Asia
Iran / USA: Trump’s optimism about talks as blockade takes effect
With the two week cease-fire between the USA and Iran in a fragile state, Donald Trump has expressed optimism that a peace agreement may be close, with potential new talks under discussion as…
Lebanon / Israel: direct talks for the first time in over thirty years
In a rare diplomatic breakthrough, Israel and Lebanon have held their first direct talks in over thirty years, mediated by Marco Rubio. The discussions aim to reduce violence and address the ongoing conflict…
Iran / USA: ceasefire is announced, but Israel continues to bombard Lebanon
In the end, cooler heads prevailed – at least for now. A fragile pause has emerged in the conflict between the USA and Iran after Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire to allow…
North Korea: Kim’s sister praises apology by South Korean president
Tensions remain delicate following a recent drone-related incident between South Korea and North Korea. South Korea’s president, Lee Jae-myung, expressed regret over actions which contributed to heightened tensions, describing them as unintended and…
Iran / USA: Trump’s mixed messages create uncertainty
As the conflict in the Middle East continues, Donald Trump has alternated between signalling possible de-escalation and threatening further military action, leaving the situation highly uncertain. Increased military deployments in the Gulf region…
Lebanon: Israel plans buffer zone even after conflict with Hezbollah ends
Amid escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the IDF’s plans to establish a buffer zone deep inside southern Lebanon have intensified fears of prolonged instability. Foreign minister Israel Katz, stating that the aim…
Syria: Christians cancel Easter celebrations after sectarian violence
Sectarian violence erupted on 28 March in Suqaylabiyah, a predominantly Christian town in Syria, following tensions involving two Muslim young men from the nearby town of Qalaat al-Madiq. Reports indicate that they started…
Nepal: increased numbers of tigers mean more risks to those living nearby
In rural areas of Nepal, families living near protected forests face growing danger as tiger populations increase. Pushpa Tamang, a survivor of a brutal tiger attack in 2019, lives with severe disabilities and…
Middle East war: Trump’s claims of negotiations are rebuffed by Iran
Iran has rejected claims by Donald Trump that negotiations are under way to end the conflict, with military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari accusing Washington of ‘negotiating with itself’ to mask failure. While US officials…
Asia: effects of Strait of Hormuz blockade on ordinary people
The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran has disrupted global energy supplies, sending oil prices higher and straining economies, especially across Asia. With nearly 90% of shipments through the strait…
