Global News in a Nutshell
The World Today
09 May 2026, Saturday
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NIAS TWT Team 9 May 2026
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NIAS TWT Team 9 May 2026
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THE WORLD TODAY TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 71 Lebanon: Israeli attacks continue, killing 17 in southern Lebanon Strait of Hormuz: London and Paris deploy naval forces in anticipation of a defensive operation; The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio critiques the lack of support from Italy AROUND THE WORLD China: Beijing marks trade surplus of USD 84.8 billion in April; Exports to the US rise by 11.3 per cent The War in Ukraine: Moscow and Kyiv agree to a US-moderated ceasefire #324-325, Vol 2, No 109-110 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 69-70 UAE oil tankers move through the Strait of Hormuz Lebanon: Israel strikes Beirut for the first time since the ceasefire; Targets Hezbollah commander AROUND THE WORLD Italy and the US: PM Meloni and the US Secretary of State Rubio discuss tensions over the Iran conflict The War in Ukraine: Moscow and Kyiv trade accusations of ceasefire violations Somalia: “On the brink of Famine,” states WFP Cuba: UN experts warn US fuel blockade risks human rights crisis #323, Vol 2, No 108 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 68 The Strait of Hormuz: US and Bahrain table UNSC resolution; A second UAE LNG vessel crosses the Strait China and Iran: FM Araqchi visits Beijing ahead of meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping AROUND THE WORLD South China Sea: Japan fires missile during joint military exercise with US allies Sudan: UAE denies role in Khartoum Airport drone attack as regional concerns grow over foreign involvement North Korea: Pyongyang amends constitution to formalise separation from South Korea #322, Vol 2, No 107 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 67 On 05 May, Reuters also reported that Washington said the fragile ceasefire remains in place despite an exchange of fire in the Strait of Hormuz during US naval operations to escort commercial vessels. Washington stated that “Project Freedom” had secured limited passage through the strategic waterway, while Iran accused Washington of violating truce terms. On the same day, the US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth was quoted as saying, "We're not looking for a fight, Right now the ceasefire certainly holds, but we're going to be watching very, very closely." Strait of Hormuz: US and the Arab states to push for a UNSC resolution Iran-UAE tensions: Abu Dhabi restricts airspace after Iranian missile and drone strikes Iran’s nuclear programme: Tehran’s nuclear stockpiles and enriched uranium largely intact and weapons development timeline unchanged, says Reuters, referring to the US intelligence assessments AROUND THE WORLD Thailand and Cambodia: Old energy deal cancelled over lack of progress Thailand and Myanmar: Bangkok attempts to restart ASEAN talks with Naypyidaw #320, Vol 2, No 105 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 64 Trump rejects Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz; Tehran wants to postpone nuclear negotiations later, while Trump insists Iran will not develop nuclear weapons US and Germany: Washington announces troop withdrawal from Germany AROUND THE WORLD Zambia: Cancels RightsCon Summit, the world’s largest conference on human rights and technology, days before opening Cuba: US expands sanctions on the government Taiwan: President visits Eswatini after delayed trip #319, Vol 2, No 104 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 63 On 30 April, CNN reported that Speaker Ghalibaf had accused President Trump of attempting to force Iran into “surrender” through economic pressure and by exploiting internal divisions. Ghalibaf accused Iran’s adversaries of trying to weaken the country from within through “siege tactics and media manipulation.” He urged public unity as the main defence against what he called a new “conspiracy,” saying “every divisive action is part of the enemy’s plan” and that officials remain aligned with the supreme leader. He did not specify the nature of the divisions. The Trump administration cites the April ceasefire to counter the War Powers Resolution at the 60-day deadline The War Powers Resolution is a federal law passed in 1973 to limit the president’s ability to engage the US forces in armed conflict without congressional approval. Enacted in the aftermath of the Vietnam War, it requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of deploying troops and prohibits forces from continuing hostilities for more than 60 days, with a possible 30-day withdrawal period, unless Congress authorizes the action or declares war. The act aims to ensure that war-time decisions are in line with the Constitution’s division of war powers where only the Congress declares war and the president serves as Commander-in-Chief. In the US-Israel war against Iran which began on 28 February, the deadline was set to expire on 01 May. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers at a Senate hearing with the ceasefire in place, the “60-day clock pauses, or stops.” US Navy awards USD 99 million contract to AI firm to accelerate mine detection in the Strait of Hormuz Lebanon: Division among top officials hindering Saudi mediation efforts AROUND THE WORLD The War in Ukraine: Kyiv seeks weapon support from Tokyo following relaxations in export-restrictions Mali: Al Qaeda-linked insurgents urge uprising and call for Sharia rule Myanmar: Suu Kyi meets legal team after years of detention The DRC: US imposes sanctions on Congo's former President Joseph Kabila #318, Vol 2, No 103 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 62 The Iran war has cost USD 25 billion so far, reveals Pentagon Oil prices retreat after hitting a four-year high Lebanon: Israel intensifies attacks on south Lebanon despite ceasefire; Nine civilians killed and evacuation alerts issued to eight towns AROUND THE WORLD Mali: Army retakes town after insurgents withdraw The War in Gaza: Israel intercepts second Sumud flotilla carrying aid to Gaza #316, Vol 2, No 101 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 60 The United Arab Emirates leaves OPEC amid emerging differences with Gulf states Saudi Arabia chairs the first in-person GCC meeting on Iran strikes; GCC’s political and military response “weakest in history,” criticises the UAE’s top official AROUND THE WORLD Mexico: President Sheinbaum warns the US over its role in anti-drug operations #314, Vol 2, No 99 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 57 Iran to make offer satisfying US demands, claims Trump AROUND THE WORLD Japan: Wildfires in Iwate prompt evacuations The US and Venezuela: US eases sanctions on Maduro to allow payment of his legal fees in drug case The War in Ukraine: Washington and Riyadh facilitate a major prisoner swap between Ukraine and Russia #313, Vol 2, No 98 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 56 Lebanon: Hezbollah lawmaker says that the ceasefire with Israel is meaningless after a three-week extension is announced AROUND THE WORLD Washington has also expressed frustration with Spain, where the leadership said it would not allow its bases or airspace to be used to attack Iran. The US reportedly has two important military bases in Spain, the Naval Station Rota and the Morón Air Base. The Trump administration insists that suspending Spain from the NATO alliance would have only a limited impact on military operations but would have significant symbolic repercussions. Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez was quoted as saying, "We do not work off emails. We work off official documents and government positions, in this case of the United States.” On 24 April, the BBC reported on NATO’s statement. A NATO official was quoted by the BBC as saying, “The organisation's founding treaty does not foresee any provision for suspension of Nato membership, or expulsion,” in response to the US proposal to suspend Spain from the NATO framework. Italian Prime Minister Meloni has also urged NATO to band together in the wake of the Pentagon email, claiming that the alliance is a “source of strength.” Myanmar: Martial law imposed in 60 townships amid ongoing conflict China: Naval drills near the Philippines highlight rising regional tensions #312, Vol 2, No 97 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 55 Meanwhile, the BBC reported that US forces have interdicted a sanctioned vessel that is transporting oil from Iran, reflecting the continued enforcement efforts. According to the defence department: "US forces carried out a maritime interdiction and right-of-visit boarding of the sanctioned stateless vessel M/T Majestic X transporting oil from Iran in the Indian Ocean.” Further, President Trump stated on Truth Social that "I have ordered the United States Navy to shoot and kill any boat, small boats though they may be... that is putting mines in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz.” "There is to be no hesitation,” he added. In this backdrop, negotiations remain stalled, with Iranian officials refraining from sending a delegation over the US blockade, alongside other reasons, as highlighted by media reports. Global Fallouts: Thirty million people pushed into poverty due to supply chain disruption, says UNDP chief AROUND THE WORLD Israel and Lebanon: Beirut seeks ceasefire extension and UN presence The War in Ukraine: EU approves EUR 90 billion loan to support Ukraine, however, funding gap remains high The US: Senate moves forward on USD 70 billion ICE and border funding proposal China: Island development push and naval display mark 77th anniversary amid disputes #311, Vol 2, No 96 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 54 Iran: Tehran seizes and redirects two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz after attacks are halted The US: Washington adopts Ukrainian counter-drone technology after Iranian strikes AROUND THE WORLD Separately, Reuters reported that residents of Deir al-Balah are preparing to vote in municipal elections, marking one of the first local electoral exercises in Gaza in many years. The vote is seen as an indicator of public sentiment toward Hamas, which has governed the territory since 2007. Although Hamas has officially boycotted the election due to disagreements with the Palestinian Authority (PA) over the voting framework, several candidates perceived as pro-Hamas are contesting. Around 70,000 eligible voters are expected to participate. Analysts say the results may offer a rare indication of Hamas’s grassroots support after the devastating conflict that began with the group’s 2023 attack on Israel. The elections are also viewed as part of broader efforts by the PA to maintain political continuity and include Gaza in the wider Palestinian political process. The US and Afghan Refugees: Washington to resettle 1,100 Afghan refugees in Congo Philippines and the ICC: Judges reject bid to release former president Duterte Turkey: Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to visit London to discuss the wars in Iran and Ukraine #310, Vol 2, No 95 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, Day 53 The US-Iran Peace talks: President Trump says Tehran has "no choice but to send" delegates to Pakistan The War in Iran is generating the worst energy crisis in history, says IEA head AROUND THE WORLD The War in Ukraine: Export disruptions and drone strikes hit Russia’s oil production Russia: Moscow claims new territorial gains in Ukraine Hong Kong: Government moves to take assets worth USD 16 million linked to Jimmy Lai Canada and the Arctic: Ottawa tests its ability to operate independently in the Arctic #309, Vol 2, No 94 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 51 Lebanon: Israel warns Lebanese citizens not to return to areas marked by new maps AROUND THE WORLD The Philippines and the US: Annual joint maritime exercise launched to test Manila’s readiness in “real-world conditions across all domains” #308, Vol 2, No 93 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 48 Trump claims that Tehran has agreed to all terms AROUND THE WORLD Russia and the US: Foreign Minister Lavrov says the time has come for talks with Washington on future economic ties Spain and Mexico: Bilateral meeting held amid leftist summit and renewed ties #306, Vol 2, No 91 TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 47 AROUND THE WORLD Brazil and US: President Lula criticises President Trump’s threats, calls for respectful leadership The War in Ukraine: Russia launches deadly wave of attacks THE WORLD TODAY TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 45 Iran threatens to retaliate against the US blockade, calls it “piracy” and threatens targeting the Gulf ports NATO allies reject Trump’s Hormuz blockade plan, push for diplomatic solution China says the US blockade would be against international interests AROUND THE WORLD Russia and Ukraine complain of ceasefire breaches during Easter On the battlefield, especially in regions like Zaporizhzhia, Ukrainian soldiers stated that Russian reconnaissance drones continued to operate, preventing them from recovering the bodies of fallen comrades. The ceasefire failed to significantly reduce hostilities, showing that frontline tensions remained unchanged despite the temporary truce. Civilians were also affected during the ceasefire period, with injuries reported in Kharkiv, as well as Russia’s border regions of Kursk and Belgorod. Reports included wounded civilians and deaths, highlighting the continued human cost of the conflict. Meanwhile, the Kremlin described the ceasefire as a humanitarian gesture but stated that Russian forces remained on high alert. The truce was scheduled to end at midnight Sunday, but violations were reported throughout its duration, indicating that the ceasefire had little practical impact on reducing violence. South China Sea: The US, Australia, and the Philippines conduct military drills THE WORLD TODAY NEWS OF THE DAY TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 43 Iranian officials claim that the US will release USD six billion of frozen funds Islamabad talks begin in Pakistan AROUND THE WORLD US and UK: Britain pauses Chagos Islands deal after Washington opposition Nigeria: Convictions secured in large-scale trials of Islamist militants THE WORLD TODAY TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 42 Despite the tensions, preparations for the first US-Iran peace talks continued in Islamabad. Both sides were in place at the Serena hotel, with Pakistan mediating and describing the situation as “on track.” It noted that the de-escalation in Lebanon is a positive sign in this process. The US delegation is led by Vice President JD Vance, while Iran’s is headed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf. Vance stated that he anticipated “positive negotiations” but warned Iran against attempting to “play” the US team. The talks are expected to address core disputes, including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and regional influence, even as the war’s early economic impact begins to appear in US inflation data. UK: PM Starmer discusses Hormuz with President Trump amid reports of the US withdrawing troops from Europe AROUND THE WORLD China and North Korea: Wang Yi praises Pyongyang’s progress Russia and Ukraine: Easter ceasefire proposal amid scepticism and ongoing peace efforts THE WORLD TODAY Trump announces a two-week ceasefire; US to “suspend bombing and attack of Iran” Trump stated he would “suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks” as the US had “already met and exceeded all military objectives.” Iran agreed to regulate passage through the Strait and issued a ten-point plan, including complete cessation of war in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen; sanctions relief and compensation. Meanwhile in Lebanon, Israel not only stated that the ceasefire did not apply, but also escalated with their biggest air strikes yet on Hezbollah. What does it mean? What next? What does the 10-point proposal entail? Earlier proposals and their outcomes Despite Washington’s hardline demands against Tehran’s nuclear and missile programme, the acceptance of the latest proposal indicates the urgency to operationalise the Strait of Hormuz. It is likely that the proposal was accepted as an immediate attempt to halt hostilities and operationalise the Strait, while Iran's major demands might lead to contention. What was the resolution all about? Who voted for and who voted against? And why? What does it mean? Oil prices fall below USD 100 as President Trump announces a two-week ceasefire Alongside, Iran indicated that it would halt its attacks if strikes against it stopped, further signalling willingness to allow controlled transit through the strait during the ceasefire. This measure could incrementally release an estimated 10-13 million barrels of oil a day that is "stranded" at the moment. However, uncertainty remains over implementation, security, and shipping logistics. The Strait of Hormuz is a very narrow passage that reportedly handles around 20 per cent of the world's oil trade. At the same time, it has been the core of escalating tensions, which has significantly impacted prices, increasing them by over 50 per cent. Hence, while the ceasefire can be seen as a way to provide short-term relief, it opens the door for the two sides to negotiate their differences. However, analysts warn that markets may remain volatile amid ongoing geopolitical risks. Strait of Hormuz: Iran suggests a new toll mechanism for the Strait transit US and NATO: President Trump welcomes Chief Rutte as Iran war strains alliance "China will continue to play a constructive role," says China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, after vetoing the Bahrain-led UNSC resolution China's UN envoy stated that adopting the draft in a circumstance where the US threatens the survival of a civilisation would have sent the wrong message. The shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz poses challenges for China’s energy security and export-oriented economy. In the long run, shipping delays, higher energy prices and rerouting around chokepoints will trigger an economic slowdown. In the meantime, China have been prioritising 'new-type power system.' The development of 'new-type power system' aims to establish a modern power system centred on renewables, using digital and smart technology. It is also crucial to the country's goal of carbon neutrality by 2060. On the whole, China has adopted a balanced, non-interventionist position, prioritising energy security, the BRI, and avoiding direct confrontation with the US. AROUND THE WORLD For China, the visit reflects an effort to maintain influence over Pyongyang. This comes as North Korea has drawn closer to Russia after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, raising concerns in Beijing about reduced leverage. Re-engagement helps China reassert its role in regional affairs. The visit also comes ahead of a planned meeting between Xi Jinping and Trump, suggesting a degree of strategic positioning by Beijing. France to strengthen nuclear deterrence; plans an increase of thirty-six billion euros in its defence budget The draft law proposes an increase in the number of nuclear warheads, whilst maintaining nuclear arms spending at about 13 per cent of the overall defence budget. France spends roughly EUR 5.6 billion a year to maintain its stockpile of 290 submarine and air-launched weapons, which is the world's fourth-largest arsenal. The draft proposes earmarking an additional EUR 8.5 billion for rebuilding stocks of artillery shells, air defence interceptors, and long-range missiles. Air and missile defences will see additional funding of EUR 1.6 billion, and expand counter-drone capabilities on land, at sea, and around critical infrastructure. Drone and robotic warfare will receive another EUR 2 billion, including expanded naval and MALE (medium-altitude, long-endurance) capabilities to replace US-made Reaper drones by 2035, as well as robots that dive to the ocean floor. France also plans to develop an early warning system capable of detecting missile launches. THE WORLD TODAY Hungary Elections: Vice President Vance signals US support for PM Viktor Orbán as election nears; criticising foreign interference Russia: Black Sea oil terminal halts loadings after drone attack TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 39 US-Iran: “A whole civilization will die tonight,” warns Trump Iran ignores Trump’s threats US strikes Kharg Island again as Vice President Vance says no change in strategy Iran: Trump rejects Tehran’s 10-point peace plan Iran: IRGC claims attack on Saudi Arabia’s Jubail petrochemical complex THE WORLD TODAY Israel strikes major petrochemical site in Iran China's President Xi Jinping calls for the construction of a new energy system as the Iran war progresses AROUND THE WORLD Taiwan: Opposition Leader Embarks on Landmark "Peace Mission" to China THE WORLD TODAY THE WORLD TODAY Russia: Universities offer incentives to recruit students into drone units UK to host talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Using force to keep Hormuz open is unrealistic, says President Macron THE WORLD TODAY
#326, Vol 2, No 111
09 May 2026, Saturday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
The US proposal: As Washington awaits Tehran’s response, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi says, "Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the US opts for a reckless military adventure."
On 09 May, Reuters reported that the US is currently awaiting Iran's response to its latest proposals to end the conflict and begin peace talks. The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on 08 May that the US expected Iran to respond within hours. Iran has not responded so far. There were also clashes between US Navy vessels and Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz on 08 May. The US military stated that it struck two vessels linked to Iran, which were attempting to enter an Iranian port. It said that a US fighter jet forced them to turn back. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said: "Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the US opts for a reckless military adventure." The US also imposed sanctions on ten individuals and companies, including several based in China and Hong Kong, for aiding Iran's military by supplying weapons and materials used to build drones. The US Treasury Department said that it could sanction any foreign companies and financial institutions supporting Iran, including those connected to Chinese oil refineries.
("US, Iran no closer to ending war as Tehran's response awaited," Reuters, 09 May 2026)
On 08-09 May, Al Jazeera reported that the Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon killed at least 17 people despite a US-backed ceasefire. The strikes hit areas near the Lebanon-Israel border as the fighting between Israeli forces and Hezbollah continued. Lebanese officials and local reports said that the civilians were also among those who were killed and injured. Israel said the attacks targeted Hezbollah positions and military sites. (“Iran war live: Israel kills 17 in Lebanon as US awaits Iran’s reply to deal,” Al Jazeera, 09 May 2026; “More than a dozen reported killed in Israeli attacks on south Lebanon,” Al Jazeera, 08 May 2026)
On 09 May, the Independent reported that the United Kingdom is deploying its vessel HMS Dragon to the Middle East. This is in anticipation of a possible safeguarding mission in the Strait of Hormuz. It is also led by France, where the warship is to “pre-position” itself and prepare itself to contribute once the hostilities have ceased. On 08 May, Reuters reported that the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni. Following the meeting, Rubio noted that the US allies, including Italy, were hesitant to help Washington confront Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Rubio was quoted on the same, stating, "I don't understand why anybody would not be supportive."
(“Rubio questions allies' support on Iran following Italy talks,” Reuters, 08 May 2026.
“Iran-US war latest: UK sends destroyer back to Middle East while Trump awaits Tehran’s response to peace plan,” Independent, 09 May 2026)
Hantavirus: Outbreak on MV Hondius prompts European evacuation efforts; WHO estimates global risks to be low
On 09 May, the WHO issued a warning to 12 countries after confirming hantavirus infections on the Dutch-flagged cruise ship, MV Hondius, en route to Spain’s Canary Islands. The total outbreak consisted of eight persons, including three deaths. Typically, the virus is transmitted by animals (mainly rodents), but transmission from person to person can take place, although this appears to be very rare. At the time of the outbreak, the MV Hondius was carrying 147 passengers and crew, of whom 34 had disembarked. At present, four patients are receiving treatment for the disease in hospitals across South Africa, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, France, and Belgium. The European Union arranged two planes for the evacuation of other European citizens. Transportation support for non-EU countries was provided by the US and UK for countries unable to send an aircraft. The ship had departed Cape Verde on May 6th and was expected to have an anchorage near Tenerife on Sunday. All 147 passengers and 17 crew members were sent back to their home nations. Thirty other crew members will remain on board while the ship heads back to the Netherlands for decontamination. According to Reuters, a potential case has been found in a British person in Tristan da Cunha, where the ship was docked on April 15th. The WHO estimated the global risk to be low, and the risk to passengers and crew to be moderate.
(“European states to send planes to evacuate citizens from hantavirus-hit cruise ship Reuters, May 9, 2026” “WHO reports six confirmed hantavirus cases tied to Spain-bound cruise, Reuters May 9, 2026” “What to know about Tristan da Cunha, the island with a suspected hantavirus case, Reuters, May 08 2026”)
On 09 May, The New York Times reported that China’s exports and imports hit record highs in April, steady on its course for a third consecutive trillion-dollar annual trade surplus. According to the General Administration of Customs, Beijing posted a USD 84.8 billion trade surplus so far, while its 2025 record stood at a USD 1.19 trillion surplus and USD 992 billion in 2024. Exports to the US rose by 11.3 per cent compared to 2025, while imports only by 9 per cent, further widening Beijing’s trade surplus with Washington. Semiconductor exports doubled in April compared to the same period last year, as Chinese manufacturers benefited from growing demand for artificial intelligence data centres, and overall electronics and machinery exports increased by 20 per cent year-on-year. China has seen major success this year in exporting electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies such as wind turbines and solar panels. Electric vehicle exports alone rose 52.8 per cent in April compared to the same month last year. The New York Times also observed that the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz drove up the cost of imported oil and natural gas, leading China’s imports to grow slightly faster than its exports. It also stated that Beijing’s trade surpluses could also be indicative of weak domestic consumption, as years of declining housing prices have eroded middle-class savings and reduced household spending on both imported and domestic goods.
(“China’s Exports and Imports Set Records in April Amid High Energy Costs,” The New York Times, 09 April 2026)
On 09 May, Reuters reported that Russia and Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire mediated by the US. As part of the deal, a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 prisoners from each side was agreed upon. The ceasefire was announced by US President Trump, who stated that he hoped the temporary truce could later be extended into a broader peace effort. Ukraine’s President Zelensky confirmed the agreement and said the prisoner swap was part of negotiations mediated by the US. Russia also confirmed its participation through Kremlin officials. The agreement comes amid continued accusations of ceasefire violations between Moscow and Kyiv. Russia had earlier announced a separate ceasefire linked to its Victory Day parade. Despite the temporary pause, the Kremlin stated on the day of the parade that a comprehensive peace agreement remained “a very long way off” due to unresolved territorial disputes.
("Trump hopes for extension to agreed three-day Ukraine-Russia ceasefire," Reuters, 09 May 2026; "Ukraine's Zelenskiy confirms US announcement of ceasefire, prisoner exchange," Reuters, 09 May 2026; "Kremlin says peace in Ukraine is still a very long way off," Reuters, 09 May 2026)
08 May 2026, Friday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
The US-Iran War: Saudi Arabia and Kuwait restore base and airspace access to the US
On 07 May, The Wall Street Journal reported that Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have lifted restrictions on the US military's access to their bases and airspace following high-level discussions between US President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The decision comes after the US paused Project Freedom, an effort to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz. This operation relied heavily on support from the Gulf, but Saudi Arabia objected to providing any support, fearing escalation with Iran. Reuters reported that the US sanctioned Iraq's deputy oil minister Ali Maarij Al-Bahadly, along with militias, for allegedly supporting Iran.
("US targets Iraq oil official and militias with sanctions for aiding Iran," Reuters, 7 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-sanctions-iraqs-deputy-oil-minister-militias-over-iran-support-2026-05-07/
"Gulf States Lift Restrictions That Blocked ‘Project Freedom’ in Strait of Hormuz," Wall Street Journal, 7 May 2026
https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/saudi-arabia-kuwait-lift-restrictions-on-u-s-military-access-to-bases-airspace-8504c830?mod=middle-east_news_article_pos2)
On 07 May, Reuters reported that the UAE and buyers of crude oil have sailed oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz despite the ongoing tensions. According to sources, this was done to move the oil still available in the Middle East in large quantities, but it hasn’t moved due to the conflict. However, the current movement is reported to be only a fraction of what was exported before the conflict started, underscoring the risks traders and buyers are willing to take to move the oil in high demand.
(“Exclusive: Hungry to sell, UAE slips hidden oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz, Reuters, 07 May 2026. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/hungry-sell-uae-slips-hidden-oil-tankers-through-strait-hormuz-2026-05-07/)
On 07 May, Reuters reported that the Israeli military targeted a Hezbollah commander in its strikes in Southern Beirut. This has been the first strike from Israel since a ceasefire was declared last month. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked that there is no immunity for Israel’s ‘enemies.’ Israel has stated that the commander belonged to the Iran-backed Radwan force. Hezbollah, which is reported to have control over the South of Beirut, is yet to issue a statement on this strike.
(“After Beirut strike, Netanyahu says 'no immunity' for militants,” Reuters, 07 May 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/israel-says-it-killed-hezbollah-commander-first-strike-beirut-since-ceasefire-2026-05-07/)
ASEAN: Leaders discuss regional oil-sharing plan amid energy crisis; ADB announces USD 30 billion to support ASEAN economies
On 08 May, Reuters reported that ASEAN leaders discussed speeding up a regional oil-sharing agreement during the summit in Cebu. The discussion follows Southeast Asia's growing energy concerns due to disruptions linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that ASEAN members agreed on the need for cooperation, although the details of how the fuel-sharing system would function remain unclear. Leaders also called for a negotiated settlement between the US and Iran and urged the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The prolonged disruptions could badly affect ASEAN economies that depend on imported oil. During the summit, the Asian Development Bank announced a USD 30 billion investment pipeline to support ASEAN economies and help them manage the economic crisis.
("ASEAN summit ends with only a push to fast-track oil share pact," Reuters, 08 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/southeast-asian-leaders-seek-strategy-ease-impacts-iran-war-2026-05-08/
"Asian Development Bank to mobilise $30 billion to help ASEAN countries," Reuters, 08 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/asian-development-bank-mobilise-30-billion-help-asean-countries-withstand-2026-05-08/)
On 08 May, Reuters reported that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Rome amid growing tensions between Italy and the United States over the conflict with Iran. Although Meloni is considered one of US President Donald Trump’s close allies in Europe, Italy has not fully supported the war and opposed the use of some Italian military bases for US operations. The discussions also covered the Middle East situation, the Ukraine war, trade tariffs and relations with the Vatican. Reports said tensions increased after Trump criticised Pope Leo XIV and threatened to reduce US military presence in Europe. Italy is also facing domestic pressure because of public opposition to the Iran war and concerns about its economic effects. The development highlights growing differences between Italy and the United States over the Iran conflict and the wider impact of the war on European politics and transatlantic relations.
(“Meloni meets Rubio as Iran war strains Italy-US ties,” Reuters, 8 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/meloni-meets-rubio-iran-war-strains-italy-us-ties-2026-05-08/)
On 08 May, Reuters reported that Russia and Ukraine accused each other of violating a temporary ceasefire announced by Moscow during Russia’s Victory Day celebrations. Russian President Vladimir Putin had declared a short ceasefire from 8 to 10 May to mark the anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. However, both sides reported drone attacks, missile strikes and fighting soon after the truce began. Ukraine rejected the limited ceasefire and called instead for a longer, broader agreement to end the fighting. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of continuing military attacks while publicly calling for peace. Russia also accused Ukraine of launching drone strikes and warned of strong retaliation if attacks disrupted Victory Day events in Moscow. This development highlights the deep mistrust between Russia and Ukraine and shows how difficult it remains to achieve even temporary ceasefires in the ongoing war.
(“Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of violating ceasefire,” Reuters, 8 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-ukraine-accuse-each-other-violating-ceasefire-2026-05-08/)
On 08 May, Reuters reported that according to the World Food Programme, six million Somalis face acute hunger. The programme has stated that urgent aid funding is needed, or humanitarian support would be shut down since July. The ongoing crisis is the result of multiple failed rainy seasons combined with shortages due to the war in Iran and a lack in foreign aid. Almost 1 in 3 people face acute hunger, and 1.9 million children are severely malnourished. "Somalia faces a really severe malnutrition crisis and is one of the biggest malnutrition hotspots in the world," Matthew Hollingworth, WFP assistant executive director for programme operations, told reporters in Geneva.
(“Somalia faces severe malnutrition crisis as WFP warns of aid halt,” Reuters, 8 May 2026 https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/somalia-faces-severe-malnutrition-crisis-wfp-warns-aid-halt-2026-05-08/)
On 07 May, Reuters reported that UN experts warned that Trump’s fuel blockade on Cuba has led to “energy starvation." It has contributed to the increase of risk in the island’s development and human rights. The experts stated that the restrictions have worsened fuel shortages, pushing essential services to the brink and deepening Cuba’s ongoing energy crisis. Simultaneously, Washington imposed new financial sanctions to increase pressure on Havana. They have also threatened tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba and repeatedly suggested possible military action against the island. The experts criticized the measures as “unilateral coercive measures." They argue that the US directly harmed the enjoyment of human rights of the Cuban people.
("UN experts warn US fuel blockade in Cuba puts human rights at risk," Reuters, 07 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/un-experts-warn-us-fuel-blockade-cuba-puts-human-rights-risk-2026-05-07)
06 May 2026, Wednesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
US–Iran ceasefire deal gains momentum; New framework hints at removal of Tehran’s enriched Uranium, says CNN
On 07 May, CNN reported that the United States and Iran are edging closer to a potential ceasefire agreement, with both sides reviewing a draft one-page memorandum to end the ongoing conflict in the Gulf. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the proposed framework would formally declare a halt to hostilities while initiating a 30-day window for further talks on unresolved issues, including Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. The diplomatic push has gained momentum in recent days, with Pakistan playing a key mediating role by facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran. US officials have expressed cautious optimism, noting that previous negotiations have collapsed at critical moments. The proposed deal is expected to include provisions such as a temporary halt on uranium enrichment and the removal of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile, though specifics remain under discussion. US President Donald Trump has emphasized diplomacy as the preferred path forward, even announcing a pause in certain military-linked operations to support negotiations. Iran has indicated it will respond soon, raising hopes that a ceasefire could be within reach if both sides agree on the core terms.
("US and Iran moving toward memo aimed at ending war,” CNN, 06 May 2026,
https://www.cnn.com/2026/05/06/world/live-news/iran-war-trump-strait-of-hormuz)
On 05 May, Reuters reported that the United States and Bahrain have tabled a revised UN Security Council resolution demanding Iran halt attacks and remove threats to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, while avoiding explicit authorization of force to reduce the risk of Chinese and Russian vetoes. Secretary of State Rubio was quoted on the same, stating, “Everyone wouldn't want to see this vetoed again, and we've made some slight adjustments to the language, I don't know if it will avoid a veto or not, I think it's a real test to the UN as something that functions.” Washington is also simultaneously rallying allies behind a proposed “Maritime Freedom Construct” to secure commercial shipping through the chokepoint. The diplomatic push comes as renewed Gulf tensions continue to disrupt global energy flows and test the fragile regional ceasefire. On 06 May, Reuters also reported on a CMA CGM container ship that was struck while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, injuring eight crew members. The attack, reportedly caused by an Iranian projectile, forced medical evacuations and further disrupted traffic through the strategic waterway, where shipping has largely stalled. In addition, Reuters reported that a second ADNOC-managed LNG tanker had crossed the Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing US-Iran tensions. Ship-tracking data showed the tanker Mraweh near Indonesia after going dark in April, suggesting a covert transit similar to that of an earlier ADNOC vessel. Analysts say evasive navigation tactics remain common as regional instability persists, though the crossing offers tentative signs that some Gulf energy flows may be gradually resuming despite continued maritime risks.
(“Rubio calls Hormuz resolution test for UN, urges against vetoes,” Reuters, 06 May 2026, https://www.reuters.com/world/china/us-bahrain-push-un-backed-action-hormuz-washington-seeks-maritime-coalition-2026-05-05/
“CMA CGM vessel attacked in Strait of Hormuz as shipping halted by US-Iran war,” Reuters, 06 May 2026, https://www.reuters.com/world/cma-cgm-container-ship-hit-strait-hormuz-injuring-crew-2026-05-06/
“Second ADNOC LNG tanker crosses Strait of Hormuz amid Iran war, ship-tracking data shows,” Reuters, 06 May 2026, https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/second-adnoc-lng-tanker-crosses-strait-hormuz-amid-iran-war-ship-tracking-data-2026-05-06/ )
On 06 May, Reuters reported that Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing, ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Iran's foreign ministry said that Mr Araqchi briefed Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Iran's talks with the US. He said that Iran will do its best to protect its rights and interests while negotiating with the US. China's foreign ministry said that the regional situation was at a critical juncture while calling for a cessation of hostilities. Beijing further urged all parties to restore secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. China also acknowledged Iran's right to peaceful use of nuclear energy. Earlier this week, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called on China to persuade Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He said that President Trump will discuss Iran with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping in Beijing on 14–15 May.
("Iran foreign minister meets Chinese counterpart a week before Trump's Beijing trip," Reuters, 06 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/chinese-foreign-minister-kicks-off-meeting-with-iranian-counterpart-2026-05-06/)
Ukraine: Kyiv accuses Russia of violating proposed ceasefire
On 06 May, Reuters reported that Ukraine accused Russia of breaking a ceasefire announced by Kyiv only hours after it started. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian forces continued attacks, drone strikes and air assaults even after Ukraine declared a temporary pause in fighting from midnight on 5-6 May. Ukrainian officials said there were many violations during the ceasefire period. The ceasefire followed Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a separate truce for 8-9 May during Russia’s Victory Day events. Ukraine said it supported peace efforts but accused Russia of continuing military actions while talking about peace publicly. Reports said Russian attacks damaged infrastructure and caused civilian deaths and injuries in different parts of Ukraine. The development highlights the deep mistrust between Russia and Ukraine and shows how difficult it remains to achieve even short-term peace agreements in the ongoing war.
(“Ukraine says Russia violated ceasefire initiated by Kyiv,” Reuters, 6 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine-says-russia-violated-ceasefire-initiated-by-kyiv-2026-05-06/)
On 06 May, Reuters reported that Japan fired a Type 88 anti-ship missile during joint military exercises with the United States, Australia and the Philippines in the northern Philippines near the South China Sea. The missile hit a retired Philippine Navy ship during the “Balikatan” exercises which included more than 17,000 troops from allied countries. The military exercise took place amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. Japan and the Philippines also discussed expanding defence cooperation, including possible transfers of Japanese military equipment to the Philippines. China criticised the exercises and said the growing military cooperation between US allies could increase tensions in the region. The development highlights stronger security cooperation between US allies in the Asia-Pacific region and growing regional tensions linked to China’s actions in the South China Sea and near Taiwan.
(“Japan fires missile in joint drill with US and allies in northern Philippines, facing South China Sea,” Reuters, 06 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/japan-fires-missile-joint-drill-with-us-allies-northern-philippines-facing-south-2026-05-06/)
On 06 May, Reuters reported that the United Arab Emirates denied Sudan’s allegation that an Emirati drone was used in Monday’s attack on Khartoum airport. Sudan claimed the drone had been launched from Ethiopia. They also accused the UAE of continuing to support the Rapid Support Forces. Sudan’s army spokesman said images and flight paths showed Emirati-owned drones taking off from Ethiopia’s Bahir Dar airport and striking several locations in Sudan in March and May. Sudanese officials also said they were prepared to respond to the alleged violation. The UAE rejected the allegation, describing it as a way to shift blame and hinder the peace efforts. Egypt and Saudi Arabia condemned the attack on Khartoum airport. The airport had recently reopened to flights. They also warned against interference by Sudan’s neighbours.
(“UAE denies involvement in Sudan airport attack” Reuters, May 6, 2026, https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/uae-denies-involvement-sudan-airport-attack-2026-05-06/)
On 06 May, Reuters reported that North Korea revised its constitution to define its territory as bordering South Korea while removing references to reunification. The amendment was adopted during a March session of the Supreme People’s Assembly. It formalises leader Kim Jong Un’s push to treat the two Koreas as separate states. The revised Article 2 states that North Korea’s territory borders China and Russia to the north and South Korea to the south, including territorial waters and airspace. He warned that Pyongyang “will never tolerate any infringement” of its territory.The amendment formally recognises Kim Jong Un as the country’s head of state and assigns control of North Korea’s nuclear forces directly under the chairman of the State Affairs Commission. A separate defence clause describes the country as a “responsible nuclear weapons state.” This move reflects Pyongyang's increasing hostility towards Seoul.
("North Korea revises constitution to drop references to unification of Korean Peninsula", Reuters,6 May 2026) https://www.reuters.com/world/china/north-korea-revises-constitution-drop-references-unification-korean-peninsula-2026-05-06/
05 May 2026, Tuesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
The US-Iran War: Washington says ceasefire is in place despite renewed hostilities
On 04 May, Reuters reported that the United States and Iran had launched new missile and drone attacks as both sides escalated efforts to control the Strait of Hormuz, threatening a fragile ceasefire. Washington’s “Project Freedom” seeks to reopen the strategic waterway for stranded commercial vessels, but the initiative has triggered retaliatory Iranian strikes, including attacks on shipping and UAE energy infrastructure. The renewed hostilities have heightened fears of broader regional escalation, disrupted maritime trade, and added fresh pressure to global oil markets already strained by prolonged instability.
(“US says Iran ceasefire holds despite exchange of fire in Gulf,” Reuters, 05 May 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/middle-east-truce-doubt-us-iran-fight-control-strait-hormuz-2026-05-05/
“US and Iran launch new attacks as they wrestle for control of Gulf waters,” Reuters, 04 May 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/trump-says-us
help-ships-stranded-strait-hormuz-tanker-hit-by-projectiles-2026-05-04/)
On 05 May, Reuters reported that Washington and Gulf Arab countries are drafting a UN Security Council resolution condemning Iran for obstructing navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The resolution is co-drafted with Bahrain and supported by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. It would push Iran to cease attacks on merchant shipping and disclose the locations of sea mines. The US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, described it as a “narrower effort” focused on disruptions to global trade and said negotiations would take place this week after an earlier resolution was blocked by Russia and China. The draft, under Chapter VII, could lead to sanctions if Iran fails to comply, while also calling for a humanitarian corridor through the strait. It appears to form part of a broader US strategy to increase diplomatic pressure and plan for post-conflict arrangements. Simultaneously, Washington has proposed a multinational Maritime Freedom Construct, which aims to secure navigation and coordination through a Franco-British mission involving around 30 countries. This move follows renewed clashes, including US strikes on Iranian boats and missile attacks on a UAE oil port, which have affected the ceasefire. Reuters also reported that South Korea is reviewing whether to join US-led navigation efforts after an explosion on a Korean-operated vessel, HMM Namu in the strait. While Trump blamed Iran for the incident, Seoul said the cause remains under investigation. South Korea emphasised that “freedom of navigation should be protected under international law.” Authorities confirmed no casualties, but the 26 South Korean vessels stranded in the region highlight the growing risk to shipping routes.
("US, Gulf Arab nations draft new UN resolution on Strait of Hormuz," Reuters, 04 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-gulf-arab-nations-draft-new-un-resolution-strait-hormuz-2026-05-04/
"US and Bahrain push UN-backed action for Hormuz as Washington seeks maritime coalition," Reuters, 05 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/us-bahrain-push-un-backed-action-hormuz-washington-seeks-maritime-coalition-2026-05-05/
"Seoul reviews Trump's Hormuz navigation plan after explosion on Korean-operated ship," Reuters, 05 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korea-probe-ship-fire-strait-hormuz-trump-blames-iranian-attack-2026-05-05/)
On 05 May, Reuters reported that the UAE imposed airspace restrictions after an Iranian missile and drone attack. The UAE's Ministry of Defence said that its air defence systems engaged 12 ballistic missiles, three cruise missiles and four drones launched from Iran. The emirate of Fujairah said an Iranian drone sparked a large fire at the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone, which injured three Indian citizens. India's Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that this attack on Fujairah was unacceptable and called for the immediate cessation of hostilities and targeting of civilian infrastructure. The UAE restricted flights to only a select number of approved routes until at least 11 May. It also activated emergency security protocols, according to Notices to Air Men (NOTAMs) published by its General Civil Aviation Authority. Multiple flights were also diverted to Saudi Arabia and Oman after the UAE said that its air defences were engaging Iranian drones and missiles.
("UAE restricts airspace after Iranian missile, drone attack," Reuters, 05 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/uae-restricts-airspace-after-iranian-missile-drone-attack-2026-05-05/
"Official Spokesperson’s statement on the attack on Fujairah," India's Ministry of External Affairs, 05 May 2026
https://www.mea.gov.in/Speeches-Statements.htm?dtl/41100)
On 05 May, Reuters reported that the US intelligence assessments indicate that two months of US-Israeli strikes have only caused limited additional damage to Iran’s nuclear program, with Tehran’s estimated timeline to develop a nuclear weapon remaining broadly unchanged at up to one year. While key enrichment facilities were previously degraded, Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains largely intact and unverified. The findings suggest that military actions targeting conventional assets have done little to significantly delay Iran’s nuclear capabilities, reinforcing calls within Washington for a negotiated resolution.
(“Exclusive: US intelligence indicates limited new damage to Iran's nuclear program, sources say, Reuters, 05 May 2026, https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-intelligence-indicates-
Sudan: Drone warfare intensifies with attacks across Khartoum; SAF accuses the UAE of involvement
On 04 May, Reuters reported that drones struck Khartoum International Airport amid ongoing fighting between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, who have been engaged in conflict since 2023. The Sudanese military stated that the drones were launched from Ethiopia’s Bahir Dar airport and accused the United Arab Emirates of involvement. Ethiopia rejected the allegation as “baseless,” while the UAE did not immediately respond. Witnesses reported explosions near the airport, which had recently resumed limited operations after the Sudanese army recaptured the capital in March 2025. Sudan’s Information Ministry said there were no casualties or damage at the airport and that flights would resume after safety checks were completed. Residents, speaking anonymously, said they believed the Rapid Support Forces were responsible for the attacks, though the group has not issued any statement. Over the weekend, drones also hit Omdurman, al-Obeid and Kenana. One strike in southern Omdurman hit a civilian bus, killing five people. Another attack targeted relatives of Abu Agla Keikal, a militia leader who had shifted allegiance to the army. The developments follow a period of reduced fighting in Khartoum after the army’s recapture of the capital, during which some normal activities, including flights, had resumed.
(“Sudan army says UAE and Ethiopia linked to Khartoum drone attack” Reuters, May 4, 2026, https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/drones-shatter-months-relative-calm-khartoum-hit-airport-2026-05-04/)
On 5 May, Reuters reported that Thailand cancelled a 25-year-old agreement with Cambodia on joint oil and gas exploration. The deal was meant to help both countries work together in disputed waters, but it made little progress for many years. Thailand said the agreement was no longer useful and decided to end it. The decision also comes amid rising tensions between the two countries, although officials said it was not directly linked to recent border issues. Cambodia said it was disappointed and would now seek to resolve the dispute through international law, particularly under UNCLOS. The two countries still disagree over areas that may have large energy resources.
(“Thailand scraps 25-year-old agreement with Cambodia on joint energy exploration,” Reuters, 05 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/thailand-scraps-25-year-old-agreement-with-cambodia-joint-energy-exploration-2026-05-05/)
On 5 May, Reuters reported that Thailand’s foreign minister wants to invite Myanmar to meet ASEAN leaders. The aim is to bring Myanmar back into regional discussions after it has been mostly left out. Myanmar has been excluded from major ASEAN meetings since the 2021 military coup. Thailand believes that starting talks step by step can help reduce tensions and improve the situation. However, Myanmar is still facing serious conflict and instability. ASEAN’s peace efforts have not been successful so far, and many people have been affected by the crisis. Thailand said it wants to work with other ASEAN countries to find a solution.
(“Thai foreign minister seeks ASEAN talks with Myanmar counterpart,” Reuters, 5 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thai-foreign-minister-seeks-asean-talks-with-myanmar-counterpart-2026-05-05/)
02 May 2026, Saturday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
US: The Trump administration circumvents the Congressional approval for arms sales worth USD 8.6 billion for allies in the Middle East
On May 02, Reuters reported that the Trump administration was bypassing the US Congressional review for military sales of over USD 8.6 billion for its allies in the Middle East, including Israel, UAE, Qatar and Kuwait. Marc Rubio, the US Secretary of State, stated that “An emergency existed that required immediate sales to those countries and waived the congressional review requirements for the sales.”
(“US bypasses congressional review for military sales of $8.6 billion to Middle East allies,” Reuters, 02 May 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-approves-military-sales-over-86-billion-middle-east-allies-2026-05-01/)
On 02 May, Reuters reported that Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and ease maritime disruptions has been rejected by President Trump, with Tehran suggesting that nuclear negotiations be postponed to a later stage. The proposal aimed to end the ongoing conflict by ensuring that the US and Israel would halt further attacks, while Iran would reopen the strait and the US would lift its blockade. However, Washington has maintained that any agreement must first guarantee that Iran will not develop nuclear weapons. Simultaneously, tensions have intensified over maritime actions. Trump described US naval operations enforcing the blockade as “like pirates,” followed by the seizure of Iranian-linked vessels. The situation continues to drive uncertainty in energy markets and delay diplomatic resolution.
(“Iranian proposal rejected by Trump would open strait before nuclear talks, Iran official says,” Reuters, 02 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iranian-proposal-rejected-by-trump-would-open-strait-before-nuclear-talks-iran-2026-05-02/
“Trump says US Navy acting 'like pirates' to carry out naval blockade of Iranian ports,” Reuters, 02 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-says-us-navy-acting-like-pirates-carry-out-naval-blockade-iranian-ports-2026-05-02)
On 01 May, Reuters reported that the US announced it would withdraw 5,000 troops from Germany, marking a reduction in its military presence in Europe amid growing tensions with NATO allies over the Iran conflict. The Pentagon said the withdrawal would take place over six to twelve months, bringing troop levels closer to those before the 2022 buildup following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The decision follows a public disagreement between US President Donald Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. German officials had criticised the US approach to the Iran war, prompting Washington to describe recent German remarks as “inappropriate and unhelpful Germany currently hosts around 35,000 US troops, making it the largest American military base in Europe. The withdrawal is expected to include a brigade combat team and the cancellation of planned deployments, including a long-range fires battalion. The move reflects broader tensions between the US and its European allies, with Washington urging NATO members to increase defence contributions and support operations to secure key routes, such as the Strait of Hormuz. Officials indicated that further troop reductions in countries such as Spain and Italy remain under consideration as part of a wider reassessment of U.S. military posture in Europe.
(“US withdrawing 5,000 troops from Germany, US officials say,” Reuters, May 2 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/us-withdrawing-5000-troops-germany-us-officials-say-2026-05-01/)
The War in Gaza: Washington set to shut flagship mission as Trump plan faces setbacks
On 01 May, Reuters reported that the US is planning to close its Civil-Military Coordination Centre near Gaza, a key part of President Trump’s plan to monitor the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and coordinate aid. The move comes as the broader plan faces setbacks with continued Israeli military operations and Hamas’ refusal to disarm. CMCC’s functions will likely be absorbed into a US-led International Stabilization Force , though diplomats have expressed doubts about whether this shift will make a difference. The centre has faced criticism for lacking the authority to enforce the ceasefire, and international participation has reportedly declined. The restructuring is also expected to reduce the number of US personnel. Despite official denials, the development points to ongoing difficulties in sustaining the truce and managing humanitarian coordination in Gaza.
("Exclusive: US to close its flagship Gaza mission as Trump plan stalls, sources say, Reuters,01 May 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-close-its-flagship-gaza-mission-trump-plan-stalls-sources-say-2026-05-01/)
On 02 May, The Guardian reported that Zambia cancelled the 2026 RightsCon summit, the world’s largest conference on human rights and technology, just days before it was scheduled to take place in Lusaka from May 5 to 8. The government said the event would not proceed as it needed to ensure the gathering aligned with “national values, policy priorities, and broader public interest considerations.” The summit was expected to bring together more than 2,600 participants, including activists, technologists, academics, and policymakers. The agenda included discussions on digital rights issues such as online hate, internet shutdowns, artificial intelligence, surveillance, and disinformation. The decision followed months of planning in coordination with organisers, Access Now. The organisation said it had worked closely with authorities to ensure transparency and preparation ahead of the event. Civil society groups criticised the cancellation, describing it as a disruption to a major international forum. Concerns were also raised about possible external pressure linked to Taiwanese delegates' participation and the venue’s ties to Chinese support. The summit, now in its 14th edition, was to be held in southern Africa for the first time.
(“Zambia cancels world’s largest human rights and tech summit days before start,” The Guardian, May 2, 2026 https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2026/may/02/zambia-cancels-rightscon-summit-largest-human-rights-technology-conference)
On 1 May, Reuters reported that US President Donald Trump signed an order to increase sanctions on the Cuban government. The new measures target people, companies, and groups linked to Cuba’s security system, as well as those involved in corruption and human rights violations. The sanctions can also affect foreign companies that work with these groups. The move is part of US efforts to put more pressure on Cuba, especially after recent developments linked to Venezuela. US officials said the aim is to limit the Cuban government’s financial and security networks. Cuba strongly criticised the decision, calling the sanctions unfair and harmful to its people. Cuban leaders said the measures increase pressure on the country. The development shows rising tensions between the United States and Cuba and reflects a tougher US approach towards the Cuban government.
(“Trump expands US sanctions on Cuban government,” Reuters, 1 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/trump-expands-us-sanctions-cuban-government-2026-05-01/)
On 02 May, Reuters reported that Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini after his earlier trip was delayed, which Taiwan blamed on pressure from China. Several countries had earlier denied him access to their airspace, forcing the cancellation of his visit. Eswatini is Taiwan’s only diplomatic ally in Africa, and the visit is important for maintaining strong ties and demonstrating Taiwan’s presence globally despite pressure from China. China criticised the visit and reiterated its claim to Taiwan; Taipei said it has the right to maintain international relations and to decide its own future. The development shows the challenges Taiwan faces in maintaining its diplomatic ties amid China's increasing pressure to isolate it globally.
(“Taiwan president arrives in Eswatini after blaming China for cancellation of prior trip,” Reuters, 2 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/taiwan-president-arrives-eswatini-after-blaming-china-cancellation-prior-trip-2026-05-02/)
01 May 2026, Friday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
Iran presents a new proposal; UAE official says Iran cannot be trusted over Hormuz
On 01 May, Reuters reported that UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash said that Iran could not be trusted to make unilateral arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz. Gargash, highlighting the interests of the Gulf states, said the "collective international will and provisions of international law" were the primary guarantors of freedom of navigation through the Strait. He further added that no unilateral arrangement by Iran could be trusted following its "treacherous aggression against all its neighbors." Iran also sent a new proposal for negotiations with the United States to Pakistani mediators which led to a drop in oil prices. The Iranian state news agency gave no details of this proposal. According to reports, US President Trump was briefed on plans for new military strikes to force Iran to negotiate. In response, Iran has activated air defences and plans a wider retaliation.
("Iran sends proposal for negotiations with US to mediator Pakistan," Reuters, 01 May 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/uae-says-iran-cannot-be-trusted-over-hormuz-peace-efforts-an-impasse-2026-05-01/)
Iran’s President and Parliamentary Speaker seek Foreign Minister Araqchi’s ouster over ties with the IRGC leadership, reports Iran International; Speaker Ghalibaf accuses Trump of exploiting internal divisions to force “surrender”
On 01 May, Iran International, in an exclusive report, stated that Iran’s president and parliament speaker are reportedly seeking the removal of Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, accusing him of following directives from the Revolutionary Guard Commander Ahmad Vahidi during nuclear negotiations without informing the presidency. President Pezeshkian and Speaker Ghalibaf expressed disagreements over the conduct of the war and its damaging impact on livelihoods and the economy. The report also highlighted the president's frustration over the “complete political deadlock” and had been stripped of the authority to appoint replacements for officials killed during the conflict. According to the report, Ahmad Vahidi argued that, given the wartime situation, all key and sensitive positions should be directly controlled by the Revolutionary Guards.
(“Pezeshkian, Ghalibaf seek Araghchi’s ouster over 'subservience' to Guards,” Iran International, 01 May 2026.
https://www.iranintl.com/en/202604302117
“Iran’s Ghalibaf urges unity amid divisions, says Trump seeks surrender,” CNN, 30 April 2026
https://edition.cnn.com/2026/04/29/world/live-news/iran-war-peace-proposal-trump?post-id=cmokizwfv00003b6qtqomi3jr)
On 01 March, Reuters reported that senior Trump officials argued that the US-Iran ceasefire agreement in April and the subsequent suspension of hostilities bypasses the 01 May deadline on achieving congressional approval for the US-Israel war against Iran. "For War Powers Resolution purposes, the hostilities that began on Saturday, February 28, have terminated," said the official.
(“US official says Iran war truce 'terminated' hostilities for war powers deadline,” Reuters, 01 May 2026,
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/war-powers-resolution-purposes-us-hostilities-with-iran-that-began-february-have-2026-05-01/)
On 01 May, Reuters reported that the US Navy is accelerating its AI capabilities to track and remove mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The US Navy has awarded a USD 99 million contract to San Francisco based artificial intelligence company Domino Data Lab to develop software that can train underwater drones to identify new types of mines. The project is central to the Navy’s Project AMMO - Accelerated Machine Learning for Maritime Operations - a program to make underwater mine detection faster, more accurate, and less dependent on human sailors. “The Navy is paying for the platform that lets it train, govern, and field that AI at a speed required for contested waters,” said Domino's CEO, Thomas Robinson. Prior to the initiative, updating AI models for the navy’s unmanned underwater vehicles to detect new or previously unseen mines could take up to six months; Domino says it has reduced that timeline to just days.
(“US Navy turns to AI firm Domino for options to counter Iranian mines,” Reuters, 01 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-navy-turns-ai-firm-domino-options-counter-iranian-mines-2026-05-01/)
On 30 April, Reuters reported that a growing divide between top Lebanese officials has hindered Saudi Arabia's efforts to help Lebanon have a united position over negotiations with Israel. Riyadh has deepened its engagement with Beirut in recent days after Hezbollah was severely weakened by Israel in 2024. The US had hoped that the recent truce between Israel and Lebanon would lead to direct negotiations on a peace agreement. However, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri are divided over the format and objectives of the negotiations. President Aoun supports direct talks with Israel and has expressed desire for permanent peace agreements. Berri, who is a Hezbollah ally, opposes direct talks with Israel and supports a non-aggression pact instead of a complete peace agreement. Last week, Saudi envoy Prince Yazid bin Farhan visited Beirut to help Lebanese leaders find common ground. However, tensions between Aoun and Berri derailed Saudi plans to organise a meeting between Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, President Aoun and Berri this week.
("Lebanon's internal splits over talks with Israel trip up Saudi mediation efforts," Reuters, 30 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/lebanons-internal-splits-over-talks-with-israel-trip-up-saudi-mediation-efforts-2026-04-30/)
US and China: Tensions rise over Taiwan and trade ahead of Trump-Xi summit
On 01 May, Reuters reported that China warned the US that the Taiwan issue remains the “biggest point of risk” in bilateral relations. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to respect Beijing’s core interests and take decisions that would sustain cooperation. The remarks come ahead of a planned mid-May summit between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping, with both sides preparing for high-level exchanges while attempting to preserve stability in ties. Simultaneously, senior economic officials from both countries held “candid” discussions which highlighted concerns over each other’s trade actions. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described China’s recent supply chain rules as “provocative” and warned that they could unsettle global supply networks. In response, China has raised objections to US trade restrictions. Despite these differences, both sides indicated willingness to manage disagreements and continue engagement ahead of the summit.
(“China's foreign minister tells Rubio Taiwan is 'biggest risk' in ties,”Reuters, 30 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/chinas-foreign-minister-tells-rubio-taiwan-is-biggest-risk-ties-2026-04-30/ “China, US economic chiefs raise complaints in 'candid' call ahead of Trump-Xi summit,” Reuters, 30 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/china-us-trade-chiefs-had-candid-call-weeks-ahead-expected-trump-xi-summit-2026-04-30/)
On 01 May, Reuters, in an exclusive report, revealed that Japan’s easing of its weapons-export restrictions opens the door to talks that could eventually lead to Tokyo supplying military equipment to support Ukraine. Kyiv's ambassador to Japan, Yurii Lutovinov, stated that the move was “a very big step forward,” and that “Indo-Pacific and the European continent are inseparable from the point of view of our security." Lutovinov stated that Ukraine is proceeding cautiously given Japan’s sensitivities around defence exports. In the near term, he suggested Tokyo could help fund the development of an air-defence system to reduce reliance on scarce US-made Patriot missiles. He added that talks are also under way on Japan contributing to NATO’s Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), which finances the purchase of U.S. military equipment for Kyiv.
(“Exclusive: Ukraine sees path to getting Japanese arms after Tokyo eases export rules,” Reuters, 01 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/ukraine-sees-path-japanese-arms-after-tokyo-eases-export-rules-2026-04-30/)
On 01 May, Reuters reported that the Al Qaeda-linked group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has urged Malians to rise up against the military-led government and move towards the establishment of Sharia law, following a series of coordinated attacks across the country. In a statement issued in French, the group called on “all sincere patriots” to unite against what it described as a terrorist junta,extending its call to political actors, members of the armed forces and broader sections of society. The statement follows the 25 April assaults carried out jointly with the Tuareg-led Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), which targeted multiple military positions, including areas close to the capital Bamako, and resulted in the capture of Kidal. Reports also suggest that JNIM has set up checkpoints along key routes which appears to be an attempt to consolidate its presence. Mali’s military leader Assimi Goita stated that the situation is under control and vowed to neutralise the insurgent forces linked to the attacks.
(“Al Qaeda-linked insurgents establish check points around capital, call on Malians to rise up,” Reuters, 01 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/al-qaeda-linked-insurgents-call-malians-rise-up-establish-sharia-law-2026-05-01/)
On 01 May, Reuters reported that Myanmar’s former leader Aung San Suu Kyi is expected to meet her lawyers over the weekend after being moved to house arrest in Naypyidaw. Her legal team said the meeting will help discuss her case and provide her with basic items like food and medicine. Suu Kyi has been in detention since the military took power in a coup in February 2021. Since then there has been ongoing conflict in the country and her location and condition were not clearly known for a long time. This development comes as international pressure grows on Myanmar’s military government to release political prisoners and return to talks. The meeting is seen as a small step that allows her to reconnect with her legal team after years of limited contact.
(“Detained Myanmar ex-leader Suu Kyi to meet legal team this weekend,” Reuters, 01 May 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/detained-myanmar-ex-leader-suu-kyi-meet-legal-team-this-weekend-2026-05-01/)
On 30 April, Reuters reported that the United States placed sanctions on former Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila saying he supported the Rwanda backed M23 rebel group and added to instability in eastern Congo. The US said Kabila helped the group financially and encouraged some soldiers to leave the national army. The conflict in eastern Congo has caused many deaths and forced large numbers of people to leave their homes. The sanctions are part of US efforts to reduce violence and support peace between Congo and Rwanda. Under the sanctions any assets linked to Kabila in the US will be frozen and he will not be able to use the US financial system. Congo’s government supported the decision while Kabila denied the claims. This move shows ongoing international concern over the conflict in eastern Congo and efforts to bring stability to the region.
(“US imposes sanctions on former Congo President Joseph Kabila,” Reuters, 30 April 2026.
https://www.reuters.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-former-congo-president-joseph-kabila-2026-04-30/)
30 April 2026, Thursday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
Tehran threatens to retaliate as tensions increase oil prices; Washington calls for a global coalition to open the Strait of Hormuz
On 30 April, Reuters reported that Iran has warned of a “long and painful” strike if the US resumes attacks, as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz persist. Oil prices have surged amid stalled talks and continued supply disruptions. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said new management of the Strait of Hormuz would bring stability and economic benefits. Iran's Supreme Leader stated Tehran will secure the Gulf region and curb what he believed is "the enemy's abuses of the waterway.” On 29 April, Reuters also reported that the United States is urging its allies to form a coalition to restore navigation through the Strait of Hormuz amid stalled efforts to resolve the conflict. Oil prices have surged on supply fears, with tensions escalating as negotiations remain deadlocked.
(“Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei says new management of Strait of Hormuz 'will bring calm’,” Reuters, 30 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/irans-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-says-new-phase-taking-shape-gulf-strait-2026-04-30/
“Iran threatens painful response if US resumes attacks, oil prices seesaw,” Reuters, 30 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/us-seeks-international-help-reopen-strait-hormuz-crude-prices-surge-2026-04-30/
“US seeks international help to reopen Strait of Hormuz as crude prices surge,” Reuters, 29 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/trump-urges-iran-sign-deal-after-report-suggests-us-may-extend-blockade-2026-04-29/)
On 29 April, Reuters reported that the US war with Iran has cost USD 25 billion according to a senior Pentagon official. This is the first official estimate of the USA's expenditure on the conflict. Jules Hurst informed the House Armed Services Committee that most of this money was spent on munitions. Jules did not provide details on what the estimate included and whether the cost of repairing damaged US bases was included. Representative Adam Smith, the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, said he was glad to receive this information after repeated requests. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said that this cost was justified because the American objective was to ensure that Iran does not develop nuclear weapons. He attacked Democrats for their stance on the Iran war, which he according to him, hands propaganda to the enemies of the US.
("US war in Iran has cost $25 billion so far, says Pentagon official," Reuters, 29 April 2026.) https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-war-iran-has-cost-25-billion-so-far-says-pentagon-official-2026-04-29/)
On 30 April, Reuters reported that global oil prices had surged above USD 126 per barrel, the highest since 2022 on fears of escalating US-Iran conflict and a threat of prolonged supply disruptions, before retreating amid heightened market volatility. The continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20 per cent of global oil flows, has sharply constrained the existing supply. Analysts have noted that extreme price swings reflect the uncertainty over potential US military action and stalled negotiations. Sustained volatility is therefore expected due to fuel global inflation, raise fuel costs, and weigh on economic growth.
(“Oil retreats after hitting four-year high on concern of US-Iran war escalation,” Reuters, 30 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/oil-retreats-after-hitting-four-year-high-concern-us-iran-war-escalation-2026-04-30/)
On 30 April, Al Jazeera reported that Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon killed nine civilians as Tel Aviv intensified artillery shelling in the region. The attacks were launched despite a three-week extension to the US-mediated ceasefire with Lebanon. The Israeli Defence Forces also warned residents of eight towns outside of the "buffer zone" to evacuate their homes immediately ahead of strikes. Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz threatened that Lebanon’s fate will be like Gaza’s, despite the ceasefire agreement. Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun decried the “continuing Israeli violations” in southern Lebanon, highlighting that they were launched “despite the ceasefire, as do demolitions of homes and places of worship, while the number of killed and wounded rises day after day”. “Pressure must be exerted on Israel to ensure it respects international laws and conventions and ceases targeting civilians, paramedics, civil defence, and humanitarian health and relief organisations,” he added.
(“Israel kills nine people in southern Lebanon despite ‘ceasefire’.” Al Jazeera, 30 April 2026.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/4/30/israel-kills-nine-people-in-southern-lebanon-despite-ceasefire)
China: Conducts patrols near Scarborough Shoal
On 30 April, Reuters reported that China’s military carried out naval and air patrols near the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea to test its combat readiness. The drills were done by the Southern Theater Command to improve coordination and preparedness. China said the patrols were in response to what it called “provocative actions” referring to joint military exercises by the United States, the Philippines and their allies in the region. These exercises involve several countries and focus on defence cooperation and training. China said the patrols were meant to protect its territorial claims and maintain stability. However, the Philippines said it did not see any unusual Chinese military activity and accused China of exaggerating the situation. The incident shows ongoing tensions in the South China Sea where competing claims and military activities continue to raise security concerns.
(“China conducts combat readiness patrols in Scarborough Shoal,” Reuters, 30 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-conducts-combat-readiness-patrols-scarborough-shoal-2026-04-30/)
On 29 April, Reuters reported that Mali’s army had taken back control of a town near the Niger border after insurgents linked to Islamic State left the area. Local residents said the militants had entered the town earlier during recent attacks across the country. The attacks were part of a wider wave of violence by armed groups, including those linked to al Qaeda and separatist fighters. The fighting caused instability in several areas and also led to the death of Mali’s defence minister. Some forces, including those supported by Russia, had to withdraw from certain areas during the attacks. The army has now increased patrols and operations to regain control and prevent further attacks. However, the situation remains tense and unstable in many parts of the country. The development shows that militant groups continue to pose a serious threat in Mali despite ongoing military efforts.
(“Islamic State-linked insurgents leave Mali town as army tries to reassert control,” Reuters, 29 April 2026 https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/islamic-state-linked-insurgents-leave-mali-town-army-tries-reassert-control-2026-04-29/)
On 30 April, Israel intercepted aid ships bound for Gaza in international waters near Greece in a move that the flotilla organisers denounced as an “escalation of Israel’s impunity. The ships were part of a second Global Sumud flotilla that sailed from the Spanish port of Barcelona on 12 April. Israel's foreign ministry called the flotilla organisers "professional provocateurs" and said that its forces acted lawfully. Turkey condemned the interception as a clear violation of international law that endangered navigational safety and said it would take steps to support the flotilla.
(“Israel intercepts Gaza aid ships in international waters, organisers decry move,” Reuters, 30 April 2026.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-begins-intercepting-gaza-aid-ships-far-shores-army-radio-says-2026-04-29/)
28 April 2026, Tuesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
Tehran proposes Hormuz reopening as talks stall over nuclear issue; Iran, in a “State of Collapse,” wants Washington to open the Strait of Hormuz, claims Trump
On 28 April, Al Jazeera reported that Iran had proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz conditionally, in exchange for the United States lifting its naval blockade. However, there is also a proposal to negotiate its nuclear programme. The proposal, conveyed via Islamabad, aims to de-escalate tensions on the ground and stabilise energy flows disrupted by the closure of the strait. As per Reuters, US officials have maintained that President Trump wants nuclear issues “dealt with from the outset.” The Trump administration expressed reluctance, with officials sceptical of the absence of nuclear provisions and warning against what they consider to be conceding leverage. Via Truth Social, Trump stated that "Iran has just informed us that they are in a 'State of Collapse'. They want us to 'Open the Hormuz Strait,' as soon as possible, as they try to figure out their leadership situation (Which I believe they will be able to do!). Thank you for your attention to this matter!", while Reuters has noted that it remains unclear as to how Tehran may have communicated the same. According to The Hindu, while the White House confirmed it is reviewing the proposed plan, early reports suggest rejection in its current form.
(“What’s in Iran’s latest proposal – and how has the US responded?” Al Jazeera, 28 April 2026.
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/4/28/whats-in-irans-latest-proposal-and-how-has-the-us-responded)
“Israel-Iran war LIVE: Gulf leaders meet in Saudi to discuss war's fallout as U.S. examines latest Iran proposal,” The Hindu, 28 April 2026. https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/iran-israel-war-live-trump-ceasefire-talks-strait-of-hormuz-updates-april-28-2026/article70914662.ece
“Trump says Iran has told him it is in a 'state of collapse',” Reuters, 28 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/trump-not-happy-with-latest-iran-proposal-end-war-us-official-says-2026-04-28/)
On 28 April, Reuters reported that the United Arab Emirates is quitting the organisations OPEC and OPEC+. UAE Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed al-Mazrouei said the UAE made this decision after carefully considering Abu Dhabi’s strategies and future production policies. He also said the UAE did not consult any other country, including Saudi Arabia, which is considered the de facto leader of OPEC. He added that the UAE's exit from the organization will not have a significant impact on the oil market, as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. This announcement comes after the UAE criticised its neighbouring Arab states for not doing enough to protect it from Iranian attacks. Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, said on Monday that the Gulf Cooperation Council countries provided very limited support to one another in political and military terms.
(“UAE leaves OPEC in major blow to global oil producers' group,” Reuters, 28 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/uae-says-it-quits-opec-opec-statement-2026-04-28/)
On 28 April, Reuters reported that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chaired a consultative meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council in Jeddah, the first in-person meeting of Gulf leaders since the war began. Sources revealed that the meeting hinged on responding to the Iranian strikes on the Gulf states during the course of the war, including the attacks on critical energy infrastructure across six GCC states. Qatar's emir, Kuwait's crown prince, Bahrain's king and the United Arab Emirates' foreign minister attended the summit. Saudi state media said the summit discussed "topics and issues related to regional and international developments, and the coordination of efforts regarding them." The UAE has levelled severe criticism against the GCC in their response to the war, as senior UAE official Anwar Gargash stated that while the forum ensures mutual logistical support, “politically and militarily, I think their position was the weakest in history.” "I expected such a weak position from the Arab League, and I am not surprised by it, but I have not expected it from the GCC, and I am surprised by it,’ he added.
(“Gulf leaders meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss response to Iranian strikes,” Reuters, 28 April 2026.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/gulf-leaders-meet-saudi-arabia-discuss-response-iranian-strikes-2026-04-28/)
Sudan: Child Alert issued by UNICEF as children face extreme hunger and violence amid the civil war
On 28 April, Reuters reported that children in the Darfur region of Sudan are facing severe humanitarian conditions, with the United Nations warning that they have reached a critical threshold. UNICEF issued a “Child Alert,” a rare mechanism used to signal extreme crises. This marks the first such alert for Darfur in two decades. Approximately five million children across the region are affected by extreme deprivation as the civil war enters its fourth year. The crisis includes widespread violence, displacement, and acute hunger. Children are being killed, injured, and forced to flee their homes, while access to basic services has been severely disrupted. Homes, schools, and healthcare facilities have been damaged or destroyed, further limiting access to essential support systems. Conditions are particularly severe in areas such as North Darfur, where malnutrition has reached critical levels and violence continues to escalate. Reports indicate that children are also exposed to recruitment by armed groups and other forms of exploitation. Despite the scale of the crisis, humanitarian assistance remains limited. UNICEF has highlighted the urgency of increased international support as the situation continues to deteriorate across the region.
("Children at 'breaking point' in Darfur as they face extreme hunger and violence, UN says," Reuters, April 28 2026,
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/children-breaking-point-darfur-they-face-extreme-hunger-violence-un-says-2026-04-28/
"Children in Darfur have reached a breaking point,” UNICEF, April 28 2026, https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/children-darfur-have-reached-breaking-point)
On 27 April, Reuters reported that Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, said US involvement in anti-drug operations in Mexico should not happen again without proper approval. The warning came after an incident in the state of Chihuahua, where two US officials and two Mexican officials died in a car crash after an operation. Sheinbaum said the Mexican government was not informed about the role of the US personnel. She stressed that any foreign involvement must follow Mexico’s laws and respect its sovereignty. Mexico has sent a message to the United States asking that such incidents should not be repeated. While Mexico supports cooperation with the US against drug cartels, it does not allow foreign agents to take part directly in operations inside the country. The incident shows ongoing concerns in Mexico about foreign involvement and the need to protect national control over security matters.
(“Mexico’s Sheinbaum warns US involvement in anti drug operation not to be repeated,” Reuters, 27 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/iranian-foreign-minister-heads-russia-trump-says-call-us-negotiate-2026-04-27/)
24 April 2026, Friday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
The US-Iran Peace Talks: Tehran refuses direct talks with the US, rejects “maximalist demands”
On 25 April, Reuters reported that Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi outlined its demands and concerns regarding the US position after arriving in Islamabad. Araqchi held meetings with Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, and other high-level officials. A statement on Mr Araqchi's Telegram account said the minister "explained our country's principled positions regarding the latest developments related to the ceasefire and the complete end of the imposed war against Iran." Another Iranian diplomat commented on the US's demands and said that Iran will not accept any "maximalist demands." Washington dispatched President Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Islamabad. However, an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson posted on X that the Iranian delegation did not plan to meet with US representatives and would hold talks only with Pakistani officials.
On 25 April, Reuters reported that President Donald Trump said on 24 April that the Iranians planned to make an offer that would satisfy US demands. He added that the US was now dealing with "people that are in charge now." Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, stated the US had seen some progress from Iran and hoped for more developments this weekend. Vice President JD Vance is also ready to travel to Islamabad. Meanwhile, international flights also resumed from Iran's Imam Khomeini International Airport on Saturday. The first flights departed for Medina, Muscat and Istanbul.
(“Iran to make offer aimed at satisfying US demands, Trump says,” Reuters, 25 April 2026; “Iran says it won't accept 'maximalist demands' as Islamabad hosts peace push,” Reuters, 25 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iran-make-offer-aimed-satisfying-us-demands-trump-tells-reuters-2026-04-24/
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-negotiators-go-islamabad-iran-says-no-direct-talks-2026-04-25)
The War in Gaza: Palestinians vote in symbolic local body elections, marking the first electoral process in two decades
On 25 April, Palestinians in central Gaza voted in the first local body elections since the outbreak of the war in 2023, marking the first electoral process in the enclave in 20 years. The elections were held in the city of Deir-Balah, which is one of the regions relatively less devastated by the war, with the least population displacement and Israeli occupation. The voting is largely symbolic as official decision-making in the enclave is carried out with Israeli approval. The polls are being organized by the Central Elections Commission, an independent PA-affiliated body that runs elections in Palestinian territories. Palestinians will vote for independent, apolitical electoral lists rather than individual candidates, with four groups contesting. Under a new electoral law introduced by the Palestinian Authority, the minimum age for candidates has been reduced to 18, and a quota has been established, reserving 25 per cent of seats for women. The Palestinian Authority expressed hope that the inclusion of the Gazan city of Deir-Balah would bolster its claim to authority, Reuters reported. Several Palestinian factions are boycotting the elections in protest against the Palestinian Authority’s requirement that candidates endorse its existing agreements, including recognition of the state of Israel. Meanwhile, Hamas, which has governed Gaza for nearly two decades, has not officially fielded any candidates.
(“Palestinian local elections give some Gazans first chance to vote in years,” Reuters, 25 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/palestinian-local-elections-give-some-gazans-chance-vote-first-time-years-2026-04-25/)
On 25 April, Reuters reported that wildfires in northern Japan, particularly in Iwate prefecture, led to the evacuation of more than 3,000 residents. The fires spread across forested areas. Emergency response teams, including ground personnel and aerial units, were deployed to contain the fires, with efforts continuing over multiple days. The blazes were driven by dry conditions and strong winds, complicating firefighting operations. Authorities stated that the fires affected residential areas and surrounding land, prompting precautionary evacuations in affected areas. Local officials maintained monitoring and response measures as the situation remained active. The fires followed a broader pattern of wildfire activity in northern Japan, where seasonal conditions have contributed to the spread of such incidents.
("Northern Japan wildfires prompt mass evacuations as flames spread,"Reuters, April 24, 2026; "Firefighters in Japan struggle to contain Iwate blazes with over 3,000 evacuated,"Reuters, April 25, 2026 https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/northern-japan-wildfires-prompt-mass-evacuations-flames-spread-2026-04-24/
https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/firefighters-japan-struggle-contain-iwate-blazes-with-over-3000-evacuated-2026-04-25/)
On 25 April, Reuters reported that the United States had agreed to ease the sanctions on Venezuela to allow the government to pay legal fees for its former president, Nicolás Maduro, ensuring the continuity of his drug trafficking trial. Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by US forces earlier in 2026 in Caracas. They were captured on charges of narcoterrorism and have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The dispute initially emerged after sanctions blocked the payments from the Venezuelan government. However, defence lawyers argued that this violated Maduro’s constitutional right to a fair legal representation. A US judge has also questioned the justification for restricting payments, emphasising the vitality of legal representation rights for the accused. Prosecutors, however, have defended these sanctions on grounds of national security.
(“US to let Venezuela pay Maduro’s lawyer in drug trafficking case,” Reuters, 25 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-let-venezuela-pay-maduros-lawyer-drug-trafficking-case-2026-04-25/)
On 24 April 2026, Reuters reported that Ukraine and Russia carried out a prisoner exchange where each side released 193 prisoners of war. The deal was helped by the United States and the United Arab Emirates. In total, 386 people were freed, making it one of the notable humanitarian steps in the ongoing war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the exchange was important because it brought many citizens back home. The released Ukrainians included soldiers, border guards, and police officers. Some of them were injured or had faced legal cases while in captivity. When they returned, many were emotional and reunited with their families. Some were seen wrapped in Ukrainian flags, expressing relief after spending years in detention. One soldier said he felt happy to be free after three years. Even though the conflict continues, such prisoner exchanges are one of the few areas where both sides still cooperate. (“Ukraine, Russia swap 193 prisoners of war each in US, UAE-facilitated exchange,” Reuters, 24 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine-russia-swap-193-prisoners-war-each-us-uae-facilitated-exchange-2026-04-24/)
24 April 2026, Friday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
The US-Iran Peace Talks: Foreign Minister Araqchi to join peace negotiations in Islamabad; Washington “not anxious” for a deal, says Pete Hegseth; US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz strengthens
On 24 April, Reuters reported that Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is expected to join the peace negotiations in Islamabad. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Washington was “not anxious” for a deal with Iran and that "the ball is in [Iran's] court.” He asserted that Tehran has the chance to make a “good deal” if they abandon their nuclear weapons programme “in meaningful and verifiable ways.” Hegseth added that Washington’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is “growing and going global," and that no vessels will be allowed passage without US permission. US General Dan Cain stated that the US Command will maintain a strict blockade on all ports in Iran and is “prepared and postured to intercept” any transgressors. Thirty-four ships had been turned around so far, he said.
(“Iran's foreign minister to head to Islamabad, venue of US talks,” Reuters, 24 April 2026; “Pentagon chief Hegseth says US blockade on Iran going global,” Reuters, 24 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-lebanon-extend-ceasefire-trump-seeks-best-deal-with-iran-2026-04-24/
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/pentagon-chief-hegseth-says-iran-has-chance-make-good-deal-2026-04-24/)
On 24 April, Reuters reported that Hezbollah said the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was meaningless as Israel continued to attack southern Lebanon. The group also added that it had the right to respond to such aggression. These comments came one day after US President Donald Trump announced a three-week extension on 23 April, following a meeting with Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors in Washington. The ceasefire agreement was previously set for 10 days and was scheduled to expire on 26 April. Ali Fayyad, a Lebanese Member of Parliament from Hezbollah, stated that "the ceasefire is meaningless in light of Israel's insistence on hostile acts." Despite the ceasefire, exchanges between Hezbollah and Israel persist in southern Lebanon, where Israel has established a military presence in order to secure a buffer zone. Fayyad added that any Israeli aggression against Lebanese figures gave Hezbollah "the right to respond proportionately."
(“Hezbollah says ceasefire 'meaningless' as fighting continues in south,” Reuters, 24 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/hezbollah-mp-ceasefire-meaningless-light-israeli-attacks-2026-04-24/)
President Trump and NATO: Trump administration weighs penalties for NATO allies; Considers Spain's suspension from NATO and reconsiders the UK's claims over the Falkland Islands, reports Reuters
On 24 April, Reuters reported on an internal Pentagon email that outlines options for the US to punish the NATO allies it believes failed to support Washington's operations in its war with Iran. The options reportedly include suspending Spain from the alliance and a review of the US position on the UK's claim to the Falkland Islands, reassessing its long-standing support for the “imperial possessions of Europe” due to the lack of support it received in the Iran war. The UK and Argentina fought a short war in 1982 over the islands after Argentina made a failed bid to take them. Eventually, Argentina surrendered, and the US has historically supported the British claim over the island. A spokesperson for the UK's Prime Minister’s office has strongly maintained that “Sovereignty rests with the UK and the islands' right to self-determination is paramount. It's been our consistent position and will remain the case.”
(“Sovereignty of Falklands rests with the UK, Britain tells the US,” Reuters, 24 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/sovereignty-falklands-rests-with-uk-britain-tells-us-2026-04-24/)
(“Exclusive: Pentagon email floats suspending Spain from NATO, other steps over Iran rift, source says,” Reuters, 24 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/pentagon-email-floats-suspending-spain-nato-other-steps-over-iran-rift-source-2026-04-24/)
(“Nato says 'no provision' to expel members after report US could seek to suspend Spain,” BBC, 24 April 2026. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz78x703lrvo)
On 24 April, Reuters reported that Myanmar’s military-backed government has imposed martial law in 60 townships through new emergency orders issued by leader Min Aung Hlaing. This move aims to strengthen military control and improve security in areas still affected by conflict, even after the country’s recent political transition. The measures cover several regions and states, including Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Shan and Rakhine, as well as Sagaing, Magway and Mandalay, where fighting and instability have continued since the 2021 coup. Experts say that this decision highlights the government’s continued reliance on military power to manage unrest. It also reflects the ongoing challenges in restoring stability as the country remains affected by armed conflict and political tensions. The move signals that security concerns remain high despite efforts to present a shift toward civilian governance.
(“Myanmar’s military backed government imposes martial law in 60 townships,” Reuters, 24 April 2026). https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmars-military-backed-government-imposes-martial-law-60-townships-2026-04-24/
On 24 April, Reuters reported that China’s military carried out live fire exercises in waters east of the Philippines’ Luzon Island as part of ongoing military activities in the region. The drills conducted by the Southern Theatre Command included live-fire shooting, sea and air coordination, rapid manoeuvres, and maritime support operations to test joint combat capabilities. The Chinese military did not provide specific details on the exact timing or location of the drills but described them as part of regular training to improve operational readiness. The exercises come amid rising regional tensions, especially as the United States and the Philippines are conducting large joint military exercises nearby. Experts say that such activities reflect growing competition and security concerns in the region, particularly in the South China Sea and surrounding areas. The drills highlight China’s continued focus on strengthening its military coordination and preparedness in strategically important waters. (“China holds live-fire drills in waters near Luzon as US, Philippines stage war games,” Reuters, 24 April 2026
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-holds-live-fire-drills-waters-near-philippines-luzon-island-2026-04-24/)
23 April 2026, Thursday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
The US and Iran: Iran tightens control over the Strait following the collapse of peace talks; US forces interdict a sanctioned vessel in the Indian Ocean; Trump orders the US Navy to “shoot and kill any boat”
On 23 April, Reuters reported that Iran showed tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz after the collapse of peace talks. It released footage of commandos boarding commercial vessels, including the MSC Francesca, after claiming their seizure on 22 April. Iranian officials stated that ships crossing without permits had "faced the law.” The vice speaker of parliament also stated that the first revenue from the newly imposed transit tolls had been transferred to the central bank. Reuters reported that Iran has effectively restricted passage through the strait, linking any reopening to the lifting of the US blockade on its shipping.
("Iran shows off its control over strait after collapse of peace talks,” Reuters, 23 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/iran-tightens-control-hormuz-after-us-calls-off-renewed-attacks-2026-04-23/; “US boards ship carrying Iranian oil, as Trump orders navy to shoot any boat laying mines in strait,” BBC, 23 April 2026. https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c0mjev4kn9jt)
On 23 April, Reuters reported that over 30 million people would be thrust back into poverty by the impacts of the war, largely due to disruptions to fuel and fertiliser supplies. The report cites the UN Development Chief Alexander De Croo, who stated that "Food insecurity ?will be at its peak level in a few months – and there is not much that you can do about it.” He added that the crisis has already wiped out an estimated 0.5 per cent to 0.8 per cent of global GDP. In another report, Reuters also highlighted that the global economy is showing increasing strain from the Iran war's energy shock, with factories facing soaring production costs and even the services sector weakening. The euro zone has emerged as one of the hardest hit regions, with its headline PMI dropping from 50.7 in March to 48.6 in April, its input price index soaring to 76.9 from 68.9, and its dominant services sector plummeting to 47.4 from 50.2. The disruption stems largely from Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has cut off roughly 20 per cent of global oil supplies and significant LNG volumes. Beyond energy, the near-total halt of tanker traffic has disrupted global supplies of sulfur, helium crucial for semiconductor manufacturing, and fertilizer inputs, threatening food production. The IMF has responded by cutting its global growth forecast for 2026 to 3.1 per cent from 3.4 per cent. Paradoxically, some economies, including Japan, India, the UK and France, have reported short-term output increases as companies accelerate production to get ahead of anticipated supply chain disruptions, with Japan recording its strongest factory output expansion since 2014, though analysts warn this effect will be temporary. (“Iran war impact seeps ever deeper into global economy,” Reuters, 23 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/iran-war-impact-seeps-ever-deeper-into-global-economy-2026-04-23/)
The US and the Afrikaners: The Trump administration aims to expand the intake of Afrikaners under the refugee programme
On 23 April, Reuters reported that Donald Trump’s administration aims to double the annual refugee limit to bring in White South African refugees into the country. Trump’s policies have usually featured pausing refugee administration from around the world, as reflected since he took office in January 2025. However, in a few weeks of assuming office, the President issued an executive order to prioritise the resettlement of the Afrikaners of European descent. Trump has often claimed that they face prejudice and persecution on the basis of their race. The majority of reports that accommodated refugees in the US are returningBlack South Africa. According to 2022 census data, Blacks make up 81 per cent of South Africa's population. Afrikaners and other white South Africans constitute 7 per cent of the population. The South African government has strongly refuted the President’s claims. The US Refugee Admissions Program was formally established in 1980 due to refugees fleeing the wars in Vietnam and Cambodia. Trump has, however, used it almost exclusively to bring white South Africans into the US. Officials in the US have also planned to increase the refugee cap from 7500 to 10000 to accommodate more white S- are reports of accommodated refugees in the US going back to South Africa.
(“Exclusive: Trump poised to expand refugee program for white South Africans,” Reuters, 23 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/trump-poised-expand-refugee-program-white-south-africans-2026-04-23)
On 23 April, Reuters reported that Lebanon will seek an extension of the ongoing ceasefire with Israel during US-hosted talks in Washington, as the current truce is set to expire. Lebanese officials stated that extending the ceasefire is necessary to reduce violence and create conditions for broader negotiations. The talks involving envoys from both sides are part of a rare direct engagement aimed at managing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. Lebanon is expected to raise concerns over Israeli military actions in southern areas and push for issues such as Israeli withdrawal, detainee returns and border arrangements in future discussions. Hezbollah supports extending the ceasefire but opposes direct negotiations, while Israel aims to weaken Hezbollah and improve security. At the same time, the United Nations is considering maintaining a continued though smaller presence in Lebanon after the UNIFIL mission ends in December 2026. Ongoing consultations are expected to lead to recommendations to the UN Security Council by June. Renewed violence since March 2026 and rising instability have increased concerns about the fragile ceasefire. Lebanon has said it prefers the UN to remain, even in a smaller role, to avoid a possible security vacuum, despite financial challenges affecting UN peacekeeping operations.
(“Lebanon to seek ceasefire extension in US-hosted talks with Israel,” Reuters, 23 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/lebanon-seek-ceasefire-extension-us-hosted-talks-with-israel-2026-04-23/; “UN weighs continued Lebanon presence after peacekeeping mission ends,” Reuters, 23 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/un-weighs-continued-lebanon-presence-after-peacekeeping-mission-ends-2026-04-23/)
On 23 April, Reuters reported that the European Union has approved a EUR 90 billion loan to support Ukraine’s economy and war efforts, offering critical financial relief as the conflict with Russia continues. The loan is expected to help Ukraine avoid major cuts to public services and sustain military spending, with funds disbursed in 2026 and the remainder in 2027. However, analysts note that Ukraine’s financial needs remain significantly higher than current estimates, with additional funding required for defence and infrastructure repairs. Despite support from the EU, the International Monetary Fund and other partners, Ukraine continues to face a funding shortfall, with the existing aid covering only part of its military and domestic needs. The loan approval followed the resolution of political disagreements within the EU, particularly after Hungary lifted its veto. Officials emphasised that while the loan provides short-term stability, sustained international assistance will be necessary to support Ukraine’s long-term recovery and war effort. (“EU loan throws Ukraine a lifeline but more help needed for war,” Reuters, 23 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/business/eu-loan-throws-ukraine-lifeline-more-help-needed-war-2026-04-23/)
On 23 April, Reuters reported that the United States Senate moved closer to advancing a USD 70 billion funding plan for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol, as part of efforts to address a partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. The measure, backed by Republican lawmakers, is designed to provide funding for these agencies for the next three years. The proposal progressed following a narrow vote of 50–48 in the Senate. Republicans have sought to advance the plan using the budget reconciliation process, which allows passage with a simple majority, bypassing Democratic opposition. Democratic lawmakers opposed the measure, raising concerns over the absence of additional oversight and safeguards on immigration enforcement operations. During extended voting sessions, they introduced multiple amendments addressing broader issues such as healthcare, inflation, and social support, but these proposals did not pass. The funding plan now moves to the House of Representatives, where its final approval remains uncertain.
(US Senate votes to advance $70 billion funding plan for ICE, Border Patrol, Reuters, 23 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-senate-edges-toward-advancing-ice-border-funding-plan-2026-04-23/)
On 23 April, Reuters reported that China called for accelerated development and strengthening of its 11,000 islands as part of a broader effort to reinforce maritime claims and governance amid ongoing territorial disputes. The directive, issued by the natural resources ministry, emphasised improving infrastructure, connectivity, and protection measures across these islands, reflecting a long-term strategy to enhance administrative and strategic presence in contested waters. The announcement coincided with the 77th anniversary of the Chinese navy, marked by a display of naval capabilities, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier. A video released ahead of the anniversary, titled Into the Deep, depicted fictional naval personnel whose names were linked to China’s existing aircraft carriers Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian. It also introduced a 19-year-old recruit named “He Jian,” a name that phonetically resembles the term for “nuclear-powered vessel” in Mandarin. China currently operates three conventionally powered aircraft carriers designated 16, 17, and 18, and the mention of “19” in the video follows this numbering sequence, suggesting the possibility of an additional carrier. China has continued to invest in island construction and related infrastructure, particularly in disputed areas such as the South China Sea, despite ongoing territorial disputes in the region.("China teases new aircraft carrier in video, vows to build up islands," Reuters, 23 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-urges-further-build-up-islands-amid-territorial-disputes-2026-04-23/)
22 April 2026, Wednesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
The US-Iran Ceasefire: Trump extends the ceasefire indefinitely ahead of the new round of negotiations; Tehran undecided on further talks
On 22 April, CNN reported that President Trump indefinitely extended the ceasefire with Iran on the eve of its expiry and that a new round of talks was on hold. Trump asserted that Iran wanted the Strait of Hormuz open “so they can make 500 million dollars a day.” He further claimed that “Iran is collapsing financially!,” and is “starving for cash.” Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, stated that Tehran is yet to decide whether to participate in the new round of talks, as Washington “has shown disregard and lack of good faith.” (“Day 53 of Middle East conflict - Trump extends ceasefire,” 22 April 2026, CNN. https://edition.cnn.com/2026/04/21/world/live-news/iran-war-us-trump-israel)
On April 22, Reuters reported that Iran seized two ships in the Strait of Hormuz after President Trump extended the ceasefire indefinitely. The Hindu also reported that one of the vessels was headed to Gujarat’s Mudra port while the second ship was Liberia-flagged Epaminoda. Iran's semi-official news agency Tasnim said that the Revolutionary Guards had seized two vessels for maritime violations and escorted them to the Iranian shores. This marks the first time Iran has seized ships since the war began in the last week of February. The Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy also cautioned that any act that may be considered a disruption to the order and safety in the strait would be considered a "red line”. Despite this, shipping executives at the FT Commodities Global Summit said that Asian shipowners may begin sailing through the Strait of Hormuz soon, amid a fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire, as they have a higher tolerance for risk. They can likely also pay the tolls. This is unlike the western firms that are more inclined to comply with the sanctions that are imposed.
(“Iran seizes ships in Strait of Hormuz after Trump halts attacks,” 22 April 2026, Reuters; “Asian shipowners to cross Hormuz before Western firms, executives say,” 22 April 2026, Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/asian-shipowners-cross-hormuz-before-western-firms-executives-say-2026-04-22/)
On 22 April, Reuters reported that the United States military had begun using Ukrainian counter-drone technology at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia following the repeated Iranian drone and missile attacks on regional targets. The system, known as Sky Map, is a Ukrainian command and control platform designed to detect incoming drones and coordinate counterattacks using the interceptor drones. Ukrainian military personnel have recently arrived at the base to train US troops in operating this system. This move reflects Ukraine’s rapid advances in drone and counter-drone technologies developed during its war with Russia, where such systems have been widely used against Iranian-designed Shahed drones. Analysts noted that the adoption of Ukrainian technology also highlights gaps in US air and missile defence coverage. The base, which is located at about 640 kilometres from Iran, has faced several drone and missile attacks that damaged aircraft and infrastructure and resulted in casualties among US personnel.
(“Exclusive: US turns to Ukrainian counter-drone tech after Iran attacks, sources say,” Reuters, 22 April 2026. https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/us-turns-ukrainian-counter-drone-tech-after-iran-attacks-sources-say-2026-04-22/)
The War in Gaza: Board of Peace advances Gaza reconstruction discussions; Gaza municipal elections to test Hamas’ public support
On 22 April, Reuters reported that representatives of US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” (BOP) had met with Dubai-based logistics company DP World to discuss potential involvement in Gaza’s reconstruction. The talks explored a possible partnership in which DP World would manage logistics and supply chains for goods entering Gaza, including humanitarian aid and commercial cargo through warehousing, cargo tracking and security systems. Discussions also examined proposals to build a new port either in Gaza or along Egypt’s Mediterranean coast and to establish a free-trade zone to support economic recovery. Meanwhile, BOP envoy Nickolay Mladenov stated that negotiations on the Gaza peace plan must move quickly despite challenges in talks with Hamas. The proposal, supported by the UN Security Council, includes the disarmament of militant groups, the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the launch of large-scale reconstruction efforts. Gaza’s rebuilding is estimated to cost more than USD 70 billion after two years of conflict severely damaged infrastructure.
On 22 April, Reuters reported that the Trump administration and the Democratic Republic of Congo are considering the resettlement of 1,100 Afghans stranded in Qatar who fled the Taliban and are awaiting US visas. Shawn VanDiver, founder and president of the advocacy organisation #AfghanEvac, described the resettlement plan as unacceptable, given the persistent security crisis in Congo, and that he had been briefed about the plan by US officials. "I worry that this is just a way for the State to wash their hands of these folks, many of whom are women, children, and family of U.S. military, that will ultimately result in them becoming stateless or having to go back to certain death in Afghanistan," VanDiver said. “Why would you go from the world’s No. 1 refugee crisis to the world’s No. 2 refugee crisis?” he added. The Afghan nationals stranded at Camp As Sayliyah in Qatar are largely people who worked alongside US forces during Washington’s war in Afghanistan and fled Kabul after the Taliban takeover in 2021. The resettlement was halted following the Trump administration's 2025 executive order that placed a blanket ban in all refugee admissions.
On 22 April, judges at the International Criminal Court rejected a request to release former Philippines' president Rodrigo Duterte, affirming that the court retains jurisdiction over his case. The ruling dismissed an appeal by his legal team seeking to halt proceedings and secure his release, allowing the trial process to continue. Duterte, aged 81, has been in detention in The Hague since his arrest in March 2025 and was not present during the ruling. His defence argued that the ICC lacked authority over the case following the Philippines withdrawal from the court in 2018. However, judges upheld an earlier decision, stating that jurisdiction remains valid because preliminary examinations into the alleged crimes had already begun prior to the withdrawal. The case relates to allegations that Duterte played a central role in orchestrating the killing of thousands during his anti-drug campaign while in office between 2016 and 2022. Prosecutors contend that these actions involved organised operations targeting suspected drug users and dealers. Duterte has consistently defended his policies, maintaining that law enforcement actions were carried out in self-defence.
On 22 April, Reuters reported that Turkey’s foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, will visit London for a two-day visit starting on 23 April to discuss the wars in Ukraine and Iran. He will also discuss cooperation among NATO members. Turkey also hosted a diplomatic forum which was attended by delegations from Iran, Ukraine, and several other nations from the Middle East, Central Asia, South America and Europe. Mr Fidan's visit follows an announcement by the UK government which said that military planners from more than thirty countries will hold two-day talks in London to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Mr Fidan has warned of several complexities with this mission, which was endorsed by over a dozen countries last week. During his visit, Mr Fidan is expected to repeat Turkey's commitment and readiness to contribute to efforts in ending the Ukraine war. He is also expected to request the UK to finalise its free trade agreement with Turkey, with an emphasis on advancing defence and energy cooperation.
21 April 2026, Tuesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
The US: Washington seizes Iran-linked tanker in international waters as truce deadline nears
On 21 April, the US military stated that it had seized a tanker linked to Iran in international waters, reflecting continued enforcement of its blockade as the two-week truce was coming close to expiring. According to Reuters, Washington expressed confidence that peace talks with Iran may proceed in Pakistan, with Tehran reportedly considering participation. However, time was running out as the deadline neared. The US military confirmed that it boarded the tanker Tifani “without incident.” The vessel, capable of carrying two million barrels of crude, was located near Sri Lanka and had indicated Singapore as its destination. The US Central Command stated: “As we have made clear, we will pursue global maritime enforcement efforts to disrupt illicit networks and interdict sanctioned vessels providing material support to Iran — anywhere they operate.” Iran did not comment on the boarding; however, media reports suggest this could challenge peace talks arrangements. Tehran said that the blockade of its ports constitutes a US violation of the truce and that it will not negotiate while the blockade is in place. (“Trump says he does not want to extend truce as expiry nears, US seizes tanker,” Reuters, 21 April 2026). https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-positive-iran-deal-talks-still-uncertain-ceasefire-end-nears-2026-04-21/
On 21 April, the BBC reported that President Trump stated Iran has “no choice but to send” delegates to Pakistan for talks with the US. In an interview with CNBC, he reportedly expressed confidence that Washington would “end up with a great deal.” He described the naval blockade as a “tremendous success” and, when asked about extending the ceasefire, he stated: “I don't want to do that.” Trump later stated that: “I expect to be bombing 'cause that would be a better attitude.” According to Reuters, Tehran had not yet decided on its participation in the second round of peace talks in Islamabad. Pakistan officials noted that, if delegations attend, they are unlikely to arrive before 22 April, leaving only limited time to secure an agreement before the two-week truce expires. President Trump has warned of resuming hostilities, including potential attacks on Iran’s civilian infrastructure, if his terms are not accepted. An initial round of talks held ten days earlier failed to result in an agreement. Subsequently, Tehran showed reluctance to engage in a second round this week, referring to the US’ refusal to lift its blockade and its seizure of an Iranian cargo vessel. (“Trump says he 'expects to be bombing' if no progress made in Iran talks,” BBC, 21 April 2026; “Trump says he does not want to extend truce as expiry nears, US seizes tanker,” Reuters, 21 April 2026).
https://www.bbc.com/news/live/cx297218m9vt
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-positive-iran-deal-talks-still-uncertain-ceasefire-end-nears-2026-04-21/
On 21 April, the head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) stated that the conflict between Iran, Israel, and the US is generating the worst energy crisis ever faced by the world. He noted that “the crisis is already huge, if you combine the effects of the petrol crisis and the gas crisis with Russia,” pointing to the overlapping pressures on global energy markets. The war has disrupted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows. These disruptions compound earlier shocks from the War in Ukraine, which limited Russian gas supplies to Europe. The IEA chief had earlier assessed the situation as more severe than the crises of 1973, 1979, and 2022 combined. In March, the IEA authorised the release of 400 million barrels of oil from strategic stockpiles to stabilise rising oil prices. (“War in Iran is causing biggest energy crisis in history, IEA says,” Reuters, 21 April 2026). https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/war-iran-is-causing-biggest-energy-crisis-history-iea-says-2026-04-21/
Japan: Tokyo revises defence export rules
On 21 April, Reuters reported that Japan had announced its biggest overhaul of defence export rules in decades, allowing Japanese companies to sell weapons such as warships, missiles, and other military equipment abroad. The policy change relaxes several long-standing restrictions and permits the export of defence equipment after individual government review. However, Japan will continue to prohibit arms transfers to countries directly involved in active conflicts, except when exports are considered necessary for its national security. The move is intended to strengthen Japan’s domestic defence industry and expand security cooperation with allies. Countries including the United States, Germany, and the Philippines have welcomed the decision, seeing new opportunities for defence cooperation and equipment transfers. The change also comes at a time when global demand for weapons has increased due to ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and instability in the Middle East, which have strained global arms supply chains. The policy change also reflects Japan’s efforts to boost domestic defence production and sustain its expanding military capacity by accessing overseas markets. (“Japan opens door to global arms market with biggest export rule change in decades,” Reuters, 21 April 2026). https://www.reuters.com/world/china/japan-opens-door-global-arms-market-with-biggest-export-rule-change-decades-2026-04-21/
On 21 April, Reuters reported that Russia reduced oil production by about 300,000 to 400,000 barrels per day, marking the sharpest monthly drop since the COVID-19 pandemic. The decline was mainly due to Ukrainian drone attacks on key Russian oil infrastructure, including major export ports such as Ust-Luga, Primorsk, Novorossiysk and Vysotsk, which disrupted the country’s ability to ship crude oil. The shutdown of the Druzhba pipeline, one of the last remaining routes supplying Russian oil to parts of Europe, also contributed to the decline. In addition, seasonal refinery maintenance further limited the processing capacity. Despite the fall in output, rising global oil prices linked to geopolitical tensions, including the conflict involving Iran, could partly offset Russia’s revenue losses and help ease pressure on its budget. However, analysts noted that continued infrastructure damage and export disruptions could affect Russia’s ability to maintain production levels. The International Energy Agency has also lowered its forecast for Russia’s oil supply for the rest of the year. (“Russia cuts oil output in April, sources say,” Reuters, 21 April 2026). https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/russia-cuts-oil-output-april-sources-say-2026-04-21/
On 21 April, Reuters reported that Russia’s top military commander said Russian forces had captured about 1,700 square kilometres of Ukrainian territory and around 80 settlements since the start of 2026. Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, stated that Russian troops are advancing towards key Ukrainian defensive positions in the Donbas region, often described as Ukraine’s “fortress belt.” These include the cities of Sloviansk, Kramatorsk, and Kostiantynivka. He said Russian forces are already fighting in parts of Kostiantynivka and are positioned about 7 to 12 kilometres from Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. Gerasimov also claimed that Russian troops are advancing in Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region and the northern Sumy region to establish what Moscow calls a “security zone.” Moreover, Reuters noted that the claims could not be independently verified, and pro-Ukrainian maps suggest Russia’s territorial gains this year are closer to about 600 square kilometres. However, pro-Ukrainian maps show that Russia currently controls roughly 19.35 per cent of Ukraine’s territory. (“Russia has taken 1,700 square km of Ukraine this year, top general says,” Reuters, 21 April 2026).
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-has-taken-1700-square-km-ukraine-this-year-top-general-says-2026-04-21/
On 21 April, Reuters reported that the Hong Kong government is seeking to seize more than HKD 127 million (around USD 16 million) in assets linked to jailed media tycoon and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai. According to a High Court document, the assets include deposits in more than 50 bank accounts, several factory properties, and shareholdings in private companies connected to Lai. A major portion of the assets includes shares in two companies, Comitex Holdings and Dico Consultants, valued at over HKD 71.3 million. Authorities are also seeking to confiscate HKD 12 million in bail money provided by Lai. The request has been made under provisions of the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020, which allows the government to freeze and seize assets related to national security offences. Lai, the founder of the now-closed Apple Daily newspaper and a prominent critic of Beijing, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in February for colluding with foreign forces and publishing seditious material. The court is scheduled to hear the asset seizure case on 8 July. (“Hong Kong government seeks to seize $16 million from jailed tycoon Jimmy Lai,” Reuters, 21 April 2026). https://www.reuters.com/business/finance/hong-kong-government-seeks-seize-16-million-jailed-tycoon-jimmy-lai-2026-04-21/
On 21 April, Reuters reported that the Canadian military conducted a large Arctic exercise to demonstrate its ability to operate and defend its northern region more independently. Around 1,300 members of the Canadian Armed Forces participated in the operation, making it one of Canada’s largest Arctic exercises in recent years. As part of the training, soldiers completed a snowmobile patrol of more than 5,000 kilometres from Inuvik in the Northwest Territories to Churchill in Manitoba, facing harsh conditions including blizzards and temperatures as low as −60°C. Troops also practised landing aircraft on frozen sea ice, moving artillery equipment to remote areas of Nunavut, and conducting patrols using skis and snowmobiles. The exercise reflects Canada’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the Arctic as global interest in the region grows, particularly from Russia and China. However, analysts note that Canada still depends heavily on cooperation with the United States through the NORAD defence partnership for broader Arctic security. (“Canadian military aims to show it can go it alone in Arctic,” Reuters, 21 April 2026). https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/canadian-military-aims-show-it-can-go-it-alone-arctic-2026-04-21/
20 April 2026, Monday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
US-Iran Peace Talks: Tehran rejects talks following Washington’s blockade of Hormuz and seizure of an Iranian vessel
On 20 April, Reuters reported that Tehran will abstain from the peace negotiations in Islamabad as the two-week ceasefire is set to expire. Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated that the US has “violated the ceasefire from the beginning of its implementation,” citing Washington's naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and the US’ capture of an Iranian vessel that attempted to breach the blockade. Security sources stated that chief negotiator Field Marshal Asim Munir had informed President Trump that the blockade would be a major obstacle to the talks. Baghaei also underscored that Tehran’s 10-point proposal, submitted prior to the first round of talks, will remain the basis for all negotiations and that Iran will “respond accordingly,” in the event of further aggression from the US or Israel. He accused Washington of showing a lack of seriousness toward diplomacy, stressing that Tehran would not change its stated demands and does not accept deadlines or ultimatums in matters concerning its national interests.
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/world-weighs-fate-mideast-ceasefire-after-us-seizes-iranian-cargo-ship-2026-04-20/
On 20 April, Reuters reported that Israel told residents of Southern Lebanon not to enter the belt of territory running the length of the Israel-Lebanon border and to stay away from the Litani River. This announcement comes after a ten-day ceasefire took effect between Israel and Hezbollah. However, the ceasefire remains fragile due to the presence of Israeli troops in Southern Lebanon, which aims to create a buffer zone between Israel and Lebanon. The Israeli military published a map on social media which displayed a red line through twenty-one villages and said that no one should move into the area between the line and the border. This map also marked fifty other villages which civilians should avoid. The Israeli military published another map which marked its new deployment line in Lebanon. This line lies ten kilometres deep in Lebanese territory. Mahmoud Qmati, a senior Hezbollah official, told the residents of the Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut not to return to their homes because of risks of Israeli strikes.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-entrenches-hold-south-lebanon-warns-residents-stay-out-2026-04-20/
Pakistan and Sudan: Islamabad suspends USD 1.5 billion weapons agreement with Khartoum following Saudi objection
On 20 April, a Reuters exclusive report stated that Pakistan placed on hold a USD 1.5 billion agreement to supply weapons and aircraft to Sudan after Saudi Arabia withdrew its financial backing and requested that the deal be halted. The agreement, which had progressed significantly, supported by Saudi financing, was suspended after Riyadh decided not to proceed with funding the purchase. Saudi Arabia’s decision followed engagements with Sudanese military officials and came amid external pressure discouraging further involvement in the conflict. Saudi Arabia, a key ally and financial supporter of Pakistan, has reportedly been supporting Sudan’s army, while the United Arab Emirates has been accused of supporting opposing forces, a claim it denies. Additionally, another proposed defence agreement valued at USD 4 billion between Pakistan and Libya’s National Army is reportedly under review as Saudi Arabia reassesses its position. Neither Pakistani nor Saudi authorities have issued official statements regarding the suspension.
On 20 April, Philippine armed forces chief Romeo Brawner launched the annual 18-day maritime exercise, “Balikatan,” along with the US and other allies. The exercise is the largest to date in terms of participating countries, featuring Australia’s return along with the first-time active participation of Canada, France, New Zealand, and Japan. Philippine and US forces will carry out maritime strike exercises on a remote Philippine island close to Taiwan during annual joint drills, designed to assess Manila’s readiness in “real-world conditions across all domains.” The drills will feature precision strike and interdiction operations in Philippine coastal waters, as well as integrated air and missile defence exercises, multinational maritime operations and counter-landing live-fire drills. The exercise would also involve over 17,000 troops, including 10,000 US troops, and a display of Manila’s newly acquired Philippine hardware, such as the BrahMos missiles and allied capabilities, including Japan's Type 88 anti‑ship missile, Reuters reported.
18 April 2026, Saturday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
Iran strengthens control over the Strait of Hormuz, reports Reuters
On 18 April, Reuters reported that Iran stated it was tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, and at least two vessels reported coming under fire while trying to transit the waterway. Tehran has responded to the US blockade by calling it a violation of the ceasefire. Iran had initially announced its temporary reopening of the Strait following a US-brokered ten-day ceasefire agreement on Thursday between Israel and Lebanon after Israel invaded parts of Southern Lebanon. However, on Saturday, Iran's armed forces command declared that transit through the strait had reverted to a state of strict Iranian military control due to what it described as repeated US violations and acts of “piracy” under the guise of a blockade. According to maritime security and shipping sources, some merchant vessels received radio messages from Iran’s navy stating no ships were allowed through the waterway, and at least two vessels reported being hit by gunfire as they attempted to cross the strait. Iran's deputy foreign minister, Saeed Khatibzadeh, stated that no date had been set for the next round of negotiations. At the same time, Trump has told Reuters there would probably be more direct talks between Iran and the US this weekend, which some diplomats have declared unlikely. Trump also added that the US blockade of Iranian ports would continue. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/trump-says-he-has-good-news-iran-no-clarity-peace-deal-2026-04-18/
On 18 April, CBS News reported that US President Donald Trump stated that the Iranian regime had “agreed to everything” he proposed while discussing terms. This includes the US removing enriched uranium from the nation. Trump clarified that the removal would not involve US troops on the ground but would still involve “our (American) people.” Strangely enough, the Iranian foreign ministry released a statement in it was shared that “uranium is sacred to us [Iran]” and hence would not be transferred. Meanwhile, he also claimed that Tehran has agreed to stop backing proxy terror groups such as Hezbollah or Hamas. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-says-iranians-have-agreed-to-everything-including-removal-of-enriched-uranium/
Turkey and the US: Ankara warns of 'destructive' potential withdrawal by Washington from the European security architecture
On 18 April, Reuters reported that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said discussions are underway on managing a potential withdrawal of US from Europe’s security architecture. Further cautioning, it could be “destructive” if uncoordinated. Speaking at a forum in Antalya, he urged allies to prepare for reduced US involvement while using upcoming NATO talks to reset ties with Washington. Furthermore, Fidan also criticised divisions within NATO, accusing EU members of acting independently. Meanwhile, NATO chief Mark Rutte acknowledged US frustrations, as reports suggest Donald Trump has considered reducing US troop presence in Europe.
On 18 April, at a summit in Turkey’s Antalya, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that the time has come to discuss future economic ties between the US and Russia. He remarked that NATO is “not in the best state” and added that Moscow will not intervene in the alliance's internal affairs. Reuters says this renewed economic cooperation with the US has become a central element of Russia’s pitch for a diplomatic detente with the Trump administration.
On 18 April, Spain's PM Pedro Sánchez met with Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum in Barcelona during a gathering of global leftist leaders. The meeting took place alongside the “In Defence of Democracy” summit, where leaders convened to discuss shared political priorities and strengthen cooperation. The engagement marked the first visit by a Mexican president to Spain in eight years and signalled an improvement in diplomatic relations following a period of strain linked to historical disagreements over Spain’s colonial past. Sheinbaum acknowledged recent conciliatory gestures from Spanish leadership, including recognition of colonial-era abuses, which helped ease tensions between the two countries. Discussions also focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors. Spanish officials emphasised the importance of strengthening economic ties, while Sheinbaum highlighted the absence of any formal diplomatic crisis between the two nations. The meeting also reflected efforts to rebuild relations, with Mexico extending an invitation to Spain’s King Felipe VI to attend the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony. Additionally, Sheinbaum invited Sánchez to participate in a future summit in Mexico, underscoring continued diplomatic engagement.
16 April 2026, Thursday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
Top American officials say that the US is ready to resume combat operations against Iran, reports Reuters
On 16 April, Reuters reported that the US armed forces are prepared to resume combat operations against Iran if a peace deal is not reached. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, in a briefing to the Pentagon, warned Iran against making poor choices which could lead the US to bomb its power and energy infrastructure. He added that the US also has intelligence about the movement of Iran's military assets. Furthermore, General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that US armed forces were ready to launch major operations at "a moment's notice." He added that the US Navy would intercept any ship which refuses to comply with the American blockade of Iran, in both Iran's territorial waters and international Iranian-flagged waters. He said that so far, thirteen ships had chosen to turn around instead of breaking the blockade. The Trump administration on Wednesday had expressed optimism about reaching a deal with Iran while applying economic pressure through a naval blockade against Iranian-flagged vessels or any other vessel attempting to provide material support to Iran.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-forces-ready-restart-combat-if-iran-doesnt-agree-deal-says-hegseth-2026-04-16/
US and Taiwan: Washington signals approval of pending weapon sales
On 16 April, Reuters reported that a bipartisan group of senators indicated that the US is expected to approve the pending weapon sales to Taiwan, as stated in a letter to Taiwanese lawmakers. Further, urging Taipei to accelerate delayed defence spending amidst rising pressure from China. The suggested packages consist of counter-drone systems, integrated command capabilities, and medium-range munitions to reinforce Taiwan's air defences. The letter arrives ahead of US President Trump's visit to China, scheduled for 14-15 May; however, concerns persist that trade negotiations could influence US military support for the island. Furthermore, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has proposed increased defence spending, but opposition parties have stalled the plan. While Washington remains Taiwan’s key security partner, Beijing continues to oppose arms sales and has intensified military pressure on the island.
On 16 April, Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticised President Donald Trump over his foreign policy approach, particularly remarks perceived as threats to other countries. Speaking in an interview with a Spanish newspaper, Lula argued that global leaders should prioritise mutual respect rather than intimidation in international relations. The comments followed statements by Trump warning of severe consequences for Iran in the context of the ongoing conflict, which Lula described as irresponsible and beyond the appropriate exercise of authority. He emphasised that leadership should be guided by responsibility and a commitment to maintaining global peace, rather than by fear as a political tool. Lula also expressed opposition to external interference in Venezuela, stressing the importance of conducting elections without outside involvement. The remarks highlight Lula advocating for dialogue and cooperation, while criticising unilateral actions and the use of political pressure in international affairs.
On April 16, Reuters reported that Russia launched its most intense and deadly wave of attacks on Ukraine in 2026, carrying out overnight drone and missile strikes that killed at least 17 people, including a 12-year-old child, and injured around 100 others, with the toll expected to rise. The heaviest damage occurred in major cities such as Kyiv, Odesa, and Dnipro, where residential buildings, apartment blocks, and a hotel were hit, triggering large fires and leaving debris scattered across urban areas. Emergency crews worked through smoke-filled streets as residents reacted with fear and grief over the rising civilian casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks and urged stronger international support, emphasizing that Russia should face continued sanctions and pressure rather than normalization. Russia, however, stated that its strikes were aimed at Ukraine’s energy systems and military-related production facilities. At the same time, Ukraine carried out a counterattack using drones on the Russian Black Sea port city of Tuapse, where two people, including a teenage girl, were killed, several others were injured, and a major fire broke out at an oil-related facility. The events highlight a sharp escalation in the conflict, with both sides increasing strikes and civilian impacts growing more severe.
#303, Vol 2, No 88
13 April 2026, Monday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
After the talks fail, Trump threatens Iran with a US naval blockade
On 13 April, Reuters reported on a US naval blockade of Iran’s ports in the Strait of Hormuz. This is likely to increase tensions in the ongoing conflict, raising fears of a broader regional confrontation. President Trump said the move is set to take effect at 10 am ET (1400 GMT), following the collapse of weekend ceasefire talks. The US military blockade would target all maritime traffic entering or leaving Iranian ports, while allowing passage to vessels bound for non-Iranian destinations. Officials argue the strategy could cut off Iran’s key economic leverage and restore stability to global oil flows disrupted by the conflict. However, experts warn that enforcing such a blockade would require significant naval resources and could amount to an act of war.
https://www.reuters.com/world/iran-war-live-trump-says-us-begin-naval-blockade-irans-ports-strait-hormuz-2026-04-13/
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/uk-will-not-back-blockade-strait-hormuz-pm-starmer-says-2026-04-13/
On 13 April, Tehran threatened to retaliate against the ports of Gulf countries, following the failed talks at Islamabad and Trump’s threat to blockade the Hormuz. Since the start of the war on 28 February, Iran has blocked the Strait of Hormuz to all vessels except its own and stated that access to other countries will only be permitted under Iranian control and toll fees regulated by them. An Iranian military spokesperson called any US restrictions on international shipping "piracy," and warned that if Iranian ports were threatened, no port in the Gulf would be secure.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-blockade-iran-after-talks-fail-yield-a-deal-2026-04-13/
On 13 April, Reuters reported that NATO allies have refused to join President Trump’s proposed naval blockade of Iran-linked shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, exposing fresh divisions within the alliance. The UK and France were against participating in the US-led operation, stressing the need to restore navigation through diplomatic rather than military means. The British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said that the UK would not be “dragged into the war,” despite mounting pressure. French President Emmanuel Macron proposed a separate, multinational, defensive mission aimed at reopening the vital waterway once conditions stabilise. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has urged members to consider coordinated efforts, but consensus remains elusive. The refusal to back Washington’s blockade underscores growing transatlantic strains, as allies prioritise de-escalation and stability over direct military involvement.
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/nato-allies-refuse-join-trumps-strait-hormuz-blockade-2026-04-13/
On 13 April, Reuters reported that China stated a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would go against the international community's interests and urged calm and restraint by all sides. In Beijing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told the UAE special envoy of the President of China, Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, that the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz does not serve the common interests of the international community. He emphasised that a fundamental way to resolve the crisis was a comprehensive ceasefire. Foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that he hopes both parties will abide by the temporary ceasefire arrangements and remain committed to them. He also added that China stood ready to "play a positive and constructive role" in resolving the crisis and called the weekend talks in Islamabad a step in the right direction toward easing tensions.
https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-urges-restraint-over-us-blockade-strait-hormuz-backs-talks-2026-04-13/
Russia: Moscow, indicates a joint food reserve with BRICS to counter the global food crisis amid the Middle East conflict
On 13 April, Reuters reported that Russia calls for a joint food reserve with its fellow BRICS members and former Soviet neighbours. This aims to counter the global food security crisis emerging from the conflict in the Middle East, as announced by Deputy Secretary of Russia's Security Council, Alexander Maslennikov. With nearly half of the world’s food production dependent on fertiliser shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, the ongoing war in the Middle East threatens global food supplies. The Security Council, chaired by President Putin, issued a warning that extended product shortages would result in crop yield reductions of up to 50 per cent. The resulting food inflation would reach extreme levels, leading to a sharp increase, pushing global hunger affecting 673 million people. Furthermore, the World Bank, IMF, and WFP have cautioned that rising energy and fertiliser prices will increase food insecurity in developing nations. Maslennikov further stated that while Russia remains a major fertiliser producer, it lacks the capacity to raise output quickly but reportedly sees opportunities to expand food exports to the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
On April 12, Reuters reported that A 32-hour ceasefire was declared to mark Orthodox Easter during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine War, intended as a humanitarian pause in fighting. However, both Russia and Ukraine accused each other of violating the truce almost immediately after it began. Russia claimed it recorded 1,971 violations, while Ukraine reported a much higher figure of 7,696 incidents, including artillery shelling, drone strikes, and assault operations. Most of the attacks involved drones, and although no air strikes were reported, the intensity of ground-level conflict remained high.
On 13 April, Reuters reported that the US, Australia, and the Philippines conducted their second joint four-day maritime drills in the South China Sea from 09–12 April, deploying warships, fighter jets, and surveillance aircraft. The Philippine military stated that this exercise aimed at deepening defense cooperation, portraying their shared commitment to regional security." The exercises come ahead of the annual Balikatan drills, which will include Japan as a full participant for the first time. The moves follow rising tensions with China over recent encounters, including Manila’s accusation that Beijing fired flares at a coast guard aircraft, which China denies.
#302, Vol 2, No 85
11 April 2026, Wednesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
NASA: Artemis II completes 10-day mission successfully
On 10 April, NASA reported that the Artemis II capsule and its four-member crew- US astronauts Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, along with Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen- safely splashed down in the Pacific Ocean. This first crewed flight marks a significant step towards a long-term return to the Moon and future missions to Mars. This mission took the astronauts 252,756 miles away from Earth. Upon reentry, Artemis II commander Wiseman told mission control, "We got a great view of the moon out the window 2, looks a little smaller than yesterday."
Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei injured, says Reuters
On 11 April, Reuters reported that Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, is recovering from severe injuries sustained in an airstrike that killed his father, Ali Khamenei, at the onset of the ongoing war. Mojtaba suffered significant facial disfigurement and possible leg injuries, though he remains mentally alert and actively engaged in governance through audio-linked meetings. His condition comes at a critical time, as Iran navigates high-stakes conflict and diplomatic talks with the United States. Despite his appointment in March, there has been no public appearance, image, or direct communication from him, fueling speculation about his health and authority. In Iran’s power structure, the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority, but analysts suggest Mojtaba may initially lack the consolidated influence his father built over decades. Meanwhile, institutions like the Revolutionary Guards are believed to be playing a dominant role in decision-making. Iranian officials have yet to confirm details of his condition, leaving much uncertainty around leadership at a pivotal moment.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/irans-new-supreme-leader-has-severe-disfiguring-wounds-sources-say-2026-04-11/
On 11 April, Reuters reported that Iran said that the US has agreed to release Iran's frozen assets, which are currently being held in Qatar and other foreign banks. An Iranian source told Reuters Iran had demanded it in messages to the US and had received an agreement to release the assets. He added that the unfreezing of Iranian assets was linked to ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Another source said the US would release USD six billion in frozen funds currently held in Qatar. These USD six billion were initially frozen in 2018 in South Korean Banks after the first Trump administration reimposed sanctions on Iran. In 2023, these funds were moved to Qatar as part of a prisoner exchange deal with Iran. However, the US froze them again after the 7 October attacks on Israel by Hamas. The US has denied the recent Iranian claims that it unfroze these funds, and the Qatar Foreign Ministry has made no comment.
https://www.reuters.com/business/finance/iranian-source-says-us-has-agreed-release-frozen-iranian-assets-qatar-other-2026-04-11/
On 11 April, Reuters reported that US and Iranian officials met in Islamabad on Saturday to seek an end to their six-week war. The talks between Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Iranian Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, mediated by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, lasted for two hours. The two sides have discussed several negotiations so far. Iran wants a ceasefire in Lebanon, where Israeli attacks on Iran-backed Hezbollah militants have killed nearly two thousand people. However, Israel and the U.S. have stated the Lebanon campaign is not part of the Iran-US ceasefire. Iran also wants the US to unblock Iranian assets and end sanctions, to acknowledge its authority over the Strait of Hormuz, where it aims to collect transit fees, demand compensation for all damage during the six-week war, and withdraw US combat forces from the region, which Trump plans to keep until peace deals have been reached. Whereas Washington has indicated that it is open to significant sanctions relief but only in exchange for concessions from Iran on its nuclear and missile programmes, it wants the Straight opened for oil tankers and other traffic without any limitations, including tolls. Israel and the US also want Iran's missile capabilities to be dramatically curtailed, which Tehran has declared as non-negotiable. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/what-are-main-talking-points-us-iran-negotiations-pakistan-2026-04-11/ https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/us-iran-set-peace-talks-doubts-emerge-over-lebanon-sanctions-2026-04-11/
The War in Ukraine: Kyiv and Moscow exchange 175 servicemen each ahead of Orthodox Easter ceasefire
On 11 April, Reuters reported that Russia and Ukraine have exchanged 175 prisoners of war, including 07 civilians, in an exchange mediated by the UAE ahead of Orthodox Easter. President Zelenskiy said that the majority of the returned soldiers have been captured since 2022, while Russia, in its confirmation of the swap, also mentioned the return of the civilians from the Kursk region. Furthermore, the exchange occurs amid a 32-hour Easter ceasefire, which runs from the afternoon of 11 April to midnight on 12 April. Despite regular POW exchanges, broader US-brokered peace talks remain stalled over territorial disputes.
On 11 April, Reuters reported that the UK government had paused its plan to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius following opposition from US President Trump. This decision was taken as the proposed legislation required Washington’s approval due to the strategic US-UK military base on Diego Garcia. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office stated that London would continue to engage with Washington to secure formal support before moving forward with the agreement. President Trump earlier described the deal as a “big mistake” and raised concerns over the long-term security of the Diego Garcia military base. A British government spokesperson said ensuring the operational security of the base remains a priority and that the agreement would proceed only with US full support. The UK believes the deal is the best way to protect the base's future while maintaining cooperation with Mauritius and the United States. The decision reflects growing strain in the bilateral relations between the countries. Disagreements over Iran, military cooperation and the use of British air bases highlight the need for continued diplomatic coordination between the two countries.
https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-pauses-its-plan-cede-chagos-islands-after-us-opposition-2026-04-11/
On 11 April, Nigeria carried out a series of mass terrorism trials in Abuja, leading to the conviction of 386 Islamist militants. The proceedings took place over several days and were part of the government’s broader strategy to address cases linked to insurgency through formal legal channels. A substantial number of individuals were prosecuted for offences associated with militant and extremist activities. A considerable proportion of those convicted accepted the charges at the hearings, enabling the expedited resolution of numerous cases. The sentences varied in severity, with some individuals receiving prison terms of up to 20 years, reflecting the seriousness of the offences involved. The scale of the trials illustrates the extent of militancy-related cases being handled within the country. These developments underscore Nigeria’s continued dependence on judicial processes to address ongoing security challenges. Through prosecuting individuals involved in terrorism-related activities, authorities seek to reinforce accountability and deter further participation in extremist networks, highlighting the role of the legal system in responding to such threats.
#301, Vol 2, No 84
10 April 2026, Wednesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
US and Iran: Strait of Hormuz remains shut, as JD Vance heads to Pakistan, anticipating “positive negotiations”; fighting persists in Lebanon
On 10 April, the Strait of Hormuz remains largely shut, and fresh exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon happened, with both sides accusing each other of violations. US President Donald Trump criticised Iran for failing to reopen the strategic waterway and described it as a breach of the agreement. Meanwhile, Iran condemned ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon, which killed over 250 people shortly after the truce was announced. Tehran insisted that the ceasefire should extend to its Hezbollah ally. Israel rejected this interpretation and instead offered direct talks with the Lebanese government aimed at disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations.
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/us-iran-ceasefire-deal-shows-strain-ahead-talks-with-oil-flows-squeezed-2026-04-10/
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/vance-warns-iran-not-play-us-he-leaves-talks-2026-04-10/
On 10 April, Reuters reported that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed military capabilities and ship logistics in the Strait of Hormuz with US President Donald Trump a day earlier. During his visit to the Gulf, Starmer said that the UK is "pulling together a coalition of countries" while also examining the military capabilities and the logistics of vessels moving through the Strait of Hormuz. He added that he also discussed a practical plan for navigation through the strait. The conversation took place amid reports that the US was withdrawing some of its troops from Europe. A senior White House official told Reuters that, so far, only discussions about troop removal have taken place, and the Pentagon has not been given any direction by the White House. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, in an interview with CNN on Wednesday, had said that President Trump is frustrated with the alliance and wants concrete commitments to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Commenting on these reports, Prime Minister Starmer said that NATO is a defensive alliance which was in the interests of both the US and Europe.
https://www.reuters.com/world/uks-starmer-says-he-discussed-military-options-strait-hormuz-with-us-president-2026-04-10/
Beijing: "Taiwan independence is the chief culprit in undermining peace in the Taiwan Strait," says President Xi during the reunification talk with Taiwan's opposition party leader
On 10 April, Taiwan's opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), Chairperson met with China's President Xi in Beijing. The meeting was held to discuss the reunification. President Xi called for joint efforts of the KMT and the Communist Party of China for reunification and national rejuvenation. He said, "Taiwan independence is the chief culprit in undermining peace in the Taiwan Strait - we will absolutely not tolerate or condone it." On the same day, Taiwan's Defence Minister said, "China is continuously and persistently expanding its military capabilities, and the military threat it poses to us is becoming increasingly severe." Taiwan officials stated that nearly 100 naval and coast guard vessels have been deployed by China in the South and East China Seas.
On 10 April, in Seoul, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that North Korea has made remarkable accomplishments despite what he described as conspiracies by the United States and Western forces to oppress and isolate Pyongyang, according to North Korea’s state news agency KCNA. During his meeting with his North Korean counterpart, Choe Son Hui, both sides praised their leaders for opening a new era of friendly relations following a September summit and pledged to further strengthen ties in the interests of their people. Wang was quoted as saying that North Korea's achievements amid intensifying isolation efforts were the result of Kim Jong-un's leadership. The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to developing relations despite global uncertainties. China and North Korea have been working to revive political and economic ties that had slowed during the COVID-19 pandemic, while North Korea has also strengthened its strategic relations with Russia in recent years. The development comes as Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to host US President Donald Trump next month, with Trump expressing interest in resuming talks with North Korea.
On 10 April, Russia announced a temporary ceasefire in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine to mark Orthodox Easter, with President Vladimir Putin ordering a halt to military operations across all fronts from 11–12 April and calling on Kyiv to reciprocate. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy had earlier proposed a similar truce, though scepticism remains due to continued hostilities and past violations of ceasefire agreements. Despite the announcement, Ukrainian officials and civilians have expressed doubt over the credibility of the truce, citing ongoing attacks and previous instances where ceasefires were not upheld. At the same time, discussions of a broader peace settlement have gained attention, with reports of potential movement toward negotiations between the two sides, though significant disagreements persist. While the Easter truce signals a possible opening for dialogue, deep mistrust and ongoing military operations continue to hinder prospects for a sustained, comprehensive peace agreement.
#300, Vol 2, No 83
08 April 2026, Wednesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
Preetha R
On 08 April, the BBC reported that Iran and the United States agreed to a conditional two-week ceasefire that would allow shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. This followed over a month of coordinated US and Israeli strikes on Iran and came hours after President Trump warned that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” if Iran did not reopen the Strait.
First, both sides claimed success, but core disagreements remain unresolved. Second, for the US and Iran. Washington framed the ceasefire as a “total and complete victory,” while Tehran stated the US suffered a “historic and crushing defeat.” Despite these claims, Iran retains its enriched uranium stockpile and missile capabilities. Reports from Reuters highlight the clerical leadership withstanding the war with “no sign of domestic opposition.” It also notes Tehran's recently proven ability to cut off Gulf energy supplies, despite the massive US military presence built across the region over decades. Third, for Israel. Although Israel supports the ceasefire, the agreement represents a setback to its repeated objective of bringing about Iran's fall. As opposition politician Yair Lapid noted: “The nuclear programme was not destroyed. The ballistic threat remains. The regime is still intact and is even emerging from this war stronger.”
Pakistan has proposed talks in Islamabad on 10 April for a conclusive settlement. Iran's president confirmed it would attend, while the US has yet to confirm. Both sides maintain competing demands; Washington has presented its demands in a 15-point plan, while Iran has responded with a 10-point plan of its own. As per US and Israeli officials, the Trump administration assured Israel that it would insist on previous conditions, including the removal of Iran’s nuclear material, halt enrichment and the elimination of ballistic missiles.
Iran’s Ten-point proposal to the US: President Trump describes the plan as “workable”
Brighty Ann Sarah
On 08 April, Iran presented a 10-point proposal entailing the terms of a ceasefire to the US. President Trump has described it as a “workable basis on which to negotiate,” and a “significant step,” but “not good enough.” The proposal was presented by Pakistan, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on social media that the US, Iran and all their allies have agreed to a ceasefire “everywhere, including Lebanon and elsewhere, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.”
The Hindu reported that Iran’s 10-point proposal demands the acceptance of Tehran's right to nuclear enrichment, the removal of primary and secondary sanctions, and Washington’s reparations for the damages caused by the war. Tehran has also urged the cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including the Israeli offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Further, it calls for the establishment of a secure transit framework in the Strait of Hormuz that ensures Iranian dominance under mutually agreed terms and controlled passage through the Strait, coordinated by Iran’s armed forces. They also call for the withdrawal of US military forces from the Middle East and the release of frozen Iranian assets. Tehran also demanded the termination of all UN Security Council and Board of Governors resolutions, and the adoption of a binding UN Security Council resolution to formalise any agreement.
Earlier, on 24 March, the US had offered a 15-point proposal, which Iran had rebuked as “extremely excessive, unusual and illogical.” Washington’s demands included the decommissioning of Tehran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, and demanded that Iran withdraw its support for proxy armed groups in the region, reported the Wall Street Journal. In turn, the US offered to lift the sanctions on Iran and revoke the “snapback” mechanism that automatically reimposes international sanctions in the event of Iranian non-compliance with nuclear commitments. Washington also offered assistance for the development of Iran’s civilian nuclear program, including electricity generation at the Bushehr nuclear plant, Israel's Channel 12 reported.
UNSC: Bahrain-led resolution on Iran fails; Russia and China veto it, citing bias and risk of escalation
Lekshmi MK
On 07 April, Bahrain introduced a draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council to address escalating disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing US-Iran war. The resolution called for coordinated international efforts to secure maritime navigation, including the protection and, if necessary, the escorting of commercial vessels through the critical waterway. It aimed to ensure the uninterrupted flow of global energy supplies and reduce risks to commercial shipping in one of the world’s most strategic chokepoints. The draft received 11 votes in favour, but was vetoed by Russia and China, while Brazil and Mozambique abstained.
Russia and China opposed the resolution, arguing that it unfairly singled out Iran and could legitimise US-led military actions in the region. Emphasising diplomacy, they maintained that the crisis should be resolved through dialogue rather than security-driven interventions. As one diplomat noted, the draft risked “escalating tensions instead of de-escalating them.” Meanwhile, Brazil and Mozambique abstained, citing concerns over the resolution’s lack of balance and the possibility of further escalation. Supporters of the resolution, including Western and allied countries, pointed to rising threats to global energy security and stressed the urgency of ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries nearly one-fifth of global oil shipments.
The failure to adopt the resolution highlights deep divisions within the Security Council, particularly between Western powers and the Russia-China bloc. It underscores the difficulty of achieving consensus during major geopolitical crises and reflects the limitations of multilateral institutions in managing conflicts involving competing global interests. At the same time, it reinforces the continued importance of diplomatic engagement, even as strategic rivalries constrain collective action.
On 08 March, Reuters reported that Oil prices fell sharply below USD 100 per barrel. This is after President Trump announced a two-week ceasefire, conditional on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil flows. As a result, Brent and WTI crude fell by 16-18 per cent, as the market expected that the resumption of disrupted oil flows would immediately address supply concerns. Prices had surged ahead of and during the conflict on supply fears but have since fallen as the ceasefire signals a resumption of flows.
On 08 April, Iran signalled a shift in its maritime control approach. It proposed that shipping companies pay tolls in cryptocurrency. This would apply to oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz during a ceasefire period. The proposal comes amid ongoing tensions in the region. The Strait of Hormuz is a key global shipping route. A significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes through it. Any change in how transit is managed in this region has direct implications for international energy markets and supply chains. The proposal outlines a structured approach to regulating maritime access, where payment becomes a prerequisite for passage. It also introduces cryptocurrency as the designated mode of transaction, differing from conventional payment systems used in international shipping. This may require shipping companies to adapt their financial processes and ensure alignment with applicable regulatory frameworks.
Implementing such a system would require coordination among multiple actors, including shipping operators, insurers, and regulatory authorities. It may also affect how transit permissions are granted and monitored during the ceasefire period. The development is linked to broader regional security conditions. The Strait of Hormuz has been a focal point of tensions in recent years. Past incidents have included disruptions to shipping and heightened military activity in surrounding waters. The proposal indicates a potential change in how access to the Strait may be structured during a ceasefire. It also introduces new operational considerations for shipping companies navigating the route.
On 08 April, Reuters reported that President Trump welcomed NATO chief Mark Rutte to the White House to address strained relations between Washington and its European allies amid the ongoing Iran war. President Trump criticised some NATO members for providing “insufficient support” during the conflict and labelled the alliance a “paper tiger.” Due to the limited involvement of NATO members in US-led operations, Trump emphasized the need for stronger contributions toward regional security and urged that allies “must step up in ways that reflect our shared commitments.” European diplomats suggest that countries appear unlikely to join mine-clearing or other missions in the Strait of Hormuz while the conflict continues. Ongoing disagreements over Iran, Ukraine, and defence spending are straining NATO’s unity, with some officials warning it could reach a “dangerous point” for the alliance. Rutte is expected to emphasise NATO’s defensive role and the importance of transatlantic cooperation during the talks. He is also likely to highlight European efforts to increase military spending and safeguard energy and maritime trade amid ongoing disruptions from the conflict. The meeting is expected to ease tensions between the alliances and reinforce transatlantic cooperation.
On 08 April, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, responding to a question about Beijing's involvement in the war, stated that China plays a constructive role and strives to promote peace and end war. Additionally, she stated that China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi held 26 phone conversations with the foreign ministers of relevant countries. Apart from that, in the UNSC resolution that called for coordinated international efforts to secure maritime navigation, including the protection and, if necessary, escort of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, China vetoed it, citing biased measures.
China and North Korea: Wang Yi to visit Pyongyang, signalling China’s realignment with North Korea
On 08 April, Reuters reported that China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, is set to visit North Korea for the first time since 2019, signalling a renewed push to strengthen ties between the two countries. The visit follows recent steps, including the resumption of flights, the restoration of rail links, and high-level exchanges, indicating a steady revival in bilateral engagement. The trip is officially part of routine diplomacy, with expected meetings with Choe Son-hui and possibly the leader Kim Jong-un. However, its timing is significant. Amid rising tensions in the region and uncertainty in the US policy under Donald Trump, North Korea appears keen to reinforce ties with its key economic and political partner.
On 08 April, Reuters reported that France plans to add a further EUR 36 billion to its defence spending between now and 2030 under an updated military planning law that expands its nuclear arsenal and boosts missile and drone stocks. Despite the eurozone facing one of the largest budget deficits in recent years, this increase reflects mounting security concerns stemming from wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as growing uncertainty about the US commitment to NATO under President Donald Trump. The revised 2024–2030 law would raise defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by the end of the decade, up from about 2 per cent now, with the annual budget reaching EUR 76 billion in 2030, almost double its 2017 level. In March, President Macron announced that strengthening nuclear deterrence would be central to their defence strategy.
#299, Vol 2, No 84
07 April 2026, Tuesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Glynnis Winona Beschi, Manik Dhawan, Nishita Manoharan, Rebecca Ann Oomen, Santhiya M, Yesasvi Koganti
AROUND THE WORLD
Artemis-II Mission, Day 07: Astronauts set new human distance record during lunar flyby
On 07 April, Reuters reported that the Artemis II mission’s crew travelled deeper into space than any humans in history as they conducted a rare flyby of the Moon’s shadowed far side. The crew witnessed meteor impact flashes striking the Moon’s heavily cratered surface during the six-hour flyby, while scientists at NASA’s Johnson Space Centre closely monitored these observations as the Orion spacecraft travelled nearly 252,756 miles from Earth. Passing within approximately 4,070 miles of the lunar surface, the spacecraft enabled the crew to record previously unseen lunar features and capture rare images of Earth’s appearance along the lunar horizon. The crew also photographed a moment in which Earth seemed to set and rise against the Moon’s horizon as Orion moved along its path. Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen further proposed provisional names for several unidentified lunar craters, where one was suggested in memory of Wiseman’s late wife, Carroll. A 40-minute blackout occurred before contact with Earth was restored as the Orion passed behind the Moon. President Trump congratulated the crew on their achievement, and the mission continues to provide observations as Artemis II advances in its journey.
On 07 April, Reuters reported that US Vice President JD Vance visited Budapest to support PM Viktor Orbán ahead of a tightly contested election, with polls suggesting he could lose to opposition leader Péter Magyar. Vance's visit is said to highlight the support of President Trump and their political movement, who see Orbán as a significant ideological ally. At the meeting, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced that it would focus on migration, global and economic security cooperation, including energy, amid reports that MOL Group had bought USD 500 million of US oil. Moreover, critics, including Magyar, warn of potential foreign interference in the matter. However, Orbán has made allegations against the EU and Ukraine, accusing them of trying to influence the election and harm Hungary's energy security; both deny these accusations. Besides, EU diplomats have also rebuked Orbán for seeking US support while, at the same time, blaming Brussels for interfering in his domestic politics. Alongside this, analysts point to domestic troubles, such as the rising cost of living, as factors shaping the vote.
On April 7, 2026, crude oil exports from Russia’s key Black Sea terminal at Novorossiysk were suspended following a major drone attack that triggered a fire, according to sources familiar with the matter. The facility, located in Novorossiysk, is one of Russia’s primary oil export outlets in the region and typically handles around 700,000 barrels per day of crude. The disruption is expected to further strain Russian energy infrastructure, which has been repeatedly attacked in recent times. Industry sources also indicated that oil exports from Russia’s Baltic ports have been affected by similar drone strikes and fires in the past week. With supplies beginning to build up and storage capacity tightening, Russia may be forced to reduce output levels. The situation comes at a time when global demand for alternatives to Middle Eastern crude remains high, potentially allowing Russia to benefit from rising oil prices despite logistical challenges. Sources noted that the extent of damage to the terminal has not yet been fully assessed. A previous attack on the same Black Sea facility in early March had already led to a five-day suspension of loadings. The Novorossiysk port handles Russian Urals crude, Kazakh oil, and Siberian light crude, making it a critical hub for regional energy exports.
On April 7, 2026, in Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump once again urged Iran to make a deal by Tuesday, warning of severe consequences if an agreement is not reached to end the conflict. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that “a whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again,” adding that although he does not want such an outcome, it “probably will” happen if no deal is achieved. He further described the situation as one of the most important moments in the world's long and complex history, emphasising the urgency and gravity of the decision. The statement highlights increasing pressure on Iran to respond within the given timeframe, with attention focused on whether an agreement will be reached or the situation will escalate further.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/trump-says-a-whole-civilization-will-die-tonight-if-iran-does-not-make-deal-2026-04-07/
https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/iran-defiant-eve-trumps-ceasefire-deadline-2026-04-07/
On 7 April, Reuters reported that Iran showed no sign of accepting Donald Trump's ultimatum to open the Strait of Hormuz by the end of Tuesday. This was right after Trump stated that “a whole civilisation will die tonight" unless Iran ended the blockade of Gulf oil. According to Iranian media, throughout the day, railway and road bridges, an airport, and a petrochemical plant were targeted in Iran. Explosions were reported on Kharg Island, home to Iran's oil export terminal, which Trump has openly mused about destroying or seizing. Power was knocked out in parts of Karaj, just west of Tehran, by a strike on transmission lines and a substation. As a response, Iran declared that it would no longer hold back from hitting the infrastructure of US allies in the Gulf, whose desert cities would be uninhabitable without power or water. It claimed to have carried out fresh strikes on a ship in the Gulf and Saudi industrial facilities linked to US firms.
On 07 April, Reuters reported that the US struck additional military targets on Iran's Kharg Island. A US official said on Tuesday that the attack occurred in the early morning hours and did not hit Iranian oil infrastructure. He added that some of the strikes hit targets that had already been hit. US Vice President JD Vance commented on this and said that the US strikes on Kharg Island don't represent a shift in American strategy. He added the US will not strike energy infrastructure "until the Iranians either make a proposal that we can get behind or don't make a proposal."
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-hits-military-targets-kharg-island-us-official-tells-reuters-2026-04-07/
On 07 April, Al Jazeera reported that the Islamic Republic of Iran has proposed a 10-point peace plan to the US as well as Israel, but the proposal has been rejected by US President Donald Trump. While he called it a “significant step” in the ongoing negotiations, Trump said it was not “good enough.” This development follows the attack on the top university in Tehran as well as a major petrochemical plant. Direct talks between the two countries' diplomats continue to be avoided. It was only in late March that Trump claimed conversations between US envoys and an Iranian official, though Iran refused the claim. The proposal primarily secured safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and a lifting of trade sanctions, but talks failed to secure the planned 45-day ceasefire.
(“What’s Iran’s 10-point peace plan that Trump says is ‘not good enough’?”, Al Jazeera, 07 April 2026)
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/4/7/whats-irans-10-point-peace-plan-that-trump-says-is-not-good-enough
On 07 April, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that they had succeeded in attacking the Jubail petrochemical complex in Saudi Arabia, often considered to be central to the downstream energy sector of the nation. Several billion-dollar investments and ventures are said to centre around complex issues as well. Saudi Aramco and SABIC are among the major companies involved alongside Western initiatives, too. Iranian authorities claimed that this was a response to the “aggression against [the] Asaluyeh petrochemical plants” located in Iran. Video footage has confirmed flames and smoke emerging from the region that was reportedly attacked by “suicide drones.” Meanwhile, the Saudi defence ministry claimed that, though seven missiles were intercepted, debris landed near the energy sites.
(“Iran has attacked Saudi Arabia's Jubail petrochemical complex, IRGC says”, Reuters, 07 April 2026)
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iran-has-attacked-saudi-petrochemical-complex-jubail-fars-news-agency-says-2026-04-07/
#298, Vol 2, No 83
06 April 2026, Monday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Nishita Manoharan, Rakshitha B, Manik Dhawan, Yesasvi Koganti
TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 37
Trump threatens “Hell”; Iran rejects the ceasefire proposal
On 06 April, Reuters reported Trump threatening to unleash “hell” on Tehran if it does not agree to a deal by Tuesday, insisting that Iran allow traffic to resume through the Strait of Hormuz. According to BBC, quoting Iran’s state media, Tehran has rejected the ceasefire plans. The proposal, reportedly brokered through Pakistan, calls for an immediate ceasefire followed by talks on a broader settlement within 15–20 days. Iran has rejected reopening the Strait as part of a temporary truce and said it would not negotiate under pressure or deadlines. Meanwhile, fighting has continued across the region. Israel has intensified strikes, with Defence Minister Israel Katz warning of further action against Iran’s infrastructure and leadership. Iran reported attacks on key petrochemical sites, including the South Pars complex, where a fire was later brought under control without casualties.
https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/trump-vows-hell-iran-if-strait-stays-shut-says-deal-is-possible-2026-04-06/
On 06 April, Israel's defence minister, Israel Katz, stated that Israel struck a petrochemical facility in Iran and the IDF will continue to attack Iran's infrastructure with all force. He said, "Now the two facilities, which together are responsible for about 85% of Iran's petrochemical exports, have been taken out of service and are not functioning," and "This is a severe economic blow worth tens of billions of dollars to the Iranian regime. The petrochemical industry is a major engine in financing the activities of the Revolutionary Guards and in building Iran's military power." This action comes after US President Trump's comment on social media that says, "Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!!", indicating further attacks on Iran's infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz stays closed.
https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c5yw4g3z7qgt
On 06 April, Reuters reported that China's President Xi Jinping has called for accelerating the planning and construction of a new energy system to bolster China's energy security. This announcement comes weeks into the ongoing US-Iran war, which has triggered global energy shocks. Without directly referring to the US-Iran war, he said that the Party Central Committee gained a "profound grasp of global energy development trends" and that it had also "made major decisions by advancing the new energy security strategy in depth." Multiple analysts have stated that China is better positioned to absorb higher oil prices, given that coal forms the backbone of its energy mix. President Xi referred to China's coal-fired power as "the foundation of our energy system." Despite acknowledging China's widespread use of coal, he added that China must remain committed to clean and low-carbon development. He further said, "The path we took in being the first ?to develop wind and solar power has now proven to be forward-looking."
https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/chinas-xi-urges-faster-development-new-energy-system-middle-east-war-continues-2026-04-06/
Artemis-II Mission, Day 05: Astronauts approach historic distance milestone near the moon
On 06 April, Reuters reported that the Artemis II mission's astronauts had reached a major milestone by entering the Moon’s gravitational influence and were now heading toward the far side of the Moon. During this nearly 10-day mission, the crew will travel about 252,757 miles from Earth, surpassing the long-standing distance record set by Apollo 13. As they fly roughly 4,000 miles above the Moon’s dark far side, the astronauts will temporarily lose communication with Earth due to a blackout caused by the Moon blocking signals. This six-hour flyby will allow them to capture rare images of the Moon’s shadowed surface and to observe Earth as it appears small and distant from space. This mission is a key step in the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon by 2028 and establish a long-term presence to support future missions to Mars.
On April 6, 2026, Taiwan opposition leader Cheng Li-wun announced a landmark "peace mission" to China, marking the first visit by a Kuomintang (KMT) chair in a decade. The trip includes a potential meeting with President Xi Jinping and comes as Taiwan’s parliament stalls a $40 billion defence package supported by the U.S. Cheng advocates political dialogue to ensure prosperity, while the ruling DPP warns that the move assists Beijing's efforts to weaken Taiwan’s defences. Beijing has heightened its "peaceful reunification" rhetoric, recently offering energy security incentives while refusing to speak with President Lai Ching- te. This diplomatic outreach occurs just before a critical summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, highlighting the growing international stakes. While Cheng maintains that conditions for reunification are not "ripe," her visit underscores a deep internal divide over whether Taiwan should prioritise military deterrence or political rapprochement to manage its volatile relationship with the mainland.
THE WORLD TODAY
#297, Vol 2, No 82
04 April 2026, Saturday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Glynnis Winona Beschi, Manik Dhawan, Rakshitha B, Rebecca Ann Oommen, Siddhi Halyur
AROUND THE WORLD
NASA: Artemis II mission sends pictures of Earth; half way to the moon
On 04 April, the fourth day of flight, NASA released the pictures of Earth taken from the Orion Spacecraft. On 03 April, NASA reported that Orion had successfully propelled itself out of Earth orbit and was now travelling around the far side of the Moon. The crew is exercising, practising the medical response procedure and testing the spacecraft emergency communications. Additionally, they rehearse the scientific observations to be carried out during the lunar flyby.
Ukraine-Turkey Talks: Kyiv expands security ties with Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar
On 04 April, Reuters reported that Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Istanbul to hold “substantive” discussions on security cooperation talks with Tayyip Erdogan, focusing on strengthening partnerships to protect lives and enhance stability and security across Europe and the Middle East. As part of its broader diplomatic strategy, Ukraine has recently signed security agreements with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, while continuing talks with other regional nations. Drawing from its ongoing war with Russia, Ukraine is also leveraging its experience in countering drones, particularly as Russia has used Iranian-designed drones since its 2022 invasion. During the visit, Zelenskyy is expected to meet Patriarch Bartholomew, a key leader in the Orthodox Church. Separately, global trade tensions persist, as tariffs introduced under Donald Trump continue to pose challenges for export-dependent industries such as bourbon.
Cuba: Begins mass prisoner release as a gesture of amnesty
On 03 April, Reuters reported that, in Havana, the capital of Cuba, the country began releasing prisoners after its communist-run government announced a sweeping amnesty. More than 2,000 prisoners are expected to be released, according to state-run media. The move has been described as a sovereignty and humanitarian gesture, marking the largest such amnesty in a decade. The United States is closely monitoring whether political prisoners are included, though this remains unclear. The issue remains a key point in US–Cuba relations. A steady stream of prisoners was seen leaving Lima prison in Guanabacoa, Havana, on Friday. Most released individuals were convicted of common crimes such as theft and bribery, with none reportedly linked to anti-government protests. Scenes outside the prison reflected emotional reunions, with some celebrating their freedom while others left quietly with official pardon documents. Human rights groups, some backed by the US government, claim Cuba holds hundreds of political prisoners, which the government denies. Verification is difficult as the names of released prisoners are not published. Past amnesties include a 2015 pardon of 3,522 prisoners and a March release of 51 prisoners under a Vatican-linked agreement.
TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 35
Iran shoots down two US warplanes, including a US F-15 fighter jet; Both countries search for the pilot; 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them, says President Trump
On 04 April, Iran's IRNA news agency claimed that its top joint military commander shot down two US warplanes. Iran's spokesperson stated that they have employed a domestically produced air defence system and Iran will achieve full control of the skies as new such systems will roll out one after another. Additionally, the officials are carrying out an intensified search to capture the US pilot alive in return for promised rewards. US media reported that one of the pilots on board was rescued. US President Trump, reiterating his March 27 deadline, says, "Remember when I gave Iran ten days to MAKE A DEAL or OPEN UP THE HORMUZ STRAIT. Time is running out - 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them. Glory be to GOD!"
Iran drone strike on Israel-linked ship in Hormuz Strait
On 04 April, Reuters reported that Iran on Saturday said it had struck an Israel-linked vessel in the Strait of Hormuz using a drone, according to state media reports citing the commander of the Revolutionary Guards navy. The attack reportedly set the ship ablaze, raising fresh concerns over maritime security in one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints. There was no immediate response from Israel. The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions following recent military exchanges, fuelling fears of further escalation that could disrupt global energy supplies and international shipping routes passing through the strategically vital waterway.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iran-says-it-hit-israel-linked-vessel-hormuz-strait-2026-04-04/
Iraq shuts Shalamcheh trade crossing after Iran airstrikes
On 04 April, Reuters reported that Iraq closed the Shalamcheh border crossing with Iran after airstrikes on the Iranian side killed an Iraqi citizen. The strike hit a passenger reception area, severely wounding five Iraqis. This has led to the closure of a vital supply artery. Traders and border officials stated that the crossing is one of the main routes for importing vegetables and other food supplies from Iran to Iraq. Iraq’s border authorities said they had been notified by Iranian officials that truck and passenger movement would be restored in the coming hours once work on the transit and passport systems is completed. A few hours after the strike, Iraqi border authorities also briefly halted movement at the Safwan crossing with Kuwait after reporting explosions on the Kuwaiti side.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/iraq-closes-shalamcheh-crossing-with-iran-after-airstrikes-kill-iraqi-2026-04-04/
Trump considers broader cabinet shake-up as Iran war anxiety grows
On 04 April, Reuters reported that Donald Trump is considering a broader cabinet shake-up following the recent removals of Pam Bondi and Kristi Noem. The move comes as a five-week war with Iran fuels rising gas prices, sinking approval ratings, and growing concern among Republicans ahead of the November midterm elections. Trump's director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick are also at risk of being removed from office. In recent months, Trump had expressed displeasure with Gabbard while Lutnick has faced scrutiny for his relationship with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-weighs-broader-cabinet-shake-up-iran-war-pressure-grows-2026-04-04/
Pakistan: Tehran’s silence stalls Islamabad’s push for talks, says Dawn
On 04 April, the Dawn reported that a Pakistan-led initiative to facilitate talks between the United States and Iran has been delayed due to Tehran’s lack of formal response. Despite ongoing back-channel exchanges and some progress in relaying messages, Iran has not indicated readiness to engage in dialogue, slowing diplomatic momentum. Pakistan, supported by China, continues efforts to persuade Iran, maintaining contact with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The initiative, led by Asim Munir, also seeks support from Gulf countries, Türkiye and Beijing. A framework for talks has been discussed, with Islamabad considered as a potential venue, though opposition from some Arab states remains a key challenge to de-escalation efforts.
("‘Silence’ stonewalls Pakistan-led US-Iran talks initiative," Dawn, 04 April 2026. https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.dawn.com/news/amp/1988294)
#296, Vol 2, No 81
03 April 2026, Friday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Glynnis Winona Beschi, Manik Dhawan, Rakshitha B, Rebecca Ann Oommen, Siddhi Halyur
TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 35
UN Security Council to vote on Bahrain's resolution
On 02 April, Reuters reported that the UN Security Council will vote on a Bahrain-sponsored resolution aimed at protecting commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz. However, China has said that it opposes authorizing any use of force. Diplomats told Reuters that the meeting and the vote are scheduled to be held on Saturday morning. The draft resolution finalized by Bahrain, the current chair of the UN Security Council, would "authorize all defensive means necessary" to protect shipping. Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani said that Bahrain was looking for a unified position from the council. He added that Iran's unlawful actions in the Strait of Hormuz threaten global interests and require a decisive response.
China's envoy to the UN, Fu Cong, opposed authorizing the use of force in his remarks to the council on Thursday. He said that if the Security Council legitimises the use of force, it would escalate the conflict and lead to serious consequences. On 02 April, in a meeting with 40 other countries, Britain expressed support for Bahrain's resolution. The secretary-general of the Arab League also stated that the 22-member League backed Bahrain. In order to be adopted, Bahrain's resolution requires nine votes in the Security Council, with no vetoes from the five permanent members.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/bahrain-hopes-vote-revised-hormuz-resolution-friday-2026-04-02/
Trump threatens to strike Iran's civilian infrastructure as Hormuz crisis persists
On 03 April, Reuters reported that US President Donald Trump threatened Iran with attacks on civilian infrastructure following a US strike on a major bridge. On 2 April, President Trump posted footage on Truth Social showing damage to the newly constructed B1 bridge between Tehran and Karaj after US strikes. The bridge was set to open to traffic this year. In a subsequent post praising the US military, he wrote "Bridges next, then Electric Power Plants." President Trump also threatened the Iranian leadership regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He said that Iran "knows what has to be done, and has to be done, FAST!" He made these comments after US oil prices rose by eleven per cent on Thursday. The UK also chaired a meeting on the reopening of Hormuz without producing an agreement.
Iran's Foreign Minister responded to Trump's threats by stating that the US cannot force Iran to surrender by striking civilian infrastructure and unfinished bridges. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also responded by threatening to attack all US and Israeli assets in the region, especially fuel, energy and economic centres. Iran also claimed to have downed an F-35, on which the US didn't comment. Another Iranian attack hit a major desalination and power plant in Kuwait.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/us-vows-target-more-iranian-infrastructure-nations-seek-open-hormuz-2026-04-03/
AROUND THE WORLD
Myanmar: Pro-military parliament elects Min Aung Hlaing as President
On 03 April, Reuters reported that Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has been elected president after securing a parliamentary vote. This marks a further consolidation of his political regime after seizing power in the 2021 military coup. His rise to the presidency comes after a controversial election held in December and January. The election was widely criticised by Western governments and opposition groups as an attempt to legitimise continued military rule under a civilian framework. Min Aung Hlaing, who overthrew the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and placed her under arrest in 2021, has faced continued resistance as initial public protests gradually turned into a nationwide armed struggle against the junta. Analysts consider his transition from military commander to president a calculated move to seek international recognition, strengthen his position, and retain military influence within a civilian government. China has expressed support for stability under the new administration. Though Myanmar’s civil war continues, human rights groups and United Nations experts have accused the military of atrocities against civilians. Opposition groups have formed a new alliance aimed at dismantling military rule and restoring democratic governance.
Afghanistan and Pakistan: China notes a "positive development" in mediation efforts
On 3 April, Mao Ning, Director of the Foreign Ministry Information Department of China, said that the negotiations between Kabul and Islamabad are advancing as both parties are willing to start it again. Fighting since October has caused dozens of deaths, with most casualties on the Afghan side. Beijing is acting as a mediator between both nations due to its shared western border with both countries. China is facilitating dialogue by holding ministerial talks, sending an envoy, and offering a platform for negotiations, likely in Urumqi. This represents a positive diplomatic step after prolonged tensions. The core dispute stems from Pakistan’s allegations that the Afghan Taliban are sheltering Islamist militants who carry out cross-border attacks inside Pakistan. Afghanistan rejects these claims and maintains that the militancy is an internal Pakistani issue. The ongoing talks signal cautious optimism and underline China’s growing influence in regional conflict resolution.
South Korea and France: Expand cooperation through a strategic partnership
On 3 April, South Korea and France agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship to a strategic partnership following a summit between South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung and France’s President Emmanuel Macron in Seoul. The meeting took place during Macron’s two-day state visit, marking the first visit by a French president to South Korea since 2015. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation across defence, energy, and economic sectors in the context of evolving global geopolitical and economic challenges. Both sides emphasised the need for coordination in addressing energy security concerns, particularly in light of disruptions affecting global supply routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. In the defence domain, the two countries agreed to strengthen collaboration through joint military exercises and increased cooperation in defence industries and aerospace development. The two sides set a target to increase bilateral trade from approximately $15 billion in 2025 to $20 billion by 2030. In addition, preliminary agreements were reached to support collaboration in nuclear energy, including fuel supply arrangements and joint participation in global markets. The development reflects a deepening of strategic, economic, and technological engagement between South Korea and France.
#295, Vol 2, No 80
02 April 2026, Thursday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Glynnis Winona Beschi, Manik Dhawan, Rakshitha B, Rebecca Ann Oommen, Siddhi Halyur
AROUND THE WORLD
NASA: Artemis II Enters Orbit as Crewed Lunar Mission Advances
On 01 April, NASA launched its Artemis II mission, marking the execution of its first crewed lunar programme in nearly five decades. The Orion spacecraft, carried by the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, is currently in high Earth orbit, where astronauts are conducting initial system checks before proceeding toward the Moon. The crew, consisting of Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen, is expected to move into the next phase of the mission with a translunar injection that will place the spacecraft on a trajectory toward the Moon. The mission timeline includes a lunar flyby and returns to Earth over approximately 10 days, with ongoing monitoring of spacecraft performance and crew conditions. The launch has received national attention, with U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledging the mission and its significance for advancing human space exploration. Artemis II serves as a transition into operational human missions under NASA’s Artemis programme. It is expected to play a key role in shaping upcoming missions, particularly Artemis III, which aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface, as well as longer-term plans involving sustained lunar presence and future missions to Mars.
On 02 April, Reuters reported that Russian universities and regional authorities have made efforts to recruit students and workers into drone units engaged in the war in Ukraine, which emphasises Moscow’s continued focus on strengthening manpower and technological capabilities. The Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok is offering academic leave, free accommodation, tuition exemptions and a first-year salary of 5.5 million roubles to students who enrol as technical specialists or drone operators. Universities in Moscow and St Petersburg have announced incentives that offer up to 7 million roubles annually. The recruitment campaign has also been describing drone operators as “the new indispensables,” which reflects the growing role of drone warfare in Russia’s military operations. Reuters further reported that authorities in the Ryazan region have instructed companies to support recruitment targets by encouraging workers to sign army contracts. Though officials say that enlistment remains voluntary, reports suggest that this indirect pressure reflects Russia’s effort to sustain forces in the prolonged Ukraine conflict.
TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 34
The US has all the cards, Iran has none: President Trump
On 02 April, Reuters reported that US President Donald Trump stated in a televised speech on Wednesday night that the US military had nearly accomplished its goals in Iran, but offered no clear timeline for ending the monthlong war and vowed to bomb the country back into the "Stone Ages." Trump further claimed that they have destroyed Iran's navy and air force, and crippled its ballistic missile and nuclear programs. In his address from the White House, he stated, “We have all the cards. They have none.” He spoke about other unresolved issues, including the status of Iran's enriched uranium and access through the Strait of Hormuz. He further stated that once the war ended, the strait would “naturally’ open. As the war approaches its fifth week, he declined to lay down any concrete plans of ending the war apart from claiming that the US would finish the job “very fast”.
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-tell-wary-public-that-iran-war-goals-have-been-accomplished-prime-time-2026-04-01/
On 02 April, Reuters reported that the UK will host talks on Thursday to form a coalition of nations to explore options to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The virtual meeting will be chaired by the UK's Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, and will be attended by 35 countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and the UAE. The US will not attend the meeting. This meeting follows US President Donald Trump's address to the nation, in which he said the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz was the responsibility of the nations that rely on it most. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Wednesday that the meeting would assess viable diplomatic and political measures to restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz after a ceasefire is reached. Officials said the talks on Thursday would be the first formal meeting of the group, followed by more detailed discussions involving military planners. One official said that any plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would focus on ensuring the waterway is mine-free and that tankers are protected. Mr Starmer added that reopening the strait would require "a united front of military strength and diplomatic activity" while working with the shipping industry.
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/uk-host-talks-with-35-countries-reopening-strait-hormuz-2026-04-02/
On 02 April, Reuters reported on French President Emmanuel Macron dismissing calls for military action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, calling such an approach “unrealistic” amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. His remarks come after President Trump urged allies to take stronger action to restore access to the crucial waterway. Speaking during a visit to South Korea, Macron warned that any military attempt to secure the route would be prolonged and dangerous, exposing vessels to threats from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and ballistic missiles. Instead, he emphasised that reopening the passage must come through diplomatic engagement with Tehran. Macron added that France and its European partners are working to build a post-conflict coalition to ensure safe navigation, underscoring a preference for negotiation over escalation in safeguarding global energy flows.
https://www.reuters.com/world/macron-says-it-is-unrealistic-open-hormuz-strait-by-force-2026-04-02/
#294, Vol 2, No 79
01 April 2026, Wednesday
Compiled by Aparna A Nair, Glynnis Winona Beschi, Manik Dhawan, Rakshitha B, Rebecca Ann Oommen, Siddhi Halyur
TWT SPECIAL COVERAGE: US-IRAN WAR, DAY 33
Trump threatens NATO exit, claims Iran seeking ceasefire
On 01 April, the CNN World reported that US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with NATO, signalling a possible US withdrawal from the alliance amid deep divisions over the ongoing Iran war. Ahead of a televised address, President Trump claimed that Iran’s president has sought a ceasefire, though the assertion remains unverified and disputed by Tehran. In an interview with the Telegraph, President Trump labelled NATO a “paper tiger,” accusing member states of failing to support US military operations. His criticism has intensified over the weeks, particularly targeting allies for refusing to assist in reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Trump has repeatedly questioned NATO’s relevance, even suggesting the US “never needed” the alliance. The rift stems largely from the February 28 strikes on Iran, which allies say they were not consulted on. European resistance has since hardened, with several nations distancing themselves from the conflict. Former NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg had earlier warned of President Trump’s intent to rethink US commitments, while current Chief Mark Rutte now faces the challenge of holding the alliance together. As tensions grow, European countries are expected to boost their own defence capabilities, but the potential exit of the US threatens to fundamentally reshape NATO’s future.
https://edition.cnn.com/2026/04/01/world/live-news/iran-war-us-trump-oil
Iran attacks Kuwait and Qatar
On 01 April, Reuters reported that an oil tanker leased to state-owned Qatar Energy was hit by an Iranian cruise missile on Wednesday in Qatari waters, the defence ministry said. A total of three missiles were launched on Qatar, out of which two were intercepted, while one hit the Aqua one fuel oil tanker, but caused no casualties. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and QatarEnergy said that the vessel, located thirty-one kilometres north of Qatar's Ras Laffan industrial hub, which is the site of the world's largest gas plant, sustained damage above the waterline, but no environmental impact was reported. Reuters also reported that an Iranian drone attack struck fuel tanks at Kuwait International Airport on Wednesday, sparking a massive fire but causing no casualties, as confirmed by Kuwait's state news agency KUNA. According to the civil aviation authorities, the attack has caused major damage to the Kuwait Aviation Fuelling Company.
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/tanker-hit-by-two-projectiles-off-qatar-one-unexploded-ukmto-says-2026-04-01/
https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/kuwait-says-iran-drone-attack-sets-airport-fuel-tanks-ablaze-no-casualties-2026-04-01/
Bulgaria: Iran warns Bulgaria over the use of airports by US military aircraft
On 01 April, Reuters reported that Iran has warned Bulgaria not to let the US use its airports for planes taking part in military operations against Iran. On Wednesday, Stanislav Balabanov, a deputy in Bulgaria's "There is such People" party, presented a note from Iran dated 18 March. In the note, Tehran had protested against US military refuelling aircraft being parked at Sofia's Vasil Levski Airport. The note stated that Iran has the right to take all necessary actions to protect its national interests, security, and sovereignty in accordance with international law. Bulgarian Deputy Foreign Minister Marin Raikov confirmed this note in a statement to reporters, adding that Bulgaria is not at war. He said that Bulgaria isn't hosting any combat aircraft for military operations and that Sofia maintains diplomatic relations with Tehran. He added that the US military planes that landed at Sofia Vasil Levski Airport were part of a NATO deployment. He mentioned that the Bulgarian parliament has not authorised any military actions in the Middle East.
https://www.reuters.com/world/iranian-authorities-warned-bulgaria-not-let-us-use-airports-2026-04-01/
UK pivots toward EU amid Iran war fallout
On 01 April, Reuters reported that Prime Minister Keir Starmer signalled a strategic shift toward closer ties with the European Union, citing global instability triggered by the Iran war and growing tensions with Donald Trump. Speaking in London, Starmer said Britain’s long-term national interest now lies in strengthening economic and defence cooperation with Europe. The move comes as relations with Washington deteriorate, with Trump repeatedly criticising Starmer for refusing to join the US-led war on Iran and issuing latest warnings of quitting NATO. However, he reaffirmed that the UK would not be pressured into direct involvement, though it has allowed limited defensive operations. Highlighting a broader policy shift, Starmer said an upcoming UK-EU summit would focus on rebuilding ties post-Brexit, while ruling out rejoining the single market or customs union. He also announced that Britain would host talks with international partners to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route disrupted by the conflict. With over 30 countries expected to participate, the UK is positioning itself as a key diplomatic and security coordinator. This marks a notable tilt back toward Europe in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-requires-closer-eu-partnerships-due-volatile-world-starmer-says-2026-04-01/
Pakistan and China propose a five-part peace plan for the Middle East
On 1 April, The Guardian reported that Pakistan and China have released a joint five-part proposal for peace in the Middle East. In the past few weeks, Pakistan has emerged as a crucial proponent of a ceasefire and has recommended Islamabad as the centre for peace talks. Pakistan’s foreign minister, Ishaq Dar, flew to Beijing on Tuesday for a one-day meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, to negotiate an end to the war. According to a statement from China’s foreign ministry, the trip was intended to strengthen cooperation between China and Pakistan on the ongoing conflict in Iran and to make new efforts to advocate for peace. While Beijing condemned the initial US and Israeli strikes on Iran, it has maintained distance from the ongoing war, while negotiating with Tehran for the safe passage of its own oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. However, in a statement after Tuesday’s meeting, Pakistan and China have jointly called for an immediate ceasefire. They have demanded the safety of waterways, including the blockaded strait, and have also launched a five-part peace initiative.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/31/pakistan-china-propose-five-part-peace-plan-middle-east
AROUND THE WORLD
South Korea and Indonesia: Presidents discuss energy security and defence cooperation
On 01 April, South Korea's President Lee held bilateral discussions with Indonesia's President Prabowo in Seoul. They discussed the supply of energy resources such as LNG and coal, as well as cooperation in developing South Korea's homegrown KF-21 fighter jet. The joint statement by South Korea and Indonesia stated that the procedures to establish high-level energy security dialogue and public-private cooperation channels will be accelerated, taking into account the global supply chain and the need to keep it stable with minimised disruptions. President Prabowo stated that both countries are natural partners with complementary roles, highlighting South Korea's technological strength with Indonesia's resources. The joint statements also stated that the joint project to develop South Korea's homegrown KF-21 fighter jet is on track and aims to be completed by June 2026.
EU and Cuba: Havana receives additional humanitarian aid
On 01 April, Reuters reported that the European Commission announced an additional 2 million euros in humanitarian aid to Cuba in response to the worsening crisis in the country. The support is intended to provide food and safe drinking water to people affected by the ongoing energy and economic crisis. The situation has been largely driven by fuel shortages linked to disruptions in Venezuelan oil supplies. These shortages have worsened humanitarian conditions across the island, home to around 10 million people. EU Commissioner for Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib stated that the European Union stands with the Cuban people during the crisis and is increasing humanitarian assistance to ensure that essential support continues to reach the population in need. The funding underscores the EU's support for Cuba during the crisis.
NASA: Artemis II mission to send astronauts around the moon
On 01 April, NASA’s Artemis II mission is set to launch, marking the first crewed mission to the Moon in nearly 50 years since the Apollo programme. The mission will carry four astronauts aboard the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion spacecraft, marking a major step towards human space exploration. The launch will take place within a two-hour window starting at 6:24 pm EDT (3:54 am IST). The countdown process has already begun this week. Artemis II is designed as a crewed test flight and will not involve a lunar landing. NASA has arranged extensive live coverage of the mission. The launch can be watched on platforms including NASA+, YouTube, and Amazon Prime, with coverage beginning earlier in the day. Additional updates will be shared through NASA’s Artemis blog and official channels throughout the mission. This mission aims to send human beings back to the Moon and, subsequently, pave the way for future missions to Mars. The Artemis II mission will conduct crucial tests of the capabilities required for long-duration human spaceflight.
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NIAS TWT Team | Aparna A Nair, Brighty Ann Sarah, Lekshmi MK, M Kejia, R Preetha, Santhiya M
NIAS TWT Team | Aparna A Nair, Brighty Ann Sarah, Lekshmi MK, M Kejia, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Sunidhi Sampige and Tanvi Harendra
NIAS TWT Team | Aparna A Nair, Brighty Ann Sarah, Lekshmi MK, M Kejia, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Swati Sood, Vaihali Chittrothu
NIAS TWT Team | Aparna A Nair, Brighty Ann Sarah, Lekshmi MK, M Kejia, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Swati Sood, Vaihali Chittrothu
NIAS TWT Team | Aparna A Nair, Brighty Ann Sarah, Lekshmi MK, M Kejia, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Swati Sood, Vaihali Chittrothu
NIAS TWT Team | Aparna A Nair, Brighty Ann Sarah, Lekshmi MK, M Kejia, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Swati Sood, Vaihali Chittrothu
NIAS TWT Team | Aparna A Nair, Brighty Ann Sarah, Lekshmi MK, M Kejia, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Swati Sood, Vaihali Chittrothu
NIAS TWT Team | Brighty Ann Sarah, R Preetha, Santhiya M, Aparna A Nair & Kejia Reddy