02 MARCH 2026, FRIDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal: Home Minister urges confident voting ahead of Elections
On 01 March, The Himalayan reported that Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal urged voters to confidently exercise their democratic right in the House of Representatives elections on 5 March, saying law and order arrangements have been significantly strengthened. During visits to several districts to review security preparations, he stressed that unlawful activities would be firmly dealt with and directed officials to prioritise candidate security and maintain social harmony, expressing confidence that the polls would be free, fair and peaceful.

Bangladesh: Dhaka seeks Beijing’s expanded support for the health sector
On 02 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain has sought enhanced cooperation from China to strengthen Bangladesh’s health sector, praising Beijing’s continued support and urging further collaboration in key areas. Speaking at a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, the minister requested assistance in supplying diagnostic kits and medical equipment, and accommodation facilities at the Bangladesh Medical University. He also expressed hope that China would fulfil its commitment to help construct a proposed 1,000-bed hospital in the country. Ambassador Yao assured that China stands ready to assist in building the hospital, whether as a general or specialised facility.

Bangladesh: Security tightened in diplomatic area amid global concerns
On 02 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said security has been strengthened in Dhaka’s diplomatic zone, including the United States Embassy in Dhaka, in view of the global situation. Speaking during a meeting with US Ambassador Brent T Christensen, he said additional forces, including Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), have been deployed and law enforcers placed on high alert. The two sides discussed security cooperation, counterterrorism, illegal migration, and implementation of the SPEAR and Electronic Nationality Verification ENV programs, with both expressing commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

Myanmar: Mass amnesty announced, Aung San Suu Kyi excluded
On 02 March, Mizzima reported that Acting President Min Aung Hlaing authorised a sweeping amnesty to mark the Full Moon Day of Tabaung and Peasants’ Day, granting clemency to 10,162 prisoners and clearing thousands of pending criminal cases. According to state media, the National Defence and Security Council pardoned 7,337 individuals convicted under the Counter Terrorism Law and dropped 9,532 ongoing cases involving 12,487 people, including those tried in absentia. A further 2,825 prisoners were released from various detention facilities, while 10 foreign nationals were pardoned and deported. Despite the large-scale releases, seen by some as an effort to project stability ahead of parliament’s upcoming session, detained Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi was excluded from the amnesty and continues to serve a 27-year sentence. Rights group Assistance Association for Political Prisoners says more than 22,800 political prisoners remain in custody.

Myanmar: Dhaka signs MoU with Beijing to host eems exhibition
On 02 March, The Irrawaddy reported that Myanmar’s junta has signed a MoU with China to jointly organise a gems exhibition in northern Shan State, highlighting the regime’s growing reliance on Beijing to sustain its troubled gemstone industry. The agreement, signed on 24 February, aims to expand cooperation in the gemstone trade, curb smuggling, and strengthen environmental coordination. China has long been the primary buyer of Myanmar’s jadeite, with stones flowing across the Muse Ruili border into major processing hubs in Yunnan and Guangdong.

Maldives: Government establishes Special Cabinet Committee amid tensions in the Middle East
On 02 March, The Sun reported that President Mohamed Muizzu, moved to create a Special Cabinet Committee on Middle East tensions. This was formed to coordinate and plan a national response to the escalating instability. The committee aims to monitor and respond to the crisis as required by developments. The committee comprises key ministries including foreign affairs, finance, economic development, defence and homeland security and transport. It seeks to implement joint measures to protect the interests of Maldivian citizens, overseas workers and also economic interests. The Maldivian economy relies on tourism, global trade routes, fuel prices and remittances.

Afghanistan: Drone attacks on Nur Khan and other key Pakistani bases
On 02 March, France 24 reported that the Afghan Air Force launched drone attacks on several key Pakistani air bases, especially in Rawalpindi. The 12th Corps headquarters in Quetta, Khowizoo Camp in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ghulni military bases and the Nur Khan airbase were some of the primary targets. The Taliban led Afghan government commented on social media via its defence ministry, stating that based on “preliminary assessments,” strikes on Pakistani bases have been largely successful and have caused “significant damage.” These developments follow up on the Pakistani Defence Minister claiming an “open war” between the two rival states.

Iran: Supreme Leader crisis persists as the fight continues
On 02 March, Al Jazeera reported that Iran has claimed to continue its attacks on US assets across the Middle East. Members of the government have denied any attempts at fresh nuclear talks with the US. According to reports, the conflict saw a dramatic “overnight shift” with the UK granting permission to the US to use its airbases, possibly owing to the crashing of an Iranian drone in the RAF air base located in Cyprus.

Pakistan: Islamabad urges calm in the Middle East
On 02 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan spoke to the rulers of Jordan and Bahrain to offer support and urge restraint and dialogue as the violence across the Middle East entered its third day. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, PM Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with Jordan’s King Abdullah II to exchange views on the regional developments and recent escalations, which included attacks on Jordan and other regional countries. The PM expressed deep concern, urged restraint, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Jordan. The PM said he also spoke with Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to convey Pakistan’s support and solidarity with the people of Bahrain. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also spoke to his Omani and Iraqi counterparts and stressed the need for sustained efforts for peace and stability in the region.

03 MARCH, TUESDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal: Media to observe “Silence Period” ahead of the elections
On 03 March, the Himalayan reported that media houses and journalists are to observe a Silence Period ahead of the upcoming House of Representatives (HoR) elections scheduled for 5 March, following the announcement issued by the Press Council Nepal, the country’s statutory media regulatory body. The Silence Period began at 00:00 hrs on Monday and prohibits the dissemination of advertisements in favour of or against political parties or candidates, as well as the broadcast or publication of talk shows, commentaries, analyses, questionnaires, or any content that supports or opposes political parties or candidates. Any violations are punishable under the Journalist Code of Conduct-2073 BS and the Election Code of Conduct.

Bangladesh: High Court seeks explanation on the July National Charter, Referendum Ordinance
On 03 March, the Dhaka Tribune reported that the High Court Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh issued a rule asking why the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order and parts of the Referendum Ordinance should not be declared unconstitutional. The bench of Justices Razik-Al-Jalil and Md Anwarul Islam Shaheen passed the order following writ petitions challenging the legality of the implementation order, Section 3, and the Schedule of the ordinance. The court directed the respondents to explain why these provisions should not be struck down. Last month, Supreme Court lawyers Chowdhury Md Redwan-e-Khoda and Gazi Md Mahbub Alam filed separate petitions seeking rulings declaring the measures void and contrary to the constitution, along with interim stays on their operation pending disposal of the rule.

Bangladesh: Home Minister seeks Japan’s support for police reform on 10th Holey Artisan Anniversary
On 03 March, the Dhaka Tribune reported that Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed sought Japan’s cooperation in reforming and restructuring the Bangladesh Police during a meeting with Japanese Ambassador Saida Shinichi at the Secretariat. Describing Japan as a trusted friend and key development partner, the minister highlighted its support for major projects, including Metrorail and the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency. He said Japan had previously supported traffic safety initiatives for the Dhaka Metropolitan Police and could extend assistance to broader police reforms, adding that formal proposals would be submitted. Earlier, discussions also covered law and order, security, trade, and investment. Marking the 10th anniversary of the Holey Artisan Bakery attack, the ambassador called for enhanced security for Japanese nationals. The minister assured full protection for Japanese citizens, investors, and businesses, pledging top priority to any requests from Japan.

Bangladesh: Japan grants USD 3.2 million to UNFPA for Rohingya response
On 03 March, the Dhaka Tribune reported that the Government of Japan approved  USD 3.2 million in funding to the United Nations Population Fund to support the Rohingya humanitarian response in Bangladesh. The two-year project will protect the health and rights of displaced women and adolescents in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char, sustaining sexual and reproductive health services and gender-based violence (GBV) support for refugees and host communities. With over one million Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar and a recent influx of around 150,000 people since 2024, funding shortages have strained services under the Joint Response Plan for 2025–2026. Japan’s contribution will help maintain 24-hour emergency obstetric care, GBV case management, and mental health support for about 180,000 beneficiaries. Since 2017, Japan has provided more than USD 250 million to the Rohingya response through UN agencies and NGOs, remaining a key partner in addressing the protracted crisis.

Myanmar: EU reaffirms support for Myanmar at Pre-Thingyan event in Brussels
On 03 March, Mizzima reported on the Myanmar Pre-Thingyan series, held on 2 March in Brussels, which brought together EU officials, academics, artists, and members of the Burmese diaspora to mark five years since the 2021 military coup in Myanmar. Organised under the European Union’s Myanmar Pre-Thingyan Food and Culture Week, the event highlighted the need to keep international attention on Myanmar’s ongoing crisis. Peteris Ustubs of the European Commission said the EU does not consider the recent elections in Myanmar to be free, fair or credible and reaffirmed continued humanitarian and development support, totalling EUR 710 million since 2021. He stressed the importance of defending human rights, supporting education and livelihoods, and strengthening civil society resilience. Erik Kurzweil of the European External Action Service echoed concerns over the military-led polls, saying the EU would not recognise or legitimise a process lacking democratic legitimacy. He underscored the need for unity among democratic forces and praised the Myanmar diaspora and independent media for keeping global attention on the crisis, calling for sustained solidarity, dialogue and engagement.

Maldives: Confrontation in the People’s Majlis over government accountability
On 03 March, The Sun reported that tensions escalated in the People’s Majlis, the Maldivian legislature, as opposition MPs called for greater transparency. This was regarding recent executive decisions. The debate centred on the procedural handling of the motions on the floor. Government-aligned MPs defended the administration's approach. The heated exchange comes at a time when tensions remain high, due to the recent debates and disagreements over election synchronisation.

Sri Lanka: Surge in queues at fuel stations, as public anxiety increases amidst tensions in the Middle East
On 03 March, the Daily Mirror reported a nationwide surge in queues at fuel stations, as the public became increasingly concerned about potential fuel shortages amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Motorists were reportedly lining up at petrol pumps, despite government reassurances that national stocks are ample until May 2026. The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation ( CPC) banned filling fuel into bottles and cans to prevent hoarding. The situation largely reflects apprehensions rooted in the 2022 fuel crisis which triggered mass protests and political upheaval.

Pakistan and Afghanistan: Cross-border fighting persists for a fifth straight day
On 03 March, Reuters reported that the ongoing cross-border fighting between Pakistan and Afghanistan had entered its fifth day with no signs of either side withdrawing from the conflict. Though the intensity of the exchange has decreased compared to the initial days, both sides have added to the existing instability in the Middle East, especially amid the conflict with Iran. This exchange marks the most violent conflict between the two that share a 2,600-kilometre-long border with each other. Despite cordial ties in the past, neither Islamabad nor Kabul have retreated from the exchange, while both sides accuse the other of killing civilians in alleged military attacks.

Pakistan: Hundreds of flights to and from Pakistan cancelled following airspace closure in West Asia
On 03 March, The Express Tribune reported that as the regional security crisis intensified, hundreds of flights were cancelled in Pakistan, hurting the overall economy. Thousands of passengers remain stranded, as more than 500 domestic and international flights have been cancelled over the past three days. In particular, the suspension of air cargo services halted the transport of various goods, including food items and other supplies.

Pakistan: Shehbaz urges de-escalation in the Gulf, presses Oman-led diplomacy and speaks to Kuwait and Syria
On 03 March, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called on Oman Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and asked them to display restraint and revive the diplomatic process. He praised the role of Oman in the talks between the United States and Iran, and stated that the attack “brought to an end the on-going peace process, which was at a very critical stage, and he wished that there would be scope for dialogue in days to come.” He extended sympathies to Kuwait on reports of heavy losses to the economy as a result of the attack and stated that the operation was contrary to the sovereignty of the Gulf states. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had been working on diplomatic efforts and was ready to help in any manner to restore peace in the region.

04 MARCH 2026, WEDNESDAY

Nepal: Polling day explained ahead of House of Representatives elections 
On 04 March, the Himalayan reported that the interim government formed after the Gen Z revolution will hold elections for 275 seats in the Lower House (House of Representatives) on 05 March. 165 members will be elected through First-past-the-post (FPTP), and 110 members will be elected through Proportional Representation (PR) under a mixed system in which voters will cast two ballots, one for a candidate (FPTP) and one for a political party (PR). In FPTP, the candidate with the most votes wins, and in PR, seats are allocated to parties based on total votes received. There are 1,85,03,689 eligible voters, of which 92,40,131 are female and 9,663,358 are male and about 200 others. The Election Commission has 70 District Election Offices, each headed by a gazetted Class III district election officer from the general administration group. There are 3,487 candidates nationwide who are 2,589 men and 391 women which is around 10 per cent. Out of this over 1,200 candidates are independents. The Election Commission will release results for 165 directly elected seats within 24 hours of ballot collection. Final results for both FPTP and PR will be made public by 09 March, according to the Acting Chief Election Commissioner. For election security, approximately 75,000 Nepal Police, 79,000 Nepali Army personnel, around 1,34,000 election police officers and slightly over 34,500 Armed Police personnel have been called for active duty.

Bhutan and India: Delhi contributes to Thimphu's 13th five-year plan 
On 03 March, the Kuensel reported that the Government of India (GoI) has released 1.24 billion BTN to the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) to support its important development projects under their 13th Five-Year Plan during the two countries' 16th Monthly Co-ordination Meeting in Thimphu yesterday. The financial support goes towards education, infrastructure, agriculture, irrigation, governance amd direct budgetary assistance. The meeting also reviewed projects supported by India under the Government of India–Project Tied Assistance (GoI-PTA) framework of Bhutan’s 13th Five Year Plan which includes professional development and exchange programmes for teachers, education leaders and students. These programmes aim to improve the quality of school education in Bhutan. The progress on the 500-kilowatt Lunana Mini Hydropower Project was also reviewed, which will electrify the last 10 unelectrified villages in Bhutan, will benefit around 700 people and covers 173 households. The meeting was co-chaired by the Director General of the Department of Macro-Fiscal and Development Finance (Ministry of Finance), the Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of India and officials from relevant ministries, government agencies, and the Embassy of India attended the meeting.

Bangladesh: Dhaka emphasises dialogue, trade and the Rohingya Issue in talks with the US 
On March 04, Dhaka Tribune reported that Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman called for an early resolution of ongoing Gulf conflicts through dialogue and diplomatic means during a meeting with visiting US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapur in Dhaka. During the meeting at the foreign ministry, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Bangladesh–United States bilateral relations, particularly in economic engagement, based on mutual respect and shared interests. Khalilur highlighted the government’s “Bangladesh First” policy under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, emphasising Dhaka’s strategy of maintaining strong ties with regional and global partners to advance national interests and shared prosperity. Kapur congratulated the new government following what he described as a peaceful general election and referred to US President Donald Trump’s congratulatory letter to the prime minister, expressing confidence in the continued growth of bilateral relations. He also stressed the importance of implementing the Reciprocal Trade Agreement to boost trade and investment. The discussions also covered the Middle East situation and the Rohingya crisis, with Bangladesh seeking sustained international support for a durable solution while urging restraint and diplomacy to prevent further regional instability.

Myanmar: Junta forms a high-level Information warfare task force 
On March 04, Mizzima reported that the Myanmar military junta has established a high-level 12-member task force to intensify information operations and counter-narratives against revolutionary forces and international media. Officially titled the “Information Sheet Publication and Counter-Information Dissemination Group,” the body was formed in late January 2026 to conduct psychological warfare against armed insurgent groups and refute unfavourable reports from independent outlets. According to the report, the group will publish morale-boosting content aimed at military personnel, their families, and civil servants, while disseminating key policy-related reports from state-run newspapers to embassies and military attaché offices. The task force is also expected to expand its presence on social media platforms to promote the junta’s narratives domestically and internationally, and to respond swiftly to criticism from organisations and media outlets opposed to military rule. Since mid-2025, the junta has additionally operated the Community Development Committee to mobilise public support and denounce revolutionary forces through coordinated propaganda efforts.

Sri Lanka: Opposition in parliament moves for executive accountability 
On 04 March, the Daily Mirror reported that opposition MPs in parliament tabled a motion calling for accountability from select government executives. This is tied to recent policy controversies which include contention over fuel policy, public spending, and also governance procedure in key ministries. Opposition legislators also argued that public communication was misguided. MPs of the ruling party rejected the motion in defence of the incumbents.

Maldives: Daily tourist arrivals fall sharply amidst conflict in the Middle East 
On 04 March, The Sun reported that daily tourist arrivals to the Maldives dropped by around 50 per cent compared with recent weeks. This is due to ongoing flight cancellations and airport closures in the Middle East amid escalating tensions. Amongst inbound flights to the Maldives the Middle East accounts for a large share of traffic. This raises concerns for the Maldives' tourism-dependent economy. 

Pakistan: PTI sits out in-camera meeting on security situation 
On 04 March, Dawn reported that the government invited the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to attend an in-camera briefing on national security and regional developments, amid concerns over Afghan Taliban-backed terrorism and the evolving situation in the Middle East. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, met opposition leaders Mehmood Achakzai and Raja Nasir Abbas to convey Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s invitation to parliamentary party heads for the meeting. Sanaullah said the government sought the opposition’s guidance on security challenges and emphasised that dialogue was necessary to address national issues. However, PTI’s political committee decided the party would not attend any meeting unless it was first allowed to meet its jailed founder, Imran Khan. Officials said all parliamentary parties, including PTI chairman Barrister Gohar, had been invited. Meanwhile, the government also briefed coalition partner PPP leaders and highlighted Pakistan’s sensitive regional relations, including ties with Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan: Record number of bills passed in the National Assembly over the last year 
On 04 March, The Express Tribune reported that the 16th National Assembly recorded its highest legislative output in recent parliamentary history during its second year, according to an annual performance assessment by the Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT), covering 01 March 2025 to 28 February 2026. The report noted that the assembly met for 84 working days, down from 93 in its first year, but total working hours increased to 231. During this period, lawmakers passed 59 bills, a 25.5 per cent increase from the previous year and the highest among recent assemblies. The report also highlighted the passage of the controversial 27th Amendment, which introduced changes to Pakistan’s judicial structure and appointment processes, prompting debate over judicial independence and civil-military balance. Another debated measure was the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which limited public access to lawmakers’ asset statements. Despite increased lawmaking, attendance declined to 58.8 per cent, several sittings were adjourned due to quorum issues, and the opposition leader’s position remained vacant for five months.

Afghanistan: Pakistan begins efforts to return Afghan refugees 
On 04 March, The Guardian reported that several Afghan journalists who fled the Taliban regime are now in fear of being tracked down by Pakistani police and being sent back to Afghanistan. Richard Bennett, a UN special rapporteur, commented that returning would mean a “real risk of violent retaliatory attacks.” This development comes against the backdrop of the ongoing clash between the two nations, with both sides alleging the killing of civilians in military attacks. Multiple media employees who focused their work on reporting about human rights violations in Afghanistan are now scrambling to leave Pakistan. Reports show that many have been denied permission by Pakistani officials to board flights exiting the nation. Some have even been denied a stay at hotels due to their Afghan passports.

Iran: Israel claims to have hit “security headquarters” in Tehran 
On 04 March, the BBC reported that while Israel has launched attacks on the Hezbollah group in Lebanon, they are also claiming to have struck “security headquarters” across the Iranian capital of Tehran. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency added that at least 1,097 civilians have been killed in Iran ever since the conflict with the US-Israel began. The conflict is a follow-up to three rounds of failed talks between the USA and Iran about control over nuclear enrichment in Iran. These talks, led by US President Donald Trump, have now been likened to a “real estate transaction” by the Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, who also accused Trump of “bombing the negotiating table out of spite.”

05 MARCH, THURSDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Bhutan: Thimphu receives international recognition as “Destination of the Year”
On 05 March, the Kuensel reported that Bhutan received international recognition in the world's leading travel trade show ITB Berlin in Germany on 04 March where the nation was named "Destination of the Year - Earthly Experiences" for its commitment to authentic and regenerative tourism. The Director of the Department of Tourism, Damcho Rinzin, received the PATWA Gold Award for Ecological Tourism (Himalayan Region) for promoting the region as a model destination for ecological and sustainable travel. He said the recognition reflects Bhutan's commitment to sustainable tourism and the responsibility to protect the country’s cultural and natural heritage and that Bhutan will continue to uphold high standards of sustainability while offering immersive travel experiences aligned with national values.

Bangladesh: Dhaka to place 133 interim government ordinances in parliament
On 05 March, The Daily Star reported that the Bangladesh government has decided to place 133 ordinances issued during the tenure of the interim government before Parliament. The decision was approved at a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat. The ordinances were originally promulgated under Article 93(1) of the Constitution of Bangladesh, which allows the president to issue laws in urgent circumstances when Parliament is not in session. Under constitutional rules, each ordinance must be introduced as a bill in Parliament within 30 days of the start of a parliamentary session; otherwise, it loses its legal validity. Cabinet sources said the ordinances will be reviewed after being tabled, and those considered necessary will be converted into formal laws, potentially with amendments.  

Bangladesh: Dhaka to explore ways to deepen bilateral ties with India
On 05 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Bangladesh and India expressed optimism about expanding bilateral ties during a meeting between Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir and Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Kumar Verma in Dhaka. The Indian envoy paid a courtesy call on Kabir at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon, where the two sides discussed the existing friendly relations between Bangladesh and India and explored ways to strengthen cooperation on issues of mutual interest. They also exchanged views on the longstanding ties between the two countries and discussed regional stability, trade, connectivity, and development cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing bilateral relations and working for the welfare of their peoples based on mutual respect, trust, and cooperation.

Myanmar: Mizoram strengthens crackdown on illegal areca nut imports
On 05 March, Mizzima reported that Mizoram’s Home Minister K. Sapdanga announced a stronger crackdown on the illegal import of areca nuts (betel nuts) from Myanmar during a legislative assembly session on 02 March. He said the untaxed goods, brought in violation of the Customs Act of 1962, have disrupted local markets by undercutting prices and contributing to the circulation of black money. Official data shows that 468 cases of areca nut smuggling were registered between 2019 and 2025, leading to 292 arrests. Authorities say the intensified enforcement has contributed to a recent rise in prices for locally grown produce. The minister said suspects are being prosecuted under the Indian Penal Code and related laws, while those caught under the Customs Act face additional charges. Mizoram’s Home Affairs Ministry estimates that about 28,355 Myanmar nationals are currently in the state, though the exact number remains uncertain due to frequent cross-border movement.

Myanmar: Ye Win Oo appointed as Army Chief amid succession speculation
On 05 March, Irrawaddy reported that a close aide to junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has been appointed Army chief weeks before Myanmar’s military plans to transfer power to a nominally civilian government. Ye Win Oo, who has served as chief of Military Intelligence and a key figure in the ruling State Administration Council, is considered one of Min Aung Hlaing’s closest confidants. Analysts say the promotion has fueled speculation that he is being positioned as a potential successor as commander-in-chief, particularly if Min Aung Hlaing assumes the presidency. The appointment comes ahead of the convening of a new parliament dominated by the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party, with the formation of a new government expected in April. Observers say the move highlights the junta leader’s preference for loyalists in key military posts following the 2021 Myanmar coup.

Sri Lanka: Naval rescue operation in progress after Iranian warship distress signal
On 04 March, the Daily Mirror reported that Sri Lanka launched a rescue operation after the Iranian naval vessel IRIS Dena issued a distress call and sank within Sri Lanka’s maritime search and rescue zone south of the island. The Sri Lankan Navy and Air Force deployed ships and aircraft to rescue the crew, who were then taken ashore for further medical attention. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East. Authorities indicated that Sri Lanka will continue to monitor developments closely given the country’s strategic position along major shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean Region.

Maldives: Repatriation of Maldivian citizens from Syria
On 05 March, The Sun reported that the Maldivian authorities facilitated the repatriation of a Maldivian national and her 14-year-old daughter, who was stranded in Syria after travelling to the conflict zone a few years ago. According to Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusan, the two individuals have returned to the Maldives and will undergo a state-run rehabilitation programme. The initiative forms a part of the government’s broader effort to address the cases involving Maldivian nationals linked overseas at conflict zones. Authorities indicated that the process includes monitoring and social rehabilitation to mitigate potential security risks while also enabling reintegration into society. This development highlights the challenges faced by the Maldivian state in managing the return of citizens associated with extremist networks abroad.

Afghanistan: UN raises alarm about conflict migration
On 05 March, Al Jazeera reported that a recent analysis by the United Nations has shown that nearly 66,000 people have been displaced due to the ongoing heated military exchange between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The report was brought out by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), a subsidiary of the UN, which has commented that there has been an escalation in “cross-border hostilities” which are having a “growing humanitarian impact on civilians…” The conflict at the Durand Line has resulted in several casualties, which both sides deny and also accuse each other of. The Taliban regime in Kabul has reiterated that the operation is in response to the air strikes conducted by Pakistan in late February.

Iran: Tehran launches strikes at parts of Azerbaijan
On 05 March, Al Jazeera reported that Azerbaijan is accusing Iran of having launched two drones into its territory, which have consequently injured two people. The Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan noted that while one drone was targeted at the airport and fell within its region, the other landed near a school. The nation condemned Iran and also demanded an explanation for the attacks. This development follows up on the heated bombing exchange between US-Israel and Iran. The Baku-based government has summoned the Iranian envoy to express a “strong protest” against the recent attacks.

Pakistan: Government to take several measures amid Strait of Hormuz closure
On 05 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan is all set to take several measures to keep the markets liquid amid the drying out of trading activity following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The measures will include weekly petroleum price revisions, compensating oil companies for elevated insurance and import premiums, and fuel conservation measures like mandatory work-from-home for public and private sectors following a surge in petroleum prices. At present, Pakistan has both petrol and diesel stocks of over 5,00,000, enough for 25 days. Also, the Pakistani government has requested Saudi Arabia to provide oil supplies through an alternative Red Sea route. Pakistan’s petrol imports continue to be in a safe zone, but diesel imports remain at risk as Pakistan heavily relies on long-term supplies from Kuwait, and all those cargoes have to move through the Strait of Hormuz. Also, more than 20 per cent of global oil cargoes remain stuck inside the Strait of Hormuz, creating a shortage of ships available for diesel cargo.

Pakistan: Government criticises opposition for boycotting in-camera security briefing
On 05 March, Dawn reported that the government criticised the opposition for boycotting an in-camera national security briefing convened by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging it to reconsider its stance on matters of national interest. The boycott followed a decision by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which said it would not attend unless a meeting with its founder, Imran Khan, was arranged. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said the briefing aimed to foster unity on national security and regional developments. He noted that Ishaq Dar and Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch briefed lawmakers on issues concerning Afghanistan, Iran and the Gulf. The minister added that Pakistan was pursuing regional de-escalation and seeking stronger measures from the Afghan Taliban to curb cross-border terrorism.

06 MARCH 2026, FRIDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Bangladesh: US pushes trade deal, deportation cooperation during Paul Kapur’s visit
On 06 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapur concluded a two-day visit to Bangladesh, during which Washington highlighted priorities including expanding market access for American businesses, cooperation on curbing illegal immigration, and deeper engagement on regional security. US officials also urged Bangladesh to swiftly implement a recently signed bilateral trade agreement. Under the agreement, Bangladesh will face a 19 per cent tariff while committing to reducing the trade deficit with the US by increasing imports of American goods and services. This includes plans by Biman Bangladesh Airlines to purchase 14 aircraft from Boeing, with the option to acquire more in the future. Bangladesh has also agreed to expand imports of US liquefied natural gas over the next 15 years, potentially worth around USD 15 billion, as well as significantly increase purchases of American agricultural products such as wheat, soybeans, and cotton, estimated at roughly USD 3.5 billion. The agreement further outlines expanded defence trade cooperation between the two countries and indicates that Bangladesh will seek to increase acquisitions of US military equipment while limiting purchases from certain other countries, though these are not explicitly named. It also includes provisions allowing Washington to suspend the pact if Bangladesh enters new trade arrangements with non-market economies, including China, Russia, Vietnam, and Belarus, without considering the terms of the agreement.

Myanmar: Military regime launches IMEI-based mobile tracking system
On 06 March, Irrawaddy reported that Myanmar’s military regime has begun implementing a nationwide mobile-device registration system that requires every handset’s unique IMEI number to be registered before it can connect to a telecom network. The system, launched in early March, mandates that all phones be entered into a central equipment identity register (CEIR), shifting identification from SIM cards to the devices themselves. Under the new rules, phones currently operating with Myanmar SIM cards will automatically be added to a whitelist if active before 31 March. Devices not registered by the deadline will face a 30-day usage limit before being blocked from the network, with authorities also imposing taxes and penalties on unregistered handsets treated as newly imported devices. While the junta claims the system is intended to ensure tax compliance and the use of standard-approved devices, IT specialists and digital-rights advocates warn it will significantly expand state surveillance. By linking IMEI numbers with SIM-card registration, authorities could track individual devices regardless of SIM changes, enabling them to monitor user movements, communication patterns, and potentially intercept calls, making it harder for activists, resistance groups, and people in border areas to evade monitoring.

Sri Lanka: “No Blood for Oil” protests in Colombo
On March 06, the Daily Mirror reported that a protest under the slogan “No Blood for Oil” took place in Colombo, with activists and citizens expressing dissent and discontent over the recent military strikes in the Middle East. The protesters perceived these actions as attempts to control energy resources. The protest called on the Sri Lankan government to reiterate its historically non-aligned foreign policy stance and avoid any form of entanglement in overseas conflicts driven by interests in energy resources. The demonstration also signifies growing public anxiety over geopolitical spill-over effects on Sri Lanka. These include potential economic risks such as fuel price inflation and disruption to trade and travel. The Sri Lankan government is also concerned with its strategic position in the Indian Ocean region in the backdrop of the IRIS Dena, the Iranian naval warship being targeted in the Indian Ocean.

Afghanistan: UN reports wide-scale Afghan displacement
On 06 March, Reuters reported that while the Pakistani and Afghan troops continue to exchange border fire along the Durand Line, over 115,000 people have been displaced in Afghanistan. The fight has involved widespread violence, with Pakistani forces succeeding in conducting air strikes on Taliban government installations, including the Bagram air base. Islamabad commented that their most recent strikes have targeted Kandahar, which is often considered a heartland for the Taliban group. Several families living at the border have stated that heavy firing post sunset has disturbed the peace that once existed during the breaking of fast, considering that this is the holy month of Ramadan. Towns like Torkham have ground to a halt with barely any movement among residents.

Iran: War drags on as US-Israel bombards newer locations
On 06 March, Al Jazeera reported that while the Iranian worshippers spent their Friday prayers mourning the recent death of their leader, the USA and Israel struck several locations with displacement warnings issued to the residents of Qom by the Israeli forces. The Tehran-based Foreign Ministry further noted that an elementary school was also one of the many targets. Spokesman Esmail Baghaei shared footage on X that depicts classrooms being destroyed by explosions, though a casualty count was not shared. On the other hand, a member of the Iranian Defence Council threatened attacks in Iraq after warning that any plot by US or Israeli-backed rebel groups to enter the nation would be met with serious consequences. Tehran also succeeded in targeting US-affiliated bases in Kuwait and stated that more such attacks would follow.

Pakistan: Middle East crisis disrupts industry, energy supply chains
On 05 March, Dawn reported that the ongoing Middle East crisis has begun affecting Pakistan’s industrial sector, with firms warning of supply chain and energy disruptions. Agritech Ltd announced the shutdown of its urea plant after Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Ltd suspended RLNG supply from 04 March, citing a potential force majeure declared by its LNG supplier amid regional conflict. Separately, Indus Motor Company warned of delays in imported auto parts due to shipping congestion and rising freight costs. FPCCI leader Saquib Fayyaz Magoon cautioned that escalating Gulf tensions and any closure of the Strait of Hormuz threaten Pakistan’s economy, urging emergency energy measures and alternative supply routes.

Pakistan: Chinese aerospace firm eyes USD 10 billion investment
On 06 March, Dawn reported that the Chinese Aerospace Development Industry Investment Group expressed interest in investing up to USD 10 billion in Pakistan across mining and minerals, advanced technology industries and industrial development. A high-level delegation led by Party Secretary and Chairman Lu Jinhai met Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Minister for the Board of Investment. It highlighted plans to collaborate on skill development, emphasising a long-term commitment to Pakistan’s economic growth and technological progress. The delegation also conveyed support for enhancing regional connectivity under the One Belt One Road initiative. The minister briefed the delegation on Pakistan’s investment landscape, citing its strategic location linking South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East, a consumer market of over 240 million people, a young workforce and investor-friendly incentives. The company also shared its global profile, noting its AAA credit rating and investments in aerospace, artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, drone technologies and energy projects.

09 MARCH 2026, MONDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal: Election affects Nepal Stock Exchange
On 09 March, the Himalayan reported that due to Nepal's election results, the Nepal Stock Exchange was shut down for the day after the NEPSE Index hit a total gain of six per cent (single day rally), which triggered the full-day closure under market regulations. Before shutting down for the day, trading was halted within minutes of the opening bell when the index surged 108 points, or 4 per cent, to 2,821.10, triggering a 20-minute suspension. When markets reopened at 11:21 hours, the index pushed further to 2,848.22, a 5 per cent gain, forcing a second 40-minute halt. The market was reopened for the third time at 12:00 hrs, but buying pressure still showed no signs of decreasing, and when the index climbed to a final 2,875.43 points, a gain of 162.93 or six per cent, is when the Exchange automatically closed down for the day. Turnover reached 555 million NPR from the exchange of 1,143,767 units of shares of 261 companies across 4,051 transactions.

Bangladesh: Dhaka seeks greater Investment and cooperation from Ankara
On 09 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Shama Obaed Islam, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh, called for increased investment from Türkiye during a meeting with Turkish Ambassador Ramis Şen at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka. During the meeting, the state minister highlighted the growing defence cooperation between the two countries and emphasised the need for continued collaboration in capacity building and the defence industry. She also sought Türkiye’s support for Bangladesh’s candidature for the Presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly for the 2026–2027 term, which the ambassador said Türkiye would support. Both sides welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral trade and expressed interest in expanding economic cooperation. The state minister also thanked Türkiye for its humanitarian assistance to the displaced Rohingya in Bangladesh and discussed strengthening cultural ties, including the proposed establishment of the Yunus Emre Institute at the University of Dhaka.

Myanmar: WHO urges protection and support for women amid ongoing crisis
On 09 March, Mizzima reported that the World Health Organization issued a statement highlighting the severe challenges faced by women and girls in Myanmar on International Women’s Day. The organization warned that ongoing conflict, displacement, and collapsing essential services have placed immense burdens on women, who are increasingly taking on leadership roles to sustain families and communities. While praising their resilience, the statement stressed that women’s rights to protection, justice, healthcare, and meaningful participation must be upheld at all times. It also called for urgent action to address rising gender-based violence, limited access to health and education, and the growing psychological toll on women and girls, urging greater support for women-led organizations and stronger inclusion of women in decision-making about the country’s future.

Sri Lanka: Arrangements made for an abrupt food and energy shortage
On 09 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lankan government is prepared for possible interruption to essential food and energy supplies as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East show signs of prolongation. Authorities believed that while there is no immediate threat to essential supplies, a prolonged conflict could lead to both inflation and shortages in the upcoming months. This is strategic given Sri Lanka’s reliance on imported food and energy supplies. The report also highlights concerns about maritime chokepoint disruptions, including reduced shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and rising premiums on war-risk routes, which may indirectly affect domestic inflation and the cost of imports.

Maldives: Support for travellers amidst aviation disruption
On 09 March, The Sun reported that the Maldives' tourism authorities have expanded on-ground support for travellers affected by disrupted flights due to tensions in the Middle East. This led to the strengthening of visitor assistance at the Velana International Airport. As part of an effort led by the Visit Maldives Corporation, ad hoc help desks were set up in collaboration with the Maldives Airports Company Limited and the Ministry of Tourism and Environment to support stranded tourists. This initiative includes facilitating repatriation flights to destinations such as Germany and France. The government departments were working with multiple airlines to improve connectivity. Authorities believe this strategy is part of a broader framework to maintain tourism resilience and strengthen the Maldives’ reputation as a reliable destination for safe tourism amid disruptions in the international order.

Afghanistan: UNSC to convene meeting to discuss Afghanistan
On 09 March, Hasht e Subh reported that the United Nations Security Council will hold a meeting to discuss the current situation in Afghanistan, particularly amid heated cross-border exchanges with Pakistan. Georgette Gagnon, the acting head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), is expected to brief the meeting. While there are no further details regarding the meeting’s agenda, sources believe human rights violations, border conflicts, and related internal terrorist concerns are among the leading matters. Since there are newer members, such as Bahrain and Colombia, they will share their initial views on the matter during the course of the meeting. Global bodies have raised several alarms pointing toward the possibility of at least half of the Afghan population needing aid.

Iran: Deceased leader Khamenei’s son takes charge of the nation
On 09 March, Al Jazeera reported that Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the former Supreme Leader of Iran, will now assume the post of his father. Mojtaba has been selected as the new supreme leader by Iran’s Assembly of Experts, an 88-member clerical body that normally does such appointments. The body also stated that Mojtaba was chosen on a “decisive vote” and has urged all the leaders and elites of the nation to now pledge allegiance to their new leader. Though he has not run for office before, Mojtaba Khamenei has been a highly influential figure with deep ties to the military wing named the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The 56-year-old has survived the ongoing conflict in Tehran despite the killing of his father, mother, wife and also one of his sisters.

Pakistan: Arrival of petroleum shipments eases pressure on reserves 
On 9 March, Dawn reported Pakistan is set to receive three petroleum shipments, as per information provided by the Petroleum Minister during a briefing, providing relief to a country experiencing fuel shortages. He also stated that efforts are underway to ensure alternative fuel supply routes outside the Strait of Hormuz, and that, in the backdrop of the conflict, Pakistan’s monthly oil import bill could increase to USD 600 million. Amid concerns about a fuel shortage, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the finance and petroleum ministers to work with provincial governments on a strategy to conserve petroleum products and ensure an uninterrupted supply. In the coming days, LNG supply disruptions are also anticipated following Qatar's declaration of force majeure.

Pakistan: Police detain Aurat March activists ahead of Women’s Day rally in Islamabad
On 08 March, Dawn reported that Islamabad police detained dozens of women’s rights activists, including members of the Aurat March, ahead of an International Women’s Day rally in the federal capital. Police sources said participants gathered near the Super Market in Sector F-6 and planned to reach the National Press Club, where a heavy police presence arrested marchers and shifted them to the Women’s Police Station. Authorities confirmed 44 detentions, including 19 women and 25 men, citing the imposition of Section 144 and the denial of a no-objection certificate for the event. Prominent activist Dr Farzana Bari and Tahira Abdullah were among those held. Aurat March Islamabad condemned the action, stating: “We strongly condemn the arrests of participants who were peacefully exercising their right to protest.”
 

10 MARCH 2026, TUESDAY

Bangladesh: Dhaka and London discuss trade and Investment cooperation
On 10 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Khalilur Rahman and Prime Minister’s Adviser Humayun Kabir held a bilateral meeting with Chris Bryant, the UK Minister of State for Trade, in London to explore ways to strengthen trade and investment ties between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom. Discussions covered expanding the “Made in Bangladesh” brand, unlocking investment in the blue economy, safeguarding investor interests, and enhancing cooperation in education and multilateral platforms. Both sides also agreed to maintain close coordination ahead of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference, scheduled for Cameroon later this month. During the visit, the delegation also met UK Trade Envoy Rosie Winterton to discuss cooperation in the aviation sector, while Dapo Akande presented his candidacy for judge at the International Court of Justice for the 2027–2036 term. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in international legal and diplomatic arenas.

Myanmar: Conflict fuels drug surge in Golden Triangle region
On 10 March, Irrawaddy reported that the escalating civil war in Myanmar has fuelled a surge in drug production and trafficking across the Golden Triangle, worsening addiction and social hardship in northern Thailand. The region, once the world’s largest opium hub during the conflicts of the 1960s and 1970s, has seen renewed drug activity since the 2021 Myanmar military coup triggered ongoing conflict. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, opium cultivation and methamphetamine production in Myanmar have sharply increased, with drugs being smuggled through Thailand toward international markets. Research by Chiang Mai University indicates that hard-drug use in Thailand’s eight northern provinces has more than tripled since 2019, affecting vulnerable communities such as the Lahu hill tribe. Limited economic opportunities and language barriers have pushed some residents into drug-related work, while local organizations and community groups attempt to steer young people away from trafficking and addiction.

Sri Lanka: Flights re-route to Europe
On 10 March, the Daily Mirror reported that SriLankan Airlines has adapted its flight routes via Afghanistan and Azerbaijan to its European destinations amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. This leads to longer travel paths and operational adjustments. The decision also reflects potential economic implications for Sri Lanka's tourism and aviation sectors. Route changes such as this often increase fuel cost and travel time, affecting airline profitability. It also highlights Sri Lanka’s vulnerability to disruptions in major transit corridors that link Europe, the Middle East and South Asia.

Afghanistan: US designates Afghanistan as a sponsor of wrongful detention
On 10 March, CNN reported that in a move targeted at preventing abduction of American citizens, the Trump administration in Washington has attributed Kabul as a sponsor of wrongful detention. This is the second such attribution; the first was given to Iran, days ahead of the ongoing war. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the Taliban has used terrorist tactics to engage in the kidnapping of several individuals. He termed the tactics as “despicable” and demanded their end. Further, Rubio strongly recommended that Americans avoid travel to Afghanistan. Analysts now expect travel restrictions in the region of Afghanistan to be the next probable decision.

Iran: US Defence Secretary claims the most intense days of the strike
On 10 March, the CNN reported that the war between the US, Israel, and Iran has extended to yet another day. Comments from Pete Hegseth, the US Defence Secretary, have noted that Iran will be hit “harder than ever” if it does anything to stop the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. The US Air Force General, on the other hand, claimed that more than 50 Iranian ships have been destroyed in the attack. There has been a lot of discussion regarding Trump’s decision on when the war could end. The war has been unpopular amongst American leaders and could possibly have affected Trump’s upcoming election campaign. Meanwhile, the UAE stated that it had detected and intercepted about eight missiles and 26 drones over the past day.

Pakistan: Provinces announce austerity measures amid fuel crisis
On 10 March, Dawn reported that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces decided to close educational institutions as part of a fuel-saving initiative. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet approved the “Fuel Conservation and Responsible Governance Initiative”. Under this initiative, the government decided to reduce the fuel allowance for government vehicles by 25 per cent. However, the reduction would not apply to police, rescue, and law enforcement personnel. Other measures include a 50 per cent work-from-home policy for government departments, and the closure of educational institutions every Friday. Punjab's provincial government also took several measures amid the fuel crisis. The government decided that provincial ministers would not receive free petrol until the end of the “petroleum crisis” and that petrol and diesel allowances for official vehicles would also be reduced by 50 per cent. Moreover, educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities, would remain closed from 10 March to 31 March. The Balochistan government also decided to close educational institutions till 23 March.

Pakistan: Islamabad’s arms imports increase by 66 per cent in the 2021-25 period
On 10 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan’s arms imports grew by 66 per cent in the 2021-25 period compared with 2016-20, as per Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) data. On a global level, transfers of major arms surged by nearly 10 per cent over the past five years.  In the case of Pakistan, China’s role as top arms provider increased from 73 per cent in the previous 2016-20 period. While Pakistan’s imports soared, India remained the world’s second-largest arms importer, despite a marginal four per cent decrease. India has diversified its suppliers, turning increasingly to Western nations. Arms imports by states in the Middle East also shrank by 13 per cent, yet the region was home to three of the world’s top ten importers: Saudi Arabia with 6.8 per cent of global imports, Qatar with 6.4 per cent, and Kuwait with 2.8 per cent. The US supplied more than half of the arms to the Middle East.

11 MARCH 2026, WEDNESDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal: Proportional representation election completed
On 11 March, the Himalayan reported that the Election Commission (EC) had officially completed counting proportional representation results. According to the commission, 10,739,115 votes had been counted under the PR system as of Wednesday morning. The Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured the highest number of votes with 5,139,235, followed by the Nepali Congress with 1,749,583 votes and the CPN (UML) with 1,448,854 votes, while the Nepali Communist Party received 805,773 votes, the Shram Sanskriti Party obtained 378,649, and the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) garnered 329,472 votes. With vote counting finally concluded, the commission has begun preparations to determine the allocation of PR seats among political parties, which will be completed within the next few days.

Bangladesh: Dhaka forms a high-level committee to monitor tensions in the Middle East
On 11 March, The Daily Star reported that the Bangladesh government formed a high-level committee to prepare a national response plan to monitor potential economic disruptions arising due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The committee is tasked with examining risks to energy supply, trade flows, and overall economic stability. In addition, the committee may recommend measures to protect Bangladesh’s economy from external shocks. This is pertinent as Bangladesh relies heavily on imported energy and maritime trade.  

Myanmar: Junta captures last resistance stronghold in Mandalay region
On 11 March, The Irrawaddy reported that Myanmar’s military junta captured what was considered the last resistance stronghold in the Mandalay region. This comes after sustained clashes with the anti-junta resistance forces. The area was held by resistance groups aligned with the broader anti-military movement that took shape after the 2021 coup led by Min Aung Hlaing. This has been reported as a tactical gain for the military, though resistance operations still continue across several parts of the country.

Sri Lanka: Galle court orders handover of Iranian sailors’ bodies
On 11 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Chief Magistrate of Galle ordered authorities to hand over the bodies of 84 Iranian sailors to officials at the Embassy of Iran in Sri Lanka. The bodies were kept at the Galle National Hospital, following the recovery operations after the Iranian naval vessel IRIS Dena was targeted by a submarine. The court order allows the formal repatriation process to proceed and represents a significant step in handling the aftermath of the Iranian naval vessel's submerging. The court order facilitates coordination between Sri Lanka and Iran regarding the repatriation of Iranian naval personnel. This incident remains tied to tensions in the Middle East, which has already had implications on Sri Lanka’s diplomacy, aviation routes, and discussions on energy security. 

Afghanistan: Afghan asylum seekers struggle at foreign detention centres
On 11 March, Hasht e Subh reported that several Afghan asylum seekers who are currently awaiting immigration decisions at detention centres in Poland are facing a range of human and health rights violations. Lack of legal support, health care and regular meals has worsened their conditions. Some elderly and sick asylum seekers are also finding it hard to live in significantly cramped rooms. Many of them claim that they were assured to be released after a period of three months by their interpreters, but Polish authorities state that they could be held up to 18 months in detention. Some have even raised concerns about violations of Polish and European Union laws arising from the poor condition of the facilities offered to them.

Iran: Mojtaba Khamenei receives elite police protection from the Iranian NOPO
On 11 March, Fox News reported that the new supreme leader of Iran, Mojtaba Khamenei, is said to be protected by a special police unit, the NOPO, under the Special Units Command. The unit has historically engaged in anti-riot and counter-terrorism operations and is well known for its “black-clad” uniforms. While the unit primarily focuses on internal security threats, it has been deployed for the supreme leader’s protection, especially considering the imminent threat from American and Israeli forces. Mojtaba has yet to appear on any public forum, which has raised several questions about his well-being.

Pakistan: Chinese firms plan USD 2.6 billion manufacturing investment in Balochistan
On 11 March, Dawn reported that Chinese companies are planning to invest about USD 2.6 billion in manufacturing and roughly USD 14 million in Balochistan's mineral sector, aiming to boost industrial activity and create employment. A Chinese investors’ delegation, accompanied by former Provincial Finance Minister Amjad Rasheed, discussed the plan with Senate Deputy Chairman Syedal Khan in Islamabad. Investors expressed interest in minerals, agriculture, transport and tourism over the next five years. Officials highlighted prospects for expanded Pakistan–China economic cooperation.

Pakistan: Govt enforces “war austerity plan”, announces four-day workweek
On 11 March, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed federal ministries to strictly implement a “war austerity plan,” ordering third-party audits and declaring Friday an additional weekly holiday under a four-day workweek to conserve energy. A committee led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar will monitor progress. Educational institutions in Islamabad, Sindh, and Punjab announced closures or the switch to online classes through March. Sindh approved sweeping cuts, including reduced fuel allocations, grounded official vehicles and bans on official events. Provincial measures also include work-from-home policies, spending curbs, and steps to conserve transport fuel amid the global energy crisis.

12 MARCH 2026, THURSDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Bangladesh: 13th Parliament holds inaugural session
On 12 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that the first sitting of Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliament began in Dhaka, marking the start of the new legislative term. During the sitting, lawmakers elected Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed as Speaker and Barrister Kayser Kamal as Deputy Speaker. Both later took the oath administered by President Mohammed Shahabuddin. In his remarks, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman called for a “meaningful, effective and vibrant” parliament through constructive debate and cooperation among lawmakers, stressing the need for collective efforts to build a self-reliant Bangladesh. The session formally launched the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, formed after the February elections in which the Bangladesh Nationalist Party secured a parliamentary majority.

Myanmar: Institute of Chin Affairs report details fighting and airstrikes in Falam Township
On 12 March, Mizzima reported that the Institute of Chin Affairs (ICA) released a report detailing four months of intense fighting in Falam Township, during which Chin resistance forces reportedly killed over 200 military junta troops and captured 40 between November 2025 and February 2026. The report also stated that the junta conducted more than 2,500 airstrikes during the period, while drone strikes and artillery fire killed at least 15 civilians and injured 30 others, destroying more than 60 buildings, including schools, churches, and hospitals. According to ICA Information Officer Salai Van Sui San, the junta’s tactics have escalated since late February, with increased airstrikes targeting civilians and more frequent burning of homes. Chin resistance forces believe the intensified attacks reflect the military’s difficulties in reinforcing and supplying its troops and are linked to efforts to secure access to Surbung Airport for logistical operations in northern Chin State. The report added that ongoing fighting has displaced around 85 per cent of residents from nine villages in Tedim Township and 27 villages in Falam Township, leaving children, pregnant women, and elderly people facing severe shortages of food, shelter, and medical care.

Maldives: Government revenue drops sharply in February
On 12 March, The Sun reported that tax revenue collected by the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) had fallen substantially. This decline in February also includes a fall in revenue collected in US dollars compared to previous months. The MIRA figures show that overall state revenue fell by roughly 30 per cent, reflecting weaker inflows from key sectors. A significant portion of Maldivian revenue is generated in foreign currency through tourism-related taxes, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in tourist arrivals and global economic flows.

Sri Lanka: Colombo in talks with India and China for emergency oil supplies
On 12 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lankan government had begun talks with India and China to secure emergency oil purchases in case the crisis in the Middle East disrupts global fuel supply. Authorities are working to ensure adequate reserves to avoid shortages similar to those experienced during the country’s 2022 economic crisis. Authorities warned that if the crisis persisted, Sri Lanka may only be able to guarantee stable energy supplies for a limited period. 

Iran: Tehran warns against the usage of the Strait of Hormuz for oil transport
On 12 March, Al Jazeera reported that, as per Iran, not a ‘litre of oil’ must pass the Strait of Hormuz. This development follows the International Energy Agency's announcement of 400 million barrels of oil reserves, made as part of a decision taken by its 32 member countries. The spokesperson for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Iran stated that one must expect oil at USD 200 per barrel, as no artificial changes to pricing or sourcing can be undertaken. On 11 March, three ships attempting to pass the strait were hit by projectiles and were prevented from leaving the region.

Pakistan: TTAP seeks parliamentary consensus on defence policy amid regional tensions
On 11 March, Dawn reported that the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahaffuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TPAP) had urged the government to take parliament and the opposition into confidence regarding defence agreements and national security decisions, saying the situation in the region required careful consideration. A resolution adopted in a parliamentary meeting in Islamabad on 11 March by the alliance of opposition parties - Tehreek Tahaffuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TPAP) - condemned the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, urging diplomacy and restraint in the Middle East as well as in Afghanistan, while calling upon Muslim countries “not to allow their lands to be used against other countries and to resolve all issues through diplomacy to decrease tensions.” The alliance expressed concern about Imran Khan's health and called for his release. 

13 MARCH 2026, FRIDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Myanmar: The UN expert warns the crisis could worsen amid global distractions 
On 13 March, Mizzima reported that the human rights and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar could deteriorate further as global attention shifts toward the war in the Middle East and international aid declines. According to Tom Andrews, the military junta continues to attack civilians and obstruct critical humanitarian assistance more than five years after the coup. Andrews warned that reduced international focus, especially following the conflict triggered by Israel and the United States air strikes on Iran on 28 February, could further worsen conditions in Myanmar. He highlighted a dramatic rise in aerial attacks on civilians by the military, increasing from nine in 2021 to over 1,100 last year, stressing that civilians are being deliberately targeted rather than caught in crossfire. Andrews also criticised the junta’s recent elections as illegitimate and urged countries to maintain pressure on the military leadership and reject any civilian government formed from the vote.

Myanmar: Military airstrike on detention site kills 116 POWs in Rakhine 
On 13 March, Mizzima reported that the Arakan Army (AA) said 116 prisoners of war, including high-ranking military officers and some civilians, were killed on 8 March after Myanmar junta aircraft carried out a massive aerial bombardment on a detention facility in the Daletchaung region of Rakhine State. According to the AA, junta jet fighters and transport planes bombed the site for around three and a half hours, marking the deadliest single-day loss of junta personnel held as prisoners of war by revolutionary forces. Several senior military officers reportedly died instantly, while dozens of other detainees were injured or remain missing. The group said some civilians who were serving prison sentences were also among those killed or wounded. It added that many bodies are difficult to identify due to the intensity of the strike, and several victims remain unaccounted for.

Bhutan: Thimphu launches digital wallets 
On 13 March, the Kuensel reported that Bhutan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade in collaboration with the GovTech Agency, has launched the integration of the National Digital Identity (NDI) Wallet and eKYC with the national passport system today. The NDI Wallet allows citizens to securely store digital identity credentials and documents. Users can authenticate their identity online and selectively share verified information. The integration aims to build a more efficient and citizen-focused digital ecosystem. The platform is expected to expand as more government and private services adopt digital credentials. Meanwhile, 60,222 passports were issued between 2024 and 2025. 7,379 passports have been issued so far this year. Many passports remain unclaimed, creating cost burdens for both the government and citizens.

Sri Lanka: Colombo explores Russian fuel supply 
On 13 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lankan authorities were in discussions with Russia to explore the possibility of importing fuel to maintain stable energy supplies. In a meeting with the Russian ambassador, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath sought arrangements that could help the island nation with additional petroleum supplies if the current disruptions to the global energy markets persist. The Russian envoy agreed to convey Sri Lanka’s request to Moscow and cooperate with the authorities regarding the matter. 

Maldives: Opposition party MDP calls for austerity measures 
On 13 March, The Sun reported that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) urged the incumbent government led by President Mohamed Muizzu to implement austerity and fuel conservation measures amid global economic uncertainty intensified by the conflict in the Middle East. The opposition warned that there could be disruptions to the maritime oil shipments, especially those centred around the Strait of Hormuz. The opposition warns that the current heavy use could place intense pressure on the Maldivian economy if the crisis in the Middle East persists. 

Iran: US-Israel continue to bombard Iran while Riyadh suffers drone attacks 
On 13 March, Al Jazeera reported that, as per the Israeli military, a new “extensive wave” of strikes has begun on Tehran, due to which evacuation orders have been issued to all such regions, including Beirut. Meanwhile, the Iranian Health Ministry added that at least 1,444 people have been killed and 18,551 have been injured by the attacks launched by US-Israeli forces. Turkey has also been alarmed by the recent missile launches, as it witnessed a ballistic missile entering its airspace with fragments landing near the city of Adana. It has begun consultations with Tehran as to the reason behind the incident. One of the major sites of attacks in Iran was a large rally being organised in Tehran, where at least one person has been killed. 

Pakistan and Qatar: Doha signals higher rice imports from Islamabad amid food security concerns 
On 13 March, Dawn reported that Qatar was keen to increase rice imports from Pakistan to ensure food security in the wake of political turmoil in the region. Commerce Minister Jam Kamal discussed ways to strengthen trade relations with Qatar’s state minister for foreign trade, Dr Ahmad bin Mohammed Al Sayed, in a video link meeting. According to sources, Qatar’s minister of state for foreign affairs, Dr Ahmad bin Mohammed Al Sayed, said that rice was an important food item in Qatar’s national food strategy and the food security programme. The participants also said that more interaction between the trade communities of the two countries was required in order to increase bilateral trade.

16 MARCH 2026, MONDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal: World Bank predicts delays in national pride projects and recommends a tighter project pipeline
On 16 March, The Kathmandu Post, citing a World Bank report, reported that multiple infrastructure projects nationwide are facing delays. According to the report, Nepal approves far too many poorly prepared projects, which spreads resources too thin given current funding levels. Completing the ongoing 17 national pride projects, which were started years or decades ago, would take 41 more years. The World Bank has recommended a tighter project pipeline where only investment-ready projects enter the budget and new approvals wait until existing commitments are funded, faster land acquisition and environmental clearances through digital records, standardised valuation, and streamlined approvals before projects are included in the budget and finally, more credible cash forecasts, protection of capital budgets from mid-year cuts, and fund releases aligned with realistic work plans.

Nepal: Migrant workers remain uncertain but hopeful after the recent elections
On 16 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that a significant number of migrant workers who returned to Nepal to vote in the recent House of Representatives (HoR) elections are again leaving via the Gaddachauki border in Kanchanpur to resume work in India. Many say they fulfilled their democratic duty but now hope newly elected leaders will honour their promises to create jobs. Currently, approximately 200–250 workers cross the checkpoint daily to work in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and major cities such as Mumbai and Bengaluru. Many migrants who work in agriculture, construction, or security services lack formal documentation, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. Despite voting in hope, migrants say they remain uncertain whether their living conditions will improve.

Nepal: Climate change continues to be an issue, especially for the new government
On 16 March, The Kathmandu Post, reported that although the Rastriya Swatantra Party pledges several strategies to address climate change, they still demand a great deal of transparency and clarity. Nepal had previously pioneered climate budget tagging back in 2012, but successive governments failed to sustain and strengthen the initiative, reducing it to a routine exercise, highlighting the need for the RSP-led government to fully integrate climate-resilient planning from national to subnational levels to better address growing climate impacts. Additionally, for countries like Nepal, the ability to directly influence climate outcomes remains limited because most impacts stem from global temperature rise driven by worldwide emissions. Addressing these challenges requires sustained international cooperation to reduce emissions and stabilise global temperatures. However, current trends suggest the opposite as temperatures continue to rise while political will for decisive climate action weakens.

Nepal (Opinion): Madhukar Upadhya, "Climate Change: A pressing challenge for Nepal’s new government," The Kathmandu Post, 16 March 2026
"While we express concern over the rapidly escalating threats of climate change, the world at large has entered an uncertain period. Decades’ worth of global efforts and progress in curbing emissions not only slowed because of geopolitical headwinds but were increasingly compounded by deepening global polarisation. This sidelined the needs of developing countries like Nepal by prioritising security over climate cooperation, diverting resources that dampen prospects of finance pledges."
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/16/climate-change-a-pressing-challenge-for-nepal-s-new-government

Nepal (Opinion): Bhawani Bhatta, "After voting, Nepali migrant workers head back to India, urge leaders to deliver on pledges," The Kathmandu Post, 16 March 2026
"As the dust of the House of Representatives elections begins to settle, the Gaddachauki border point in Kanchanpur district is once again witnessing a familiar and sombre exodus. Thousands of Nepali migrant workers, who had returned home to exercise their franchise, are packing their bags and heading back to India to earn a living. Their message to the newly elected representatives is clear—do not forget the promises made on the campaign trail."

https://kathmandupost.com/national/2026/03/16/after-voting-nepali-migrant-workers-head-back-to-india-urge-leaders-to-deliver-on-pledges

Bangladesh (Opinion): Mostafiz Uddin, “Why Bangladesh needs a brand reset,” The Daily Star, 16 March 2026
For decades, Bangladesh's international image has been shaped by a narrow, increasingly outdated narrative. Far too often, the country has been reduced to being a low-cost sourcing destination, associated mainly with labour exploitation, industrial accidents, and relentless price pressure. A country’s perception affects investment decisions, buyer confidence, tourism, diplomatic influence, and the willingness of international companies to make long-term commitments. Today, Bangladesh is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of green RMG factories. Bangladesh should be positioned as the world’s most serious platform for responsible, scalable apparel manufacturing. A new national identity can rest on five pillars: competitive manufacturing, verified sustainability, young talent, renewable energy transition, and reliability.

https://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/views/rmg-notes/news/why-bangladesh-needs-brand-reset-4129686

Bangladesh (Opinion): Kamrul Hassan Mamun, “Power, Risk, readiness: The real test of Bangladesh’s nuclear moment,” The Daily Star, 16 March 2026 
Beginning on April 7, fuel loading is scheduled to start at the first unit of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, marking the transition from construction to operation. At this stage, uranium-enriched fuel rods are inserted into the reactor core for the first time, initiating a nuclear chain reaction that generates heat to produce electricity. Fuel loading is one of the most delicate and sensitive phases in the life of a nuclear reactor, and from this point onward, the reactor becomes an active nuclear system. Incidents such as the Chernobyl disaster and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster illustrate how rare but catastrophic failures in nuclear systems can reshape societies and environments for decades. The fuel loading at Rooppur is a historic step for Bangladesh and signals the country's entry into a highly advanced technological domain.

https://www.thedailystar.net/slow-reads/big-picture/news/power-risk-and-readiness-the-real-test-bangladeshs-nuclear-moment-4129911

Myanmar: Ex-Generals elected speakers of Parliament
On 16 March, Irrawaddy reported that Myanmar’s military-backed parliament convened in Naypyitaw for its first session since the 2021 coup, appointing two senior figures from the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) to lead the Lower House. USDP Chairman Khin Yi, a retired brigadier general and former police chief under the junta, was elected speaker, while Maung Maung Ohn, previously the junta’s information minister, became deputy speaker. The parliament emerged from military-organised elections held in December and January that excluded major opposition parties, with a quarter of seats reserved for the military under the 2008 Constitution. The move comes despite the landslide 2020 election victory of the National League for Democracy, whose leaders, including Aung San Suu Kyi, were detained after the coup. Meanwhile, the shadow National Unity Government dismissed the new parliament as illegitimate and accused the junta of seeking international recognition.

Myanmar (Opinion): Aung Zaw, “Scam Cities, Smuggling and State Collapse: The Inevitable Toll of Military Rule,” Irrawaddy, 16 March 2026
By 2026, Myanmar had become the world’s leading opium producer and a regional hub for so-called “scam cities”, vast criminal compounds along the borders with Thailand and China. The collapse of the legal labour market has facilitated widespread labour trafficking, with criminal syndicates mostly run by Chinese gangs forcing hundreds of thousands of individuals from Asia, Africa and other regions into complex online scams and cryptocurrency fraud schemes. Analysts estimate that annual scam revenues run into the billions of dollars and have become a primary source of funding for the junta. Since 2021, armed resistance has persisted, and the civil war has spread nationwide, resulting in the regime losing control over significant portions of the country. The coup has brought nothing but deprivation to nearly all.

https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/scam-cities-smuggling-and-state-collapse-the-inevitable-toll-of-military-rule.html

Sri Lanka: Arrival of 35,000 MT of fuel shipments to support national reserves
On 16 March, the Daily Mirror reported that a fuel shipment carrying 35,000 metric tonnes of petroleum products arrived in Sri Lanka. The unloading operations are scheduled to begin on the same day. According to the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), the cargo includes 18,000 MT of diesel, 17,000 MT of petrol, and 3,000 MT of super diesel, intended to support domestic fuel supplies for critical functions. The shipment's arrival is part of ongoing government efforts to maintain adequate reserves amid concerns that geopolitical tensions and disruptions in global energy markets could affect fuel availability for some time.

Sri Lanka (Opinion): Dr Boniface Perera, “Sri Lanka’s economic vulnerability to Middle East Conflict,” Daily Mirror, 16 March 2026
Unless the government moves beyond superficial press releases and begins implementing a wartime economic strategy, it is not a matter of if a 2022-style crisis will return, but when. The public rally against the government is already being fueled by the rising costs of today; it will be ignited by the lack of vision for tomorrow. For Sri Lanka, the “cost-reflective pricing” mechanism recently implemented means that every dollar increase in global oil is passed directly to a public already pushed to the brink. On March 10, 2026, the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation was forced to hike fuel prices despite government assurances of “adequate stocks” just days prior

https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Sri-Lankas-economic-vulnerability-to-Middle-East-Conflict/231-335389

Sri Lanka (Opinion): KKS Perera, “Peace Is Not a Slogan: Indian Ocean’s Dangerous Moment,” Daily Mirror, 16 March
“The Indian Ocean has been declared a zone of peace on successive occasions. It is time the world’s major powers started acting like they believe it. The Indian Ocean, long considered a relatively stable maritime domain, found itself at the heart of a geopolitical storm. Striking targets in open ocean waters does not defeat an enemy. It unsettles an entire region.”

https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Peace-Is-Not-a-Slogan-Indian-Oceans-Dangerous-Moment/231-335386

Iran: UAE Fujairah port attack results in large fire
On 16 March, CNBC reported that the drone attack launched by Iran against the oil trading port of Fujairah, located in the UAE, had led to a large fire. The port was the only export route that bypassed the now heavily monitored Strait of Hormuz. The Fujairah Media Office stated that Civil Defence teams have begun efforts to control the incident, and that large oil bunkering operations have been suspended. The port is located at the end of the UAE’s Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (ADCOP) and therefore bypasses the Strait, but it is now proven vulnerable to attacks as well. Iranian state media has warned residents and workers to evacuate the region.

Iran: Europe looks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz
On 16 March, The Wall Street Journal reported that the UK and the European Union have been seeking ways to reopen travel through the Strait of Hormuz to help counter global fuel shortages and price hikes. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted that they are trying to counter Iranian water mines using robot mine hunters. These developments follow US President Donald Trump’s call to seven nations to work toward opening up the Strait. Trump even went to the extent of warning of a “very bad” future for NATO if the US allies do not offer their much-needed assistance. Meanwhile, the disruptions in the Gulf have reached Dubai International Airport, where a drone attack sparked a fire that prevented several flights from operating. America, on the other hand, is seeing oil price pressures build up as no concrete solution to the shortage has been found yet.

Pakistan: Islamabad launches overnight strikes as Afghan mortar fire kills four in KP. Islamabad rejects China’s offer to mediate; over 300 illegal Afghan nationals arrested in Swabi district
On 16 March, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that four civilians were killed and a five-year-old child seriously injured when mortar fire from across the border struck a village in Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Afghan Taliban forces fired artillery into a civilian area, prompting Pakistani forces to retaliate. The incident comes amid escalating clashes along the frontier under “Operation Ghazab Lil Haq.” Pakistani officials later confirmed overnight strikes targeting militant hideouts and military infrastructure in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province. Tarar said the attacks destroyed technical support facilities and equipment used by Afghan Taliban and TTP militants, stressing the operations were “precision engagement” against terrorist camps and not civilian targets.

Pakistan: Six militants killed in Kohat counterterrorism operation
On 15 March, Dawn reported that six militants were killed in a joint operation conducted by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and police in Lachi tehsil of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kohat district. According to the District Police Officer Shahbaz Elahi, the operation was launched after intelligence indicated that militants were planning a large-scale attack in the area. A large contingent of CTD personnel and police carried out a “search and strike operation,” during which the suspects opened fire, triggering an exchange that left six militants dead. Police said weapons were recovered from the slain suspects, and the area was subsequently cordoned off while search operations continued. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the forces involved, stating that he was proud of the “brave soldiers of the KP police and the CTD.” The operation comes amid a surge in militant violence in the province, where fatalities rose from 1620 in 2024 to 2,331 in 2025, according to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS).

Pakistan: Islamabad to formulate strategy for exporting surplus food items to Gulf states
On 16 March, Dawn reported that the Pakistan government has decided to formulate a strategy for exporting surplus food items to Gulf countries. The Prime Minister reviewed the “food situation” in the country and the export of commodities available in excess in view of the “changing regional situation". The prime minister noted that disruptions in global supply chains had increased the export potential of Pakistani products in regional markets.

Pakistan (Opinion): Huma Yusuf, “Cost of conflict,” Dawn, 16 March 2026
"When wars rage, children become the most tragic and unnecessary victims. Among the worst horrors of the current Middle East conflict are the 170-plus people, most of them schoolgirls, killed in a missile attack on a school in southern Iran. This is an unimaginable toll that the world has somehow become inured to, especially in the wake of the Gaza war, when one child was killed every hour on average, for a grim total of well over 20,000, according to Save the Children."

https://www.dawn.com/news/1982540/cost-of-conflict

Pakistan (Editorial): “Looking for safety,” Dawn, 16 March 2026
"According to the UN refugee agency, between 600,000 and one million Iranian households have been displaced within Iran amid ongoing US-Israeli bombardment. Families are leaving Tehran and other urban centres in search of safety in rural communities. This is a journey of necessity, driven by fear of air raids and destruction. Among the most vulnerable are Afghan refugee families already living precariously in Iran; many now face displacement for a second time. Lebanon presents a similar picture. Israeli attacks have forced thousands to flee their homes. More than 800,000 people are reportedly displaced, with thousands crammed into collective shelters where sanitation is poor and essential supplies are scarce. In such conditions, the risks of exploitation and abuse, particularly for women and children, rise sharply. The human toll of displacement extends far beyond the immediate trauma of war. Social systems begin to unravel. Schools close, hospitals struggle to cope and livelihoods vanish overnight. Urban centres absorbing large numbers of displaced people face immense pressures. In both Iran and Lebanon, cities already grappling with economic strain must now contend with the challenge of supporting thousands of additional residents."

https://www.dawn.com/news/1982534/looking-for-safety

17 MARCH 2026, TUESDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal: ILO report shows risks after graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status
On 17 March, The Himalayan reported that the International Labour Organisation (ILO) assessment predicts that Nepal's graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status could reduce exports in key sectors and pose employment risks, particularly for women and informal workers. The loss of trade preferences after graduation may expose export-oriented sectors, particularly apparel and textiles, to higher tariffs, stricter compliance requirements and increased global competition. Post graduation, the study projects that Nepal's export losses could range from 2.5 to 4.3 per cent of total exports. Measures in trade facilitation, tourism and information and communication technology (ICT) could help mitigate adverse impacts, strengthen competitiveness and generate new jobs.
https://thehimalayantimes.com/business/nepals-ldc-graduation-may-affect-exports-jobs-ilo-report

Nepal: The US-Iran War’s effect on fuel prices; Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) increases fuel prices
On 17 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) increased fuel prices following a surge in global oil rates triggered by tensions in West Asia. Petrol prices rose by NPR 15 per litre and now sell at NPR 172, while diesel and kerosene increased by NPR 10 each, with diesel now costing NPR 152 per litre. The adjustment follows revised rates from Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Nepal’s primary supplier, which reviews prices every 15 days. Earlier, NOC had delayed adjustments due to the election period despite rising costs. Officials stated that the latest hike was unavoidable due to sharp increases in IOC prices and international market volatility.
https://kathmandupost.com/national/2026/03/17/evolving-tensions-in-west-asia-affect-nepali-households

Nepal: China protests the burning of President Xi's books at a local college
On 17 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu sent a note verbale to Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging prompt action against those responsible for burning 100 copies of a book authored by Xi Jinping at Manamohan Technical College in Budhiganga, Morang, on Saturday night. Videos showed multiple copies of The Governance of China being set on fire inside the college premises. The incident drew attention after footage went viral, with individuals seen burning and displaying the book. Local authorities, including the Morang district administration and police, have launched an investigation. College officials claimed the books were old, unused, and damaged, and were burned to clear storage space. However, witnesses reported that many copies appeared new. The incident has been treated as sensitive due to its potential impact on Nepal–China relations.
https://kathmandupost.com/national/2026/03/17/china-protests-burning-of-xi-jinping-s-book-in-morang-college

Opinion: Gauri Shankar Gautam and Ojaswi Pandey, "New Party trap," The Kathmandu Post, 17 March 2026
The CPN-UML offers a cautionary tale, where years of ‘Oli-fication’ entrenched one-man dominance while steadily eroding the party’s leadership depth. Developing a credible second tier of leaders beyond high-profile figures, such as Rabi Lamichhane and Balen Shah, will therefore be essential if the RSP hopes to remain a long-term political force.
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/17/new-party-trap

Bangladesh: Middle East airspace closures disrupt over 550 flights from Dhaka
On 17 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that 26 more flights were cancelled at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport due to the ongoing security situation in the Middle East, bringing the total number of cancellations to 557 since 28 February. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, several countries, including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, and Jordan, closed their airspace on 28 February over security concerns, leading to repeated flight disruptions from Dhaka.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/dhaka/405667/26-more-flights-cancelled-at-dhaka-airport-557-in

Bangladesh: Seven-Day Eid holiday triggers nationwide travel rush in Bangladesh
On 17 March, The Daily Star reported that a seven-day public holiday began as people across Bangladesh prepared to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr. Government offices, courts, and many private institutions closed, prompting a surge of travel from Dhaka to hometowns. Passenger pressure increased sharply at major transport hubs, with buses departing for destinations including Sylhet, Chattogram, Barishal, and Khulna. The government declared 18 March an additional holiday, ensuring a continuous break from 18 March to 23 March to facilitate uninterrupted Eid travel.
https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/seven-day-eid-holiday-begins-triggering-nationwide-travel-rush-4130786

Opinion: Maisha Quadery, “Typhoid in Bangladesh: A persistent public health challenge,” The Daily Star, 17 March 2026
“Typhoid fever has long been a silent but serious threat in Bangladesh. It affects tens of thousands of children and adults every year. Despite progress in public health, Bangladesh remains endemic for this bacterial infection driven by deep-rooted challenges in water safety, sanitation, hygiene and emerging antimicrobial resistance. In the crowded quarters of cities like Dhaka, the disease stays endemic as it circulates year-round with pronounced peaks during and after the monsoon rains. This seasonal surge reflects how waterborne pathogens like Salmonella Typhi exploit soggy conditions by turning streets, drains and shallow water sources into highways for disease transmission. One of the most alarming challenges in Bangladesh is the rise of antibiotic-resistant typhoid strains. These resistant strains complicate treatment, increase costs and raise the risk of complications and mortality. In a landmark public health initiative, Bangladesh launched a nationwide Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) campaign in October 2025. Combined with improvements in water, sanitation and hygiene, the country can dramatically reduce the burden of typhoid and protect future generations.”
https://www.thedailystar.net/slow-reads/big-picture/news/typhoid-bangladesh-persistent-public-health-challenge-4130066

Myanmar
Opinion: Joe Kumbun, “Ethnic ‘Brotherhood’ Being Torn Apart in Northern Shan State,” Irrawaddy, 17 March 2026
“After nearly a month of rising tensions, the MNDAA and TNLA finally engaged in tit-for-tat fighting on March 14, escalating from a tense standoff into full-scale clashes. The outbreak came immediately after key political events and diplomatic engagements involving China and Myanmar, despite prior Chinese urging for stability along the border. Tensions had remained high through late February and early March, with both sides avoiding major offensives but engaging in minor incidents. A failed attempt at dialogue, followed by an MNDAA ultimatum demanding TNLA withdrawal from contested areas, led to a large-scale offensive when the demand was refused. At the core of the conflict are clashing political ambitions. Both groups seek autonomous territories in northern Shan State, but their visions overlap—particularly in Kutkai—leading to confrontation. These competing goals, along with differing political ideologies, have fractured the unity of the Brotherhood Alliance formed for coordinated military operations. Recent actions, including territorial advances and symbolic moves like removing TNLA flags from jointly controlled areas, reflect the deepening rift. While mediation efforts by allied groups and regional actors have failed, Chinese pressure has brought both sides to the negotiating table, with the outcome likely to shape the future of the conflict.”
https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/guest-column/ethnic-brotherhood-being-torn-apart-in-northern-shan-state.html

Sri Lanka: Government establishes four committees to manage the impact of the ongoing Middle East crisis
On 17 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lankan Cabinet had approved the establishment of four special committees to address the economic and social impacts of the ongoing Middle East conflict. The committees are tasked with recommending measures to minimise disruptions to the economy and public life, focusing on energy security, the continuity of public services, the distribution of essential goods, and welfare support for affected groups. The move reflects a coordinated state response to mitigate external shocks, particularly given Sri Lanka’s dependence on imported energy.
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Four-committees-established-to-tackle-impact-of-Middle-East-conflict/108-335600

Sri Lanka: Energy Minister provides update on national fuel reserves
On 17 March, the Daily News reported that Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody provided an update on the country’s fuel reserves, stating that Sri Lanka currently maintains adequate stocks to meet short-term demand despite ongoing global uncertainties. The Minister noted that ongoing efforts to secure additional fuel shipments and diversify supply channels amid disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict. The update reflects the government’s attempts to reassure the public, while emphasising the need for careful management of reserves given Sri Lanka’s dependence on imported energy.
https://dailynews.lk/2026/03/17/local/968218/energy-minister-provides-latest-update-on-countrys-fuel-reserves/

Sri Lanka: Public transport services to be restricted on Wednesdays, to conserve fuel
On 17 March, the Daily Mirror reported that public transport services across Sri Lanka will be limited on Wednesdays following the government’s decision to designate the day as a public holiday. According to the Essential Services Commissioner General, Prabath Chandrakeerthi, the restriction is intended to align with reduced public movement resulting from the closure of government offices and schools. Authorities also urged the private sector to adopt work-from-home arrangements to minimise commuting on a day-to-day basis. The measure aims to ensure that the limited transport services are reserved for essential travel, particularly as part of broader efforts to conserve fuel to manage energy demands.
https://www.dailymirror.lk/latest-news/Public-transport-to-be-restricted-on-Wednesdays/342-335591

Iran: Security chief killed in airstrike, Israel says
On 17 March, The Guardian reported that Israel claimed that Ali Larijani, the national security chief, was killed because of overnight strikes. If confirmed, that would make him the most senior figure to die in war since the death of Ali Khamenei, the former supreme leader. Iran has yet to confirm on either claim. Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, said a separate strike killed the Basij paramilitary force commander, Gholamreza Soleimani, along with other senior Basij figures. Katz stated: “Larijani and the Basij commander were eliminated overnight and joined the head of the annihilation programme, Khamenei, and all the eliminated members of the axis of evil, in the depths of hell.” The office of the Israeli prime minister said in a statement that Benjamin Netanyahu had ordered “the elimination of senior officials of the Iranian regime.”
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/17/irans-security-chief-ali-larijani-killed-in-airstrike-israel-says

Pakistan: Islamabad strikes Kabul and Nangarhar as clashes near the third week
On 17 March, Dawn and The Express Tribune reported that the Pakistani military conducted air strikes on the Afghan Taliban’s military installations in Kabul and Nangarhar on Monday night. According to security sources, Pakistani forces destroyed technical support infrastructure and ammunition storage at two locations in Kabul. In Nangarhar province, forces targeted the Taliban’s military installations in four spots, while logistics, ammunition and technical infrastructure adjacent to these installations were also destroyed. The Pakistani Air Force also struck Taliban and Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram sector, according to security sources. Separately, the Information Ministry dismissed a claim by the Afghan Taliban spokesperson that a drug rehabilitation hospital had been struck in Kabul. According to the spokesperson, over 400 people were killed in the strike denied by Pakistan.

Pakistan: LNG shortage looms large in April
On 17 March, Dawn reported that the supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) has been affected by the West Asia conflict. According to government records, LNG will not be available in the country after 14 April. LNG supply from Qatar had been completely stopped since 2 March. Government records also showed that the Sui Southern Gas Company had cut gas supply to a fertiliser plant by 50 per cent and reduced gas supply to the power sector from 300 million cubic feet per day to 130 million cubic feet per day.

Opinion: Kamran Yousaf, “War next door, dilemma in Islamabad,” The Express Tribune, 17 March 2026
"The war between Iran and the US-Israel alliance has now entered its third week. There is still no sign of de-escalation, despite US President Donald Trump declaring victory on several occasions. The US and Israel may have bombed Iran extensively and eliminated some of its top leadership, but Iran appears to be winning the battle of narratives."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597952/war-next-door-dilemma-in-islamabad

Opinion: Nadeem Javaid, “Pakistan's economic paradox,” The Express Tribune, 17 March 2026
"Public debate in Pakistan often becomes trapped in ideological binaries: pro-market versus pro-state; capitalist versus socialist; conventional versus Islamic. But prosperity does not emerge from labels. It emerges from aligned institutions. A country cannot function as capitalist at its central bank, patronage-driven in its ministries and selectively moral in its markets - and expect sustained progress. Pakistan's economic paradox is not that it blends systems. Many successful nations do. The paradox is that its systems operate in parallel rather than in harmony."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597957/pakistans-economic-paradox

18 MARCH 2026, WEDNESDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal and Germany: Kathmandu and Berlin strengthen energy partnership
On 18 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), along with the Government of Germany, marked the groundbreaking of the Lekhnath–Damauli 220 kV transmission line project at the Damauli substation in Tanahun district. The event was attended by NEA Managing Director Hitendra Dev Shakya, German Ambassador Udo Volz, and representatives from KfW Development Bank. The project, co-financed by Germany, includes a 45-km double-circuit transmission line and gas-insulated substations in Lekhnath and Damauli, with a capacity of around 1,000 MW. It aims to strengthen Nepal’s electricity grid and support power evacuation from hydropower projects, including the Tanahun project. Germany has long supported Nepal’s energy sector, contributing to hydropower, transmission systems, and 55 MW of solar capacity. Future cooperation will focus on distribution infrastructure. German technical support also includes energy planning, EV charging stations, and grid integration, promoting renewable energy use and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
(“Nepal, Germany break ground on Lekhnath–Damauli 220 kV transmission line," The Kathmandu Post, 18 March 2026)

Nepal: Gurkha veterans to protest if demands are not met by the British side on equal pensions and implementation of the 1947 tripartite agreement
On 18 March, The Kathmandu Post reported on the recent tripartite talks between Nepal, Britain, and Gurkha veterans held in London on Monday, 16 March, which ended without a clear conclusion. The British side assured that a proposal addressing the Gurkhas’ demands would be presented within 15 days. During the meeting, Gurkha representatives reiterated their 11-point demands, including equal pensions and implementation of the 1947 tripartite agreement, but received no concrete response. A Gurkha veteran described the discussions as intense, noting that the British side maintained its position of not providing equal pensions, instead offering additional welfare facilities. UK Veterans and People Minister, Louise Sandher–Jones, briefly attended and stated that the government is working on the issue. Gurkha veterans warned of possible protests if delays continue. The talks concluded with an agreement to reconvene in two weeks. Additionally, 19 British MPs urged the UK government to address Gurkha concerns and strengthen ties with Nepal.
(“London talks between Gurkhas and UK discuss veterans’ demands," The Kathmandu Post, 18 March 2026)

OPINION
Yuba Nath Lamsal, "Key challenges to new government," The Rising Nepal, 18 March 2026
"The Gen Z movement did not bring about any systemic change in the political landscape, except pulling down the then government and forcing it to hold a fresh election for the House of Representatives. The constitution and all other state apparatus remained in place and are working accordingly. But at the same time, it brought about a change in the political perception. A new narrative was established based on which voters chose a new political force and faces, seeking an overhaul in the governance system. As a result, relatively new political force Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) secured almost two-thirds majority in the lower house of parliament."
https://risingnepaldaily.com/news/77326

OPINION
Dixya Poudel, "Fresh mandate," The Rising Nepal, 18 March 2026
"One could say that he was a celebrity long before becoming a politician. Nepalis were taken by surprise when he contested the position of the Mayor of Kathmandu as an independent candidate and won. In a way, he took over the mike from rapping to giving political speeches, winning over the youths of Nepal. It is the way of the world-the old gives way to the new, but not without a fight. If the older generations of traditional parties weren’t shocked by the Gen Z revolt, they are certainly now, leaving Balen to prove his mettle as the new PM."
https://risingnepaldaily.com/news/77324

Bhutan: transformation in women’s representation in politics
On 18 March, The Kuensel reported on Bhutan’s representation of women in politics. Eighteen years into Bhutan’s democratic journey, women’s political representation reflects gradual progress alongside persistent challenges. At the grassroots level, participation has improved modestly, with women winning 177 out of 1,437 seats in the 2021 local government elections, up from 164 in 2016. However, a significant gender gap remains, as 1,275 men secured seats in the same elections. At the national level, representation is more limited. Women’s participation in National Council elections has fluctuated, with only one woman elected in 2023. Parliamentary trends show some progress, with a peak in 2018 when seven women were elected, but numbers declined again to just two in 2023. Beyond electoral politics, women remain underrepresented in senior administrative roles, holding only 23 per cent of executive positions in the civil service. While overall participation has slightly increased, most women remain concentrated in lower-level roles, highlighting structural barriers to leadership.
(“Are Bhutanese attitudes toward women in governance shifting?” The Kuensel, 18 March 2026)

Bangladesh
EDITORIAL
“An undeniable legacy,” The Dhaka Tribune, 18 March 2026
March 17 marked the birthday of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a day of remembrance for the Father of the Nation whose leadership and ability to inspire defined Bangladesh, especially during the Liberation War of 1971. For a people deprived of their rights, Mujib gave voice and showed that dignity was a right, his courage and vision laying the foundation for independence. Yet, a balanced reflection demands honesty; his post-1971 decisions, most notably Baksal in 1975, remain deeply controversial. Even so, while great leaders are fallible, violence against his memory must be condemned, and attacks on his legacy stand among the darkest chapters in recent history. Ultimately, his vision for a free Bangladesh was undeniable, and one thing remains clear: There is no Bangladesh without Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/editorial/405736/an-undeniable-legacy

OPINION
Maheen Matin, “Digital education: Moving forward without leaving anyone behind,” The Dhaka Tribune, 18 March 2026
Bangladesh is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, and education is no exception, but the real question is how to digitalise it in a strategic, systematic, and inclusive way. Across urban areas, edtech companies are expanding quickly, proving that “the demand for digital learning is real.” Yet, this growth brings a serious risk: the digital divide, where many rural students still lack devices, stable internet, and qualified teachers. The core challenge is a rural teacher crisis, with high teacher-student ratios and shortages in subjects like mathematics, science, and English. A blended learning model can help by connecting urban teaching hubs to rural smart classrooms through live, interactive sessions, using existing infrastructure. Global examples show such systems can work at scale. Beyond classrooms, the current system of printed textbooks faces delays and promotes rote memorisation, while “an AI-powered digital textbook platform can replace static books with interactive tools.” However, “technology alone does not transform education. Strategy, phasing, and human capacity do.” Ultimately, while the edtech boom is real, without careful planning it risks widening inequality, but a phased national strategy can ensure quality education for every student.”
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/405745/digital-education-moving-forward-without-leaving

Myanmar: China warns the Federal Political Negotiation and Consultative Committee (FPNCC) not to intervene in the Shan state
On 18 March, The Irrawaddy reported that China warned the Federal Political Negotiation and Consultative Committee (FPNCC) not to intervene in the escalating conflict between the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), opting to handle the matter directly. Despite repeated appeals from the TNLA for mediation, the bloc remained sidelined as a month-long standoff over territorial control in northern Shan State escalated into open conflict. The MNDAA has since seized control of Kutkai and the strategic Lashio-Muse highway, a key trade route between Myanmar and China, while also engaging with junta officials in Lashio. China’s envoy Deng Xijun visited Naypyitaw just before the offensive, discussing “border stability and cooperation,” highlighting Beijing’s active but selective involvement. The situation reflects growing regional tensions, with pressure also mounting on other ethnic armed groups like the Kachin Independence Army (KIA). With vital trade routes disrupted and mediation efforts constrained, the conflict underscores China’s decisive influence in border stability and ethnic dynamics in Myanmar.
(“China Warns Ethnic Alliance Not to Intervene in TNLA-MNDAA Conflict,” Irrawaddy, 18 March 2026)

OPINION
Swe Taw, “Is Mandalay really lost to the resistance?” Irrawaddy, 18 March 2026
“The formidable Operation 1027 was not the only major resistance effort after the 2021 coup, as others included Operation 1111 in Karenni (Kayah) State, the Arakan Army (AA)’s offensive in Rakhine State, and the Shan–Mandalay offensive. Spearheaded by the TNLA and supported by multiple PDF groups, this coalition successfully captured towns and villages across Singu, Thabeikkyin, and Madaya townships, raising fears that urban combat in Mandalay was imminent. However, that momentum waned when the TNLA, under heavy pressure from China, halted its operations and left the ragtag crew stranded, allowing the junta to launch a counteroffensive. The regime was able to take advantage of Beijing’s diplomatic pressure on the TNLA, advancing with its bombs and manpower while letting China do the coercion at the negotiating table. Despite propaganda, the “battles” were nothing more than the regime occupying positions the TNLA had just vacated, highlighting the impact of Chinese pressure. Still, the conflict is far from over, as anti-junta forces continue to dominate the rural areas and secondary supply routes, maintaining guerrilla warfare across Mandalay Region.”
https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/is-mandalay-really-lost-to-the-resistance.html

OPINION
Khin Maung Win, “Myanmar’s resistance must not fritter away its strategic advantage,” Irrawaddy, 18 March 2026
“For nearly 80 years, Myanmar’s civil war was characterised by a seemingly unbreakable stalemate, where ethnic armed groups remained geographically and strategically isolated and simply could not win. The turning point came on Feb. 1, 2021, when the military coup inadvertently blew away its own strategic advantage, sparking the Spring Revolution and the rise of the People’s Defence Forces (PDFs). The armed resistance found a way forward by addressing two stubborn issues that had held up the EAOs: intelligence and logistics. Today, the PDFs act as their own decentralised, all-encompassing intelligence network, while the logistical nightmare of fighting in the heartland with scant supplies from the borderlands has been removed. This partnership culminated in late 2023 with the launch of Operation 1027, as resistance forces overran military positions and pushed the military to a breaking point, leaving it surrounded. The shift is clear, as cooperation has achieved a legitimate, actionable, and rapidly advancing path toward the defeat of the military dictatorship.”
https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/guest-column/myanmars-resistance-must-not-fritter-away-its-strategic-advantage.html

Sri Lanka: Declassified documents reveal former President Jayawardene asked Israel for funding for the election campaign
On 18 March, the Daily Mirror reported that a few declassified documents from Israel’s Foreign Ministry revealed that former president J. R. Jayawardene had allegedly requested USD 1 million from Israel’s intelligence agency Mossad to finance his election campaign back in 1987. The request was allegedly made during a period of diplomatic sensitivity, when Sri Lanka was under pressure to close Israeli representation in Colombo. This revelation has rekindled attention to historical foreign involvement in domestic politics and raises broader questions regarding sovereignty, transparency, and external influence in electoral processes.
(“JR Jayewardene sought $1 million from Mossad for election campaign, document reveals,” Daily Mirror, 18 March 2026)

Sri Lanka: China to take measures for stronger cooperation to combat online fraud
On 18 March, the Daily Mirror reported that Beijing pledged to strengthen law enforcement cooperation with Colombo to combat tele and online fraud. This commitment follows recent arrests of foreign nationals, including Chinese citizens, by Sri Lankan authorities. The Chinese embassy expressed support towards the actions of the Sri Lankan administration while also emphasising the need to protect legal rights and frameworks. This development highlights the growing concerns over transnational cybercrime networks and also reflects deepening bilateral coordination to address cross-border security threats in the era of digitisation.
(“China pledges stronger cooperation with Sri Lanka to crack down on Telecom and online fraud,” Daily Mirror, 18 March 2026)

OPINION
Shermila  Antony “Outdated laws hamper women workers in Sri Lanka,” The Daily Mirror, 18 March
“Only one in three women is active in the labour market. The absence of clear labour laws on sexual harassment and discrimination in the private sector is recognised as another factor that contributes to low FLFP in various empirical studies. Several pieces of legislation restrict women’s participation in the labour force. Outdated colonial paternalistic and patriarchal labour legislation is a key driver of women’s low participation rates.”
https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Outdated-laws-hamper-women-workers-in-Sri-Lanka/172-335646

Maldives: Oil price shock weighs down on economy
On 16 March, the Maldives Independent reported that the sharp rise in global oil prices has severely impacted the Maldivian economy, leading to diesel prices nearly doubling and fuel costs surging across the island nation. The shock has reportedly increased import expenditure, placing immense pressure on foreign reserves and also raising concerns over the sustainability of subsidies in the long run. Given the Maldives’ near-total dependence on imported fuel, the crisis has broader implications for electricity generation, transport, and tourism, a key sector for the Maldivian economy. The development highlights the nation’s economic vulnerability to external energy shocks and ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East.
(“Half a gas cylinder, double the diesel price: the oil shock hits Maldives,” Maldives Independent, 18 March 2026)

OPINION
Shafa Hameed “A supermajority is not a blank cheque": Is the Maldives’ anti-defection amendment unconstitutional? Maldives Independent, 18 March
An amendment was passed in less than nine hours.MPs elected on a political party ticket will lose their seat upon switching parties. The new anti-defection rules effectively allow parties to enforce their whip line by threatening removal from office. This centralisation of control would weaken internal party democracy and effectively subordinate the autonomy of elected representatives to exercise the interest of their constituents.”
https://maldivesindependent.com/politics/a-supermajority-is-not-a-blank-cheque-is-the-maldives-anti-defection-amendment-unconstitutional-86f2

Pakistan: First Islamabad vessel carrying crude oil crosses Strait of Hormuz
On 18 March, The Express Tribune reported that the first Pakistani vessel carrying a consignment of 80 million litres of crude oil had transited through the Strait of Hormuz, reaching the Pakistan maritime zone. MT Karachi was granted special permission by Iranian authorities to transit through the Strait of Hormuz, utilising Iranian territorial waters during its passage. International reports said payment for the crude oil carried by MT Karachi was made in Chinese currency. (“First Pakistani vessel carrying oil shipment arrives via Strait of Hormuz,” The Express Tribune, 18 March 2026)

Pakistan and China: Islamabad and Beijing continue to expand trade via Khunjerab Pass
On 18 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan and China continue to trade using the Khunjerab Pass. Consignments impor?ted from China through the Khunjerab Pass were cleared at Sost Dry Port. Trade with Central Asian countries under the Multimodal Transports Internationaux Routiers (TIR) system through the Khunjerab route has also remained operational. Earlier, shipments from other countries destined for Central Asia were routed through Pakistan via Afghanistan, diverted to the Khunjerab route, and transported onward via China. It has led to an increase in customs collection revenue for the dry port. However, local traders raised concerns about the non-implementation of the PM’s announcement on tax exemptions for imported items for local consumption. (“Pakistan-China trade through Khunjerab ‘in full swing’,” Dawn, 18 March 2026)

OPINION
Kamran Yousaf, “War next door, dilemma in Islamabad,” The Express Tribune, 17 March 2026
"The war between Iran and the US-Israel alliance has now entered its third week. There is still no sign of de-escalation, despite US President Donald Trump declaring victory on several occasions. The US and Israel may have bombed Iran extensively and eliminated some of its top leadership, but Iran appears to be winning the battle of narratives."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597952/war-next-door-dilemma-in-islamabadAfghanistan

Afghanistan: Taliban condemns attacks on rehabilitation centre
On 18 March, the Guardian reported that the Taliban regime had termed the recent Pakistani air strike on the Omid Adduction Centre a “Crime against humanity.” They have strongly criticised the move and have demanded that global organisations take cognisance of the matter. Despite it being 2 days since the attack, families and friends continue to search for their loved ones amidst the debris. Meanwhile, Islamabad continues to deny the attack and has stated that they precisely aimed for military installations themselves. Witnesses have added that firefighters continue to douse the flames from the attack despite the passage of 36 hours. The forensic department stated that several bodies were rendered unidentifiable and hence have burdened rescue attempts.
(“Afghans search for loved ones at Kabul rehab centre hit by Pakistani airstrike,” The Guardian, 18 March 2026)

Iran: Security chief Larijani killed by Israeli air strike
On 18 March, Al Jazeera reported that the Iranian security chief, Ali Larijani, who was often also considered a de facto ruler, had been killed in air strikes conducted by Israeli forces. It was Larijani who had strongly revolted against the killing of former Supreme Leader Khamenei and had promised a long conflict that Iran would sustain against both Israel and the USA. His demise hints at a move by the US-Israeli forces to internally weaken the Iranian leadership, since they have succeeded in eliminating a vast number of senior officials whose decision-making has been crucial to the war. Though he was strongly against Western powers, Larijani was often termed a pragmatist since he combined state loyalty and pride with technocratic decision-making. His demise was confirmed by state media sources.
(“Death of Ali Larijani deepens crisis at heart of Iran's leadership,” BBC, 18 March 2026)

19 MARCH 2026, THURSDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal: Election Commission presents poll report to the President
On 19 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that the Election Commission (EC) presented the final poll report for the House of Representatives elections held on 05 March to President Ramchandra Paudel. Paudel noted that the report was conducted with dedication and integrity despite “difficulty and complex circumstances.” Paudel stated: “By conducting the House of Representatives elections on March 5 in a free, fair and fearless environment, the commission has successfully fulfilled its constitutional mandate.” The EC report lists 272 members elected under both first-past-the-post and proportional representation systems. 
(“Election Commission submits poll report to President Paudel,” The Kathmandu Post, 19 March 2026)

Nepal 
Editorial: “No excuses now,” The Kathmandu Post, 19 March 2026
The new House of Representatives will formally take full shape on Thursday, with the Election Commission set to provide certificates to 110 lawmakers. Next week, all 275 members will take the oath of office as they begin their five-year term as parliamentarians. It will also mark the start of their test as lawmakers. Two parliaments elected after the promulgation of the constitution in 2015 were underperformers. The first federal parliament, elected in 2017, gave a thumping majority to the alliance of CPN-UML and CPN (Maoist Centre), which later merged into the Nepal Communist Party. The NCP had close to two-thirds of the parliamentary majority. However, the tussle among its top leaders greatly undermined the party’s electoral mandate.
https://kathmandupost.com/editorial/2026/03/19/no-excuses-now

Nepal 
Opinion: Deepak Thapa, “New wave, old ways,” The Kathmandu Post, 19 March 2026
Jonasi was met with incredulity by one of his hosts, who, like many of us, said he had assumed the words signified something far more uplifting. That disappointment was reflected across social media. As it turned out, Jonasi had merely a passing acquaintance with the Zulu language, and what he had declaimed with so much authority and in a southern African accent to boot was a literal translation. Since the Zulu retain their traditional monarchy and thus have a language to describe royalty and their doings, the words have a majestic provenance. They can be translated in various ways, including “Look, father, here is his majesty/I say, it’s a king.”
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/19/new-wave-old-ways

Bhutan: Over 7,300 Bhutanese register with the embassy in Kuwait as GCC conflict escalates
On 18 March, Kuensel reported that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MoFAET) has intensified its monitoring and contingency planning amid escalating tensions in parts of the Middle East, with particular focus on the safety and accountability of Bhutanese nationals working across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. As of 17 March, 2026, a total of 7,317 Bhutanese in the GCC have registered with the Royal Bhutanese Embassy (RBE) in Kuwait. According to the latest official figures, approximately 7,861 Bhutanese nationals are residing across GCC countries. This includes 5,531 in Kuwait, 997 in the United Arab Emirates, 1,171 in Qatar, 15 in Oman, and 147 in Bahrain. Of these, 6,790 had previously been registered with the embassy. Foreign Minister D. N. Dhungyel said an emergency meeting was convened immediately after the conflict began on 28 February, prompting the embassy to initiate a new registration process.
(“Over 7,300 Bhutanese register with Embassy in Kuwait as GCC conflict escalates,” Kuensel, 18 March 2026)

Bhutan: INTOSAI meets to discuss gaps in environmental and climate audits
On 18 March, Kuensel reported that the 21st Steering Committee Meeting of the INTOSAI Working Group on Environmental
Auditing is currently underway in Thimphu, bringing together international audit institutions to address pressing environmental challenges. The meeting focuses on emerging environmental issues, including climate change, sustainable resource management, and the use of innovative audit methodologies and tools. An official from the Royal Audit Authority said that such programmes provide valuable opportunities for Bhutanese auditors, particularly performance auditors, to learn international best practices in environmental auditing. "At the same time, we are also able to share our own experiences and good practices in performance auditing with other Supreme Audit Institutions," the official said.
(“INTOSAI meets to discuss gaps in environmental and climate audits,” Kuensel, 18 March 2026)

Bangladesh: Last-minute Eid rush sweeps Dhaka markets amid rising prices
On 19 March, The Daily Star reported that Dhaka is experiencing a surge in last-minute shopping as Eid-ul-Fitr approaches. While many residents have already left the city to celebrate with family, those remaining are flocking to markets and malls to complete their purchases. Shopping areas across the capital, including New Market and Bashundhara City, are crowded with families and young shoppers buying clothes, accessories, and cosmetics to prepare for the festival. Despite the festive atmosphere, many shoppers expressed concern over rising prices compared to last year. Sellers reported strong sales of items such as jewellery, shoes, and traditional outfits, with demand expected to increase further after iftar. Overall, businesses are seeing steady activity, driven largely by Eid celebrations in Dhaka and last-minute shopping.
(“Rush before Eid: Dhaka markets buzz with last-minute buyers,” The Daily Star, 19 March 2026)

Bangladesh 
Editorial: “Partisan selection of VCs is concerning,” The Daily Star, 18 March 2026
The government’s appointment of vice-chancellors to several major public universities has raised fresh concerns over politically influenced selections. Many appointees are reported to have ties to the ruling party, despite repeated calls for a transparent, merit-based system. The editorial notes that proper procedures, such as senate elections and search committees, are often bypassed, weakening accountability. It underscores the need for neutral, independent leadership in universities and urges the government to prioritise merit, transparency, and academic freedom in governance.
https://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/editorial/news/partisan-selection-vcs-concerning-4131871

Myanmar 
Opinion: Athena Awn Naw, “Myanmar’s Broken Brotherhood: Strategic Gains for China,” Irrawaddy, 19 March 2026
Captured during the anti-regime Operation 1027 in early 2024, the strategic town of Kutkai in northern Shan State was jointly administered by the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) until last week. Today, however, that alliance has fractured. The loss of Kutkai represents a major setback for the TNLA. The town lies along the China-Myanmar border trade corridor and holds strategic importance for cross-border commerce and the development of the China–Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC). What the clash in Kutkai clearly reveals, however, is the fragility of the Brotherhood Alliance. It also raises a deeper question: who ultimately benefits from the changing power balance along the China–Myanmar border?
https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/myanmars-broken-brotherhood-strategic-gains-for-china.html

Iran: Gas prices soar as war sustains 
On 19 March, Al Jazeera reported that oil and gas prices continued to climb, with supplies from the Middle East remaining under severe strain. Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait have mentioned attacks on energy sites, while Israel also succeeded in striking Iran’s South Pars gas field. US President Donald Trump stated that the South Pars attacks were out of Israel’s anger and would not be repeated. The UAE has borne the brunt of airstrikes, and its air defence systems continue to be relied on for regional security and defence. The IRGC stated that 178 US-Israeli officials have been arrested since the start of the conflict, which adds to the pressure on the governments of the respective nations. Additionally, several foreign nationals have been arrested on security grounds. 
(“Oil and gas prices soar amid attacks on Gulf energy sites,” Al Jazeera, 19 March 2026)

Pakistan: US intelligence labels Islamabad as a potential nuclear threat
On 19 March, Al Jazeera reported that Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence in the United States, has stated that Pakistan is now one of the few nations that are researching and developing nuclear weapons with a range that puts the USA at threat. The warning was part of the 2026 Annual Threat Assessment, which further explained that long-range ballistic missiles, when combined with ICBMs, pose a significant security threat because they are capable of striking the “homeland”. China, North Korea, and Russia were listed alongside Pakistan on the same list. Further, the report cited South Asia as a site of growing global instability and noted that the Indo-Pakistan issue could convert into a nuclear conflict.
(“Spy chief Gabbard warns Pakistan, others’ missile capabilities may threaten US”, Dawn, 19 March 2026)

Pakistan: Afghanistan conflict paused on the occasion of Eid-ul-fitr 
On 19 March, Dawn reported that, according to Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Islamabad will be putting a “temporary pause” on Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, which it has been engaged in over the past month. The decision is said to have been taken at the request of “brotherly Islamic nations”. The nations of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey are said to have convinced the nation to halt its actions against Kabul. This marks a significant milestone in the Operation that was sparked by cross-border firing at the Durand Line on February 26. The cessation of military action will last until midnight on March 23. Meanwhile, Kabul also followed suit, announcing a similar pause in its military operations.
(“Pakistan halts Afghanistan operation for Eid, Kabul follows suit”, Dawn, 19 March 2026)

Pakistan: Gilgit-Baltistan incident to be probed by appointed committee 
On 19 March, Dawn reported that following the recent clashes between security forces and protestors in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, a committee has been formed by the Ministry of Interior to investigate the matter. The matter was a result of the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei and is said to have led to violent protests and clashes that consequently killed 20 civilians and 2 security personnel. Security offices, schools, and an IT park were among the many installations damaged by the issue. A curfew had then been issued in the region for several days. The committee will be headed by a special secretary of the federal Ministry of Interior and will soon put out its comprehensive inquiry into the matter. The committee will investigate any lapses that may have occurred and address them accordingly. 
(“Body formed to probe Gilgit-Baltistan protest”, Dawn, 19 March 2026)

20 MARCH 2026, FRIDAY
Nepal: Gulf tensions delay repatriations, oil shocks expose LPG supply vulnerability
On 20 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that ongoing tensions in the Gulf region have disrupted flight operations and delayed the repatriation of 22 Nepali migrant workers: eight from the United Arab Emirates and seven each from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Rising cargo costs and legal barriers worsen delays, leaving grieving families in Nepal facing prolonged uncertainty, with the usual two-week wait now extended to nearly a month.
The Kathmandu Post has also reported on Nepal’s LPG supply, which is highly vulnerable to geopolitical shocks as it relies entirely on imports from India, which is itself a net oil importer. A gas cylinder costs around 1,910 NPR, slightly higher than electricity at 1,800 NPR for the same energy. This has encouraged a shift to electric cooking, with imports of induction stoves rising from 1,11,600 to 1,32,000 units. However, the transition remains slow due to high upfront costs of 5,000 to 6,000 NPR and steep electricity tariffs of 15 NPR per unit.
(“Rising tensions in West Asia leave bodies of Nepali migrant workers stranded," The Kathmandu Post, 20 March 2026; ”Global oil shock tests Nepal, but electric cooking cushions blow," The Kathmandu Post, 20 March 2026)

Bhutan: Melting glaciers cause national concern
On 19 March, the Kuensel reported that the Himalayan glacier melt has doubled since 2000, making Bhutan increasingly vulnerable to climate change. Studies show that 524 glaciers in the Bhutanese Himalaya have disappeared since the mid-1970s. The rate of glacier loss has accelerated sharply, rising from around 0.38 per cent annually between 1976 and 1998 to nearly 0.95 per cent from 1998 to 2024. More than a quarter of glacier ice has already been lost over the past five decades. Smaller glaciers are retreating the fastest, highlighting the intensifying warming in the Himalayan region and its disproportionate impact on fragile mountain ecosystems. Without urgent and coordinated action, the impacts of glacier melt will become severe and irreversible for water security, disaster risk, and sustainable development.
(“Himalayan glacier loss doubles since 2000, leaving Bhutan increasingly vulnerable," Kuensel, 19 March 2026)

Bangladesh: Dhaka falls quiet as residents leave for Eid celebrations
On 20 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Dhaka has grown unusually quiet ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, as hundreds of thousands of residents leave the city to celebrate with their families. Major roads and neighbourhood lanes have seen a sharp decline in traffic and public transport, with significantly fewer rickshaws and auto-rickshaws in operation. Residential areas across the capital also appear sparsely populated, reflecting the scale of the holiday exodus. Authorities have increased patrols across the city to maintain security during the festive period.
(“Dhaka empties ahead of Eid as silence falls from streets to neighbourhoods,” Dhaka Tribune, 20 March 2026)

Bangladesh
Opinion:  Mazher Mir, “Bangladesh’s trade future in an age of fragmentation,” Dhaka Tribune, 19 March 2026
Bangladesh is entering “a far more complicated global economy” where deglobalization is “no longer a theoretical debate” but a reality shaped by geopolitics and shifting alliances. Trade is moving away from pure efficiency toward “resilience and alignment,” with “friend-shoring” and political trust influencing supply chains. Even a perception of being “marginally less predictable” could lead to a gradual shift of orders to competing countries. The changing landscape also heightens the importance of regional cooperation, as strained ties can increase costs and limit integration. Sustaining growth will depend on “systemic efficiency” across energy, logistics, and trade finance, as inefficiencies risk being “exposed and penalised” in a more fragmented global economy.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/405804/bangladesh%E2%80%99s-trade-future-in-an-age-of

Myanmar: Junta claims surrender of over 500 rebel fighters
On 20 March, Irrawaddy reported that more than 500 Myanmar opposition fighters allegedly surrendered to the military junta in Mandalay, according to official claims. The event, attended by journalists, featured hundreds of uniformed individuals laying down their weapons during a ceremony on the historic Royal Palace grounds. Myanmar has remained engulfed in civil war since the 2021 coup that ousted the elected government, with numerous resistance groups, including the People’s Defence Forces and ethnic armed organisations, fighting the military regime. However, a spokesperson for the Mandalay People’s Defence Force dismissed the mass surrender as propaganda, stating that such large-scale defections are highly unlikely. He noted inconsistencies in uniforms and suggested some participants may not be genuine members of their forces. Some individuals at the ceremony claimed disillusionment with resistance leadership and harsh conditions in the field as reasons for surrender. Meanwhile, analysts point to recent China brokered ceasefires with key ethnic groups as a strategic shift that may be weakening pro-democracy fighters in central Myanmar.
(“Myanmar Junta Touts Surrender of Over 500 Rebel Fighters ,” Irrawaddy, 20 March 2026)

Myanmar: Bangkok steps up engagement with junta; discusses scam networks
On 19 March, Irrawaddy reported that Thailand’s armed forces chief met Myanmar junta leader Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyitaw for high-level discussions on border stability, illegal trade, and cooperation against online scam networks. The meeting came as the United States intensified scrutiny of scam compounds operating along the Thai-Myanmar border, with FBI officials vowing stronger action. Both sides also exchanged views on political developments and future military coordination, amid increased Thai diplomatic engagement with the junta and efforts to reopen key border trade routes disrupted by ongoing conflict.
(“Thai Army Chief Meets Myanmar Junta Leaders Amid Intense US Focus on Scam Centres,” Irrawaddy, 19 March 2026)

Sri Lanka: President claims to have refused Washington’s request to land fighter jets
On 20 March, according to a  Daily Mirror report, President Anura Kumar Dissanayake stated Sri Lanka had refused a request by the United States to land two fighter jets at the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport. The government also declined a separate request by Iran for naval access, emphasising a policy of neutrality and non-alignment amidst escalating Middle East tensions. This decision reflects Sri Lanka’s efforts to avoid any entanglement in external conflicts and to maintain a non-aligned stance, highlighting the sensitivity of geopolitics and its strategic position in the Indian Ocean Region.  
(“Sri Lanka refused US request to land two fighter jets in Mattala: President”, Daily Mirror, 20 March 2026)

Sri Lanka: Minister signals readiness to receive refugees from India
On 20 March, the Daily Mirror reported that Cabinet Minister Bimal Rathnayake stated that Sri Lanka is prepared to welcome and support refugees who are currently residing in Tamil Nadu who fled during the civil war. The statement comes amidst renewed discussions between India and Sri Lanka regarding the status of long-term refugees. Authorities also emphasised voluntary return and reintegration while acknowledging that some may also choose Indian citizenship voluntarily. This development highlights the ongoing political and humanitarian dimensions of post-war reconciliation since 2009, and also cross-border refugee management between the two nations.
(“Sri Lanka ready to welcome and support refugees from India: Minister Bimal Rathnayake,” Daily Mirror, 20 March 2026)

Sri Lanka
Opinion: “Energy security: Time to move from rhetoric to action” Daily Mirror, 20 March
“Energy security is a topic that has been discussed for years, if not decades. Still, rhetoric has not been translated into action here, and Sri Lanka remains highly vulnerable to external shocks. For Sri Lanka, the lack of refinery and storage facilities has been a longstanding concern. This is not the time for mere talk, but for decisive action.”
https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Energy-security-Time-to-move-from-rhetoric-to-action/172-335831

Pakistan: US flags missiles from Islamabad as a future threat to homeland
On 18 March, the United States Intelligence Community warned that Pakistan’s advancing missile programme could eventually threaten the United States homeland, according to the 2026 Annual Threat Assessment presented by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. She told lawmakers that Pakistan is developing increasingly sophisticated ballistic missile systems, potentially including intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of striking distant targets. The report stated that Islamabad’s technological progress could extend its reach beyond South Asia if current trends continue. It grouped Pakistan with countries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran in expanding missile capabilities with nuclear and conventional payload potential. In response, Pakistan categorically rejected the US claims, with Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi stating that Pakistan’s missile capabilities are exclusively defensive and aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty. (“2026 Annual Threat Assessment of the US Intelligence Community,” Office of the Director of National Intelligence, 18 March 2026; “Gabbard says Pakistan missiles a future threat to US, but experts push back,” Al Jazeera, 19 March 2026; “FO rejects US intelligence chief’s claims about Pakistan missile threat,” Dawn, 19 March 2026)

Pakistan: ADB unveils five-year USD 10 billion financing plan for Pakistan
On 18 March, Dawn reported that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) plans to extend about USD 10 billion in financing to Pakistan over five years under its Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) 2026-30, aimed at supporting “sustainable and inclusive growth” through private sector-led development. The strategy focuses on three pillars: enabling private sector growth, advancing inclusion and empowerment, and strengthening resilience and sustainability, supported by reforms in governance, digital transformation, and regional cooperation. ADB’s Pakistan Country Director, Emma Fan, said the CPS seeks to “promote robust and lasting growth… especially [for] the poor and vulnerable,” while also stimulating investment and job creation. The report noted improved macroeconomic stability, with GDP growth at 3.1 per cent and inflation at 4.5 per cent, but warned that structural challenges—such as a narrow export base, weak infrastructure, governance gaps, and climate vulnerability—must be addressed through sustained reforms to unlock the country's long-term economic potential.
("ADB to provide $10bn in financing to Pakistan under new 5-year strategy," Dawn, 18 March 2026)

Pakistan: FDI falls drastically in FY26
On 20 March, Dawn reported that Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) had fallen sharply during FY26. The FDI during July-February fell by 33.3 per cent, or USD 598 million, to USD 1.195 billion. The government also remitted USD 1.726 billion in profits on foreign investments during July-February FY26, an increase of USD 164 million, or 10.5 per cent. The highest profit outflow was for the UK, which rose to USD 444 million in eight months of FY26, down from USD 496 million in the same period last year. China recorded the second-highest profit outflow, reaching USD 433 million. Other significant profit recipients were the US with USD 160 million, the Netherlands with USD 155 million, and the UAE with USD 120 million. The largest outflow is from the power sector, amounting to USD 422 million. (“Outflow of profits rises, FDI plunges,” Dawn, 20 March 2026)

Pakistan and Afghanistan: Islamabad and Kabul announce a temporary pause in fighting for Eid
On 19 March, The Express Tribune and Dawn reported that Pakistan and Afghanistan announced a temporary pause in hostilities ahead of Eid al-Fitr, marking a rare de-escalation after days of heightened cross-border tensions. The ceasefire, effective from March 18/19 to March 23/24, was confirmed by both Islamabad and Kabul, with each side warning that violations could trigger renewed military action. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the move was a goodwill gesture, influenced by requests from countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye. Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid also confirmed a halt to operations, emphasising sovereignty while welcoming mediation efforts. The synchronised announcements suggested behind-the-scenes diplomacy aimed at preventing further escalation.
(“Pakistan, Afghanistan agree on Eid truce, pause military ops,” The Express Tribune, 19 March 2026; “Body of Afghan national handed over to Kabul officials,” Dawn, 20 March 2026)

Iran: Tehran warns UK against American use of its military bases
On 20 March, the BBC reported that Iran has shown strong disagreement to any use of UK military bases by American forces and has responded saying that such an action would be considered as ‘participation in aggression.’  Meanwhile, Downing Street has claimed that it would not like to get “drawn into wider war.” This development follows a day of repeated strikes on several locations like the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain, all of which have reported widespread missile and drone attacks. Learning of global pressures, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that they would “hold off” attacks on gas fields. Meanwhile, the war continues to affect the Eid celebrations across the Middle East.
(“Iran says it has warned UK that allowing US to use British bases is 'participation in aggression’, “ BBC, 20 March 2026)

Iran: Swiss weapon exports to the US paused
On 20 March 2026, Al Jazeera reported that Switzerland would halt its weapons exports to the US, citing its neutrality in the current Middle Eastern war. To engage the order, licences will no longer be issued if weapons are sold to the US. The restriction will be temporary, based on the duration of the conflict. Swiss government sources stated that such exports cannot be authorised, which is why two US flyover requests were also not granted the previous week to ensure that war-related flights were limited. A group of experts will analyse the situation and make future decisions.
(“Switzerland halts weapons exports to US due to Iran war, citing neutrality,” Reuters, 20 March 2026)

23 MARCH 2026, MONDAY
Nepal: Nepali Rupee hits record low amidst global economic turmoil
On 23 March, the Kathmandu Post reported that the Nepali rupee fell to a record low of NPR 150.24 per USD, reflecting a sharp depreciation driven by global economic volatility. The decline is largely attributed to the weakening of the Indian rupee, to which Nepal’s currency is pegged, and to a strengthening US dollar amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. This development raises concerns about rising import costs, inflationary pressures, and potential strain on remittances, underscoring Nepal’s structural vulnerability to external economic shocks.
(“Rupee hits record low at Rs150.24 per dollar amid global turmoil” Kathmandu Post, 23 March 2026)
https://kathmandupost.com/money/2026/03/23/rupee-hits-record-low-at-rs150-24-per-dollar-amid-global-turmoil?

Opinion
Rishi Raj Sharma, “RSP’s economic blueprint,” The Kathmandu Post, 23 March 2026
“Fixing an underspent budget would substantially boost the economy in the short run. Administrative capacity should be the key driver of budget allocation. Reversing the misallocation of public funds and dismantling syndicates and cartels. The key economic priority for the RSP government should be to spend government money on broadly reasonable public uses. Nepal’s economy is not constrained by a lack of ideas but by a lack of implementation.”
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/23/rsp-s-economic-blueprint-1774225304?

Bangladesh: Petrol pumps face shutdown threat amid fuel shortage and security concerns
On 23 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that the Bangladesh Petrol Pump Owners Association has warned of a potential nationwide shutdown of petrol pumps due to acute fuel shortages and worsening security conditions. In a press release, the association described the situation as “very dire,” stating that daily fuel supplies are insufficient to meet rising demand. Long queues have formed at pumps, with motorcyclists waiting for hours, while workers are under intense physical and mental strain from extended duty hours. The group also raised serious concerns over security lapses, alleging that authorities have failed to ensure protection at fuel stations. Reports of disorder, fuel hoarding, and black-market resale have increased, with some individuals reportedly purchasing fuel multiple times a day and selling it at inflated prices. Additionally, the association cited incidents of forced fuel collection, including mobs arriving at night to seize fuel and even cases of looting during transport. It warned that without immediate intervention to address both supply shortages and security risks, petrol pump owners may be compelled to halt operations nationwide.
(“Petrol pumps may shut down nationwide over fuel shortage, security risks, owners warn,” Dhaka Tribune, 23 March 2026)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/dhaka/406005/petrol-pumps-may-shut-down-nationwide-over-fuel

Bangladesh: Dhaka ranks second globally for the worst air quality
On 23 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Dhaka ranked second among cities worldwide for worst air quality, recording an AQI of 174 at 11:12am on Monday, placing it in the “unhealthy” category. China’s Beijing topped the list with an AQI of 178, followed by Incheon in third place at 163 and Wuhan in fourth at 154. According to AQI standards, air quality between 150 and 200 is considered “unhealthy,” posing health risks to the general population, while higher levels indicate increasingly severe conditions. The AQI measures pollution based on five key pollutants, including particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, and ozone. Dhaka has long struggled with severe air pollution, particularly during winter months, though conditions typically improve during the monsoon season. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution causes around seven million deaths globally each year, contributing to diseases such as stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory infections.
(“Dhaka air ranks second in AQI index Monday,” Dhaka Tribune, 23 March 2026)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/bangladesh-environment/406008/dhaka-air-ranks-second-in-aqi-index-monday

Myanmar: Junta Intensifies airstrikes despite fuel shortages
On 23 March, Irrawaddy reported that Myanmar’s military regime has continued carrying out deadly airstrikes on civilian targets despite severe fuel shortages, including aviation fuel, driven in part by the ongoing Middle East conflict. In Katha, a regime airstrike on Friday hit a monastery sheltering internally displaced persons (IDPs), killing dozens, including monks. The attack came amid renewed clashes between the Kachin Independence Army and allied resistance forces, who have seized most of the town. Local sources said around 100 displaced civilians had been sheltering at the monastery, and many survivors remain trapped.
(“Fuel Shortages Fail to Stop Deadly Junta Airstrikes on Civilians,” Irrawaddy, 23 March 2026)
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/fuel-shortages-fail-to-stop-deadly-junta-airstrikes-on-civilians.html

Myanmar: Junta tightens fuel rationing amid deepening crisis
On 23 March, Irrawaddy reported that Myanmar’s military regime has limited motorists to two refuelling trips per week as the fuel crisis deepens. The move replaces the earlier odd-even system and comes alongside an order for government staff to work from home every Wednesday. In Yangon, residents reported long queues, pumps running dry within hours, and rising frustration over shortages and a flawed digital rationing system. Fuel prices have surged sharply nationwide, with some of the highest rates recorded in Mon State. The crisis is worsened by Myanmar’s heavy reliance on fuel imports and global supply disruptions linked to the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran. Despite official claims that reserves will last weeks, shortages, price hikes, and transport disruptions continue to affect daily life.
(“Myanmar Junta Imposes Twice-Weekly Refill Limit as Fuel Pumps Run Dry,” Irrawaddy, 23 March 2026)
https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-imposes-twice-weekly-refill-limit-as-fuel-pumps-run-dry.html

Sri Lanka: Iran pledges essential supplies
On 23 March, the Daily Mirror reported that Iran has expressed its readiness to provide oil and other essential supplies to Sri Lanka if shortages arise amidst the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iranian Ambassador Alireza Delkhosh stated that Tehran remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka as a “friendly nation” despite regional instability. He also noted that the Strait of Hormuz remains accessible to friendly countries. This development highlights Colombo’s efforts to secure an alternative energy source and also reflects the deepening geopolitical and economic implications of the Middle East conflict for the island nation’s energy security.
(“Iran pledges oil, essential supplies to Sri Lanka amid regional tensions” Daily Mirror, 23 March 2026)
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Iran-pledges-oil-essential-supplies-to-Sri-Lanka-amid-regional-tensions/108-336096

Sri Lanka: Bread and bakery prices rise amidst surge in fuel costs
On 23 March, the Daily News reported that the price of a standard loaf of bread increased by LKR 10, with similar price hikes across the country for other bakery products. This revision is followed by rising production and distribution costs driven by recent fuel price increases. The price of a 450g loaf now stands at approximately LKR 130, reflecting broader supply chain cost pressures. This development highlights the direct impact of fuel price instability on essential food items and signals increasing cost-of-living pressures for individuals and households.
(“BREAD PRICE INCREASED BY RS. 10; OTHER BAKERY PRODUCTS ALSO RISE” Daily News, 23 March, 2026)
https://dailynews.lk/2026/03/23/local/971104/ bread-price-increased-by= rs-10-other-bakery= products-also-rise/

Opinion:
“Sri Lanka must finally learn to stand on its own feet,” Daily Mirror, 23 March 2026
“Sri Lanka cannot control what happens in the Middle East. The world is becoming more unpredictable. The real strength of a nation lies in its ability to stand on its own feet. It means building a strong domestic foundation. Energy security must be treated as a national priority. Food security is equally critical in times of global uncertainty.”
https://www.dailymirror.lk/news-features/Middle-East-war-Sri-Lanka-needs-strategic-autonomy-energy= food-security/131-336049

Pakistan
Opinion:
Maleeha Lodhi, “Lessons from the war,” Dawn, 23 March 2026
The first lesson is one the US should have learnt from its previous military debacles. That is about the power of nationalism. It is arguably the most important weapon in war for the country and people facing aggression, invasion and unprovoked assaults by a more powerful country. The second lesson of the ongoing conflict is that a war fought without a plan, strategy or assessment of likely consequences risks becoming a fool’s errand. The US went to war without clear objectives — which it kept changing — mistaken assumptions, and serious miscalculations about how Iran would react. The third lesson concerns how to treat allies if their help is sought in a crisis. Confronted with Iran’s chokehold over the Strait of Hormuz, which Trump figured the US could not break on its own, he called on allies to send ships to secure it. The same allies he had berated and bullied in the past.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1984517/lessons-from-the-war

Editorial: “ADB Strategy,” Dawn, 23 March 2026
The ADB’s new five-year country partnership strategy comes at a time when Pakistan’s economy, though showing signs of fragile stabilisation, remains vulnerable to internal and external shocks. The strategy is well aligned with Pakistan’s long-standing economic challenges as the programme sets out “a roadmap to support the country’s transition to sustainable and inclusive growth.” The focus on integrated solutions by combining policy reforms with financing and technical support shows that Pakistan’s challenges are institutional and cannot be addressed through capital inflows alone.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1984509/adb-strategy

24 MARCH 2026, TUESDAY
Nepal: Lumbini, the holy site, is experiencing "hit-and-run" tourism
On 24 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, continues to underperform as a tourist destination, with most visitors spending under 30 minutes at the holy site despite Nepal’s average tourist stay being 12 days. A 2016 survey found that 72.6 per cent of visitors stayed only half an hour, highlighting persistent “hit-and-run” tourism. Efforts such as the 2012 Visit Lumbini Year campaign and major investments in hotels and infrastructure have failed to improve outcomes. Even the 2022 inauguration of Gautam Buddha International Airport did not significantly boost foreign tourist arrivals, as most flights carried migrant workers. To address this, the World Bank has approved a USD 85 million Greater Lumbini Area Development Project. The plan aims to develop a Buddhist circuit linking sites such as Tilaurakot and Ramgram, reaching over 312,000 beneficiaries and improving tourism infrastructure.
https://kathmandupost.com/money/2026/03/24/nepal-aims-to-change-lumbini-s-image-as-hit-and-run-destination-with-85m-loan

Opinion:
Chandrakishore, "The eleven battles of Balendra," The Kathmandu Post, 24 March 2026
"Shah’s real test will not be in his decisions, but in his perspective. Will he treat power as an end or as a means? Will he weaken institutions in the charm of popularity, or strengthen institutions to make his popularity enduring? These questions will determine the direction of his leadership. The people of Nepal have not merely made him prime minister. They have allowed him to make democracy deeper, broader and more humane. This opportunity is also a responsibility, and therein lies his greatest battle."
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/23/the-eleven-battles-of-balendra

Opinion:
"Starting anew on Lipulekh," The Kathmandu Post, 24 March 2026
Both our big neighbours are doing the country precariously wedged between them, a great injustice. India cannot so easily dismiss Nepal’s claim on the region, given the wealth of evidence at the latter’s disposal to support its position. India says it remains open to “constructive interaction” with Nepal on boundary issues, yet by completely rejecting Nepal’s claim on Lipulekh, it seems to be deliberately ditching such a constructive path of dispute resolution. On the other hand, China seems intent on benefiting from the status quo while shunning any responsibility for the dispute’s resolution.
https://kathmandupost.com/editorial/2026/03/23/starting-anew-on-lipulekh-1774225426

Opinion:  
Prasanta Kumar BK, "Travails of balanced foreign policy," The Kathmandu Post, 24 March 2026
As the party promised to change Nepal’s status from a buffer state to a vibrant bridge, it needs to devise policies, plans and programmes in a way that will benefit the people. What kind of comparative advantage do we have in which productivity must be considered while executing foreign policy? The major question is how we can gain the confidence of both neighbours—India and China—for trilateral economic connectivity, given their unfinished projects and long border disputes in the region.
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/23/travails-of-balanced-foreign-policy

Bangladesh: IMF pushes reform agenda in Dhaka
On 24 March, The Daily Star reported that an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation, which was led by Krishna Srinivasan, met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in Dhaka today as discussions resumed on the stalled USD 5.5 billion loan programme. The Finance Minister Amir Hosru was also present. The discussion was around Bangladesh’s reform agenda and the challenges facing the economy, particularly amid ongoing global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. Srinivasan stated: “Our engagement this morning with the minister was centred on policies.” He also noted that, like many other countries, the country is facing uncertainty due to global developments, but reaffirmed the IMF’s continued support in addressing economic challenges. Bangladesh may receive a USD 1.3 billion tranche from the IMF by June if the government advances key reforms, including moving towards a more market-based exchange rate, strengthening revenue mobilisation, reducing subsidies, and addressing vulnerabilities in the banking sector.
https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/imf-asia-and-pacific-director-calls-pm-4134291
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/406064/finance-minister-imf-program-on-track-next

Bangladesh: Dhaka to manufacture China's BYD electric vehicles
On 24 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that a subsidiary of Runner Group, Runner Automobiles PLC, will supply and manufacture for BYD, China’s top electric car. The company has signed a major supply and manufacturing agreement with BYD Auto Industry Company. It is expected that this will create opportunities for technology transfer and increase the production of electric cars at the local level.
(“Bangladesh to manufacture China's BYD electric vehicles,” Dhaka Tribune, 24 March 2026)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/business/406060/bangladesh-to-manufacture-china-s-byd-electric

Myanmar
Opinion: Bertil Lintner, “Middle East wars only increase Myanmar’s strategic value for China,” Irrawady, 24 March 2026
It began in the mid-1980s with a plan to open a trade route through Myanmar for China’s landlocked provinces of Yunnan, Sichuan and Guizhou, allowing them to trade with the outside world without relying on a long, underdeveloped network of roads and railroads to China’s ports. Eventually named the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC), the projects may never have been about trade alone: it was also always an integral part of Beijing’s drive to expand its political and military influence on the Bay of Bengal. And now, as the wars in the Middle East have increased instability in that maritime region, long-term strategic goals for Myanmar rank even higher than before on the agenda of China’s security planners. According to official statistics, roughly 80 per cent of China’s imported crude oil transits the Indian Ocean, with Iran being a main supplier. And while China has increased its pipeline imports of natural gas from Russia and Central Asia, between 30 and 60 per cent still rely on seaborne routes through the Indian Ocean.
https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/guest-column/middle-east-wars-only-increase-myanmars-strategic-value-for-china.html

Sri Lanka: Government signals willingness to address post-war grievances
On 24 March, The Island reported that Minister Bimal Rathnayake stated that the Sri Lankan government is willing to address past grievances linked to the civil war, particularly in the context of refugees in Tamil Nadu. The government emphasised facilitating voluntary return and also reintegration while acknowledging the need to confront issues rooted in history. The statement signals a broader effort to advance post-war reconciliation and to rebuild trust among affected communities, highlighting the political and humanitarian dimensions of addressing these legacy issues in Sri Lanka.
http://island.lk/government-is-willing-to-address-the-past/

Editorial:
“An inevitable step” Daily News, 24 March 2026
“Sri Lanka, like many other countries, depends heavily on fuel imports. The recent increase in global oil prices has created unavoidable pressures. Fuel price revisions are never popular among the public. However, the Government has little room to manoeuvre under the present circumstances. Subsidising fuel at current levels would place an unsustainable burden on the economy. Therefore, the fuel price increase was an inevitable step.”  https://dailynews.lk/2026/03/24/editorial/971412/an-inevitable-step/

Maldives: Significant decline in tourist arrivals raises economic concerns
On 24 March, The Sun reported that tourist arrivals to the Maldives had declined significantly due to disruptions to Middle Eastern transit routes amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Daily arrivals have dropped from around 7,000 to 4,000-5,000, accompanied by a significant surge in booking cancellations, which are directly impacting tourism revenues. The disruption of key transit hubs such as Dubai and Qatar has led to limited connectivity from European markets. This development highlights the Maldives’ structural dependence on tourism and external travel networks, exposing the economy to global shocks and also necessitating diversification strategies as soon as feasible.
https://see.mv/104036

Maldives: Rocketing fuel import costs highlight energy vulnerability
On 24 March, The Sun reported that the Maldivian government spent approximately MVR 10 billion on fuel imports in the past year alone, highlighting the country’s heavy dependence on external energy sources. Most fuel imports originate in the Middle East, making the Maldives highly exposed to disruptions and geopolitical factors, such as tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. This development highlights the structural economic vulnerability, as rising global oil prices and supply disruptions could significantly impact fiscal stability, energy security, and broader economic resilience.
https://see.mv/104035

Pakistan: Islamabad intensifies regional diplomacy amid Middle East crisis
On 23 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan stepped up engagement with Iran, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif holding a telephone call with President Masoud Pezeshkian, stressing the urgent need for collective de-escalation and a return to dialogue amid ongoing hostilities. The premier conveyed serious concern over the escalating conflict and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Iranian people, while assuring Tehran of Islamabad’s continued role in facilitating regional peace. He also highlighted the importance of unity within the Muslim world and shared Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic outreach. Both leaders exchanged Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz greetings, with Tehran reciprocating the sentiments amid high regional tensions.
("In phone call with Pezeshkian, PM stresses ‘urgent need’ for collective efforts for de-escalation in Mideast," Dawn, 23 March 2026; "FM Dar urges collective efforts to de-escalate Mideast crisis in talks with Iran, Turkish, Iraqi counterparts," The Express Tribune, 23 March 2026; "Pakistan in the limelight as US, Iran ‘open backchannel’," Dawn, 24 March 2026)

Pakistan: Islamabad’s trade deficit with West Asia narrows amid regional turmoil
On 24 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan's trade deficit with West Asia declined to USD 9.047 billion in July-February FY26, from USD 9.299 billion a year ago, according to the State Bank of Pakistan. The data shows that the West Asia conflict region has begun to weigh on commercial activity and bilateral engagement. The Planning Commission of Pakistan has already warned the government of the potential economic repercussions of the Gulf crisis. The Planning Commission emphasised that the crisis would lead to higher energy costs due to rising international oil prices, pressure on remittance inflows, and possible disruptions to exports and the country's financial stability. (“Trade gap narrows to $9.04bn in July-January,” Dawn, 24 March 2026)

Pakistan: Super League to be limited to two venues due to austerity measures
On 23 March, Dawn reported that as part of the austerity measures in view of the fuel crisis in the country, the Pakistan Cricket Board decided to limit the matches of the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) to Lahore and Karachi. It was initially scheduled to be held across six venues. As part of the provincial government's austerity measures in Balochistan, the closure of all government and private educational institutions has been extended until 31 March. The government has decided to extend the closure in view of the prevailing fuel shortages in the province. Similarly, the Sindh government, as part of austerity measures, put a limit on the number of guests at weddings and ceremonies. (“PSL to go ahead sans spectators, matches limited to Lahore and Karachi under austerity drive,” Dawn, 23 March 2026; “Closure of schools extended till 31st in Balochistan,” Dawn, 23 March 2026)

Pakistan: Islamabad ranked the world’s most polluted country in 2025, according to report
On 24 March, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan was ranked the world’s most polluted country in 2025, with PM2.5 concentrations reaching up to 13 times the World Health Organisation’s recommended limit, according to a report by Swiss air quality firm IQAir. Major cities, including Karachi, Lahore and Hyderabad, recorded unhealthy air quality, with Karachi’s AQI surpassing 100 on multiple occasions. Globally, only 13 countries met the WHO standard of less than 5 micrograms per cubic metre, while 130 out of 143 failed to comply. The report noted that South Asia dominated pollution rankings, with cities in India, Pakistan and China among the worst affected. While some countries saw improvements due to favourable weather patterns, overall global air quality declined, with only 14% of cities meeting safe standards. ("Pakistan ranked most polluted country in 2025, data shows," The Express Tribune, 24 March 2026)

Iran: New security chief appointed to replace Larijani
On 24 March, Al Jazeera reported that Mohammed Bagher Zolghadr has been appointed by the Islamic Republic as its new secretary of the Supreme National Security Council. This appointment follows the killing of Ali Larijani, who had often been labelled as a key decision maker behind Iran’s strategic war plan. The appointment was announced on the IRNA news agency with citations of the president’s office. Sources say that Bagher is an Iranian retired military commander who worked in the IRGC and also served as the Secretary of the Expediency Discernment Council. While the killing of Larijani was a significant blow to Tehran, the implications of this appointment are yet to be seen.
(“Iran appoints new head of Supreme National Security Council,” Al Jazeera, 24 March 2026)
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2026/3/24/iran-war-live-tehran-says-trumps-claims-of-peace-talks-fake

Iran: Trump’s claims of talks regarding Strait of Hormuz denied
On 24 March, Al Jazeera reported that US President Donald Trump’s claim that talks were held with the Islamic Republic’s leaders about the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as well as the postponement of the threatened attack on energy infrastructure in Iran has been denied by Tehran. The Iranian speaker of the parliament also went to the extent of stating that this was “fake news” and a means of manipulating the energy market. Talks between foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and several counterparts across the globe have added to the possible credibility of Trump’s claims, but Iran’s suspicion about the US continues to dominate the public narrative. Sources say, on the other hand, say that leaders in Israel have been contemplating the concessions made by the US in the proposed negotiations.
(“Iran war updates: Tehran denies talks happened after Trump’s claims,” Al Jazeera, 24 March 2026)
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2026/3/23/iran-war-live-tehran-vows-to-completely-close-hormuz-if-power-plants-hit

26 MARCH 2026, THURSDAY

Nepal: Kathmandu Metropolitan City and Paropakar Hospital partner up to improve medical waste management
On 26 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that the Kathmandu Metropolitan City has partnered with Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital to improve medical waste management and will provide 20 million NPR to build a waste treatment plant with an incinerator on hospital premises, handling waste from 32 urban health centres. This addresses a critical issue in Kathmandu Valley, where over 2,100 health facilities often mix hazardous medical waste with household garbage. Many facilities lack proper waste-disposal systems, and some even burn waste openly, releasing toxic chemicals such as dioxins and furans. Inspections have found poor practices, and this mismanagement poses serious health risks, spreading infections such as HIV, Hepatitis, and tuberculosis to sanitation workers and the public. A 2020 study by the found that only 7.7 per cent of facilities followed proper waste treatment methods.("Maternity hospital to manage medical waste of KMC's urban health promotion centres," The Kathmandu Post, 26 March 2026)
https://kathmandupost.com/kathmandu/2026/03/26/maternity-hospital-to-manage-medical-waste-of-kmc-s-urban-health-promotion-centres

Nepal
Editorial: "No more betrayal," The Kathmandu Post, 26 March 2026
"Among those pinning their hopes on the upcoming Balendra Shah government are also thousands of victims from the Maoist insurgency whose relentless struggle for justice continues. The Comprehensive Peace Accord, signed in 2006, stated that the identity of the people who disappeared or were killed during the insurgency would be revealed within 60 days, while the transitional justice mechanism would be constituted within six months. Twenty long years have passed since then, yet the whereabouts of the victims of enforced disappearances and deaths remain unknown. Now, as the Balendra Shah-led government takes the helm on Friday, it should come up with a clear vision and commitment to conclude the process that has become a matter of national and international shame. Unlike its predecessors, the incoming government has no baggage from the insurgency and holds the strength to push through every policy it wants."
https://kathmandupost.com/editorial/2026/03/26/no-more-betrayal

Nepal: Shutdown of USAID changes things for partnership with Washington
On 26 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that Nepal’s partnership with the United States is undergoing a major transition following the 2025 shutdown of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) operations, which exposed structural gaps in linking talent to markets. The country now stands between fragmentation and the emergence of a more adaptive system. Traditionally aid-driven, the relationship is shifting toward a network-based, market-oriented model involving institutions, firms, and diaspora actors. Nepal is set to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in November 2026, with remittances contributing over 25 per cent of GDP and more than 7,71,000 labour approvals issued in 2022–23. Around 40 per cent of the population is aged 16 to 40, driving demands for accountability and domestic opportunities. IT exports have grown from 515 million USD in 2022 to nearly 1 billion USD by 2025, signalling a shift toward digital services. Institutions like AmCham Nepal and the US Embassy are facilitating this evolving economic partnership.
("From 'aid' to 'enterprise': Reimagining the US-Nepal partnership," The Kathmandu Post, 26 March 2026)
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/26/from-aid-to-enterprise-reimagining-the-us-nepal-partnership

Nepal: A new parliamentary term begins
On 26 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that the newly elected members of Nepal’s House of Representatives (HoR) are set to take the oath of office and secrecy today at the newly constructed multipurpose hall in Singha Durbar. The oath will be administered by the eldest HoR member, Arjun Narsingh KC of the Nepali Congress, who was sworn in earlier by President Ram Chandra Paudel. A total of 47 Members of Parliament have chosen to take the oath in languages other than Nepali, with 17 opting for Maithili. The ceremony follows the 05 March HoR elections, which saw the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) emerge as the dominant force with 182 seats. The Nepali Congress secured 38 seats, followed by CPN (UML) with 25 and the Communist Party of Nepal with 17. Smaller parties, including the Sram Sanskriti Party and Rastriya Prajatantra Party, also gained representation, marking the formal beginning of the new parliamentary term.
("Newly elected HoR members to take oath today," The Kathmandu Post, 26 March 2026)
https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/newly-elected-hor-members-to-take-oath-today

Bangladesh: Probe committee formed after Chattola Express fire Incident
On 26 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that a four-member committee has been formed by the Eastern Railway Authority to investigate a fire incident on the Dhaka-bound intercity train Chattola Express in Sitakunda, Chittagong. The committee, headed by the Divisional Transport Officer, has been tasked with identifying the exact cause of the fire and submitting its report promptly. According to Divisional Railway Manager Mostafizur Rahman Bhuiyan, preliminary assumptions suggest a mechanical fault, though a detailed investigation will confirm the cause and guide further action. The incident occurred around 06:45 hours when a fire broke out in the train’s power car near the BMA Gate area of Faujdarhat. The flames quickly spread to a nearby air-conditioned coach, triggering panic among passengers, who safely evacuated the train. Fire service teams responded swiftly, and two units brought the situation under control.(“4-member committee formed to investigate 'Chattola Express' fire incident,” Dhaka Tribune, 26 March 2026)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/nation/406243/4-member-committee-formed-to-investigate-chattola

Bangladesh
Opinion: “Honouring the spirit of independence,” Dhaka Tribune, 26 March 2026
Bangladesh’s Independence Day is both a remembrance of the sacrifices of 1971 and a call to continue pursuing equality, dignity, and justice. The day highlights that the struggle for these ideals remains ongoing. In today’s global climate of geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, Bangladesh faces growing challenges. Its deep ties to global trade, migration, and climate risks make strategic diplomacy, economic resilience, and internal stability essential to safeguarding sovereignty. The emergence of a new government has sparked cautious optimism, with hopes for stronger democratic institutions, restored public trust, and people-centred governance. However, this optimism must be matched by action. Key challenges persist, including women’s rights and safety, inequality, and gaps in education quality. Addressing these issues requires effective implementation and meaningful social change. Concerns over rising mob culture also threaten the rule of law and the core values of independence, making institutional strength and accountability critical. Independence is an ongoing responsibility. By upholding unity, courage, and a commitment to justice, Bangladesh can navigate present challenges and build a future worthy of its past.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/editorial/406195/honouring-the-spirit-of-independence

Myanmar: Airstrike on Ayadaw resistance camp kill five People’s Defence Organisation members
On 26 March, Mizzima reported, a late-night airstrike by Myanmar’s military junta on 22 March killed five members of the People’s Defence Organisation in Ayadaw Township, including three women. The attack targeted a resistance camp operating under the National Unity Government near the Myinmu Township border. According to sources, three jet fighters attacked at 19:30 hours, dropping multiple bombs that caused extensive damage to the camp and nearby areas. All five victims were aged between 20 and 30, and three others were seriously injured and are receiving treatment. Local officials confirmed the strike occurred near an inter-district road close to Min village. Resistance members condemned the attack and said they would continue operations despite the losses. They also warned that the military is increasingly relying on airstrikes against resistance positions and civilian areas, urging heightened vigilance.
(“Myanmar junta airstrike on Ayadaw resistance camp kills five PDO comrades, including three women,” Mizzima, 26 March 2026)
https://eng.mizzima.com/2026/03/26/32553

Myanmar: Forced recruitment intensifies in Meiktila district amid ongoing conscription
On 26 March, Mizzima reported that forced recruitment by Myanmar’s military junta has surged across Meiktila District, with around 120 individuals conscripted between January and March 2026 in Meiktila, Thazi, and Pyawbwe townships. According to local sources and People’s Defence Organizations, the campaign has targeted villages such as Tharyarkone, Kyini, and Kwet Nge, where young men are being taken from homes, workplaces, and transit points. In some cases, even visitors were seized, with only a few reportedly released after payments. Significant numbers of people have been taken from multiple locations, including over 50 from Kyini village and more than 20 each from Tharyarkone and Kwet Nge. Arrests have also occurred in public and private spaces, including a mosque in Thazi Township. Residents report that authorities are also demanding “military service fees” from households. Meanwhile, the junta’s conscription drive, activated under the People’s Military Service Law in February 2024, has now reached its 21st batch. In response, resistance groups are offering alternatives for youth to avoid forced enlistment and join their ranks instead.
(“Forced recruitment surges in Meiktila District as conscription in Myanmar reaches 21st batch,” Mizzima, 26 March 2026)
https://eng.mizzima.com/2026/03/26/32550

Myanmar: Yangon circular railway to launch battery-powered electric trains
On 26 March, Mizzima reported that the Railways will introduce battery-powered electric locomotives on the Yangon circular railway, with operations set to begin on 25 March. The new service will operate with a five-car set, comprising four passenger coaches and one brake van, marking a step toward more sustainable rail transport. The move follows earlier deployment of similar trains on the Naypyidaw-Mandalay route, where battery-electric locomotives have been in use since November 2025. Officials say the transition from diesel to battery power is expected to significantly reduce operating costs. On the Naypyidaw-Mandalay route, savings exceed 1.3 million kyats per round trip, while the Yangon circular line is projected to save about 600,000 kyats daily. The initiative is part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on imported fuel and lower the environmental impact of public transport. A launch ceremony is scheduled at Yangon Central Railway Station to mark the rollout of the new service.
(“Yangon circular railway to debut battery-powered electric trains,” Mizzima, 26 March 2026)
https://eng.mizzima.com/2026/03/26/32544

Sri Lanka: Remittances remain stable amidst Gulf tensions despite decline in tourism
On 25 March, The Island reported that Central Bank Governor Nandalal Weerasinghe stated that workers’ remittances to Sri Lanka have not declined significantly amid ongoing tensions in the Gulf region. However, there has been a significant drop in tourist arrivals, reflecting the direct and immediate impact of geopolitical instability in the Middle East on the tourism sector. This development highlights the resilience of remittance inflows as a central source of foreign exchange, while also depicting the vulnerability of tourism to external shocks and regional instability.
(“No decrease in remittances from workers due to Gulf conflict, but significant drop in tourist arrivals - CB Governor,” The Island, 26 March 2026)
https://island.lk/no-decrease-in-remittances-from-workers-due-to-gulf-conflict-but-significant-drop-in-tourist-arrivals-cb-governor/

Sri Lanka: Opposition leaders raising public security concerns in joint international appeals
On 26 March, The Island reported that opposition leaders, including Sajith Premadasa, Ranil Wickremesinghe, and Namal Rajapaksa, issued a joint appeal to several international organisations regarding the alleged deterioration of public security in Sri Lanka. This unprecedented joint communication highlights growing concerns over law and order, governance, and institutional accountability. This move signals increasing political convergence among prominent opposition figures and seeks to bring global attention to domestic security concerns to potentially place additional pressure on the government regarding its handling of public safety and democratic governance.
(“Deterioration of public security: Sajith, Ranil, Namal in joint appeal to international organisations,” The Island, 26 March 2026)
https://island.lk/deterioration-of-public-security-sajith-ranil-namal-in-joint-appeal-to-international-organisations/

Sri Lanka: Government emphasises strengthening TVET for green and inclusive growth
On 24 March, Daily News reported that Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya emphasised the importance of strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems to equip individuals with practical, future-oriented skills aligned with climate resilience and green economic transformation. This initiative focuses on integrating sustainability into the curriculum and enhancing training infrastructure, while also fostering collaboration with emerging businesses and industries. The development depicts Sri Lanka’s long-term efforts to align education policy with labour market demands while also promoting inclusive growth and sustainable economic resilience.
(“A strong Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system equips individuals with practical, relevant, and future-oriented skills, helping to innovate responsibly towards a greener and sustainable future - PM,” Daily News, 26 March 2026)
https://island.lk/a-strong-technical-and-vocational-education-and-training-tvet-system-equips-individuals-with-practical-relevant-and-future-oriented-skills-helping-to-innovate-responsibly-towards-a-greener-and-sus/

Sri Lanka
Opinion: “Are we ready to bear the environmental cost of war?,” Daily Mirror, 25 March 2026
“The world is facing multiple crises due to the Middle East conflict. Another unseen crisis that the conflict is contributing to is global warming. A war not only kills people and destroys homes. It damages the systems that make life possible. Research conducted by the Conflict and Environment Observatory estimates that militaries account for around 5.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The environmental cost of war is therefore both immediate and cumulative. Destroying ecosystems today and weakening societies’ ability to cope.”
https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Are-we-ready-to-bear-the-environmental-cost-of-war/172-336349

Maldives: Supreme Court rejects challenge to election synchronisation bill
On 24 March, The Sun reported that the Supreme Court rejected a case challenging the amendments to the elections bill, with lawyer Ali Hussain criticising the decision and arguing that procedural issues were not handled appropriately. This ruling effectively allows the legislation to proceed, reinforcing the government’s position amidst ongoing political contestation over electoral reforms. The development also highlights tensions between the judiciary and opposition actors, raising concerns over the legal process, the judiciary's institutional independence, and the broader trajectory of democratic governance in the Maldives.
(“‘The registrar is not a judge’: Ali Hussain reacts after Supreme Court rejects case challenging elections bill,” The Sun, 26 March 2026)
https://see.mv/104070

Pakistan: Operation Ghazab Lil Haq resumes after Eid pause
On 25 March, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan resumed “Operation Ghazab Lil Haq” after a temporary pause during Eid al-Fitr, with security sources confirming that the suspension ended at midnight between March 23 and 24. The pause had been announced earlier by Information. Minister Attaullah Tarar at the request of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Türkiye. Officials described the renewed campaign as a “precise and targeted military operation” aimed at dismantling terrorist leadership, logistics networks and facilitators operating from areas under Afghan Taliban control. “Operations will continue until the objectives are achieved,” sources said, urging Kabul to reconsider what they termed its support for militant proxies.
(“Operation Ghazab Lil Haq against Afghan Taliban resumes after Eidul Fitr pause,” The Express Tribune, 25 March 2026)

Pakistan: PM Shehbaz, Chinese envoy discuss economic ties, CPEC cooperation
On March 26, The Express Tribune reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong to discuss bilateral economic cooperation and progress on key projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The premier congratulated Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping, on the successful conclusion of the “Two Sessions,” while reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to advancing CPEC 2.0, particularly in agriculture, industrial cooperation and infrastructure. Ambassador Jiang appreciated Pakistan’s reform efforts and pledged continued support in trade and investment. Both sides expressed satisfaction with growing ties and looked ahead to marking 75 years of diplomatic relations through high-level engagements. PM Shehbaz also underscored Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability, reaffirming the “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” and the importance of close coordination on issues of mutual interest. (“PM Shehbaz, Chinese envoy discuss CPEC, economic ties,” The Express Tribune, 26 March 2026)

Pakistan: Islamabad establishes sixth customs station along Pakistan-Iran border
On 26 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan has established a new customs station at Jeerak in Panjgur district, Balochistan, along the Pakistan-Iran border. This decision aimed at strengthening border trade management and improving documentation of cross-border flows. This will help in smooth passenger movement, regulate personal baggage, and channel informal trade into the formal economy. Jeerak has been designated as the fifth official crossing for trade and transit between Pakistan and Iran. In December 2024, the government also inaugurated the Gabd-Rimdan Border Crossing near Gwadar to improve connectivity and facilitate people-to-people exchanges.
(“Islamabad strengthens trade links with Tehran,” Dawn, 26 March 2026)

Afghanistan: Activists raise an alarm with the UNHRC regarding conflict
On 26 March, The Tribune reported that there is a growing global concern over the ongoing conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Several activists and community representatives approached the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva and stated their grievances with regard to the war. Maryam Mehrzad, an Afghan activist, noted that there is a shared cultural and religious bond between both nations, and given the period of spiritual significance, such developments were concerning. The prominent Pashtun activist Fazul ur Rehman also stated that the human rights conditions in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are deteriorating. There were demands for both accountability and protection measures on the part of the international community.
(“Geneva: Global concern grows over Pakistan's reported attacks on Afghan civilians,” The Tribune, 26 March 2026)
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/world/geneva-global-concern-grows-over-pakistans-reported-attacks-on-afghan-civilians/

Afghanistan: Conflict resumes as ceasefire ends
On 26 March, The Associated Press reported that fighting between the two rival nations, Pakistan and Afghanistan, has continued today, with two civilians being killed in the strikes. The ceasefire had been called over the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, which lasted over the weekend, but has now been disturbed. Pakistani forces are claimed to have fired several rounds of artillery shells in the Narai and Sarkano districts, which wounded several people. Meanwhile, the Afghan border forces retaliated at the border. A local Pakistani official also claimed that the exchange was started by the Afghan side. These developments have disturbed the almost a week of peace that lasted between the two.
(“Fighting resumes between Pakistan and Afghanistan after temporary ceasefire ends, killing 2,” Associated Press, 26 March 2026)
https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-pakistan-temporary-oause-fighting-ended-19fcf231eb89de69acd0a831144ca7c8

Iran: GCC criticises Tehran’s repeated attacks
On 26 March, Al Jazeera reported that the ambassadors of the GCC nations convened a meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss the ongoing crisis that has spread across West Asia. The group stated that the attacks by Iran have marked a “turning point in the relationship”. Further, Iran has been criticised for having targeted civilian spaces across the region. Meanwhile, the GCC secretary-general added that oil production stability is a global necessity. They claimed that they never replied nor retaliated to the attacks but wish to have “normal relations based on mutual respect.” They called for a “diplomatic solution” to the problem.
(“Iran war live: GCC slams Iran’s attacks, closure of Hormuz Strait,” Al Jazeera, 26 March 2026)
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2026/3/26/iran-war-live-us-demands-tehran-accept-defeat-israel-pounds-lebanon

Iran: US’s 15-point plan rejected by the regime
On 26 March, the BBC reported that Iran flatly rejected the 15-point plan proposed by the USA and termed it “excessive.” The Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that “if a position needs to be taken, it will certainly be determined.” The Iranian state media listed five conditions for ending the war, which included payment for war reparations, international recognition of Iran’s sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and a guarantee of no future attacks. The nation further claimed that, being one of the largest in terms of population and having the longest coastline, they reserve the rightful role as “the policeman of the Gulf.” It was also stated that the US Navy’s fleet based in Bahrain must depart the region.
(“Are the US and Iran holding peace talks, and what do both sides want?” BBC, 26 March 2026)
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm29l9r68j8o

27 MARCH 2026, FRIDAY
Nepal: Balen to become RSP’s PM candidate
On 27 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) plans to appoint Balendra Shah as its parliamentary party leader, a key step ahead of his anticipated appointment as Prime Minister. The decision will be formalised during a central committee meeting held after the swearing-in of all 275 newly elected Members of Parliament. According to party rules, only the parliamentary party leader is eligible to become Prime Minister. Shah is expected to take the oath of office at Sheetal Niwas, administered by President Ramchandra Paudel. The oath-taking of MPs is being conducted by Arjun Narsingh KC, the oldest elected member, who is serving as interim Speaker until a new one is chosen. The move follows the 28 December agreement between RSP President Rabi Lamichhane and Shah, under which Lamichhane remains party chair while Shah assumes leadership in Parliament and becomes the party’s prime ministerial candidate, backed by the party’s 182 lawmakers.
("RSP to pick Balendra Shah as parliamentary party leader today," The Kathmandu Post, 27 March 2026)
https://kathmandupost.com/politics/2026/03/26/rsp-to-pick-balendra-shah-as-parliamentary-party-leader-today

Opinion:
Sophia L Pande, "Far from inclusive," The Kathmandu Post, 27 March 2026
"The PR list was designed as a quota system or an affirmative action in our new constitution to include those who have been historically marginalised and desperately need a voice. To draw a blunt comparison, taking a spot on this kind of list as a person of privilege is like a wealthy, white American woman with education and agency taking a place reserved for a disempowered Native woman because those who make the rules have turned a blind eye or blatantly favoured the elite candidate. This kind of unprincipled behaviour effectively negates the possibility of future parity for those who existing hegemonies have long shunted aside.”
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/27/how-far-from-being-truly-inclusive

Bhutan: Reinforces commitment to global sustainability
On 27 March, the Kuensel reported that Mountain Hazelnuts has become the first company in Bhutan to receive the Rainforest Alliance certification, marking a significant milestone for the country’s agribusiness sector. The certification was awarded after the company met stringent environmental, social, and economic sustainability standards. This recognition is expected to boost the company’s credibility and improve its access to premium international markets. The achievement also highlights Bhutan’s growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture and environmentally responsible practices. Mountain Hazelnuts works closely with thousands of farmers across the country, supporting rural livelihoods through hazelnut cultivation and generating income for local communities. Rainforest Alliance certification ensures adherence to key principles, including environmental conservation, biodiversity protection, improved working conditions, and sustainable farming methods. Overall, the recognition reinforces Bhutan’s commitment to global sustainability standards, promotes inclusive rural development, and strengthens its position in environmentally conscious agricultural production.
("Mountain Hazelnuts earns Rainforest Alliance Certification," Kuensel, 27 March 2026
https://kuenselonline.com/news/mountain-hazelnuts-earns-rainforest-alliance-certification

Bangladesh: Government provides Tk167cr daily fuel subsidy to ease public burden
On 27 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit said the government is providing a daily fuel subsidy of Tk167 crore to reduce public hardship amid global instability. Speaking at a cheque distribution event in Jessore, he emphasised that fuel prices have not been increased despite rising international costs, as higher prices would impact electricity, transport and food. He noted that Bangladesh has maintained a stable fuel supply while many countries have raised prices. Daily diesel demand, usually around 12,000 tons, has surged to 24,000 to 25,000 tons ahead of Eid. Petrol and octane demand stands at 1,200-1,400 tons. The government is also working to ensure a 90-day fuel reserve.
(“State minister: Govt providing Tk 167cr daily fuel subsidy to ease public suffering,” Dhaka Tribune, 27 March 2027)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/power-energy/406298/state-minister-govt-giving-tk167-crore-daily-fuel

Bangladesh: 62,150 tons of US wheat arrive at Chittagong under G2G deal
On 27 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that a shipment of 62,150 metric tons of wheat from the United States had arrived at the outer anchorage of Chittagong Port under a government-to-government agreement. This marks the second delivery under the deal, following an earlier consignment of 58,457 metric tons. Officials from the Ministry of Food said sampling and testing of the wheat have already begun, with steps in place to ensure quick unloading. Of the total cargo, 37,290 metric tons will be discharged at Chittagong, while 24,860 metric tons will be sent to Mongla Port. Bangladesh has imported 467,884 metric tons of wheat under previous G2G arrangements. The country’s annual wheat demand is around 7 million metric tons, while domestic production is about 1 million tons, making imports essential to cover the shortfall.
(“62,150 tons of US wheat reach Chittagong port under G2G deal,” Dhaka Tribune, 27 March 2026)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/406283/62-150-tons-of-us-wheat-reach-chittagong-port

Opinion:
“Climate change kills,” Dhaka Tribune, 27 March 2026
Bangladesh continues to face the deadly consequences of climate change, remaining among the most vulnerable nations. A new report by the Climate Impact Lab warns that the country could see 24 additional deaths per 100,000 people each year due to rising temperatures, highlighting extreme heat as a growing lethal threat. As noted by Michael Greenstone, “This report uncovers one of climate change’s cruellest ironies, it is projected to kill millions of people in the countries that have generally done the least to cause it.” Despite contributing little to global emissions, Bangladesh remains highly exposed, underscoring the reality of climate injustice. The editorial stresses that while the government must strengthen resilience through infrastructure, public awareness and healthcare preparedness, responsibility also lies with developed nations. It argues that climate financing, technology access and adaptation support are obligations, not charity, and calls for urgent, meaningful action beyond rhetoric.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/editorial/406290/climate-change-kills

Myanmar: Arakan Army steps up assault on key naval bases in Rakhine
On 27 March, Mizzima reported that fighting between the Myanmar military junta and the Arakan Army has intensified, reaching the outskirts and inner zones of Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine State. The Arakan Army launched a coordinated attack on the Shwe Min Gan naval base on 23 March using heavy weaponry and snipers, with reports suggesting 30 to 40 soldiers were killed. Clashes are now concentrated near Shwe Min Gan Port and Sat Yoe Kya Creek, close to the city centre, as AA fighters advance within 400 to 500 feet of military positions. The junta is reportedly struggling to hold ground, with wounded personnel being transported to a military hospital in Sittwe. In Kyaukphyu Township, fighting has also escalated near key naval installations, with the Arakan Army advancing in multiple villages. Both Sittwe and Kyaukphyu host significant military assets, making them strategically critical. The Arakan Army already controls large parts of Rakhine State and Paletwa in Chin State, signalling a widening conflict and potential for further escalation.
(“Arakan Army intensifies siege of Sittwe and Kyaukphyu as fighting reaches strategic naval bases,” Mizzima, 27 March 2026)
https://eng.mizzima.com/2026/03/27/32581

Myanmar: Junta regains key battalion camp in strategic setback for resistance
On 27 March, Mizzima reported that the Myanmar junta has retaken control of the Infantry Battalion 148 camp near Kyauk Hle Bee village in Thabeikkyin Township, marking a significant setback for resistance forces in northern Mandalay Region. The recapture coincided with the withdrawal of revolutionary groups from the Twin Nge to Momeik road, a crucial route linking Thabeikkyin with Mogok. According to sources, once the Military Council secured key transport corridors, resistance forces, including KPDF, KIA, ABSDF and the Mogok Strategy People’s Defence Force, were forced to retreat. Reports indicate that over the past 10 days, major road links between Momeik and Mogok have been reopened, strengthening the junta’s control in the region. Although resistance groups had earlier maintained positions in surrounding areas, the loss of these routes has shifted the balance. The development follows earlier territorial adjustments following Operation 1027, highlighting the conflict's fluid and contested nature.
(“Strategic setback: Myanmar junta retakes key battalion camp and road links in Thabeikkyin,” Mizzima, 27 March 2026)
https://eng.mizzima.com/2026/03/27/32578

Myanmar: US embassy draws criticism over presence at Yangon auto show
On 27 March, Mizzima reported that the US Embassy in Myanmar is facing backlash after Chargé d’Affaires Douglas Sonnek attended the Yangon International Mobility Show, where images of him interacting with business entities linked to the junta sparked criticism online. In a statement issued on 24 March, the embassy defended the visit as a routine diplomatic effort to support American commercial interests, particularly the Ford Motor Company, and to promote fair competition. It emphasised that participation was intended to ensure a level playing field for US businesses. However, activists and members of the public questioned the move, accusing the United States of a gap between its stated opposition to the military regime and its engagement with junta-linked sectors. Critics argue that such interactions undermine US values and its pro-democracy stance. Despite ongoing sanctions against the junta, Sonnek’s presence at the event has been widely viewed as controversial, intensifying debate over US policy and practice in Myanmar.
(“US Embassy faces backlash as Chargé d’Affaires attends Yangon auto show,” Mizzima, 27 March 2026)
https://eng.mizzima.com/2026/03/27/32572

Sri Lanka: Health Ministry issues heat advisory amidst rising temperatures
On 27 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lankan Health Ministry issued a public advisory and a warning for increasing heat levels across the country, driven by high humidity, strong solar radiation, and low wind speeds. The alert highlights growing health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses, as conditions increase the likelihood of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Authorities have urged the public to limit outdoor activity during peak hours (10:00 to 15:00), maintain adequate hydration, and adopt protective measures, including appropriate clothing and sun protection. This advisory also calls on caregivers to take extra precautions, particularly mentioning avoiding leaving children unattended in vehicles. This warning reflects intensifying climate-related health risks and underscores the need for preventive measures and public caution to mitigate heat-related impacts on individuals.
(“Health Ministry issues alert as heat levels rise,” Daily Mirror, 27 March 2026)
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Health-Ministry-issues-alert-as-heat-levels-rise/108-336527

Sri Lanka: Apex court finds the former Health Minister and officials liable in drug procurement case
On 27 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka found former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and several senior health officials liable for violating the fundamental rights of the public in a severely contested drug procurement case. The ruling, delivered in response to a petition filed by Transparency International Sri Lanka, held that the procurement process was conducted through an unsolicited direct contract and then facilitated by a waiver of registration, both of which were unlawful, arbitrary, and invalid. The Court identified multiple officials, including those from the Ministry of Health, the National Medicines Regulatory Authority, and the Medical Supplies Division, as responsible for the many charges and violations. It ordered the former minister Rambukwella to pay LKR 75 million in compensation, while other officials were directed to pay LKR 50 million each. This court ruling signals increased judicial scrutiny of governance and state failures in the health sector and may intensify pressure on public officials to be accountable when involved in drug procurement processes.  
(“Supreme Court finds Keheliya, key officials liable in drug procurement case,” Daily Mirror, 27 March 2026)
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Supreme-Court-finds-Keheliya-key-officials-liable-in-drug-procurement-case/108-336505

Pakistan: Islamabad relaying messages between US & Iran, FM Dar confirms
On 26 March, The Express Tribune reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed indirect communication between the United States and Iran was ongoing through messages relayed by Pakistan, with support from Türkiye and Egypt. He clarified that the engagement did not constitute formal negotiations but involved the exchange of proposals and responses via intermediaries, including a reported set of US points under Iranian review. “There has been unnecessary speculation in the media regarding peace talks to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In reality, US-Iran indirect talks are taking place through messages being relayed by Pakistan,” he wrote on X. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to promoting dialogue and de-escalation, while also engaging regional partners such as Jordan and Türkiye to coordinate diplomatic efforts. Iranian officials similarly denied direct talks, describing the process as a series of message exchanges, even as conflicting claims emerged from Washington about Tehran’s willingness to reach an agreement.
(“Pakistan relaying messages in US-Iran indirect talks: FM Dar,” The Express Tribune, 26 March 2026)

Pakistan: Monetary expansion grows by 4.5 per cent
On 27 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan's economy witnessed a 4.5 per cent growth in monetary expansion in the first eight months of FY26, ending with PKR 1,804.3 billion. It reflects the doubling of government borrowing and excess liquidity in the banking system during the period. In the same period last fiscal year, there was stagnant growth of 0.5 per cent, or PKR 180 billion. This shows a robust growth in Monetary expansion; however, the rise in fuel prices due to the West Asia crisis will impact the inflation and overall economy in the coming days (“Monetary expansion surges 4.5 pc,” Dawn, 27 March 2026)

Afghanistan: Second mass funeral held for drug rehab victims
On 27 March, The Pioneer reported that following the airstrike on the Omid addiction centre during the previous week, dozens more people were buried today in a mass burial organised by the state. In the attack on the 2000-bed drug rehabilitation centre, at least 400 are believed to have lost their lives and organisations are yet to confirm a fixed number. Pakistan continues to deny allegations of any involvement. Meanwhile, bulldozers were arranged to dig up a large pit to serve as a mass burial spot. This development follows the end of the ceasefire maintained over the past weekend, which ended with the conflict resuming yesterday.
(“Afghans hold second mass funeral for victims of an airstrike that hit a Kabul drug treatment centre,” ABC News, 27 March 2026)
https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/afghans-hold-mass-funeral-victims-airstrike-hit-kabul-131431718

Iran: Attack on energy infrastructure delayed by ten days
On 27 March, Al Jazeera reported that US President Donald Trump, who had threatened to decimate Iran’s crucial energy infrastructure, had now postponed this plan to ten days later. The threat was primarily intended to force the opening of the Strait of Hormuz to all nations, regardless of whether they were “enemy” states. Announced via a Truth Social post, Trump claimed that the postponement was a result of the Iranian government’s request to him. Further, it was added that “talks are ongoing and… going very well.” This is the second change to his self-imposed deadline that was received quite critically by the Iranian regime.
(“Trump postpones US strikes on Iranian power grid to April 6 amid talks,” Al Jazeera, 27 March 2026)
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/3/26/trump-postpones-us-strikes-on-iranian-power-grid-to-april-6-amid-talks

Iran: Two Chinese ships blocked by Tehran despite cordial ties
On 27 March, The Wall Street Journal reported that Iran turned two China-affiliated container vessels back from the Strait of Hormuz, which has raised alarm given the cordial relations between the two nations, especially during this war. Previously, Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and Iraq had been granted safe passage through the chokepoint, and they were also seen as allies. Foreign Minister Araghchi also stated that Iran was open to allowing certain nations to use the waterway under certain conditions. Araghchi claimed to have spoken with these nations and received requests from them to use the Strait.
(“Iran Blocks Two Chinese Ships From Hormuz in Rare Move,” The Wall Street Journal, 27 March 2026)
https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/iran-war-middle-east-news-updates

30 MARCH 2026, MONDAY
Nepal
Opinion: Chandra Ghimire, "Why Nepal's economic diplomacy underperforms," The Kathmandu Post, 30 March 2026
"Nepal has been ranting on economic diplomacy, yet with disappointing impact. Policy and strategy alone do not work when action is too little and too late. This syndrome is unbridled, partially due to a resource mismatch. So far, the allocated resources give an impression similar to Kanika Chharne (spreading broken rice). Likewise, almost all missions are handicapped, lacking a dedicated wing backed by a competent team to keep the ball rolling. In such a quandary, missions run with the old-fashioned attitude that ‘everybody’s job is nobody’s job.’ In fact, a business visibly survives only when the mission head or a senior diplomat is passionate."
https://kathmandupost.com/columns/2026/03/29/why-nepal-s-economic-diplomacy-underperforms

Nepal: Supreme Court demands show-cause order on Oli and Lekhak's arrest
On 30 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that Nepal’s Supreme Court issued a show-cause order earlier today to the government, asking it to justify the arrest and detention of former prime minister KP Sharma Oli. The order was issued by a single bench of Justice Meghraj Pokharel in response to a habeas corpus petition filed by Oli’s wife, Radhika Shakya, who alleged that he was being held in unlawful detention. The court declined to grant interim relief or order his immediate release, instead directing authorities to submit a written explanation outlining the legal grounds for his detention. Earlier, the court had issued a similar show-cause order following a habeas corpus petition filed on behalf of former home minister Ramesh Lekhak. Oli and Lekhak were arrested on Saturday in connection with the 08 to 09 September incidents, which are currently under investigation.
("Supreme Court refuses interim relief to Oli, seeks grounds for detention," The Kathmandu Post, 30 March 2026
https://kathmandupost.com/national/2026/03/30/supreme-court-refuses-interim-relief-to-oli-seeks-grounds-for-detention

Bangladesh: Bill to protect July fighters’ moves toward passage
On 30 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said Parliament is set to pass a bill granting legal and constitutional protection to the “July fighters” involved in the July–August 2024 student movement. The proposed law follows commitments in the July National Charter and builds on an ordinance issued during the interim government. The ordinance is among 133 currently under review by a special parliamentary committee, which is expected to discuss it before placing it as a bill. The minister described the uprising as a battlefield situation and said the protection measure reflects broad public support. He also addressed ongoing legal proceedings related to violence during the movement, noting that several cases have been filed under different laws, including the Information and Communication Technology Act. Investigations and trials are ongoing, with some already being broadcast live. Salahuddin stressed that accountability will apply to all involved, regardless of identity, including members of law enforcement or political groups. He reaffirmed that justice will proceed through due legal process.
(“Home minister: Bill to protect July fighters to be passed in parliament,” Dhaka Tribune, 30 March 2026)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/parliament/406529/home-minister-bill-to-protect-july-fighters-to-be

Bangladesh: Measles surge linked to vaccination gaps
On 30 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain said a decline in large-scale measles vaccination campaigns has left many children unprotected, contributing to a recent surge in infections. He noted that most reported cases involve unvaccinated individuals. The remarks followed a meeting at the Secretariat with a delegation led by US Ambassador Brent T Christensen. The minister said steps are underway to expedite vaccine procurement, with plans to launch a nationwide campaign as soon as supplies arrive. In response to the outbreak, authorities have strengthened medical services in affected areas. The ICU at Mohakhali Infectious Disease Hospital has been reopened, and critical equipment, including ventilators, has been distributed to districts. He urged the public to remain cautious but not alarmed, assuring that efforts are ongoing to contain the spread. Officials attribute the rise in cases to the absence of a comprehensive immunisation drive and current vaccine shortages. The government expects to begin a nationwide vaccination campaign once doses are secured, possibly by June.
(“Measles outbreak raises alarm in Bangladesh: Causes, symptoms and prevention,” Dhaka Tribune, 30 March 2026)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/health/406530/health-minister-decline-in-measles-vaccination

Opinion:
HM Naszul Alam, “The myth of the demographic dividend,” Dhaka Tribune, 30 March 2026
The idea of a demographic dividend often masks a deeper uncertainty. A large youth population is not a guaranteed asset but a conditional opportunity that depends on a system’s ability to create meaningful employment. In Bangladesh, this gap is becoming visible as millions enter the workforce without adequate absorption into productive roles. The issue extends beyond unemployment into underemployment and a broader mismatch between education and economic structure. This creates a fragile social condition where aspirations rise faster than opportunities. When expectations remain unmet, frustration grows quietly, weakening trust in institutions and the promise of progress. The result is not only economic strain but also psychological and social instability. A young population without pathways risks becoming disengaged rather than empowered. The burden then shifts to the state, which must sustain consumption without proportional productivity. The real challenge lies in aligning education, industry, and policy coherently. A demographic dividend is not automatic. It must be built deliberately. Without that effort, it remains a narrowing wager rather than a realised gain.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/406488/the-myth-of-the-demographic-dividend

Myanmar: Military reshuffle signals political transition
On 30 March, Mizzima reported, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing stepped down as Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, transferring power to General Ye Win Oo in a formal ceremony in Naypyidaw. The move is part of a broader military reshuffle aligned with constitutional requirements, as Min Aung Hlaing has been nominated as a vice-presidential candidate, positioning him for a potential transition to the presidency. While he relinquished direct military command after 15 years, Min Aung Hlaing continues to hold key roles as Acting President and chairman of the State Security and Peace Restoration Commission. Leadership changes also include the reported promotion of General Kyaw Swar Lin to Deputy Commander-in-Chief. The nomination process for vice presidents is underway across both houses of parliament, with multiple candidates put forward. Under the 2008 Constitution, one of the three vice presidents will be elected as President by the Union Parliament. The developments come amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian concerns, with millions displaced and thousands killed or detained since the 2021 coup. The transition signals a shift in form, though questions remain about the continuity of military influence in governance.
(“Min Aung Hlaing steps down as Senior General and Commander-in-Chief, marking a historic shift in Myanmar’s military leadership,” Mizzima, 30 March 2026)

Opinion:
Moe Zaw Oo, “President of Nothing: How Long Can Min Aung Hlaing Rule Without His People’s Consent?” The Irrawaddy, 30 March 2026
A dictator’s personal ambition has plunged Myanmar into crisis, halting a fragile transition toward democracy and stability. What was once a country making gradual socio-economic progress has, in five years, descended into conflict, disaster, and institutional collapse. The absence of accountable governance has worsened every crisis, from the pandemic to natural disasters, where aid was blocked, and civilians faced continued military attacks. The consequences extend beyond immediate suffering. Economic decline, social fragmentation, and deepening ethnic divisions now define the national landscape. Warnings of state failure are growing as governance erodes further under military control. Even external pressures, such as rising global energy costs, threaten to intensify hardship in a system already unable to respond effectively. The argument reflects a broader truth about power and legitimacy. Governments that lack the consent of the governed rely on force rather than accountability, making long-term stability unlikely. Democratic systems, despite their flaws, create incentives to respond to public needs and prevent large-scale suffering. Myanmar’s experience underscores this contrast. Without public consent, the rule becomes fragile, and resistance is inevitable. The future, therefore, rests not with imposed authority, but with the collective resolve of people seeking freedom, dignity, and a return to representative governance.
https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/president-of-nothing-how-long-can-min-aung-hlaing-rule-without-his-peoples-consent.html

Maldives: Supreme Court to rule on challenge to referendum on synchronising elections
On 30 March, The Sun reported that the Supreme Court of the Maldives is set to deliver its ruling in a constitutional case seeking to halt the upcoming referendum on synchronising presidential and parliamentary elections. The case challenges the legality of the referendum decreed by President Mohamed Muizzu, which proposes holding both elections on the same day and adjusting the parliamentary term accordingly.  The petitioners also argue that the referendum question fails to meet constitutional requirements and does not adequately and transparently address the implications of shortening the current parliamentary term. In contrast, the state maintains that the framing of the referendum question falls within presidential discretion, as outlined in the Referendum Act.  The proposed constitutional amendment, passed by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), aims to merge the electoral cycles and advance the start of the parliamentary term, with the first combined elections scheduled for 2028.
(“Supreme Court to rule tomorrow on challenge to upcoming referendum,” Sun Online, 30 March 2026)
https://english.sun.mv/104148

Sri Lanka: New guidelines issued to curb fuel and energy consumption
On 30 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Office of the Commissioner General of Essential Services issued the latest guidelines to reduce fuel and energy consumption across the state and private sectors. The measures include directives for government and statutory institutions to switch off air conditioners by 15:00 hours, with the private sector also encouraged to follow similar practices. Additionally, large-scale night events and musical shows with over a hundred participants are advised to operate without drawing electricity from the national grid.  

Issued to critical administrative bodies, including ministry secretaries and heads of multiple statutory institutions, these measures reflect ongoing efforts to manage energy consumption amid broader fuel and resource constraints, signalling increased state intervention to regulate usage patterns for judicious optimisation.
(“New guidelines issued on fuel and energy use,” Daily Mirror, 30 March 2026)
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/New-guidelines-issued-on-fuel-and-energy-use/108-336735

Sri Lanka: Tourist arrivals exceed 150,000 in March amidst slowdown linked to the Middle East crisis
On 30 March, the Daily Mirror reported that Sri Lanka recorded over 151,000 tourist arrivals between 01 and 25 March, a sharp slowdown threatens the revised monthly target of 200,000 visitors. Despite a strong start to 2026, arrival numbers have declined compared to the same period last year, indicating a significant contraction in tourism momentum. This downturn is largely attributed to the ongoing Middle East crisis, which has disrupted key aviation transit routes and also increased global airfares, leading to cancellations and reduced travel demand, particularly from European markets such as France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and even Russia. However, Asian markets, led by India and China, have shown strong growth and partially offset the decline; the overall drop in European arrivals has placed pressure on Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery and monthly targets.  
(“March tourist arrivals surpass 150,000 as Middle East crisis threatens 200,000 target,” Daily Mirror, 30 March 2026)
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/March-tourist-arrivals-surpass-150-000-as-Middle-East-crisis-threatens-200-000-target/108-336656

Opinion:
“Is Sri Lanka ready for an El Niño heat wave?” Daily Mirror, 30 March 2026
“El Niño is a global weather pattern that often brings hotter and drier conditions to countries like Sri Lanka. If it strengthens around May, as some forecasts suggest, the country could experience prolonged heat and less rainfall. This is not just about discomfort. It has real effects on how people live and work. So, is Sri Lanka ready for an El Niño impact? The honest answer is not quite. Public awareness is one of the first steps. Simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding peak heat hours, and checking on vulnerable people can make a difference. Workplaces and schools may need to adjust their schedule. Urban planning must also take heat into account. More green spaces, better ventilation, and heat-resistant infrastructure can help reduce the impact. Authorities need to improve early warning systems and emergency response plans.”
https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Is-Sri-Lanka-ready-for-an-El-Ni%C3%B1o-heat-wave/172-336658

Pakistan: President Zardari, PM Shehbaz review regional situation
On 30 March, the Dawn reported that according to the President’s Secretariat, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday called on President Asif Ali Zardari to discuss the overall national security situation and key challenges facing the country. The meeting comes a day after the quadrilateral ministerial moot in Islamabad, involving the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Egypt, discussing possible ways to bring an “early and permanent end” to the war in the region. They held a detailed discussion on the overall national security situation, reviewed the evolving regional scenario and its implications for Pakistan, the secretariat said. They further deliberated on economic, energy and security challenges, it added. It stated that the leadership also “emphasised the need for a coordinated national strategy and institutional harmony”.
(“President Zardari, PM Shehbaz review regional situation, implications for Pakistan,” Dawn, 30 March 2026)

Pakistan: Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar embarks on official visit to China, says Foreign Office
On 30 March 2026, the Dawn reported that according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office (FO) on Monday, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar will embark on an official visit to China on March 31 at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Pakistan and China enjoy an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, characterised by “close coordination and regular consultations” on regional development and international issues, according to the FO. FO stated: “FM Dar’s decision to undertake the visit, despite medical advice to rest following a hairline shoulder fracture sustained yesterday, reflects the importance Pakistan attaches to its relationship with China.” During the call, Wang also conveyed China’s support for Pakistan’s role as a mediator. The Chinese foreign minister also spoke to Dar on March 10, commending Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting de-escalation and stability in the Middle East amid the war.

Pakistan: Conflict reaches parts of the Bajaur sector on the Afghan-Pakistan border
On 30 March, Dawn reported that Afghanistan and Pakistan border forces exchanged heavy fire along several parts of the border. Islamabad stated that they retaliated “vigorously” to the attack and claimed that the Taliban-led forces used multiple “small and large” weapons. There were comments that some Afghan border posts were also destroyed in the crossfire. Pakistan further stated that no civilian regions were targeted, but retaliation only focused on posts from where shots were fired. This heated exchange between the two rivals is said to continue till “objectives are achieved.”
(“Security forces retaliate vigorously after Afghan Taliban open fire in KP’s Bajaur district: sources”, Dawn, 30 March 2026)
https://www.dawn.com/news/1986795

Iran: Trump threatens obliteration of energy facilities again
On 30 March, CNBC reported that the US President has issued yet another threat to destroy Iran’s energy facilities as well as the Kharg island, if the Strait of Hormuz continues to be blocked. While Trump termed the new Tehran leadership as a “reasonable regime”, he also added that if the talks fail, bombs would be used against key energy infrastructure. Kharg Island, often considered the heart of Iranian oil export, is also under the US radar, with threats to take over the precious region. Meanwhile, Tehran commented that the US demands were rather unreasonable. Shipping traffic remains sluggish in the Strait, and all eyes are on the talks.
(“Trump says U.S. will destroy Iran’s oil wells, Kharg Island without deal to ‘immediately’ reopen Hormuz Strait”, CNBC, 30 March 2026)
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/30/trump-iran-war-obliterate-kharg-island-strait-of-hormuz-peace-deal.html

Iran: Threat of ground invasion pressurise Tehran
On 30 March, DW reported that the Iranian troops are claimed to be ready to “set American troops on fire”, as several groups of American ground troops arrive in the Middle East. The Iranian Parliament Speaker noted that they are possibly facing the threat of a ground invasion. Reports suggest that both sides are heading for a hostile future, while both nations’ leaders are also heading talks to end the month-long conflict. Meanwhile, Pakistan has stepped up and welcomed the possibility of hosting peace talks.
(“Iran war: Tehran warns US against ground assault”, DW, 30 March 2026)
https://www.dw.com/en/iran-war-tehran-warns-us-against-ground-assault/live-76581165

31 MARCH 2026, TUESDAY
Aishal Yousuf, Akshath K, Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Sreemaya Nair, Tanvi Thara Harendra Jha, and Vishal Manish M

Nepal: Former CDO arrested following former PM's arrest in Gen Z protest case
On 31 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that the police had arrested the former Chief District Officer of Kathmandu from his Baneshwar residence on Tuesday morning in connection with last year’s Gen Z protests. Rijal’s detention follows earlier arrests of the former prime minister and former home minister over alleged negligence leading to protester deaths. Two Supreme Court benches have issued show-cause notices to the Balendra Shah government seeking justification for these arrests. Action is also recommended against senior officials under Section 182 of the National Penal Code, which carries a maximum of three years’ imprisonment and a fine of 30,000 NPR. The Cabinet has formed a committee to review cases involving security personnel.
("Police arrest former Kathmandu CDO Chhabilal Rijal," The Kathmandu Post, 31 March 2026)
https://kathmandupost.com/national/2026/03/31/police-arrest-former-kathmandu-cdo-chhabilal-rijal

Nepal: Money laundering investigations into former PMs and ministers intensify
On 31 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that Nepal’s money-laundering investigation involving former prime ministers Sher Bahadur Deuba, KP Sharma Oli, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal has intensified, extending to former ministers and their families. The probe, led by the Department of Money Laundering Investigation (DMLI) through the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), follows evidence, including burnt currency fragments recovered after the September unrest. Former minister Deepak Khadka has been arrested and remanded to seven days’ custody, while Oli and Ramesh Lekhak are also in custody in a separate case. Meanwhile, Deuba and his wife, Arzu Rana Deuba, are in Hong Kong for medical treatment. Authorities say the investigation will proceed regardless of location, using diplomatic and Interpol channels if required.
("Authorities intensify money laundering probe against Deuba, his family members and relatives," The Kathmandu Post, 31 March 2026)
https://kathmandupost.com/national/2026/03/31/money-laundering-probe-widens-as-deuba-family-remains-abroad

Nepal: Kathmandu's remittance inflows face risks due to disruptions in Gulf economies
On 31 March, The Kathmandu Post reported that worsening conflict in West Asia is putting nearly 40 per cent of Nepal’s remittance inflows at risk, as tensions involving Iran, the United States of America, and Israel disrupt Gulf economies. Around 1.9 million Nepali workers are employed in the region, with at least one killed and 20 injured in recent attacks. According to Nepal Rastra Bank, Nepal received 1.261 trillion NPR in remittances in the first seven months of the current fiscal year, including 444 billion NPR from Gulf countries. Experts warn that prolonged conflict could reduce remittance inflows after an initial short-term rise, while also slowing labour migration and forcing workers to return. Economists caution that disruptions could affect imports, fuel supply, tourism and foreign exchange reserves. The government is closely monitoring the situation, as rising costs and economic pressure remain likely if the conflict continues.
("West Asia conflict puts Nepal’s remittance inflows at risk, raises economic concerns," The Kathmandu Post, 31 March 2026)
https://kathmandupost.com/money/2026/03/31/west-asia-conflict-puts-nepal-s-remittance-inflows-at-risk-raises-economic-concerns

Bangladesh: Government approves emergency fuel Imports to boost energy security
On 31 March, Dhaka Tribune reported that the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the emergency import of 260,000 metric tons of fuel to strengthen national reserves amid global energy volatility. The decision came at a meeting chaired by Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury. The Energy and Mineral Resources Division secured approval for three import proposals through direct purchase and government-to-government arrangements. These include 100,000 metric tons of crude oil from Abeer Trade & Global Markets, 60,000 metric tons of sulphur gas oil from Indonesia’s PT Bumi Siak Pusako Zapin, and 100,000 metric tons of 50 PPM sulfur diesel from Maxwell International SPC. Two additional proposals were withdrawn, including planned imports from Exxon Mobil Kazakhstan Inc. and Archer Energy LLC. Officials said the direct purchase method will help avoid delays and ensure a stable fuel supply. Final pricing and contract approvals will be handled by the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase.
(“Cabinet approves emergency import of 260,000 tons of fuel,” Dhaka Tribune, 31 March 2026)
https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/power-energy/406604/cabinet-committee-approves-emergency-import-of

Opinion:
Junaid B Jahangir, “The economics of war,” Dhaka Tribune, 31 March 2026  
Contrary to popular belief, war is not solely the domain of dictators. Research suggests that democratically elected leaders can also drive conflict, often shaping both conflict and its consequences. In classrooms today, students are pushing beyond abstract models, demanding explanations for real-world crises like Gaza and Iran. This shift is forcing a broader rethinking of what economics should be. Contrary to popular belief, war is not solely the domain of dictators. Research suggests that democratically elected leaders can also drive conflict, often fueled by nationalism and inequality. At the same time, powerful structures like the military industrial complex and corporations such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing benefit financially, revealing how profit motives intersect with policy decisions. War’s ripple effects are vast. It worsens climate damage, increases debt, and fuels displacement and terrorism, often through unintended consequences. Economic tools like sanctions can even strengthen the very regimes they aim to weaken. At a global level, systems like the petro dollar order sustain geopolitical influence, tying conflicts to financial dominance. Understanding war through economics exposes a reality where power, profit, and policy are inseparable.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/406579/the-economics-of-war

Myanmar: Military tightens grip through controlled Vice Presidential vote
On 31 March 2026, Mizzima reported, a military-dominated parliament in Myanmar elected Min Aung Hlaing as Vice President, securing an overwhelming majority in a vote largely shaped by the Union Solidarity and Development Party and unelected military representatives. His opponent received only a fraction of the votes, highlighting the absence of genuine political competition. A parallel vote in the upper house delivered a similar outcome, reinforcing the military’s dominance over the political process. These developments form part of a broader effort to construct a quasi-civilian government under the framework of the military-drafted 2008 Constitution of Myanmar. Critics, including Justice for Myanmar and the Special Advisory Council for Myanmar, argue that the process is designed to manufacture legitimacy rather than reflect public will. As the regime advances its political restructuring, concerns persist that these moves are intended to entrench military control while projecting an image of constitutional governance.
(“Min Aung Hlaing elected Vice President in military-dominated vote,” Mizzima, 31 March 2026)
https://eng.mizzima.com/2026/03/31/32716

Myanmar: Airstrike in Sagaing kills civilians amid escalating violence
On 31 March 2026, Mizzima reported, a deadly airstrike by junta forces in Butalin Township killed around 10 civilians, including pregnant women and infants, in Ngapayin village. The attack, carried out by fighter jets over more than an hour, involved bombings and rocket fire directed at what residents described as a purely civilian area with no active conflict at the time. Witnesses reported severe injuries among survivors, with the death toll likely to rise as rescue efforts continue under dangerous conditions. The strike reflects an ongoing pattern of intensified aerial assaults across Sagaing Region, where the military has increasingly turned to air power amid setbacks on the ground. Local accounts describe panic and devastation, as villagers scrambled to move the wounded to makeshift clinics while fearing further attacks. Data from the Spring Revolution Database indicates thousands of civilians have been killed in airstrikes since the 2021 coup, underscoring the growing human cost of the conflict.
(“Myanmar junta airstrike in Butalin kills 10 civilians, including pregnant women,” Mizzima, 31 March 2026)
https://eng.mizzima.com/2026/03/31/32710

Maldives: Supreme Court rules the referendum question on synchronising elections as constitutional
On 31 March, The Sun reported that the Supreme Court of the Maldives ruled that the referendum question proposed by President Mohamed Muizzu on synchronising the presidential and the parliamentary elections does not violate the Constitution. The decision came in response to a legal challenge seeking to halt the referendum as planned. The Court held that the Constitution does not prescribe a specific format for referendum questions, and that the framing of such questions falls within the president’s discretion under the Referendum Act. It further noted that a single referendum question can also encompass multiple aspects of a constitutional amendment. The proposed amendment, passed by the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), seeks to merge presidential and parliamentary elections and to adjust the parliamentary term, effectively shortening the tenure of the incumbent legislature.
(“No issue with referendum question, rules Supreme Court,” Sun Online, 31 March 2026)
https://english.sun.mv/104179

Sri Lanka: Cabinet approves fuel allowances for ministers, MPs, and public administrators
On 31 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Cabinet of Ministers approved fuel allowances for ministers, Members of Parliament, and government officials, calculated based on fuel prices as of 1 March 2026.  According to the Cabinet Spokesman, these revised allowances are tied to the prevailing fuel costs, while all other existing fuel-related allowances will continue at their current rates until further decisions are made. This decision reflects ongoing state management of fuel-related expenditures within the public sector, amidst broader economic constraints and continued regulation of fuel distribution and usage in the backdrop of the Middle East conflict.
(“Cabinet approves fuel allowances for ministers, MPs, and public officials,” Daily Mirror, 31 March 2026)
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Cabinet-approves-fuel-allowances-for-ministers-MPs-and-public-officials/108-336829

Sri Lanka: Rupee depreciates further against the US dollar across commercial banks
On 31 March, the Daily Mirror reported that the Sri Lankan rupee continued to weaken against the US dollar across multiple commercial banks, with the selling rate remaining around LKR 318. The depreciation trend was evident across multiple banks, indicating broader currency movement rather than isolated fluctuations. At the People’s Bank and also the NDB Bank, both buying and selling rates recorded increases, while Seylan Bank also reported a rise in the dollar buying rate, signalling a consistent upward movement in exchange rates across the banking sector.  This continued slide of the Sri Lankan rupee highlights the ongoing pressures on the currency, reflecting broader macroeconomic vulnerabilities and exchange rate instability in the Sri Lankan financial system.  
(“Sri Lankan Rupee slides further against USD,” Daily Mirror, 31 March 2026)
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Sri-Lankan-Rupee-slides-further-against-USD/108-336817

Opinion:
Roshanga Wickremesinghe, “The turmoil in the Middle East = Sri Lanka in economic trouble,” Daily Mirror, 31 March 2026
“It has also brought into the limelight the cost of shipping and the fees charged by many such choke points around the world. The usual risks for Sri Lanka are inward remittances, tourism and some export of tea. Today, due to global connectivity and the interconnectedness of industries, conflicts do not distinguish among ordinary people. Any disruption to this is going to have a massive effect on the economy of Sri Lanka. The reality is that no matter how many bombs each party has, disruption is only going to keep the Strait shut. The new reality is that the war has de facto created a gas and oil hegemon. No contingencies, only reactive crisis mitigation action at the cost of the public.”  
https://www.dailymirror.lk/news-features/The-turmoil-in-the-Middle-East-Sri-Lanka-in-economic-trouble/131-336764

Pakistan: Islamabad pushes for mediation to resolve the Middle East crisis
On 30 March, Dawn reported that Pakistan signalled its willingness to host direct talks between the United States and Iran as part of a coordinated regional effort to de-escalate the ongoing Gulf conflict. Speaking after a quadrilateral meeting in Islamabad, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Pakistan would be “honoured to host and facilitate meaningful talks for a comprehensive and lasting settlement”. He stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable pathway to peace. He met with the foreign ministers of Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt in Islamabad. The ministers warned that the war is in no one’s interest and discussed measures, including securing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, while noting that any direct engagement would depend on evolving conditions.
(“Dar hints at US, Iran talks as quad pushes peace off-ramp,” Dawn, 30 March 2026)

Pakistan: Iran allows 20 more Islamabad vessels to pass through Strait of Hormuz
On 30 March, Dawn reported that Pakistani oil vessels continue to arrive regularly from the Middle East, with 20 more ships under the Pakistani flag being allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz by the Iranian government. With the permission of Iranian authorities, Pakistani vessels had resumed their operations. However, many vessels remain at the outer anchorage of Karachi port, carrying commodities such as soybeans and coal.
(“More shops arrive from Hormuz,” Dawn, 30 March 2026)

Iran: Moscow currently profiting from Tehran’s war, says analyst
On 31 March, CNBC reported that a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre, Sergey Vakulenko, stated: “So far the oil price, and the Urals in particular, has jumped by more than $60 a barrel and this brings the Russian state almost $9 billion per month, that’s quite substantial.” He added: “Even the countries that were considering less oil from Russia, like India, are buying more again, and the United States is even issuing dispensations for that,” referring to a 30-day waiver issued by the White House. The price of a barrel currently stands at $115 Tuesday. On February 27, the day before the U.S. and Israel launched their bombardment of Iran, the price per barrel was $57. Russian exports of helium, aluminium, and nitrogen, as well as Russian Urals crude oil fertiliser, have also given state revenues a boost, but “at an order of magnitude smaller” than oil.
(“Moscow is profiting from the Iran war for now — but experts say Russia's economy is in the 'death zone’,” CNBC, 31 March 2026)
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/31/russia-energy-price-revenues-windfall-economic-outlook-inflation-putin-moscow.html