WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL NEWS REVIEW – Oct. 30th – Nov. 6th 2026

BURKINA FASO

AT LEAST 27 CIVILIANS MURDERED BY JNIM IN YATENGA

On November 6, 2026, reports confirmed that the JNIM armed group killed at least 27 people during two attacks in Yatenga province, in September 2026. Although overall conflict fatalities dropped from 612 deaths in June 2026 to 29 in September 2026, attack frequencies remain frequent in northern regions such as Bankui, Kuilsé, Liptako, and Soum. Burkinabe Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo claimed at the Russian-African summit in Moscow that government forces control over 74% of the territory.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

PRESIDENT TSHISEKEDI REQUESTS RUSSIAN SUPPORT

On October 30, 2026, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Félix Tshisekedi requested assistance from Russian President Vladimir Putin to achieve peace with the M23 and Rwanda. Violence from the M23 armed group, supported by Rwanda, caused thousands of deaths and led to the capture of Goma and Bukavu in early 2025. Kinshasa demands the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from eastern Congolese territory, while Rwanda conditions withdrawal on neutralising the FDLR, a Hutu armed group founded by perpetrators of the 1994 Tutsi genocide. Félix Tshisekedi met Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin to seek UN Security Council support ahead of the expiration of the 20-year UN peacekeeping mandate in December 2026.

M23 REBELS RESTRICT CARE AND MEDICAL ETHICS FOR VICTIMS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE

On November 2, 2026, Doctors without Borders reported that the M23 armed group, recently renamed Front pour la Refondation de la Nation, imposed severe measures restricting medical care for victims of sexual violence in North Kivu. In 2026, de facto M23 authorities restricted sexual violence recognition to victims, mandated intrusive physical examinations, erased medical records in clinics supported by the NGO, and required victims to report to police within 72 hours after the assault. These measures caused a 41% drop in medical consultations between January 2026 and August 2026 while healthcare workers faced threats of suspension and imprisonment.

ETHIOPIA-ERITREA

TIGRAYAN RESIDENTS DENOUNCE TPLF FORCED CHILD RECRUITMENT AND MASSACRES

On November 2, 2026, testimonies from people living in Tigray revealed growing public rejection of the TPLF due to forced child recruitment, corruption, and an alliance with Eritrean forces. The TPLF launched a September 2026 offensive to overthrow the federal government of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, but federal drone strikes forced rebel troops into northern hills. In October 2026, thousands of Eritrean troops deployed to assist the TPLF, angering Tigrayan residents who remember Eritrean massacres and sexual violence during the 2020 to 2022 war, that killed at least 600,000 people.

ETHIOPIAN AUTHORITIES INDEFINITELY SUSPEND INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER

On November 2, 2026, the Ethiopian Media Authority suspended the independent newspaper “The Reporter” indefinitely for publishing content deemed contrary to national security interests. The regulatory authority revoked the registration of the media which publishes in English and Amharic with over 110,000 Facebook subscribers. Ethiopia ranks 148th out of 180 on the press freedom index of Reporters Without Borders, with 5 journalists currently detained, including 4 facing terrorism charges and the death penalty. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed faces increasing criticism from human rights groups following the revocation of the license of “Addis Standard” in February 2026 and the expulsion of the correspondent of “La Croix” in June 2026.

TERRITORIAL CLASHES IN MOYALE KILL CIVILIANS AND FORCE 50,000 TO FLEE

On November 4, 2026, humanitarian reports confirmed that 50,000 Ethiopians fled to Kenya following deadly inter-community clashes in the border town of Moyale. Fighting between armed forces from Somali and Oromia regions escalated after a Somali flag was raised in Moyale and a 13-year-old girl was killed, leading to heavy artillery fire, burned homes, and an unknown number of dead bodies on the roads.

ETHIOPIA AND SUDAN EXPEL DIPLOMATS

On November 4, 2026, Sudanese government officials confirmed reciprocal expulsions of diplomatic staff between Ethiopia and Sudan following accusations of cross-border drone attacks. Ethiopia declared Sudanese consulate employees in Asosa persona non grata on November 2, 2026, giving them 2 days to leave, prompting Khartoum to expel Ethiopian consulate personnel in Gedaref within 48 hours. Sudan’s Sovereign Transition Council reported 70 drone attacks launched from Ethiopian territory between February 15, 2026 and October 27, 2026, causing a total of 484 civilian casualties. Sudan accused Ethiopia of helping the RSF for the strikes on El-Damazin, while Ethiopia accused Sudan of supporting TPLF rebels.

SOMALIA

UNITED NATIONS ENDS 30-YEAR MISSION IN SOMALIA

On October 31, 2026, the United Nations officially concluded its political mission in Somalia after 3 decades of operations. The United Nations Transition Assistance Mission in Somalia, originally established in 2013 as UNSOM, ended following a 2-year transition requested by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Acting Head of UNTMIS and Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia Raisedon Zenenga stated that mission responsibilities were handed over to national institutions and UN country teams. The closure occurs as Al-Shabaab continues controlling territories in central Somalia ahead of planned parliamentary and presidential elections in May 2027, exacerbated by US funding cuts to UN support operations.

UGANDA BEGINS WITHDRAWAL OF TROOPS

On November 2, 2026, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces announced the start of their military troop withdrawal from Somalia. Spokesperson for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces Chris Magezi confirmed that an initial contingent arrived in Uganda and bilateral troop withdrawals will complete in coming days. The full withdrawal of 4,500 to 6,000 Ugandan soldiers serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia and 2,000 to 2,500 bilateral troops will conclude by late 2027.

SUPREME COURT ORDERS NEW ELECTIONS

On November 5, 2026, the Supreme Court of Somalia declared President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s extension of power illegal and ordered a political agreement within 30 days. All 5 judges unanimously ruled that the March 4 Constitution extending presidential terms from 4 to 5 years cannot apply to current elected officials, ordering elections to occur within 90 days. President of the opposition Wadajir party Abdirahman Abdishakur accused Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of ordering military police to arrest Supreme Court Chief Justice Bashe Yusuf Ahmed, whom the president claimed to dismiss on November 4, 2026.

SUDAN

SUDAN ACCUSES ETHIOPIA OF LAUNCHING DRONE ATTACKS THAT KILLED HUNDREDS OF CIVILIANS

On November 1, 2026, the Sovereign Transition Council of Sudan accused Ethiopia of permitting RSF to launch 70 drone attacks from its territory. Sudanese military data recorded drones launched from Asosa airport, Kurmuk-Gizen, and Bahir Dar airbase between February 15, 2026 and October 27, 2026. The strikes killed or injured 484 civilians, killed 176 Sudanese soldiers, and injured 200 others. Deadliest attacks include an October 9, 2026 strike in Wad el-Mahi killing 30 displaced people, including 26 women and 4 children, an October 19, 2026 strike in Khartoum killing 3 children, and October 26-27, 2026 strikes disabling 6 power plants.

SOUTH SUDAN

UN WARNS OF POSSIBLE COUP AHEAD OF ELECTIONS

On November 3, 2026, reports confirmed that South Sudan launched a recruitment campaign for 10,000 police agents ahead of the December elections. The UN Human Rights Commission in South Sudan warned that the recruitment, missing electoral preparations, and house arrest of main are signs of a possible preparation of a coup d’Etat. National Police Spokesperson Daniel Justin confirmed the enrolment to reinforce 70,000 existing members, while Northern Bahr el Ghazal Police Spokesperson Madut Ngong Aleu claimed recruits will secure polling stations. Civil society leader Edmund Yakani and International Crisis Group analyst Daniel Akech warned that President Salva Kiir’s government intends to use the forces to maintain power by force if election results are contested.

LEBANON

ISRAELI DRONE STRIKE KILLS A MAN AND ANOTHER IN QABRIKHA

On November 4, 2026, an Israeli drone strike killed a man and injured another person riding a motorcycle in the southern Lebanese town of Qabrikha. The Israeli military stated that its forces struck  suspects observing troops outside the occupied “safety zone”. Israeli Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Eyal Zamir visited Khiam in Lebanon while Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam warned against endangering the country in a new war serving foreign interests, emphasizing that Lebanon has already paid a heavy toll. Israeli air and ground operations killed over 4,300 people in Lebanon during the war.

PALESTINE

ISRAELI AIRSTRIKES KILL 8 PALESTINIANS INCLUDING A CHILD IN GAZA

On November 1, 2026, Israeli airstrikes killed 8 Palestinians including 1 child in Khan Younis and Gaza City. Civil Defense and local hospitals received the bodies of 5 victims in Khan Younis and 3 victims in Gaza City alongside several wounded individuals. The Interior Ministry of Gaza also reported that Israeli aircraft targeted police officers in Khan Younis. The Israeli military confirmed targeting an armed individual in southern Gaza and several others in the north. Over 74,500 Palestinians have been killed since the military offensive of October 2023.

ISRAELI ARMY WITHDRAWS FROM HEBRON LEAVING OVER 3,000 DISPLACED

On November 2, 2026, the Israeli military concluded a 10-day operation in Hebron after displacing over 3,000 Palestinian residents and leaving homes destroyed. The operation began following an October 23, 2026 checkpoint attack that killed 2 Israeli soldiers. Returning residents found their homes ransacked and destroyed. A victim reported that soldiers assaulted him, pointed a firearm at his wife, kicked his daughter, and stole thousands of dollars. The grandfather of a Palestinian assailant, found his apartment demolished by explosives. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk condemned the military action, and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned of the growing threat of ethnic cleansing in the West Bank. Meanwhile, King Abdullah II of Jordan declared that regional security is impossible without respecting Palestinian land rights. King Abdullah II identified Israeli expansionist ambitions as the greatest threat to regional stability, condemning the ongoing human catastrophe in Gaza and continuous attacks in Jerusalem and the West Bank.

UNRWA WORKERS AND RESIDENTS PROTEST JOB REDUCTIONS

On November 2, 2026, UNRWA employees and residents protested in Nuseirat refugee camp in Gaza against proposed job reductions and service cuts. Demonstrators marched to an agency school carrying signs opposing staff dismissals. UNRWA spokesman Jonathan Fowler warned of unprecedented financial and operational difficulties requiring tough decisions. Staff union leader Mustafa al-Ghour voiced firm opposition to any layoffs, stating that firing workers directly diminishes essential services for refugees. Deputy Chief Christian Saunders previously warned in September 2026 of a 100 million dollar deficit. The agency supports 1.5 million of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents with 10,500 employees, facing severe operational hurdles following a 2025 Israeli law banning its activities in Israel over unproven allegations of employee involvement with Hamas.

ISRAELI ATTACKS KILL 5 PALESTINIANS ACROSS DISPLACED CAMPS

On November 2, 2026, Palestinian Civil Defense spokesman Mahmoud Bassal reported that Israeli military strikes and gunfire killed 5 people across Gaza. In southern Gaza, 1 person was killed by gunfire in Khan Younis, 1 by a drone strike on a IDP tent, and 1 by another drone near a camp. In northern Gaza, 1 person died in a civilian vehicle strike southwest of Gaza City, while another succumbed to drone shrapnel in central Gaza.

ISRAELI AIRSTRIKES KILL 5 MORE PALESTINIANS IN GAZA INCLUDING 17-YEAR-OLD GIRL

On November 3, 2026, Israeli airstrikes killed 5 Palestinians in Gaza, including 17-year-old Rimas al-Madhoun in a Gaza City tent. Al-Shifa Hospital identified Rimas al-Madhoun after a drone struck a tent in a park in northern Gaza. In southern Gaza, Nasser Hospital received 3 bodies following an airstrike on a displaced persons tent west of Khan Younis. The Israeli military stated it was targeting members of armed organizations.

ISRAEL ELECTIONS COMMITTEE REJECTS NETANYAHU VOTER FRAUD CLAIMS AGAINST ARAB PARTIES

On November 4, 2026, the Israeli Central Elections Committee rejected all allegations of voter fraud raised by outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against Arab political parties. The committee confirmed that audits of over 9,000 ballot boxes revealed zero irregularities. Israeli Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara ordered Shin Bet director David Zini to produce evidence supporting the allegations. Israeli President Isaac Herzog initiated consultations to form a government, favoring a national unity administration. He also condemned racist verbal attacks directed at Arab Israeli citizens following the allegations of fraud. Joint List leader Youssef Jabareen expressed readiness to back an anti-Netanyahu government led by centrist Gadi Eisenkot without taking ministerial posts.

JOINT LIST DENOUNCES POLITICAL PERSECUTION, SHIN BET INVESTIGATES EX-MP AND ARRESTS JOURNALIST

On November 4, 2026, the Joint List party denounced political persecution following Likud accusations against former MP Ayman Odeh and the arrest of journalist Abed Abu Shehadeh. The Likud party accused 51-year-old former MP Ayman Odeh of receiving Qatari funds for election fraud, though Israeli Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara noted the Shin Bet provided no evidence. Human rights organization Adalah reported that police arrested journalist Abed Abu Shehadeh at his home on November 3, 2026 over an interview in Qatar with exiled former MP Azmi Bishara.

ULTRA-ORTHODOX PARTY WITHDRAWS HISTORIC SUPPORT FROM NETANYAHU, ISRAELI SETTLERS OCCUPY HOUSES NEAR JERICHO

On November 5, 2026, the ultra-orthodox United Torah Judaism party refused to support outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the presidency recommendation. JUT MP Isaac Pindrus announced during consultations with Israeli President Isaac Herzog that the party requires military conscription exemptions for religious students before joining any government. Meanwhile, Israeli settlers from the Nachala movement occupied 8 houses near Jericho. Nachala spokesman Hanan Greenwood stated that 30 settlers moved into properties purchased near the Hasmonean Palaces archaeological site. Palestinian Governor of Jericho Hussein Hamayel rejected the claim, stating the land belongs to the Palestinian Authority and the documents of the purchase were falsified. Israeli NGO Peace Now reported that settlers assaulted 2 Israeli activists and shot 1 Palestinian in the leg, warning that the settlement risks displacing local populations. Nachala remains under international sanctions for inciting violence and forced displacements.

ISRAELI MILITARY KILL 5 PALESTINIANS IN GAZA INCLUDING A 12-YEAR-OLD BOY

On November 5, 2026, Israeli military strikes and gunfire killed 5 Palestinians in Gaza, including a 12-year-old boy near Al-Bureij. Civil Defense reported the 12-year-old boy was killed by gunfire east of Al-Bureij refugee camp. A drone strike killed 1 person west of Gaza City, 2 people were killed near Al-Zawayda, and 1 woman was killed by gunfire near Khan Younis. The Israeli military stated it targeted Hamas fighters in Al-Zawayda and Gaza City. Over 1,600 Palestinians have been killed since the October 2025 so called ceasefire.

GADI EISENKOT SECURES 67 PARLIAMENTARY ENDORSEMENTS TO FORM NEXT ISRAELI GOVERNMENT

On November 5, 2026, Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced centrist Gadi Eisenkot secured 67 parliamentary endorsements to form the next government. Centrist Gadi Eisenkot gained backing from the main Arab Israeli parties Joint List and Raam following the October 27, 2026 elections, outpacing outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

US MIDTERM ELECTIONS PROMPT SHIFT IN ISRAEL RELATIONS AND REDUCTION OF MILITARY AID

On November 6, 2026, political analysis revealed a strategic shift in US-Israel relations following Democratic victories in US midterm elections. US Vice-President JD Vance attributed election losses to the war with Iran and stated voters desire a changed relationship with Israel. US President Donald Trump announced plans to terminate the annual 3.8 billion dollar military aid package to Israel. New US Senator Abdul El-Sayed described the Gaza situation as a genocide, as outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced criticism for promoting endless conflict.

GULF WAR

UN PANEL INVESTIGATES CHINESE WEAPONRY EXPORTS TO HOUTHIS

On October 28, 2026, reports revealed that the United Nations Panel of Experts on Yemen prepared its 2026 annual report detailing Chinese arms supply to Houthi rebels. Investigation data established that 35% of weapon components intercepted between 2021 and 2025 originated from China, compared to 21% from Iran. Smuggling networks operated through Houthi buyers purchasing Type 56 automatic rifles, drone parts, and missile components from Yemeni businessmen in China, concealing military goods inside commercial shipping containers handled by Chinese logistics companies. Chinese diplomatic representatives at the United Nations maneuvered to prevent official inclusion in the report by leveraging veto power over panel expert appointments and ignoring 11 out of 12 official UN information requests.

PROJECTILE STRIKES VESSEL NEAR LAVAN ISLAND

On October 30, 2026, a commercial vessel navigating in Gulf waters 40 nautical miles south of Lavan Island in Iran caught fire after being struck by an unidentified projectile. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that all crew members remained safe and no environmental damage occurred. Lavan Island is situated 300 kilometres from the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted maritime traffic since the outbreak of conflict triggered by US and Israeli airstrikes in late February 2026. The Sultanate of Oman rescued the crew of another targeted vessel off its coast as the United States maintained a naval blockade on Iranian ports.

UN DEMANDS URGENT INQUEST INTO DEATH OF HUMAN RIGHTS WORKER

On October 31, 2026, the United Nations demanded an urgent independent investigation following the death of UN Human Rights Office staff member Mohammad el Shami in Houthi custody. Mohammad el Shami had been arbitrarily detained by Houthi forces since June 6, 2024, and died more than a month prior to his family receiving notification without any explanation regarding the cause of death. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk and Yemeni Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani condemned the death and requested full access to medical and detention files. UN Secretary-General Spokesperson reported that 71 UN staff members remain arbitrarily detained by Houthi authorities.

300,000 YEMENIS DISPLACED, QATARI CARRIER STRUCK & ATTACK ON RAS ISA

On November 1, 2026, International Organization for Migration Chief of Mission in Yemen Abdusattor Esoev announced that fighting in western Yemen has displaced over 300,000 people. Most displacements occurred following a September 2026 Houthi offensive that expanded control over the strategic Bab el-Mandeb strait, triggering heavy retaliatory bombardments by Saudi Arabian forces. Combat severely disrupted supply chains in Taez governorate, causing essential commodity prices to increase by 3 to 5 times. Abdusattor Esoev appealed for 45 million dollars in emergency funding to supply shelter, drinkable water, and healthcare across Marib, Lahj, Aden, and Taez governorates, where medical units operate amid severe humanitarian shortfalls. On the same day, the Qatar Gas Transport Company Nakilat confirmed that its Marshall Islands-flagged liquefied natural gas carrier Al Mayeda was struck by unidentified projectiles in the Gulf. The attack occurred on October 30, 2026, causing no injuries among the crew and no environmental contamination. Houthi television network Al-Masirah also reported that Saudi Arabian military aircraft conducted 2 airstrikes against the port of Ras Isa in Hodeida governorate. The facility represents the primary maritime entry point for food, fuel, and humanitarian assistance into Houthi-controlled territory in western Yemen.

SAUDI AIRSTRIKES WOUND 7 CIVILIANS IN YEMEN, HOUTHI ATTACKS SAUDI AIRPORTS & PROJECTILE STRIKES VESSEL OFF OMAN

On November 2, 2026, Houthi Health Ministry spokesman Anees Alasbahi reported that Saudi Arabian airstrikes wounded 7 civilians across Hodeida governorate. 4 civilians sustained injuries when aircraft bombarded the pier and an anchored merchant vessel at Ras Isa port. An additional 3 civilians were injured during a separate raid on a Yemen Oil Company station in Bajil district. The strikes targeted critical infrastructure responsible for fuel storage and relief distribution in western Yemen. Meanwhile, Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed responsibility for attacks targeting Dammam airport in eastern Saudi Arabia and Jizan airport in the south. Yahya Saree stated that 2 drones struck Dammam airport twice within 48 hours, forcing a temporary suspension of air traffic, while a separate drone targeted an early warning radar and a military transport aircraft at Jizan airport. On the same day, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that a commercial vessel was struck by an unknown projectile near the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz off Oman. The incident occurred on November 1, 2026, creating a breach on the starboard side of the hull. Captain reports confirmed that the vessel and crew remained safe with no environmental contamination.

SAUDI AIRSTRIKES KILL 17 CIVILIANS INCLUDING CHILDREN ACROSS YEMEN

On November 3, 2026, the Houthi Health Ministry reported that Saudi Arabian airstrikes killed 17 civilians and wounded 59 others in Yemen since November 1, 2026. Ministry officials highlighted that a majority of the casualties were children, accusing Saudi aviation of targeting residential neighborhoods, markets, and homes. Houthi spokesman Yahya Saree stated that Saudi forces executed 109 airstrikes within 24 hours across the governorates of Saada, Taez, Lahj, Al-Jawf, and Hodeida. United Nations estimates confirm that renewed combat since July 2026 has caused over 1,600 deaths.

IRAN EXECUTES 2 MEN OVER JANUARY PROTESTS

On November 3, 2026, Iranian judicial news agency Mizan announced the execution by hanging of 2 men in Isfahan convicted of killing 4 police officers during anti-government demonstrations in January 2026. The judicial authority confirmed that the Supreme Court rejected appeals from both men.

3 WORKERS KILLED IN TAEZ FACTORY STRIKE

On November 3, 2026, Saudi-led coalition spokesman Turki al-Malki announced the interception and destruction of an inbound drone over the Mecca region. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree denied targeting the holy city or conducting operations in Saudi Arabia on that day. Simultaneously, Houthi news agency Saba reported that Saudi coalition airstrikes hit a factory in Taez governorate, killing 3 workers. The factory deaths brought total civilian casualties from Saudi bombardments since November 1, 2026 to 20 dead and 59 injured, as Houthi forces launched counter-attacks against airports in Saudi Arabia.

IRAN CLAIMS 5 OIL TANKERS DESTROYED BY MINES

On November 4, 2026, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced via state television Irib that 5 oil tankers were destroyed after striking naval mines in the southern Strait of Hormuz. IRGC officials reported that 2 vessels were immobilized and an unidentified drone was downed over the waterway. The statement followed confirmation by US President Donald Trump of nocturnal airstrikes against Qeshm Island in the strait. On the next day, Iranian state media reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed 2 supertankers and 1 tugboat caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz on November 4, 2026. Furthermore, IRGC command claimed to have seized electronic control of 2 American Lucas kamikaze drones operating in Iranian airspace.

MYANMAR

MYANMAR INSURGENCY FORM UNITED KARENNI ARMY

At the end of 2026, the insurgency established the United Karenni State Army to unify armed factions against the military junta led by General Min Aung Hlaing. The new military force integrates factions including the Karenni Army, Karenni National People’s Liberation Front, Karenni People’s Liberation Army, and Karenni Nationalities Defence Force under the authority of an Interim Executive Council. KNDF President Khun Bedu sponsored the reform alongside the Shan State Nationalities Defense Force and Alpha coalition to overcome operational bottlenecks and territorial losses caused by Russian-supplied drones. Resistance intelligence under the Steering Council for the Emergence of a Federal Democratic Union and National Unity Government adopted the Arakan Army model as Spring Revolution Alliance chairman Khun Bedu coordinated unified command structures across 19 member entities.

BANGLADESHI SOLDIER KILLED IN FIREFIGHT TO RESCUE OF KIDNAPPED ROHINGYA REFUGEES

On November 5, 2026, a 27-year-old Bangladeshi soldier was killed during a military operation in Rongikhali hills to rescue 57 kidnapped Bangladeshis and Rohingya refugees. Armed forces engaged in a gunfight near the Myanmar border against 15 to 16 human traffickers who abducted approximately 120 individuals. 1.17 million Rohingya refugees continue living in Cox’s Bazar camps following atrocities in Myanmar. The International Court of Justice announced an upcoming ruling on November 19, 2026 to determine whether Myanmar military repressions constitute a genocide.

MYANMAR JUNTA ANNOUNCES PARTIAL ELECTIONS AMID WAR

On November 6, 2026, the Union Election Commission announced partial parliamentary elections for April 4, 2027 across 39 constituencies affected by civil war. The elections aim to fill seats where voting was canceled during December 2025 and January 2026 due to security risks, as well as replace officials appointed to government positions. Fighting persists in Sagaing, Mandalay, and Chin State between military forces and opposition rebels following the 2021 coup against Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. The Union Solidarity and Development Party dominates parliament while the National League for Democracy remains dissolved and Aung San Suu Kyi remains in detention, as ACLED recorded over 100,000 deaths since the coup.

EASTERN EUROPE

UKRAINIAN MILITARY INTELLIGENCE TRACKS RUSSIAN VESSELS TRANSPORTING MILITARY EQUIPMENT TO AFRICA CORPS

On October 20, 2026, 4 Russian-flagged cargo vessels disabled their automatic identification systems after departing Baltiysk naval base in Kaliningrad carrying 300 military vehicles for the Africa Corps. Ukrainian GUR military intelligence tracked the cargo ships Anastasiia, Ascalon, Lady D, and Lady R operated by MG-Flot as they transported armored infantry vehicles, MRAPs, and Ural trucks towards Tobruk in Libya, Conakry in Guinea, or Lome in Togo. Ukrainian forces under GUR command prepared potential strikes using surface drones or delayed limpet mines deployed by divers, following previous attacks on the Lady Mariia and Arctic Metagaz in the Mediterranean. Material deliveries support Wagner successor Africa Corps operations in Mali under airlifts via al-Khadim base and logistics assistance for Libyan National Army Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar. Ukrainian intelligence services maintain hundreds of agents in Africa.

UKRAINIAN DRONE STRIKES KILL 2 AND TARGET OIL REFINERIES IN SAMARA

On October 30, 2026, Ukrainian drone strikes hit 3 Russian oil refineries and a gas complex, killing 2 men in Samara region. Governor of Samara Vyacheslav Fedorishchev reported 2 deaths following drone impacts, while Russian Deputy Energy Minister Alexander Novak stated that strikes could reduce Russian diesel exports. The attacks follow energy agreement discussions between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply 2.2 million barrels of diesel to the United States.

RUSSIA AGREES TO HALT RECRUITMENT OF GHANAIAN CITIZENS AFTER OVER 50 KILLED

On October 31, 2026, Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Ablakwa announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to stop recruiting Ghanaian nationals to fight in Ukraine. The announcement followed the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, where Ghanaian officials raised concerns after over 272 Ghanaians were recruited since 2022, resulting in more than 50 battlefield deaths. Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Ablakwa confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin prohibited both voluntary and irregular recruitment of Ghanaian citizens. Concurrently, Ghana and Russia signed agreements for military equipment acquisition and the construction of a nuclear plant.

OLECHKY CEASEFIRE EXPIRES, CYBERATTACKS HACK POPULATION WARNING APPS

On November 1, 2026, a 6-day localized ceasefire in Olechky expired as cyberattacks targeted mobile warning applications across Ukraine and Russia with fake nuclear threat alerts. Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets and Russian counterpart Yana Lantratova facilitated civilian evacuations from Olechky before Russian forces resumed drone attacks in Kherson, injuring 2 people in Korabelny district and striking a medical facility noted by local military chief Yaroslav Chanko. The Ukrainian application displayed false alerts regarding chemical and Oreshnik missile strikes, while the Russian Emergency Situations Ministry application broadcast false nuclear warhead warnings. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered to halt strikes on Russian oil refineries if US President Donald Trump provided Patriot air defense missiles.

RUSSIAN FORCES LOSE 28 SQUARE KILOMETRES IN UKRAINE

On November 2, 2026, an analysis of Institute for the Study of War data revealed that Russian military forces lost 28 square kilometres across the Ukrainian front in October 2026. The data showed Ukrainian counter-offensive operation Vivaldi recaptured 60 square kilometres near Sloviansk and Kramatorsk, while Russian forces advanced 25 square kilometres south of Kramatorsk. Russia maintains control over 19% of Ukrainian territory as negotiators prepare for US-mediated talks in the United Arab Emirates.

RUSSIAN BOMB STRIKES MURDER 50 CIVILIANS AT HUMANITARIAN AID DISTRIBUTION POINT

On November 2, 2026, Russian aircraft launched 9 FAB-3000 guided glide bombs at a food distribution point in Komyshuvakha, killing 50 civilians. Initial strikes hit crowds gathering for weekly food assistance, while subsequent strikes targeted an underground shelter where survivors sought refuge, killing 4 police officers. Russian strikes also hit a Kharkiv hospital, wounding 73 people and forced to evacuate 226 patients, while Dnipropetrovsk military chief Oleksandr Ganzha reported critical infrastructure damage.

PROTESTS ERUPT IN KYIV OVER ILLEGAL DETENTION AND TORTURE OF DESERTERS

On November 2, 2026, violent clashes broke out outside a National Guard facility in Petropavlivska Borshchahivka near Kyiv over reports of illegal detention and torture of army deserters. Demonstrators damaged police vehicles and attempted to overturn a police bus following social media reports that soldiers were being held against their will. Videos showed individuals emerging from the facility with facial injuries and shock. Presidential Administration Chief Kyrylo Budanov condemned the clashes as unacceptable division, while Human Rights Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets and the Security Service of Ukraine initiated investigations.

POLAND ARRESTS 6 RUSSIAN SPIES, FINLAND SENTENCES CAPTAIN FOR BALTIC CABLE SABOTAGE

On November 5, 2026, Polish Minister Tomasz Siemoniak announced the arrest of 6 individuals for spying for Russian intelligence and smuggling military components. The Polish Internal Security Agency detained 5 Polish citizens and 1 Russian woman accused of illegal exports of strategic military components for Russian weapons manufacturing, while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reported thwarting a border provocation near Kaliningrad. On the same day, the Helsinki District Court sentenced the Russian captain of cargo ship Fitburg to 3.5 years in prison and an Azerbaijani crew member to 2 years and 10 months for dragging an anchor 130 kilometres to sabotage 2 Baltic undersea telecom cables between Finland and Estonia on December 31, 2025.

VENEZUELA

19 KILLED AS MILITARY BOMBS ELN REBEL CAMP WITH US ASSISTANCE

On October 30, 2026, the Venezuelan military bombarded an ELN guerrilla camp in Buena Vista del Meta in Apure state, killing at least 19 people including 1 woman, mostly Venezuelans and 2 Dominicans. Drones and helicopters dropped bombs at dawn on the forested site near the Colombian border following 1 month of planning. A senior military officer confirmed that CIA and FBI agents provided intelligence support under orders from the United States. Non-governmental organization Fundaredes and local residents counted 19 bodies transported to state capital San Fernando. Human rights activist and military expert Rocío San Miguel noted a doctrine change in Caracas following the January 2026 overthrow and capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a United States operation. Venezuelan armed forces acted in alignment with an offensive launched by right-wing Colombian President Abelardo De la Espriella.

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE & RELATIONS

139 PROTESTERS ARRESTED IN LONDON FOR SUPPORTING PROSCRIBED PALESTINE ACTION GROUP

On October 31, 2026, police in London arrested 139 people during a demonstration outside the United States Embassy in support of propalestinian organization Palestine Action. The British government banned Palestine Action as a terrorist organization in July 2025 following vandalism at a Royal Air Force base and an Elbit Systems defense site in Bristol, while the United States designated it a foreign terrorist organization in August 2026. Co-founder of Palestine Action Huda Ammori appealed the ban to the Supreme Court, while advocacy organization Defend Our Juries reported over 4,000 total arrests linked to peaceful support. Demonstrators, including former Royal Air Force military officer Steve Masters and 70-year-old former financial advisor Marji Mansfield, protested what they consider to be political laws restricting freedom of speech.

UNITED STATES PLANS EXPULSION OF 150 AFGHAN TO TALIBANS

On October 31, 2026, reports revealed that the administration of United States President Donald Trump prepared to expel over 150 Afghan detained in Louisiana back to Afghanistan via Pakistan. Because the United States does not recognize the Taliban government diplomatically, deportations require transit through Pakistan, where border clashes killed dozens in October 2025 amid conflict over Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan insurgents. President of advocacy organization AfghanEvac Shawn VanDiver condemned the operation as a death sentence for former military allies and relatives who fled Kabul in 2021, warning that Taliban systematically imprison, torture, and execute former Western partners despite official amnesties. On November 3, 2026, United States Federal District Judge Valerie Caproni issued a court order blocking the federal administration from expelling Afghan migrants to Afghanistan or Pakistan. Shawn VanDiver praised the legal intervention coordinated by 66 members of Congress, military veterans, and activists to protect allies who assisted American forces.

SERBIAN CRIMINAL POLICE CHIEF ARRESTED OVER ABUSE AND BRUTALITY

On November 1, 2026, Serbian authorities arrested Head of Criminal Police Marko Kricak and Chief of Anti-Criminal Service Bosko Sekulovic on charges of official abuse and rights violations. Chief Prosecutor of the Higher Prosecution Office in Belgrade Nenad Stefanovic confirmed the 48-hour detention following a complaint by former Belgrade police chief Veselin Milic, who accused both officials of fabricating selective evidence in a May 2026 case. Student movements demanded the resignation of 42-year-old Marko Kricak following the snap election defeat of nationalist former Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Student Nikolina Sindjelic publicly accused Marko Kricak of severe physical assaults and sexual threats during August 2025 demonstrations triggered by the November 1, 2024 Novi Sad railway station disaster that killed 16 people.

UNESCO WARNS JOURNALIST MURDER IMPUNITY RISES TO 86%

On November 2, 2026, UNESCO released its biennial report revealing that global impunity for murders of journalists rose by 1 percentage point to reach 86%. UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information Mariya Gabriel reported that 189 media workers were killed during 2024 and 2025, marking the most lethal 2-year period in a decade. The report noted that 67% of killings occurred in war zones across Palestine, Yemen, and Ukraine, with drone strikes causing 26% of all deaths. UNESCO recorded a total of 1,641 media fatalities since 2006.

FRENCH JUDGES OPEN WAR CRIMES INQUIRY INTO ISRAELI STRIKE THAT KILLED CIVILIANS IN BEIRUT

On November 3, 2026, French magistrates announced they opened a war crimes investigation into a November 26, 2024 Israeli airstrike in Beirut. The missile attack destroyed 3 floors of a residential building in Noueiri hours before a ceasefire, killing 7 civilians including the 87-year-old father and 77-year-old mother of Franco-Lebanese artist Ali Cherri. Supported by the International Federation for Human Rights, Ali Cherri filed a civil complaint that led the National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor’s Office to initiate the first French judicial inquiry into Israeli military actions in Lebanon, where over 4,300 people have been murdered since October 2023.

UK REJECTS FINANCIAL REPARATIONS FOR TRANSATLANTIC SLAVERY

On November 4, 2026, British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband declared during the Commonwealth summit in Antigua and Barbuda that financial reparations for transatlantic slavery are unfeasible. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham offered to initiate dialogue with Commonwealth nations that could lead to an official apology during the November 2027 G20 summit in Manchester. President of Ghana John Dramani Mahama welcomed the diplomatic step.

THAILAND EVALUATES CHINESE EXTRADITION WARRANTS AGAINST UYGHURS

On November 4, 2026, Secretary-General of the National Security Council of Thailand Chaipruak Doungprapat announced that 5 Uyghur men detained since 2014 face Chinese arrest warrants and potential court-ordered extradition. Human rights organizations Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch urged Thai authorities to allow the men to seek asylum in safe third countries under the international non-refoulement principle. Chaipruak Doungprapat stated that judicial reviews will determine extradition outcomes for the 5 individuals following the 2025 forced transfer of 40 Uyghurs to China.

PARIS COURT ORDERS RESTITUTION OF NAZI-LOOTED PAINTING

On November 5, 2026, the Paris Court ordered the immediate restitution of Camille Pissarro’s 1902 painting Le port de Dieppe to the descendants of Franco-Romanian Jewish collector Salomon Flavian. Nazi forces confiscated the artwork in 1941 under anti-Semitic Occupation laws before it resurfaced at a June 25, 2024 Sotheby’s auction in London for 1.2 million pounds sterling. The court invalidated all post-1941 sales and ordered Sotheby’s to reveal the buyer’s identity within 2 months under a daily fine of 1,000 euros.

PRESIDENT PUTIN MEETS IRANIAN SECURITY CHIEF MOHSEN REZAÏ

On November 5, 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin met Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran Mohsen Rezaï in Moscow to discuss bilateral security and gas pipeline construction. Mohsen Rezaï delivered a personal message from Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and stated that proposed gas pipelines would resolve severe domestic gas shortages caused by American strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure since February 28, 2026.