WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL NEWS REVIEW – May 6th – June 12th 2026

SUDAN

11 CIVILIANS KILLED IN NORTH KORDOFAN

On June 6, 2026, a drone strike on a market in the Kordofan region killed at least 11 people and injured dozens of others. The attack targeted the main market of Abou Zaiema, a town controlled by the Rapid Support Forces. The human rights organization Emergency Lawyers reported the incident and noted that the death toll could rise. The NGO did not attribute the strike to a specific side and neither the regular army nor the RSF reacted to the event. In the hours preceding the market attack, similar strikes hit nearby villages and civilian vehicles in the surrounding areas. Additionally, 2 witnesses reported that a drone struck a gas station in Al-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan which has been surrounded by the RSF for months. This separate strike injured 4 people according to a medical source. These attacks occurred during a particularly deadly week in the region where nearly 70 people were killed in various strikes.

23 KILLED IN DRONE STRIKES TARGETING FUNERAL AND AID TRUCK IN EL-OBEID

On June 11, 2026, a series of drone strikes attributed to the Rapid Support Forces in El-Obeid killed 23 people and wounded 19 others. The attacks began on the evening of June 10 evening and continued until the morning of June 11, hitting residential neighborhoods, a funeral ceremony and a truck transporting food aid. According to the independent collective Emergency Lawyers, a medical source reported that victims included 2 children and a woman who was likely their mother. One resident of the Al-Matar neighborhood told that house roofs collapsed on their occupants. The NGO detailed that an initial strike killed 5 people and injured 12, while a subsequent attack on people gathered at a cemetery killed 4 and injured 7. Other strikes killed 13 people near damaged houses. Finally, a drone strike on a food truck at the southern entrance of the city killed the driver and destroyed the cargo. El-Obeid is under siege by the RSF.

SOUTH SUDAN

FAMILIES FORCED TO EAT LEAVES AS FOOD CRISIS DEEPENS

On June 9, 2026, Save the Children reported that families and children in Jonglei state are eating leaves, water lilies and seeds to survive a severe food crisis. South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and his rival Former Vice President Riek Machar are engaged in a resurgence of conflict between government forces and opposition militias. Chris Nyamandi, director of Save the Children in South Sudan, stated that 7.9 million people out of a population of 12 million face high food insecurity. Cuts in international aid and the start of the rainy season are expected to worsen the situation in one of the most fragile states in the world.

SOUTH SUDANESE WHISTLEBLOWER KIDNAPPED AT GUNPOINT IN NAIROBI, DEPORTED TO JUBA MILITARY PRISON

On June 10, 2026, Amnesty International and the wife of Athorbey Al-Gaddhaffy-Dit reported that the 51 year old whistleblower was kidnapped in Kenya. Athorbey Al-Gaddhaffy-Dit, who holds both South Sudanese and Kenyan nationality, was abducted early morning on June 9 by masked men. A taxi driver witnessed the armed men seize him and force him into a vehicle. The whistleblower had previously warned that his life was in danger due to his revelations regarding the predatory behavior of leadership in Juba. The victim had frequently exposed the corruption of the South Sudanese elite. A UN report from September emphasized that such corruption has cost the oil producing state billions of dollars while 2 thirds of the population suffer from food insecurity. On June 12, 2026, Amnesty International announced that Al-Gaddhaffy-Dit was deported to South Sudan following his abduction and held in a military detention center in Juba. Amnesty International demanded guarantees for his safety and access to medical care and legal representatives. The NGO criticized Kenya for being complicit in the kidnappings of dissidents from neighboring countries on its soil.

WESTERN SAHARA

3 ACTIVISTS KILLED

On June 8, 2026, the Polisario Front reported that 3 of its members were killed during a military operation against the Moroccan defense wall. The victims included 37 year old brigade chief and member of the National Secretariat of the Polisario Lehbib Mohamed Abdelaziz. He was the son of historical leader Mohamed Abdelaziz who served as the president of the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. According to the Sahrawi press agency SPS, the independence movement declared 3 days of national mourning starting on June 7 following the incident. While a Spanish media reported a Moroccan drone strike east of the wall, this information was not officially confirmed by the Polisario. Sahrawi diplomat Mohamed Yeslem Beissat met UN personal envoy Staffan de Mistura in refugee camps. The UN and the United States under Donald Trump have supported a Moroccan autonomy plan as a feasible solution to the 50-year conflict.

ETHIOPIA

UP TO 56 CIVILIANS KILLED BY ARMED MEN IN OROMIA

On June 6, 2026, at least 11 and potentially up to 56 civilians were killed by armed men over several days in the Oromia region. Federal authorities accused the rebel group Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) of the massacres which took place between May 31 and June 3. Witness confirmed that 11 people he knew personally were killed in the village of Eleta Chefa in the Arsi district. Another resident explained that the attackers primarily targeted Orthodox Christians and Muslims who defended them, leaving homes burned and livestock looted. Medical workers counted 56 deaths and 50 injuries caused by bullets and machetes. On X, the OLA counter accused federal authorities of encouraging communal violence. These attacks occurred during the legislative elections which the OLA threatened to disrupt.

1 PERSON KILLED IN FEDERAL DRONE STRIKE IN TIGRAY

On June 6, 2026, dissident authorities in Tigray reported that a federal drone strike killed at least 1 person and caused several injuries. The attack took place at dawn on June 5 in the northwest zone of Tigray near Shiraro and the Eritrean border. Federal authorities under Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed are the only parties with drones, which they have used for years against rebellions in Amhara and Oromia. Tensions have persisted since the TPLF re-established a local parliament in April which the federal government deems illegitimate. Although the 2020-2022 war ended with a peace agreement in Pretoria, direct clashes between the TPLF and federal forces resumed in 2025.

FRENCH JOURNALIST EXPELLED

On June 12, 2026, reports confirmed the expulsion of Augustine Passilly, the 30 year old correspondent for the French Christian newspaper La Croix. The Ethiopian Media Authority and immigration services revoked her accreditation and residence permit while she was reporting in Tigray on forced recruitment. She left the country on June 11. Sadibou Marong, director of the Reporters Without Borders bureau for sub-Saharan Africa, described the decision as a violation of the freedom to inform and an act of censorship. Thomas Hofnung, head of the international service for La Croix, stated the journalist had not violated any regulations. Under the leadership of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopia has fallen to 148th place in the 2026 Reporters Without Borders global press freedom index. The expulsion coincides with accusations from intelligence chief Redwan Hussein and minister Getachew Reda that the TPLF is preparing a new offensive.

TIGRAYAN OFFICIALS DENY FEDERAL ACCUSATIONS OF IMMINENT MILITARY OFFENSIVE

On June 12, 2026, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) rejected federal claims that they are preparing an offensive. Amanuel Assefa, number 2 of the TPLF, called the allegations totally false and suggested the federal government is seeking a pretext for war. The TPLF governed Ethiopia from 1991 to 2018 before Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took office. The previous war between 2020 and 2022 resulted in at least 600,000 deaths according to the African Union.

BURKINA FASO

OVER 1,100 ASSOCIATIONS SUSPENDED SINCE APRIL

On June 12, 2026, a ministerial decree confirmed that the Burkina Faso junta suspended 245 associations for failing to renew their management bodies. This brings the total number of organizations suspended or dissolved since mid-April to 1,174. Minister of Territorial Administration Emile Zerbo signed the order which affects groups working in socio-economic development, health, education and the promotion of women’s rights. The measures follow a July 2025 law that subordinates the freedom of association to strict administrative controls. NGOs are often accused of espionage or links with terrorist networks.

NIGERIA

NIGERIAN DEPUTIES APPROVE REGIONAL POLICE BILL

On June 11, 2026, the Nigerian Chamber of Representatives approved a bill authorizing federated States to create their own police forces. This major security reform, supported by the President, aims to address persistent insecurity and the perceived slow response of federal law enforcement. Doubts regarding the ability of the federal police to effectively secure the country have increased following a series of abductions in schools across the southwest. Officials Philip Agbese stated that while security forces are doing their best, additional support is required for ungoverned spaces that are poorly managed at the national level. The Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre noted that Nigeria maintains one of the most centralized police. Currently, states rely on local antijihadist self defense groups to compensate for military and police weaknesses.

13,000 KILLED IN 1 YEAR

On June 12, 2026, President Bola Tinubu declared that Nigeria killed more than 13,000 alleged terrorists during the past year. Despite these claims, the International Monetary Fund warned that widespread insecurity from armed groups remains a risk for the population and economic activity. Nigeria faces Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (Iswap) in the north, banditry, farmer herder violence in the center and southeast secessionist movements.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

THOUSANDS FORCIBLY ENLISTED IN M23 DETENTION CAMPS

On June 10, 2026, Human Rights Watch accused the M23 antigovernment group of forcibly enlisting thousands of people in eastern RDC and detaining them in inhuman conditions. The group, which is supported by Kigali, seized the major cities of Goma and Bukavu in early 2025. HRW based its report on interviews with 102 former detainees and dozens of other sources who described victims abducted from streets, homes, churches or schools. Some captives as young as 12 were forced to join M23 under death threats after receiving military and ideological training. Detainees suffered beatings, extreme overcrowding, dehydration and famine. Some were executed. Witnesses identified senior M23 officers alongside numerous Rwandan instructors and guards wearing Rwanda Defence Force uniforms. The NGO estimates that hundreds or more people died in these camps.

TONS OF PILLAGED COLTAN LAUNDERED THROUGH RWANDA

On June 10, 2026, an investigation by Global Witness revealed that hundreds of tons of coltan pillaged by the M23 armed group in eastern RDC are laundered in Rwanda for international export. With support from Kigali, M23 seized the Rubaya mining town in April 2024 which supplies 15% of coltan production. UN experts reported that approximately 120 tons of coltan were exported monthly to Rwanda between May and October 2024. The group generates large revenues from taxes on mineral production and trade. Global Witness established the complicity of Rwandan officials in smuggling where minerals are mixed with local production. Bags are sometimes tagged by buyers rather than Rwandan mining, oil and gas officials. This coltan may reach global brands such as Microsoft, Vodafone, Sony, Amazon, Nvidia, LG Display, Ericsson, Toyota and Apple.

SEVERAL OPPONENTS INJURED IN PROTESTS AGAINST 3RD PRESIDENTIAL TERM

On June 12, 2026, several Congolese opponents were injured in Kinshasa during a rally against a proposed constitutional change that could allow President Félix Tshisekedi a 3rd term. Police dispersed the C64 coalition gathering after clashes between opposition and progovernment militants. Several activists were injured, with some who claimed bullet wounds. The current Constitution limits the president to 2 mandates but a new bill could allow revisions in case of major institutional dysfunction. Joseph Kabila urged citizens to oppose the change.

LEBANON

3 CIVILIANS KILLED IN THE SOUTH, MILITARY CASUALTIES

On June 6, 2026, in Saksakiyeh, an Israeli raid killed 2 women and injured 22 people, including 3 children. Additionally, a nurse was killed by a strike while traveling to Hiram Hospital in Tyre. Another Israeli airstrike targeted a military vehicle between Khardali and Nabatiyé, killing 2 Lebanese officers and 1 soldier. Lebanese President Joseph Aaoun denounced the strike as a violation of sovereignty while the Israeli army claimed the vehicle “acted suspiciously” near a combat zone in Tebnit. The Israeli military also reported the deaths of 2 of its own soldiers. Lebanese army chief Rodolphe Haykal traveled to Pakistan to meet his counterpart Asim Munir for peace talks.

2 KILLED AND 20 INJURED IN ISRAELI STRIKE ON BEIRUT

On June 7, 2026, Israel conducted a strike on the Dahieh neighborhood in southern Beirut, killing 2 people and injuring 20 others including 4 children and 4 women. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the military stated the attack targeted Hezbollah command centers.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE RUINS IN TYRE DAMAGED BY ISRAELI FIRE

On June 8, 2026, Lebanese Culture Minister Ghassan Salamé announced that Israeli strikes damaged the ancient ruins of Tyre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. He noted that Israel was ignoring the Hague Convention and the Blue Shield emblems meant to protect cultural property during armed conflicts.Ali Badaoui, director of archaeological sites in southern Lebanon, stated the bombardment caused the greatest damage to the ruins since the war began on March 2. Debris and shrapnel hit Roman columns, mosaics and administrative offices within the protected area.

14 DEAD IN ISRAELI RAIDS ACROSS SOUTHERN LEBANON

On June 8, 2026, Israeli strikes killed 14 people and injured more than 20 across southern Lebanon. A dawn raid on Zifta in the Nabatiyé region killed 7 people, including a Syrien child and a woman. In Tyre, an evening strike killed 5 people and injured 8, while another attack in Marwanieh killed 2 people, including a child. The Israeli army launched evacuation orders for parts of Tyre before hitting a car near a Lebanese Red Cross building, murdering 5 people and injuring 4 rescuers. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz affirmed that his country would continue to act against Hezbollah, despite warnings from the Iranian military command regarding severe riposte for continued hostilities.

MASS EXODUS FROM TYRE

On June 9, 2026, Israeli strikes in and around Tyre killed 11 people and injured 35 others, including 3 children, during a massive displacement of residents. Avichay Adraee, an Arabic speaking spokesperson for the Israeli army, ordered the immediate evacuation of the city and its Christian quarter, instructing residents to move north of the Zahrani river. The Israeli army killed an alleged fighter near Kiryat Shmona.

2 ABDUCTED BY ISRAELI PATROL IN KFAR CHOUBA

On June 10, 2026, an Israeli patrol abducted a municipal council member and an employee from Kfar Chouba while they were pumping water. The Israeli army stated it interrogated the 2 suspects for approaching an operation zone before releasing them. The municipality condemned the hostile act against innocent workers. Representatives of southern Christian villages called on the Lebanese State to open humanitarian corridors, noting that roads are now extremely dangerous and isolated.

UN MISSION DISPATCHED TO INVESTIGATE WAR CRIMES

On June 10, 2026, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk announced the deployment of an impartial mission to investigate international law violations in Lebanon. The mission, agreed upon with the Lebanese government, aims to collect evidence of crimes committed by all parties since March 2. Since the war began, Israeli strikes have killed at least 3,666 people according to official records. Israeli forces currently occupy parts of southern Lebanon and have invaded deeper into the country than at any point in nearly 30 years.

14 KILLED BY ISRAELI STRIKES IN THE SOUTH

On June 10, 2026, Israeli raids killed 12 people in southern Lebanon. 8 were murdered in Tayr Debba and 4 in Deir Qanoun an-Nahr. An Israeli drone akso targeted a car in central Saïda, killing 2 people inside. The flames spread to surrounding cars on a busy road. Saïda houses the largest Palestinian refugee camp in Lebanon.

10 HOSPITAL STAFF INJURED IN ISRAELI RAID ON TYRE

On June 11, 2026, an Israeli bombardment near Hiram Hospital in Tyre injured 10 members of the medical and administrative staff. Hospital director Dr. Salman Aïdibi reported that this was the 6th time the hospital perimeter was targeted since the war began. The explosion shattered windows and damaged several vehicles belonging to personnel. Since the start of the conflict, 17 hospitals have been damaged and 132 health workers have been killed. Additional strikes hit villages in southern Lebanon and the Baalbeck region in the East.

ISRAELI TANKS BLOCK VATICAN HUMANITARIAN CONVOY

On June 12, 2026, Israeli tanks stopped a humanitarian aid convoy led by Apostolic Nuncio Paolo Borgia near the village of Debel. The convoy, which included 25 trucks from Caritas and L’Oeuvre d’Orient, was blocked for nearly 1 hour before being forced to take a longer 12-hour route. Vincent Gelot, director of L’Oeuvre d’Orient for Lebanon and Syria, warned that southern Christian villages refusing evacuation are now isolated and threatened with disappearance.

PALESTINE

ISRAELI STRIKES KILL 10 IN GAZA

On June 6, 2026, Israeli strikes killed 10 people in the Gaza Strip including Muhannad Othmane Farwana who was described as a cell commander of the Hamas military wing. A drone hit the Jawazat displacement camp in Gaza City, killing 8 people and injuring 15 others according to the Civil Defense. An additional strike in a southeastern district of Gaza City killed a man. Since the October ceasefire, at least 951 Palestinians and 5 Israeli soldiers have been killed.

PALESTINIAN JOURNALIST BAYAN AL-JUBA SENTENCED TO PRISON

On June 7, 2026, an Israeli court sentenced independent journalist Bayan al-Juba to 20 months in prison for “supporting a terrorist organization”. The 33-year-old journalist was also ordered to pay a fine of 5,000 shekels. The court verdict was based on social media posts published between 2021 and 2024. Bayan al-Juba was originally arrested in February 2025 at the Al-Aqsa Mosque esplanade and had been under house arrest in the Shuafat refugee camp. She was released on strict conditions during her pregnancy. The judge rejected a request from her lawyer to convert the prison time into community service.

ISRAELI ARMY OPENS INVESTIGATION INTO DEATH OF 7-MONTH-OLD BABY

On June 7, 2026, the Israeli army announced an investigation by its Military Police Criminal Investigation Division into the death of Sam Fahd Abou Haikal. The 7-month-old infant was killed the previous day in Hebron when Israeli forces opened fire on his family’s vehicle. Preliminary findings from the army suggested a soldier fired at the car after it accelerated. Sam Fahd Abou Haikal died and his parents were injured in the incident. Since October 7, 2023, at least 1,080 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank by soldiers or settlers according to official counts while 46 Israelis have died in Palestinian attacks or military operations.

12 KILLED IN ISRAELI STRIKES ACROSS GAZA

On June 7, 2026, Israeli strikes killed at least 12 people in Gaza including 4 near the al-Buraq school and 5 at a police station. The Civil Defense reported that a strike on a vehicle in western Gaza City killed 4 people whose bodies were taken to Al-Shifa Hospital. Another bombardment hit a police station in the al-Mawasi sector near Khan Younis, killing 5 and injuring 17. Nasser Hospital confirmed receiving the victims. Additionally, the body of fisherman Mohammed Moussa Abou Jaiab was taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital after he was shot at sea.

PALESTINIAN FOOTBALLER RELEASED FROM DETENTION

On June 8, 2026, 20-year-old Palestinian footballer Rand Halawani was released from Israeli detention but placed under house arrest for 5 days. Her mother Wissam Halawani confirmed the release following 6 days of custody after a summons by Jerusalem police. Israeli authorities arrested Rand Halawani and an 18-year-old man for an incident in Jerusalem involving objects thrown from a balcony onto protesters. Currently, approximately 9,500 Palestinians including 95 women are detained in Israeli prisons. A NGO reported that arrest campaigns in the West Bank and Jerusalem are increasing.

PALESTINIAN MAN PURSUED FOR TERRORISM IN GREECE

On June 8, 2026, Greek justice officials pursued a Palestinian man for belonging to a terrorist organization and preparing explosives. The suspect, a Gaza native working as an electrician in Crete, was arrested after Greek police linked him to individuals recently detained in Cyprus. Authorities claim the man received training from Hamas in Malaysia and ordered explosives online. Public broadcaster ERT reported that police found chemical materials in his Athens apartment.

VIDEO CONTRADICTS ISRAELI ARMY VERSION OF INFANT DEATH IN HEBRON

On June 9, 2026, Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem released a video contradicting the military account of the death of Sam Fahd Abou Haikal. The 7-month-old baby was killed when soldiers fired on his family’s car in Hebron. While the army claimed the vehicle accelerated toward troops, the video shows the car slowing down and stopping. B’Tselem also accused the soldiers of leaving the scene without providing medical aid to the wounded baby and his mother. The infant’s father rejected the idea of an error, noting that multiple bullets were fired without warning. The Israeli military stated it is currently verifying the video.

GAZA PEACE TALKS IN CAIRO STALL OVER DISARMAMENT DISPUTE

On June 9, 2026, discussions in Cairo aimed at ending the Gaza war were blocked by disagreements regarding the disarmament of Hamas. Palestinian sources stated that while progress was made, Palestinian movements insist that disarmament must be linked to a total Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Currently, Israeli troops control about 60% of the territory. Negotiators from Egypt, Qatar and Turkey are reviewing a proposal where armed groups would hand over weapons to a newly created Palestinian authority. This compromise was reached by groups including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, though Fatah led by Mahmoud Abbas was not present.

WESTERN NATIONS IMPOSE SANCTIONS ON ISRAELI SETTLERS

On June 9, 2026, the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada and Norway announced new sanctions against Israeli entities and individuals involved in West Bank violence. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper urged citizens and companies to avoid economic activities in illegal settlements. France banned Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from its territory, mirroring a previous ban on National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. Minister Smotrich is accused of promoting annexation and the recolonization of Gaza. Ireland also announced upcoming legislation to ban trade with settlements. Since October 2023, OCHA has recorded an average of 6 settler attacks per day.

AMNESTY ACCUSES ISRAEL OF ETHNIC CLEANSING

On June 10, 2026, Amnesty International accused Israel of ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity regarding Bedouin communities in the West Bank. The report stated that 27 communities were forcibly displaced or threatened between 2023 and 2025 in Area C. Secretary General Agnès Callamard claimed the campaign is state-supported and accused the United States and Germany of complicity. The Israeli Foreign Ministry rejected these allegations as false. Amnesty noted that the government of Benjamin Netanyahu has accelerated settlement expansion and land seizures. Over 500,000 Israelis live in illegal settlements among 3 million Palestinians.

UN REPORTS RECORD LEVELS OF ISRAELI SETTLER VIOLENCE

On June 11, 2026, the UN reported that Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank reached a record average of 6 attacks per day. Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric stated that OCHA recorded over 1,000 attacks this year affecting 230 communities. Last week alone, settlers injured more than 30 Palestinians and caused extensive property damage to assets and infrastructure

MODERATES SEEK RECONCILIATION AMID RISING EXTREMISM

On June 11, 2026, Israeli Rafi Walden and Palestinian Samer Sinijlawi described their efforts toward peace despite the dominance of extremist voices. Rafi Walden, an 84-year-old professor and member of Physicians for Human Rights, provides free medical care to hundreds of Palestinians in the West Bank. Samer Sinijlawi, a 54-year-old politician, recently launched the “New Path” party to offer a democratic alternative and dialogue with Israelis. They emphasized that Palestinians must recognize Jewish rights while Jews must recognize Palestinian rights.

ISRAELI ARMY DESTROYS WATER PIPES IN NORTHERN WEST BANK

On June 11, 2026, Palestinian farmers reported that the Israeli army destroyed water pipes near Tubas to build a 22-kilometer military road. The destruction has caused fields to dry up and impacted livestock. Farmers stated they can no longer irrigate vines or access their land due to military barriers and that anyone attempting to access their land is arrested. The Israeli military claimed the project is a security necessity intended to control vehicle traffic and prevent weapons smuggling. Since December 2025, authorities have issued orders to requisition 100 hectares.

ISRAEL REFUSES ENTRY TO FOREIGN JOURNALIST

On June 11, 2026, Israeli authorities denied entry to French journalist Alice Froussard and returned her to Paris after a night at Ben-Gourion airport. Diaspora Minister Amichaï Chikli accused the RFI and Radio France correspondent of being a Hamas supporter based on social media posts where she compared the occupation to apartheid. Radio France news director Agnès Vahramian and the Society of Journalists of RFI condemned the act as a brutal blow to press freedom. Reporters Without Borders noted that Israel dropped to 116th place in its 2026 press freedom index. NGOs warned at a Paris meeting that the window for a two-state solution is rapidly shrinking.

IRAN-GULF-ISRAEL-US

IRAN STRIKES KUWAIT AND BAHRAIN BASES IN RESPONSE TO US ATTACKS

On June 7, 2026, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard launched ballistic missiles at the Ali Al-Salem air base in Kuwait and the US 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain despite a ceasefire. Revolutionary Guard members stated the strikes were retaliation for American raids on Iranian coastal radar sites in Goruk and Qeshm Island.

IRANIAN COURT UPHOLDS PRISON FOR DISSIDENT FILMMAKER

On June 7, 2026, a revolutionary court in Tehran presided over by Judge Iman Afshari rejected the appeal of dissident filmmaker Jafar Panahi. The 65-year-old director must serve one year in prison and faces a 2-year travel ban for “propaganda against the State”. Lawyer Mostafa Nilli stated the charges involve the realization of a clandestine film and his support for the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement. Jafar Panahi had previously criticized the repression of protests which caused thousands of deaths. The filmmaker recently won the Palme d’Or for “A Simple Accident” which depicts victims of the Islamic Republic.

IRAN LAUNCHES MISSILES AGAINST ISRAEL, EXPLOSIONS IN JERUSALEM

On June 8, 2026, Iran launched a barrage of missiles toward Israel causing This escalation followed Israeli airstrikes against military targets in western and central Iran during the night.

IRAN TARGETS REBEL HEADQUARTERS IN IRAQI KURDISTAN, HOUTHI REBELS ATTACK ISRAEL

On June 8, 2026, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard targeted the headquarters of rebel groups in Sulaymaniyah within Iraqi Kurdistan. Official news agency Irna reported the operation against Iranian Kurdish groups described as terrorists. Meanwhile, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree announced a missile barrage against Israeli sites and an immediate ban on Israeli navigation in the Red Sea. The Iranian-allied rebels warned that any enemy movement would be considered a military target. The Israeli army confirmed identifying missiles launch from Yemen.

ISRAEL AND IRAN RESUME DIRECT ATTACKS

On June 8, 2026, Israel and Iran exchanged direct attacks for the first time since their April 8 ceasefire. Iran launched 6 waves of missiles following an Israeli strike on the Dahieh neighborhood of Beirut. At least 8 explosions occurred in Jerusalem after air raid sirens were activated. Magen David Adom rescue organisation reported no immediate victims. Israeli aircraft bombarded military targets in western and central Iran while an explosion in Tehran shook the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during a press conference. Iranian media reported damage to a petrochemical plant in Mahshahr. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard then launched more retaliatory strikes against a petrochemical complex in Haifa. The Ramat David air base in northern Israel was hit too. General Effie Defrin stated the Israeli Chief of Staff is in constant contact with the head of US Centcom regarding the situation.

IRAN STRIKES US BASES IN BAHRAIN AND JORDAN FOLLOWING AIR RAIDS

On June 10, 2026, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard launched drone and missile attacks against the US 5th Fleet in Bahrain and the Azraq air base in Jordan. The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated Gulf countries have a responsibility to prevent the US and Israel from using their territory for hostile actions. The Jordanian army reported intercepting 5 Iranian missiles. These strikes followed US Centcom raids on Iranian air defense and radar sites in Jask, Sirik and Qeshm Island. US President Donald Trump stated the American raids were a proportioned response in self-defense after Iran shot down an Apache helicopter on june 8. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged foreign forces to leave the region to avoid risks.

20,000 RESIDENTS WITHOUT DRINKING WATER AFTER US STRIKES IN IRAN

On June 10, 2026, Iranian state television reported that US bombings of 2 water plants in Sirik left 20,000 people without access to drinking water. A local water company official warned that underground resources are insufficient to replace the destroyed tanks amid high temperatures. The US military conducted the night strikes in Jask, Sirik and Qeshm Island after an American helicopter was shot down.

3 INDIAN SAILORS MISSING AFTER US ATTACK

On June 10, 2026, US Centcom aircraft fired on the engine room of the Palau flagged tanker Settebello off the coast of Oman. The Indian Foreign Ministry reported that 21 crew members were rescued while 3 remained missing. The US military claimed the vessel was attempting to export Iranian oil in violation of its blockade. India expressed strong protest.

IRAN VOWS TO CLOSE STRAIT OF ORMUZ AGAIN & DECLARES CEASEFIRE MEANINGLESS

On June 11, 2026, Iran announced plans to target all ships entering the Strait of Ormuz following new US airstrikes across the country. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard launched drones at Ali al-Salem and Ahmad al-Jaber bases in Kuwait and the Sheikh Isa base in Bahrain. In Jordan, 12 ballistic missiles were fired at the Al-Azrak base. The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated the regional ceasefire is practically meaningless after US forces targeted military surveillance and communication sites nationwide. A child was injured in Bahrain by drone debris. Defense Minister Pete Hegseth affirmed the US would negotiate with bombs.

IRANIAN ATTACK DAMAGES KUWAIT AIRPORT AND INJURES SEVERAL

On June 11, 2026, the Kuwaiti Civil Aviation Authority reported that Iranian strikes damaged an airport radar and caused injuries. This was the second attack on the international airport following a June 3 drone strike that killed an Indian national.

US DEPORTS IRANIAN AND AFGHAN REFUGEES TO CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

On June 12, 2026, a flight carrying deportees from the United States departed for the Central African Republic. US Attorney Alma David reported the group includes Iranian, Afghan, Turkish and Georgian nationals. US Attorney Emily Trostle expressed fear that the 2 Iranian women on board would lack any support network in the unstable country. US President Donald Trump has expanded deportations to third countries as a key policy.

EASTERN EUROPE

COLOMBIAN CITIZEN DETAINED IN RUSSIA

On June 6, 2026, a court in Saint Petersburg announced the pre-trial detention of Obando Ourbano, a Colombian national accused of attempting to participate as a mercenary in the conflict in Ukraine. Obando Ourbano allegedly contacted Ukrainian recruiters via TikTok while outside Russian territory to join the Armed Forces of Ukraine for material reward. Obando Ourbano was arrested on march 12 at Pulkovo Airport by a customs agent and officially charged on June 5 by the Primorski District Court of Saint Petersburg. Russia classifies foreigners fighting for Ukraine as mercenaries, which is a crime punishable by heavy prison sentences.

5 CIVILIANS KILLED AND NUCLEAR WASTE STORAGE SITE DAMAGED

On June 7, 2026, Russian attacks across Ukraine killed 5 people and caused damage to a nuclear fuel storage building. A bus driver was killed in his vehicle in Zaporijjia and a 59-year-old man died in the Dnipropetrovsk region. Regional Governor Ivan Fedorov and Military Governor Oleksandr Ganja reported additional casualties from strikes near public transport stops and residential areas. A Russian drone strike partially destroyed a building at a spent nuclear fuel storage site in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Ukrainian nuclear operator Energoatom confirmed radiation levels remained normal.

UKRAINIAN DRONE STRIKE ON A TRAIN KILLS 1

On June 8, 2026, a Ukrainian drone strike on a passenger train traveling from Moscow to Simferopol killed the assistant driver and injured the driver. Sergueï Axionov, who is governing Crimea, reported the locomotive was hit but passengers were unharmed. The company Grand Service Express suspended operations in the peninsula following the attack.

RUSSIAN BOMBARDMENTS KILL 4 CIVILIANS INCLUDING CHILDREN ACROSS UKRAINE

On June 8, 2026, Russian strikes killed at least 4 civilians and injured over 30 others across Ukraine. Regional Governor Ivan Fedorov reported that drone strikes in central Zaporijjia killed two women and injured 18 civilians, including 4 children aged 5 to 12. In Nikopol, a 49-year-old woman was killed and 10 others were injured. Regional administrator Oleg Grigorov confirmed a 71-year-old cyclist was killed by Russian fire in Seredyna-Bouda at the border. Further strikes injured 7 civilians in Sloviansk and 3 in the Odessa region. Since February 2022, the UN has recorded at least 15,850 civilian deaths and 44,800 injuries in the conflict.

8 CIVILIANS INCLUDING PREGNANT WOMAN KILLED IN RUSSIAN BOMBARDMENTS

On June 9, 2026, Ukrainian authorities reported that Russian strikes killed 8 people and injured 40 others over the previous 24 hours. Regional Governor Oleg Synegoubov stated a strike in Tchougouïv killed a 22-year-old pregnant woman and two men aged 56 and 70. Further casualties occurred in Zaporijjia, Sumy, Nikopol and Kherson. The Ukrainian Air Force reported intercepting 146 out of 166 Russian drones. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky requested more Patriot missiles from US President Donald Trump. In London, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz supported a direct dialogue between Kyiv and Moscow.

BULGARIA HALTS MILITARY AID TO UKRAINE FROM PUBLIC STOCKS

On June 10, 2026, Bulgarian Prime Minister Roumen Radev announced the end of weapons supplies from public military stocks to Ukraine. Bulgarian Prime Minister Roumen Radev argued for a diplomatic solution and noted the socio-economic losses caused by the conflict. While Bulgarian factories continue producing ammunition for EU countries to transfer, direct State supplies of air defense systems and missiles will cease. Former Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and his party criticized the decision, stating it undermines Bulgaria’s status as an ally.

BELGO-RUSSIAN MAN SENTENCED FOR TREASON IN RUSSIA

On June 11, 2026, the court of Pskov sentenced Mike Lochtchinine to 16 years in prison for treason against the Russian state. Mike Lochtchinine was accused of transferring 18,000 roubles to his Ukrainian ex-partner in 2022 for a military uniform, which he denies. Mike Lochtchinine claims he fell into a trap while traveling by motorcycle to visit relatives. A Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson confirmed they are seeking consular access but have been denied due to his double nationality. Mike Lochtchinine intends to appeal the conviction.

CONSCRIPTS FACE PRESSURE TO JOIN COMBAT IN BOTH UKRAINE & RUSSIA

On June 11, 2026, human rights organizations reported that Russian conscripts are facing increasing pressure to sign combat contracts for the war in Ukraine. Lawyer Artiom Klyga from the Movement of Conscientious Objectors and Timofeï Vaskine from the NGO Conscript School explained that conscription has been extended to a whole year with age limits raised to 30. Dmitri Medvedev stated that 422,000 military service contracts were signed last year. Recruits are tracked by facial recognition cameras in the Moscow metro and often deprived of communication once enrolled. Tactics include promising high salaries or using physical pressure. In Ukraine, reports also emerged detailing violent recruitment methods used by Ukrainian military officials during mandatory mobilization. Tetiana Zaïtseva sought justice for her 44-year-old son Artem Zaïtsev who died on May 5, 2024, hours after being arrested by recruiters. An examination requested by Tetiana Zaïtseva revealed broken ribs and other injuries. Since September 2023, at least 30 Ukrainians have died shortly after mobilization, including 2 from beatings. Over 600 attacks on recruitment centers have been recorded by police.

CIVILIAN CASUALTIES ON BOTH SIDES

On June 12, 2026, a Ukrainian drone strike targeted industrial facilities in Nijnekamsk, Tatarstan, injuring 4 people. Mayor Radmir Beliaev reported 20 people were displaced after an apartment building was hit and the Ukrainian General Staff claimed the strike targeted two oil refineries. In the Russian border region of Briansk, acting Governor Egor Kovalchuk confirmed 2 civilians were killed by artillery fire in Suzemka. On the Ukrainian side, a drone strike in Chostka, Sumy, killed a 44 year old employee and injured a 33 year old woman, according to Regional Military Administration Head Oleg Grygorov. The Mayor of Moscow reported that drones were intercepted near the capital.

CHINESE MILITARY TRAINED RUSSIAN DRONE OPERATORS

On June 12, 2026, an EU official confirmed that Chinese People’s Liberation Army instructors trained hundreds of Russian soldiers in drone warfare. Reporting by Die Welt indicated that the training took place at 6 military sites in China in late 2025 and covered modern combat simulations and electronic countermeasures. Participants included members of the Rubicon elite unit who were deployed to Ukraine in early 2026. This would mark a significant development in military cooperation between China and Russia.

ZELENSKY REMOVES PROTECTED STATUS OF RUSSIAN LANGUAGE

On June 12, 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law removing the protected status of the Russian language as a regional or minority language. Parliament Chairman Ruslan Stefantchuk stated the language of an aggressor State cannot benefit from protection instruments. The measure removes protections previously granted. While the language remains spoken by a third of the population, the State is no longer required to provide public services or education in Russian. Tensions over the status of the language were a key factor in the 2014 separatist rebellion supported by Moscow.

INDONESIA

4 SOLDIERS SENTENCED TO PRISON FOR ACID ATTACK ON HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST

On June 10, 2026, a military court in Jakarta sentenced 4 soldiers to prison terms ranging from 18 months to 3 years for a premeditated acid attack against a human rights activist. Judge Fredy Ferdian Isnartanto noted the soldiers displayed arrogant conduct during the proceedings. According to the prosecution, the soldiers acted on their own initiative over a 2025 parliamentary meeting interruption. The head of the intelligence agency resigned following the arrests.

MYANMAR

THAI WOMAN DETAINED IN MYANMAR FOLLOWING SUSPECTED HOMICIDE OF US DIPLOMAT

On June 11, 2026, an anonymous judicial official from the Kamayut District Court in Yangon confirmed that a Thai woman was placed in pre-trial detention following the death of a 43 year old American diplomat. The victim, described by the US Embassy as a regional security officer from New York, was found on May 11 at the Sakura Residence in the Golden Valley neighborhood with lacerations.

MYANMAR PRESIDENT MIN AUNG HLAING TO CONDUCT VISIT TO CHINA

On June 12, 2026, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian announced that Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing will conduct a State visit to China from June 15 to June 19. Min Aung Hlaing will hold separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Li Qiang and Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress Chairman Zhao Leji. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized deepening strategic cooperation and the “Pauk Phaw” family relationship between the neighbors. China provides military aid and significant investments to Myanmar, sharing a 2100-kilometer border. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi previously visited in April to support the development of the country after the 2021 coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi.

COLOMBIA

PARAMILITARY LEADER SANTIAGO URIBE SURRENDERS

On June 10, 2026, Santiago Uribe, the brother of former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe, surrendered to police in Bogotá to serve a 28 year prison sentence for paramilitary activities. The rancher was convicted in november 2025 for directing the “12 Apostles” group during the 1990s and participating in the murder of a bus driver in Antioquia. Former President Alvaro Uribe announced the surrender while his own judicial case involving witness tampering charges is reviewed by the Supreme Court. This legal process originated from complaints by left wing Senator Ivan Cepeda, a presidential candidate currently running against right wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella. Presidential candidates remain under high protection since the assassination of right-wing candidate Miguel Uribe last year.

160 COMBATANTS KILLED BY COLOMBIAN ARMY IN OPERATION AGAINST GUERRILLA CHIEF

On June 12, 2026, Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed that the Colombian army killed 160 fighters during operations against the fugitive guerrilla leader Iván Mordisco. A bombardment on May 31 targeted the protection circle of Iván Mordisco, the chief of the State Main Staff dissident faction responsible for a road bombing that killed 21 civilians in April. President Gustavo Petro offered nearly 1.4 million dollars for information leading to the capture of the leader. Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized the deployment of offensive drones in these security efforts.

ECUADOR

A MAN BEATEN TO DEATH BY MILITARIES

On June 9, 2026, a report documented by photographer Marcos Pin and video producer Cesar Vega revealed that 28 year old Bryan Ledesma was allegedly beaten to death by a military patrol in Milagro. Bryan Ledesma was arrested on March 16 while retrieving a motorcycle and was reportedly tortured for 40 minutes with electric shocks to his tongue before being found dead in a hospital. His mother Monica Franco and father Patricio Ledesma blamed the government of President Daniel Noboa for granting excessive power to the military during an anti-drug offensive. President Daniel Noboa, an ally of Donald Trump, has implemented an emergency state and military deployments. Director of the NGO Human Rights Committee Billy Navarrete criticized the operations for targeting weak individuals while gang leaders remain untouched. One of the sisters of Bryan Ledesma confirmed viewing a video of the assault filmed by neighbors. While 7 soldiers face prosecution, including 2 in detention and 5 under conditional release, the army claimed the soldiers acted without authorization. The report also cited the 2024 deaths of 4 children by the air force and recent fatal beatings of 2 young men.

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE AND RELATIONS

THE US RAISE COUNTER-ESPIONAGE THREAT LEVEL AGAINST ISRAEL

On June 7, 2026, the Defense Intelligence Agency raised the counter espionage threat level for Israel to its highest category following reports of attempts to spy on senior American officials. Intelligence sources cited by NBC News and The New York Times indicated that Israel sought information on internal decision making by the administration of US President Donald Trump regarding Middle Eastern conflicts. Alleged targets included top negotiator Steve Witkoff and high-ranking Pentagon official Elbridge Colby. Relations between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have become strained following joint strikes against Iran.

UN HUMAN RIGHTS CHIEF CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE END TO US OIL BLOCKADE ON CUBA

On June 8, 2026, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk urged the United States to immediately lift sanctions and a fuel blockade imposed on Cuba since January. Volker Türk reported that infant mortality has doubled to 9.9 deaths per 1,000 births and child cancer survival rates dropped from 85% to 65% due to a lack of supplies. US President Donald Trump considers the island an extraordinary threat and has threatened to take control. Sanctions also target former President Raul Castro and private maritime and financial institutions. Volker Türk emphasized that such indiscriminate measures are incompatible with international law while calling on the government of Cuba to respect freedom of assembly.

ICC GENERAL PROSECUTOR KARIM KHAN SUSPENDED OVER SEXUAL ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS

On June 9, 2026, the Assembly of States Parties of the International Criminal Court (ICC) suspended General Prosecutor Karim Khan following allegations of sexual assault against a staff member. The 21-member bureau made the decision by qualified majority, noting the suspension does not predetermine the final outcome to be decided by the 125 member States. Karim Khan, who previously sought arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, denied the accusations. He had already stepped back from duties in May 2025.

PRISON TERMS UP TO 30 YEARS REQUESTED FOR COMMANDO TARGETING AZERBAIJANI DISSIDENT

On June 9, 2026, Advocate General Vincent Mailly requested prison sentences ranging from 22 to 30 years for three members of a commando unit accused of attempting to kill a dissident blogger in France. Journalist Benjamin Massot reported on the proceedings in Rennes where six Azerbaijani defendants were present. The victim, Mahammad Mirzali, was violently attacked on March 14, 2021. Advocate General Vincent Mailly identified Emin Gasimov as the leader of the commando affiliated with the mafia.

AFGHAN EX TALIBAN COMMANDER SENTENCED TO 42 YEARS BY THE US

On June 10, 2026, a federal judge in New York sentenced Haji Najibullah to 42 years in prison for kidnapping an American journalist and supporting terrorist acts. Haji Najibullah, 50, pleaded guilty in April 2025 to involvement in a 2008 attack on a US military convoy that killed 3 soldiers and their interpreter. Acting Justice Minister Todd Blanche stated that the commander also organized the hostage taking of journalist David Rohde and two Afghans. Haji Najibullah was arrested in October 2020 after being transferred from Ukraine.

FORMER SRI LANKA INTELLIGENCE CHIEF ACCUSED OF ORCHESTRATING 2019 BOMBINGS

On June 10, 2026, Security Minister Ananda Wijepala publicly accused retired General Suresh Sallay of masterminding the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks that killed 279 people. Security Minister Ananda Wijepala claimed Suresh Sallay met with individuals to gather intelligence on targeted churches 3 days before the suicide bombings. Suresh Sallay was arrested in February for his alleged role. While the massacre was initially attributed to a local jihadist group, critics and the Catholic Church have alleged a conspiracy to benefit former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who was elected in November 2019 and ousted in 2022.

VIOLENT XENOPHOBIC RIOTS IN BELFAST

On June 10, 2026, Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill and police authorities condemned violent anti immigration riots in Belfast sparked by a knife attack involving a Sudanese refugee. Residents described the terror of the events and compared the violence to the “troubles” period opposing the UK and the IRA. Police Chief Jon Boutcher urged citizens to stop listening to online misinformation following several arsons and attacks against the security forces.

FRENCH DOCTOR SENTENCED FOR JOINING ISIS

On June 10, 2026, a special court in Paris sentenced epidemiologist Camille F. to 12 years in prison for taking her children to a war zone to join the Islamic State. Camille F., 45, left France in 2011 with her husband Sylvain M., who died in combat in 2015 and received a posthumous 20 year sentence. The court noted that Camille F. knowingly endangered her 3 children, then aged 10, 7 and 2. After the death of Sylvain M., she was eventually repatriated in 2022.

US DEFENSE SECRETARY PETE HEGSETH WARNS CUBA AGAINST ACQUIRING ADVANCED WEAPONS

On June 11, 2026, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a warning to the government of Cuba against obtaining weapons capable of reaching US territory or the Guantanamo military base. During a visit to the base, Pete Hegseth stated it would not be safe for Cuba to seek such arms. Cuban Ambassador to the UN Ernesto Soberon reacted on X, asserting that the future of the sovereign nation belongs solely to its people. CIA Director John Ratcliffe and General Francis Donovan of Southcom previously met with Cuban officials including Chief of Staff Roberto Legra Sotolongo.

CELLEBRITE RELEASES GENESIS AI TOOL TO ACCELERATE DIGITAL FORENSIC INVESTIGATIONS

On June 11, 2026, Cellebrite announced the availability of Genesis, an AI based solution designed to analyze digital evidence in minutes instead of weeks. President of products Shiven Ramji stated the tool uses agentic AI to help investigators process vast amounts of data from smartphones while maintaining confidentiality. Genesis includes features for geospatial intelligence and warrant restricted searches.

REPORT ATTRIBUTES OVER 50% OF 2025 EXPLOSIVE WEAPON DEATHS TO ISRAELI MILITARY

On June 11, 2026, the Explosive Weapons Monitor reported that the Israeli military was responsible for 56% of civilian deaths caused by explosive weapons worldwide in 2025. Drone attacks on displacement camps in Gaza and the West Bank increased significantly.

SLOVENIA LIFTS ARMS EMBARGO AND ENTRY BAN ON ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER BENJAMIN NETANYAHU

On June 11, 2026, the new conservative government of Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Jansa lifted an arms embargo and entry bans on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The restrictions, including bans on Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, were imposed last year by former Prime Minister Robert Golob due to the conflict in Gaza. Prime Minister Janez Jansa, an admirer of US President Donald Trump, also removed a Palestinian flag from government buildings and authorized imports from West Bank settlements. Israel recently announced the opening of its first embassy in Ljubljana following the policy shift.

OVER 5,000 MALAWIAN NATIONALS SEEK REFUGE FROM XENOPHOBIC VIOLENCE IN SOUTH AFRICA

On June 11, 2026, community officials in Durban reported that 5,000 Malawian citizens have gathered to flee rising xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Journalist Chris Makhanye reported that armed mobs have been demanding that undocumented foreigners leave the country. Embassy official Adam Ally announced plans to prioritize the repatriation of women by bus. The police reported deaths of Mozambicans in Mossel Bay, which Mozambique authorities claim total 5 fatalities.

US DEPORTS IRANIANS AND AFGHANS TO CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

On June 12, 2026, a flight carrying deportees from the United States including Iranian, Afghan, Turkish and Georgian nationals departed for the Central African Republic. Journalist Nicholas Roll reported that the flight left Louisiana with a stop in Ghana. Lawyer Emily Trostle expressed concern that the individuals might be forced back to their home countries. US President Donald Trump has expanded the use of “third countries” for deportations. Lawyer Alma David noted uncertainty about where passengers would be offloaded. Conditions in holding hubs have been described as inhumane.

COMPLAINT IN FRANCE OVER ARREST BY ISRAELI NAVY

On June 12, 2026, journalist Hafedh Mribah filed a legal complaint in Paris for arbitrary detention and violence during the Gaza flotilla. The complaint alleges that members of the flotilla were handcuffed with cable ties and subjected to intimidation. Hafedh Mribah was reportedly deprived of shoes and medical care for a chronic condition. Witnesses described severe violence against other members of the flotilla returning via Greece. The French judiciary recently opened a separate war crimes investigation into the treatment of another flotilla in May.

A STUDENT FORCIBLY ENLISTED IN RUSSIAN ARMY RELEASED

On June 12, 2026, Equatorial Guinean Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue announced the release of 22 year old computer science student Daniel Angel Masie Nchama who was forcibly enlisted in the Russian army and sent to Ukraine. The student left his country in December 2025 after a Cameroonian living in Russia promised him bodyguard employment following military training. He was instead transferred without consent to a military base in Donetsk, Ukraine, after 45 days in Russia and 2 months of training in Murmansk. Ukraine estimates that nearly 1,800 Africans have been enrolled by Russian forces. The collective All Eyes on Wagner reported that more than 300 out of 1,417 Africans enlisted between January 2023 and September 2025 died in the conflict.