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On December 26, 2025, Israel became the first UN member state to officially recognize Somaliland as an independent country, signing a joint declaration with Somaliland's president. The move, framed as part of the Abraham Accords, has sparked widespread condemnation from Somalia, the African Union, and regional powers, who view it as a threat to Somalia's sovereignty and regional stability. Somaliland hailed the recognition as historic and a step toward strategic partnership.
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Amid rising tensions, Gulf nations engaged in intense diplomacy with the US and Iran. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and Egypt warned of regional security and economic consequences if the US attacked Iran. President Trump signaled a possible de-escalation, citing easing violence in Iran, but military options remain on the table.
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Iran's authorities face unrest after a week of protests over economic hardship, with state TV briefly hacked to broadcast calls for revolt. Death tolls exceed 5,000, and internet restrictions are easing amid ongoing tensions between Iran, the US, and regional allies.
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Turkish President Erdogan visited Saudi Arabia and Egypt this week, signaling a shift towards regional alliance-building. The visits focus on economic cooperation, regional stability, and rebuilding diplomatic relations after years of tension, with discussions on investments, security, and Syria. The moves mark a significant regional realignment.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Malaysia for the first time in over a decade, where he signed multiple agreements with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim. The deals focus on renewable energy, healthcare, AI, and semiconductor cooperation, aiming to strengthen bilateral trade and strategic partnership.
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Multiple attacks near Oman, including the targeting of oil tankers Skylight and Safeen Prestige, have heightened regional tensions. Incidents follow Iran's claims of control over the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran, raising fears of escalation and disruptions to global oil supplies.
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An oil tanker flagged by Palau was targeted north of Khasab port in Oman, with at least four injured and the crew evacuated. The incident follows recent attacks amid escalating Iran-Israel tensions, raising concerns over shipping safety and regional stability.
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Putin expressed condolences over Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei's death and called for diplomatic solutions to escalating Middle East tensions. Russia is providing Iran with intelligence, despite publicly denying requests for military support, amid US-Israeli attacks on Iran.
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Gulf nations express disappointment over the US's lack of warning and support during recent Iran-related attacks, accusing Washington of prioritizing Israel and American troops while Gulf states fend for themselves amid escalating missile and drone strikes.
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Russia has provided Iran with intelligence on US military assets since the US-Israeli attack on Iran began last Saturday. US officials say Iran's targeting has become more precise, suggesting Russian assistance, while Russia denies offering military aid. The US continues to target Iran, with ongoing regional clashes and diplomatic tensions.