. Foreign Minister Israel Katz confirmed that Khatib was eliminated and announced that the military now has authorization to kill Iranian officials without additional approval. In Israel, an Iranian submunition missile killed 2 elderly people in Ramat Gan. Another foreign worker died in Central Israel while Erbil was rocked by 4 explosions. United States forces bombed Iranian missile sites near the Strait of Hormuz.

NETANYAHU PRAISED THAT IRAN IS DECIMATED, EXECUTIONS OF ALLEGED RIOTERS IN IRAN

On March 19, 2026, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Iran has lost its uranium enrichment and ballistic missile production capabilities. Netanyahu claimed that Iran is being “decimated”. Israeli minister Zeev Elkin described the military campaign as an immense blessing. In retaliation, Iran struck the Ras Laffan site in Qatar. Iranian authorities executed 3 individuals accused of participating in riots and cooperating with Israel and the United States. The strike on the South Pars gas field was already mentioned in a previous article.

MISSILES HIT JERUSALEM HOLY SITES WHILE ISRAEL STRIKES SYRIA

On March 20, 2026, Iranian missile fragments struck Jerusalem Old City near the Al-Aqsa mosque and the Saint-Sepulcre. Simultaneously, the Israeli military struck Syrian army headquarters in response to attacks against Druze civilians in Suwayda. Israel Katz warned the Syrian regime that further force would be used if necessary. President Ahmad al-Chareh stated he is working to keep Syria out of the regional war.

AFGHANISTAN-PAKISTAN

CROSS BORDER STRIKES HIT KANDAHAR AND BAJAUR

On March 15, 2026, Pakistan struck military sites and refuges in Kandahar, southern Afghanistan, while Afghan artillery hit targets in Bajaur. Sources in Islamabad stated they destroyed infrastructure used by Afghan Taliban. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid reported that the strikes hit a drug rehabilitation center and an empty container without causing victims. In Nuristan, Afghan deputy spokesperson Hamdullah Fitrat stated that Pakistani shells killed 1 civilian. On  the same day, Pakistani officials reported that Afghan artillery killed 4 brothers in a house in Bajaur and seriously injured 1 other person. 75 Afghan civilians have died since February 26.

UNITED NATIONS RENEWS MISSION FOR 3 MONTHS

On March 16, 2026, the UN Security Council voted to renew the mission in Afghanistan, UNAMA, for 3 months following a request from the United States. Representative Georgette Gagnon emphasized that UNAMA continues to play a central role in coordinating humanitarian aid and supporting stability during crises such as droughts and earthquakes.

PAKISTANI AIR STRIKE KILLS 408 IN KABUL HOSPITAL

On March 17, 2026, authorities reported that over 400 people were killed in a Pakistani air strike on a drug rehabilitation hospital in Kabul. Ministry of Interior spokesperson Abdul Mateen Qani stated that 408 people died and 265 were wounded during night bombardment. Ministry of Health spokesperson Sharafat Zaman and deputy minister Mohammed Omari condemned the attack as a violation of international law. The facility housed between 2,000 and 3,000 patients. Pakistan claimed it targeted military and terrorist objectives.

AFGHANISTAN AND PAKISTAN DECLARE TRUCE FOR END OF RAMADAN

On March 18, 2026, Pakistan and Afghanistan announced a truce for the Eid el-Fitr holiday following mediation from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey. Pakistan Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Afghan spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed the agreement despite warnings of retaliation in case of new aggression. Over 115,000 people have been displaced in Afghanistan since late February.

EASTERN EUROPE

RUSSIAN ATTACKS KILL 6

On March 14, 2026, Russian forces launched massive strikes on several regions of Ukraine killing at least 6 people and wounding dozens. Governor Mykola Kalachnyk reported 5 deaths in the Kiev region where 30 sites including schools and apartments were hit. 1 person died and 18 were wounded near Zaporizhzhia. The attack also targeted Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipro and Mykolaiv regions.

DEADLY STRIKES HIT ZAPORIZHZHIA AND RARE DAYTIME RAIDS TARGET KIEV

On March 16, 2026, Russian strikes in Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk killed 3 people. Regional leaders Ivan Fedorov and Oleksandr Ganja reported that 7 people including 3 children were wounded. In a rare daytime attack, Russian drones targeted central Kiev causing residents to flee to subways during rush hour. Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that drone fragments fell in the city center without causing casualties. In Kharkiv, Mayor Igor Terekhov reported at least 3 injuries from drone strikes. Meanwhile, the Mayor of Moscow reported that 250 Ukrainian drones were destroyed near the Russian capital.

ROMANIAN PARAMILITARIES JOIN RUSSIAN FORCES AND AFRICA CORPS

On March 17, 2026, approximately 40 members of the RALF paramilitary group joined Russian military contingents in Ukraine and the Africa Corps following the arrest of their leader Horatiu Potra. Potra, a former French Foreign Legion member known as the Romanian Prigozhin, was imprisoned in Bucharest for allegedly planning a coup with pro-Russian candidate Calin Georgescu. RALF previously worked for Félix Tshisekedi in the DRC against M23 rebels. Investigations revealed Potra met with Ambassador Valeri Kuzmin and had Moscow hotel reservations. Igor Spivak and Alexander Kalinin attempted to intervene during the arrest of Potra in Dubai. Kalinin is also accused of recruiting Moldavians to fight for Russia in the Dnestr detachment.

UKRAINIANS GATHER AT BORDER TO WELCOME RELEASED PRISONERS OF WAR

On March 18, 2026, citizens in northern Ukraine organized along roadsides with flags to greet soldiers returning from Russian captivity via the Belarusian border. Released soldier Iaroslav Roumiantsev recalled being moved to tears after 39 months of isolation and mistreatment.

UKRAINIAN DRONE STRIKE KILLS ONE IN KRASNODAR

On March 18, 2026, a Ukrainian drone attack on residential buildings in Krasnodar killed 1 person. Governor Veniamine Kondratiev reported that 3 buildings were damaged and a fire in 1 apartment was quickly contained.

RUSSIAN DRONES KILLS 3 IN SUMY REGION

On March 19, 2026, Russian strikes killed 3 men in the Sumy region near the northeastern border. 2 brothers aged 33 and 37 died in Khoutir-Mykhaïlivsky while a 62 year old man was killed by a drone in Velyka Pysarivka. Military administrator Oleg Grygorov reported additional injuries in nearby border communities. The Russian military utilized 133 drones during overnight operations with 109 being intercepted by Ukrainian defenses. In Odessa, administrator Oleg Kiper reported 4 people wounded during nocturnal raids. These attacks occur as Russian forces attempt to regain territory in Sumy

UKRAINIAN DRONE ATTACK ON SEVASTOPOL PORT KILLS 1

On March 19, 2026, a Ukrainian drone strike on a residential area in the port city of Sevastopol killed a man. Governor Mikhaïl Razvojaïev reported that 2 other people were wounded. Ukrainian authorities also reported 3 injuries in Odessa following a Russian strike on a residential neighborhood.

DRONE STRIKES KILL CIVILIANS IN ZAPORIZHZHIA AND BELGOROD

On March 20, 2026, Russian strikes on the Zaporijjia district killed a 30 year old woman and destroyed several homes. Administration chief Ivan Fedorov reported that a 10 year old boy and a 48 year old man were wounded in the overnight attack. In the Russian border region of Belgorod, Governor Viatcheslav Gladkov announced that a Ukrainian drone killed 1 civilian in the town of Mourom. These casualties occur as negotiators prepare to meet in the United States for talks on Saturday.

RUSSIAN DRONES TARGET HUMANITARIAN EVACUATION VEHICLE IN DONETSK

On March 20, 2026, a Russian drone strike on a humanitarian vehicle in the Donetsk region killed 2 elderly women during an evacuation. 2 other people were wounded in the attack. In Zaporijjia, a 30 year old woman was killed and 2 others wounded by Russian strikes on residential houses. Ukrainian officials also reported damage to 2 grain ships and 2 injured crew members in Odessa.

ZELENSKY VOWS TO INFILTRATE NEW RUSSIAN MESSAGING NETWORK

On March 20, 2026, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine is working to infiltrate the new Russian messaging application MAX. The Kremlin is promoting MAX as a national alternative to Telegram and WhatsApp which are currently blocked in Russia. Unlike Telegram, the MAX app does not offer encryption and stores data on Russian servers allowing for state surveillance. Zelensky acknowledged that both nations have used Telegram to recruit agents and disseminate propaganda since the 2022 invasion. Russia has previously accused Kiev of using encrypted apps to organize assassinations and sabotage. Zelensky stated that while communicating with Russian society will be more difficult under the new system, Ukrainian forces will reach the MAX network.

MYANMAR

PRO MILITARY PARLIAMENT CONVENES AMID LEGITIMACY CHALLENGES

On March 16, 2026, the Parliament met for the first time since the 2021 coup with a majority of pro-military representatives. The Union Solidarity and Development Party largely won elections held in December and January which observers condemned as fraudulent. Deputies chose Nanda Kyaw Swar as presiding officer and elected Khin Yi as president of the lower house. Military members automatically occupy 25% of all seats under a constitution they drafted. Parallel to this session, the National Unity Government, NUG, led by Duwa Lashi La met online to denounce the assembly as a facade. UN special rapporteur Tom Andrews described the new government as a military junta in civilian clothes.

FOREIGN NATIONALS ARRESTED IN INDIA FOR TRAINING MYANMAR REBELS

On March 17, 2026, Indian anti-terror police arrested 6 Ukrainians and 1 American for entering Myanmar to train rebel groups. The 7 suspects entered India with visas and travelled to the state of Mizoram before crossing the border to contact armed separatist movements. The National Investigation Agency and All India Radio reported that the individuals are suspected of training ethnic groups associated with rebel movements and delivering drones from Europe. A judge ordered the suspects to be placed in detention. Tens of thousands of Burmese citizens have fled to India to escape fighting between the military and militias since the 2021 coup against Aung San Suu Kyi. Mizoram shares a 510 kilometer border with Burma and requires special permits for foreign visitors.

JUNTA ANNOUNCES MASS SURRENDER OF REBEL FIGHTERS IN MANDALAY

On March 19, 2026, the Burmese junta reported the surrender of over 500 rebel fighters during a disarmament ceremony in Mandalay. Central command chief Aung Htay told the assembly that living in the jungle is difficult. The individuals wore various uniforms including those of the pro-democracy People’s Defense Forces, PDF. A PDF spokesperson denied the report and labelled the event as propaganda, noting that uniforms and insignias appeared incorrect. A 39-year-old man who joined the PDF to oppose the coup stated that the leadership was not what he expected. While the PDF aims to overthrow the junta alongside experienced ethnic minority armed groups, recent truces mediated by China with 2 key factions have reportedly left rebels in difficulty around Mandalay.

THAILAND-CAMBODIA

THAILAND ACQUIRES FOREIGN ARTILLERY

On March 09, 2026, the Royal Thai Army navigated logistical hurdles to maintain its modern canons during a border war against Cambodia. Since late 2025, KNDS has partnered with Chaiseri to maintain Caesar canons because a previous relationship with United Defense Technology led by Thawatchai Jungsanguanpornsuk was unsatisfactory. Elbit Systems currently holds exclusivity with the army to produce M758 ATMG obusiers in partnership with the Weapon Production Center in Lopburi and Chankasem International. These weapons are mounted on Tatra Systems trucks from the Czechoslovak Group. Thailand used these Israeli canons after the Cambodian army struck residential areas with Russian BM-21 rockets. To address an ammunition shortage, Bangkok purchased 155 mm shells from ST Engineering in Singapore and Poongsan in South Korea. Tensions remains between Thailand and Cambodia, following multiple incidents and despite a fragile ceasefire in place since late December

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE & RELATIONS

TUNISIAN COURT DETAINS PRO PALESTINIAN FLOTILLA ORGANIZERS

On March 16, 2026, a Tunisian judge ordered the detention of 7 members of a new pro-Palestinian flotilla. Lawyer Sami Ben Ghazi confirmed that the suspects, including Wael Naouar, Jawaher Channa, Sana Msahli, Nabil Channoufi and Mohamed Amine Bannour, were placed in custody after 10 days of detention. The investigation concerns funds collected during a previous Global Sumud Flotilla operation in September 2025. Activist Mahdi Elleuch and dozens of protesters demonstrated outside the financial judicial center to denounce the arrests as political repression.

HRW ACCUSES EL SALVADOR OF FORCED DISAPPEARANCE AGAINST MIGRANTS PEOPLE

On March 16, 2026, Human Rights Watch accused the government of President Nayib Bukele for the forced disappearance of at least 11 Salvadorians. These individuals were among approximately 30 Salvadorians and 260 Venezuelans expelled from the United States last year and incarcerated in the Cecot prison. Juan Pappier, HRW deputy director for the Americas, reported that there is no record of the 11 men appearing before a judge and their current location is unknown. While the Venezuelan migrants were released 4 months later in a prisoner exchange, the Salvadorians remained in custody accused of belonging to the Tren de Aragua and MS-13 gangs. HRW stated that no evidence has been provided to support these gang affiliations. The NGO Cristosal also noted the rise of political prisoners under Bukele.

JUDICIAL INVESTIGATION INTO NEW CALEDONIA INDEPENDENCE LEADERS CONCLUDES

On March 18, 2026, investigating judges notified lawyers of the conclusion of the inquiry into 14 independence leaders following the 2024 riots. Christian Tein, the head of the pro-independence movement and president of the FLNKS, is among those accused of organizing a plan to destabilize State services and local economy. The unrest caused 14 deaths and over 2,000,000,000 euros in damages. Defense lawyer Florian Medico asserted that the investigation demonstrated Tein only led a peaceful political struggle. Lawyer François Saint-Pierre denounced the political instrumentalization of the case and the inhuman conditions of the transfer of militants to metropolitan France. The defense cited comments by French Ministers Gabriel Attal and Gérald Darmanin as evidence of government interference in the judicial process.

DANISH SUPREME COURT REJECTS COMPLAINT AGAINST ARMS EXPORTS TO ISRAEL

On March 18, 2026, the Supreme Court of Denmark ruled that a lawsuit filed by 4 NGOs to stop arms sales to Israel was inadmissible. The organizations, including Amnesty, Oxfam, ActionAid Denmark and the Palestinian group Al-Haq, argued that Danish components for American F-35 fighters produced by Terma could be used for war crimes in Gaza. Amnesty official Dina Hashem emphasized that international treaties require states to refuse licenses when there is a clear risk of serious violations of humanitarian law. The court concluded that the associations did not have the specific legal interest or status required to bring the case. This ruling follows a similar judicial decision in the Netherlands which found that the state was respecting existing regulations and refused to impose a total ban on military exports to Israel.

FRENCH JUDGE APOLOGIZES FOR TRANSFER CONDITIONS OF KANAK MILITANTS

On March 19, 2026, reports emerged that investigating judge Isabelle Ardeeff apologized to Kanak activists for the conditions of their transfer to metropolitan France. The apologies were offered during hearings for Frédérique Muliava and Brenda Wanabo who were among 7 leaders arrested in June 2024 during the New Caledonia riots. Muliava described being handcuffed for a 30-hour military flight and being kept in isolation for 3 months at the Riom prison. Judge Ardeeff admitted that the conditions of the transfer and custody did not correspond to judicial standards although she was not responsible for the logistics. Defense lawyer François Saint-Pierre described the treatment as inadmissible and stated the State must be held accountable.

FRENCH JIHADIST SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR YAZIDI GENOCIDE

On March 20, 2026, a Paris court sentenced Sabri Essid to life imprisonment for genocide and crimes against humanity committed against the Yazidi minority. President Marc Sommerer stated Essid participated in a criminal chain of buying and selling victims in Syrian and Iraqi zones between 2014 and 2016. Lawyer Clémence Bectarte described the verdict as the result of a 10 year legal battle for victims who were subjected to sexual slavery and daily rape. Prosecution representative emphasized that enslavement was a method of extermination. Although Essid is presumed dead since 2018, the court maintained his arrest warrant after his wife Samia expressed doubts about his death during her testimony. Natia Navrouzov from the NGO Yazda called the moment historical.

HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST IMPRISONED IN EL SALVADOR FOR OVER THREE HUNDRED DAYS

On March 20, 2026, Louis Benavides reported that his wife, lawyer Ruth Lopez, remains a political prisoner in El Salvador after 300 days of detention. Lopez is the head of the anticorruption unit for the NGO Cristosal and was arrested on charges of illicit enrichment. International human rights organizations claim the imprisonment is a tactic by the administration of Nayib Bukele to silence her criticism of government abuses. The judicial proceedings have not been made public and her family has not been allowed to see her since a court ordered her provisional detention on July 3. Benavides recently traveled to London to accept a fifth international award recognizing the work of Lopez. He spoke to reporters before attempting to deliver medication to her at the Izalco penitentiary center.