THE WORLD TODAY #278, 13 MARCH 2026, FRIDAY
Glynnis Winona Beschi, Lekshmi MK, Tonica Sharon C, Yesasvi Koganti

THE US-IRAN WAR, DAY 14
US Defence Secretary says Iran’s supreme leader wounded and in hiding during the strikes
On 13 March, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is in hiding, “wounded” and “likely disfigured” following recent strikes. According to the US officials, the Iranian leadership has gone underground as military operations target missile stockpiles and weapons production facilities. Tehran has not confirmed the extent of the injuries, with an Iranian official stating that Khamenei was only lightly wounded and remains active in his duties.

US President Trump waives sanctions on Russian oil to offset war-driven price surge
On 13 March, the oil prices surged past USD 100 per barrel after several cargo vessels were struck in the Gulf. In response to rising prices, the United States said it would temporarily ease sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil.

Germany: Chancellor Merz questions Washington's decision to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian oil
On 13 March, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticised the US for its decision to temporarily relax sanctions on Russian oil, stating that the decision could weaken pressure on Vladimir Putin despite the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The temporary lifting of sanctions by the United States Department of the Treasury allows countries to purchase Russian oil already in transit for 30 days. Chancellor Merz stated that easing sanctions at this time was “wrong” and that, in response to Russia's little willingness to negotiate, Washington should increase pressure on Moscow. He stated that support for Ukraine should continue amid the war in Iran. Germany’s economy minister Katherina Reiche expressed concern that easing restrictions could allow Russia to continue benefiting financially and it might effectively contribute to fund Vladimir Putin’s war efforts. After G7 discussions, Emmanuel Macron stated that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz "in no way" justify relaxing sanctions on Russia. Amidst this, global oil markets remain under pressure as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz disrupt energy trade. The International Energy Agency approved the release of 400 million barrels from emergency reserves to stabilise markets, though rising fuel prices may still appear to be a political challenge for the Donald Trump administration.

Continuing attacks across the region as a US aircraft crash kills four in Iraq
On 13 March, footage analysed by international media showed an explosion near a pro-government rally after new strikes were reported in the city. The attacks are part of a broader campaign targeting military infrastructure across Iran. Iranian forces have also launched missiles and drones toward Israel and other regional targets, signalling continued retaliation. Separately, the US military confirmed that four crew members aboard a refuelling aircraft that crashed over Iraq have died. Officials stated that the incident was not caused by hostile or friendly fire.

The War in Ukraine: President Zelensky visits France
On 13 March, President Zelensky arrived in Paris seeking reassurances of support from France, underscoring the diversion from the Ukraine-Russia war due to the war in the Middle East. The escalating tensions in the Middle East have raised concerns over the supply of air defense systems to Ukraine as Gulf Arab states use their own stocks to counter attacks from Iran. President Zelensky underscored that Ukraine is dealing with an acute shortage of air defence missiles, with Gulf states deploying more Patriot PAC-3 interceptors against Iran than Ukraine received from the US in four years. Meanwhile, rising oil prices benefit Russia, while EU delays a proposed EUR 90 billion loan for Ukraine. A French Presidency official stated that the visit signals that no factor can divert France’s attention from Ukraine. He stated Ukraine remains a major security priority, and support will not waver. Alongside, Ukraine is engaging Gulf Arab states by sending experts and officials to Middle Eastern countries and offering drone-interception technology for air defence missiles.

Afghanistan: Pakistani air strikes kill six Afghans near Kandahar
On 13 March, Reuters reported that Pakistan had bombed a fuel depot near the airport of Kandahar. The conflict has only gotten worse since last week, and overnight strikes have affected residential parts of Kabul as well. Six people, including children, have been killed in the attacks. Residents in the capital city noted that many woke up to dust and broken windows and walls. The Taliban led regime’s spokesperson stated that the attack would “not go unanswered.” This incident comes to light despite Beijing's efforts to mediate a peaceful end to the conflict.

Cuba and the US: President Diaz-Canel confirms talks with President Trump officials amid energy blockade
On 13 March, President Diaz-Canel confirmed that Cuban officials have held talks based on equality, sovereignty, mutual respect and self-determination with the US government to find a solution to the blockade imposed on Cuba. Cuba’s government is under increasing pressure from President Trump amid a severe economic crisis. Cuba, especially the western region, was hit by a massive blackout last week, which it blamed on a US energy blockade. It also generates its own power and produces 40 per cent of its petroleum, but power shortages have affected communications, education, and transportation. President Diaz-Canel had earlier warned that Cuba was approaching a situation that would require extreme measures given the ongoing crisis.