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As of mid-March 2026, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps claims full control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route through which 20% of global oil passes daily. Since the US-Israel strikes on Iran on February 28, multiple attacks on vessels have occurred, disrupting maritime traffic and spiking oil prices. The US has deployed Marines to the region and threatens severe military action if Iran mines the strait, while considering naval escorts for merchant ships. Some non-Iranian vessels have transited the strait with AIS signals off, suggesting covert negotiations and selective passage.
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Since its launch at Davos, Trump's 'Board of Peace' aims to oversee Gaza's reconstruction and global conflicts. Despite backing from some countries, many nations oppose or delay participation, citing concerns over legitimacy, scope, and potential to undermine the UN. Its future remains uncertain amid diplomatic tensions.
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Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE have intensified, with Saudi pushing for regional security alliances and Yemen projects, while the UAE faces setbacks in Yemen and Horn of Africa. Recent developments include Saudi's push for a Pakistan-Turkey security pact and increased regional influence efforts.
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A suicide bombing at a wedding in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, has killed seven people, including four who died in hospital. The attack targeted a peace committee house, with no group claiming responsibility but suspicion falling on the Pakistani Taliban amid ongoing regional violence.
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Over 1,100 Afghans, including civilians and former military women, are held at Qatar's Camp As Sayliyah. The US and Qatar face criticism over payments offered for voluntary repatriation, amid concerns about coercion and safety ahead of the facility's closure at the end of March.
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As of late January 2026, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists set the Doomsday Clock to 85 seconds before midnight, the closest ever. This reflects escalating global risks from nuclear arms races, AI misuse, climate change, and biological threats amid geopolitical tensions involving the US, Russia, China, and others.
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A fire at Gul Plaza in Karachi has killed 67 people, with 15 still missing. The blaze, caused possibly by a short circuit, burned for nearly two days. Poor safety standards and locked exits contributed to the high death toll. Rescue efforts continue as investigations unfold.
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Since late January 2026, Pakistan's security forces have launched Operation Radd-ul-Fitna-1 in Balochistan following coordinated attacks by the separatist Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). The operation has killed over 200 militants, with significant casualties among civilians and security personnel. Pakistan accuses India and Afghanistan of backing the insurgents, allegations both countries deny. The insurgency targets security forces, civilians, and Chinese interests in the resource-rich province.
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Separatist militants launched coordinated attacks across Pakistan's Balochistan province, killing at least 15 security personnel and 18 civilians. The military reported 92 militants killed, including suicide bombers. The attacks targeted multiple locations, including Quetta and Gwadar, amid ongoing insurgency and security operations.
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Since the October 2025 ceasefire in Gaza, violence has persisted with Israeli forces killing over 580 Palestinians and Hamas militants attacking Israeli troops. Recent clashes include Israeli strikes on Hamas commanders and militants emerging from tunnels near Rafah. Indonesia is preparing up to 8,000 troops for a potential peacekeeping mission in Gaza, while the Rafah crossing with Egypt has reopened, allowing limited civilian movement.
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Pakistan's security forces launched extensive raids in Balochistan following coordinated insurgent attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army, resulting in at least 33 militant and civilian deaths. The attacks included suicide bombings and gunfire, prompting widespread condemnation and security suspensions across the province.
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Pakistan's cricket team will not play India in the upcoming World Cup, citing security concerns amid ongoing political tensions. The ICC warns this could harm the tournament's integrity and revenue, especially from the high-profile India-Pakistan fixture. The dispute highlights the influence of geopolitics on international sports.
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A series of coordinated attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army in Balochistan have resulted in nearly 200 deaths, including security personnel and civilians. Security forces have responded with large-scale operations, killing over 197 militants. The violence has severely impacted the region, which is rich in resources and has a long history of separatist insurgency.
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Saudi Arabia and the UAE remain diplomatically strained since December, with Bahrain mediating efforts to bridge the gap. Egypt is also involved, seeking to contain regional conflicts over Yemen, Sudan, and Somalia. The situation highlights ongoing Gulf rivalries and regional instability as of February 15, 2026.
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The ongoing political tensions between India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan have deeply affected cricket fixtures. Bangladesh's boycott of the T20 World Cup in India, citing security concerns, led to their expulsion from the tournament. Pakistan's refusal to face India and the ICC's response highlight regional conflicts impacting international sport.
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This year's Singapore Air Show showcased advanced military aircraft from the US, China, and allies, highlighting China's growing assertiveness and the US's military demonstrations. The event also featured commercial aircraft developments, reflecting shifting regional power dynamics and technological ambitions.
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A bombing at a Shiite mosque in Islamabad during Friday prayers has killed at least 15 people and injured many more. The attack, which occurred in Tarlai Kalan, is under investigation. No group has claimed responsibility, but militants like ISIS or Pakistani Taliban are suspected. The attack follows recent violence in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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Lahore marks the return of the centuries-old Basant kite festival after an 18-year ban, with new safety regulations in place. The event celebrates spring, cultural heritage, and boosts local economy, despite past deadly accidents linked to hazardous kite strings. Authorities emphasize strict safety enforcement this year.
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A suicide bombing at a Shiite mosque in Islamabad during Friday prayers has killed 31 and wounded 169. The attacker was stopped at the gate before detonating. Pakistan blames India for sponsoring militancy, while Afghanistan condemns the attack. The incident marks the deadliest in over a decade in the capital.
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A suicide bombing at a Shi'ite mosque in Islamabad during Friday prayers has killed 31 people and injured over 170. The Islamic State claimed responsibility. The attack was the deadliest in the capital since 2008, raising fears of rising militancy in Pakistan.
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A suicide bombing at a Shiite mosque in Islamabad on February 7, claimed by Islamic State in Pakistan, killed at least 31 and wounded 169. The attack, the deadliest in the capital since 2008, highlights ongoing sectarian violence amid Pakistan's rising militant activity and regional tensions.
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A suicide bombing at a Shiite mosque in Islamabad on Friday killed 32 people and injured over 170. The Islamic State claimed responsibility. Pakistani authorities arrested suspects, including the alleged mastermind, during operations in Peshawar and Nowshera. The attack marks the deadliest in Islamabad in over a decade, raising concerns over regional security.
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A boat carrying African migrants capsized north of Zuwara, Libya, on 6 February, resulting in at least two survivors and over 375 deaths in January. The incident highlights ongoing dangers faced by migrants crossing the Mediterranean, amid exploitation by traffickers and calls for safer migration routes.
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Imran Khan, former Pakistan prime minister, faces a severe decline in vision while in detention. Court orders now demand urgent medical assessment and treatment, amid concerns over his deteriorating health and treatment conditions in prison. Supporters demand transparency and proper care.
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Police in Dera Ismail Khan were ambushed after an operation against militants. Four militants were killed in the exchange. The attack follows a surge in violence linked to the Pakistani Taliban and Islamic State affiliates, amid regional tensions and ongoing militant activity.
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Since October 2023, 5.4 million Afghans have returned from Pakistan and Iran due to border expulsions, economic hardship, and natural disasters. The scale of returns has strained Afghanistan's already fragile resources, raising concerns about sustainability and humanitarian impact amid ongoing crises.
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India and Pakistan's cricket teams face off in Colombo amid ongoing political tensions, with recent incidents including refused handshakes and threats of boycotts. The match marks a significant moment in their strained sporting and diplomatic relations, with security and diplomatic concerns influencing the game today, Mon, 23 Feb 2026.
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Muslims worldwide are observing the start of Ramadan, with dates varying by country due to moon sighting methods. Saudi Arabia, Iran, and other nations rely on visual sightings or astronomical calculations. Gaza faces hardships amid ongoing conflict, impacting Ramadan celebrations. The month emphasizes fasting, worship, and charity.
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Recent attacks in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, attributed to the Pakistani Taliban (TTP), have resulted in civilian casualties and heightened tensions with Afghanistan. The military reports thwarting an attack, with ongoing violence raising concerns over regional stability.
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Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, imprisoned since August 2023, faces health issues including vision loss. His sons, based in Britain, have applied for visas to visit him but have not received responses, raising fears of possible suppression amid ongoing political tensions.
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Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, imprisoned since August 2023, faces serious health issues, including vision loss. A group of 14 former cricket captains from five nations have called for humane treatment and medical care, raising questions about his detention conditions amid political tensions.
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Since late February 2026, Pakistan and Afghanistan have engaged in intense cross-border military strikes following Pakistan's airstrikes targeting militant hideouts in Afghanistan. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declared 'open war' on the Afghan Taliban government, accusing it of harboring Pakistani Taliban militants. Both sides report heavy casualties and destruction of military posts amid failed ceasefire talks and ongoing mediation efforts.
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second visit to Israel highlights a deepening strategic partnership, focusing on security, technology, and trade. The visit signals a shift in India's foreign policy, aligning more closely with Israel amid regional tensions and global realignments, with implications for regional stability and international support.
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The Taliban's recent decree, signed in January, introduces a penal code that criminalizes criticism of leadership, enforces corporal punishment for various offenses, and discriminates based on social class. UN officials urge Afghanistan to rescind the decree, citing violations of international legal obligations and human rights, especially affecting women and minorities.
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On March 2, 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a significant update to France's nuclear deterrence strategy. France will increase its nuclear warheads for the first time since the early 1990s and allow temporary deployment of French nuclear-armed aircraft to allied European countries. This move aims to strengthen European security amid doubts about U.S. nuclear commitments and rising geopolitical tensions, with deeper cooperation planned with Germany, Britain, Poland, and others.
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Ukraine considers relocating peace negotiations due to ongoing hostilities. Zelensky rejects Russia's territorial demands, citing resilience. Russia claims commitment to diplomacy despite reports of reluctance. Talks remain deadlocked over Ukraine's territorial integrity and security guarantees, with no clear resolution in sight. As tensions persist, the potential for renewed conflict and diplomatic stalemate remains high.
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Pakistan launched airstrikes on Kabul, Kandahar, and other Afghan towns, targeting Taliban military sites in response to Afghan retaliatory attacks. Civilian casualties reported, and tensions escalate amid ongoing cross-border conflict. The Taliban express willingness to negotiate, but violence continues as both sides claim significant casualties. Date: Sat, 28 Feb 2026.
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Following the US-Israeli strike that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on March 1, 2026, violent protests erupted across Pakistan, especially in Karachi, Skardu, and Islamabad. At least 10 people died in Karachi alone as protesters clashed with security forces near US diplomatic missions. Demonstrations also spread to Iraq, with protests outside the US embassy in Baghdad.
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Iran launched missile and drone strikes targeting US and Gulf interests after the killing of its supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, in a US-Israeli operation. Multiple Gulf countries reported casualties and damage, but regional states have refrained from direct retaliation, emphasizing restraint amid escalating tensions.
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Fighting between Afghan and Pakistani forces has intensified, with cross-border strikes and civilian casualties reported on both sides. Pakistan declared an 'open war' after Afghan retaliatory attacks, and diplomatic efforts have failed to halt the conflict. The situation remains volatile as both sides accuse each other of targeting civilians and harboring militants.
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Protests in Pakistan over Kashmir have turned violent, resulting in at least 24 deaths and injuries. Demonstrators attacked UN offices, police stations, and US diplomatic missions amid rising regional tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Curfews are in place, and security has been heightened nationwide.
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Following Iran's killing of Supreme Leader Khamenei, protests across Pakistan have turned violent, with clashes resulting in dozens of deaths. Demonstrators targeted US and UN facilities, amid rising tensions linked to Iran and regional conflicts. Security has been heightened nationwide.
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Russia has engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the Iran conflict, relaying Gulf states' security concerns to Tehran. Putin and Lavrov emphasize the need for a ceasefire and political solutions as regional tensions threaten global travel and stability. The US and Israel's recent attacks have intensified regional instability.
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The US State Department has ordered non-essential staff and their families to leave its diplomatic missions in Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and other Middle Eastern countries amid escalating Iran-related attacks. The move reflects heightened regional tensions following recent drone strikes and missile attacks linked to Iran, with the US reducing staffing at multiple embassies and consulates. Over 36,000 Americans have returned to the US since the escalation began, and diplomatic security remains a concern.
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Fighting along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border has entered its fifth day, with both sides claiming heavy losses. Afghan forces launched multiple ground attacks, while Pakistan reports repelling these assaults and inflicting significant casualties. International efforts for ceasefire negotiations are ongoing amid rising humanitarian concerns.
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Recent geopolitical tensions and energy shocks are reshaping global markets. Europe faces potential gas shortages amid conflicts in the Middle East, while falling renewable costs offer developing countries new energy options. These shifts could influence prices, security, and economic stability worldwide.
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Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei, aged 86, was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli operation, triggering protests across the Shiite world. Demonstrations in Pakistan, India, Iraq, and Lebanon have turned violent, with clashes, attacks on diplomatic sites, and increased regional tensions. The event signals potential for broader Middle East instability.
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Israeli authorities have sealed access to Al-Aqsa Mosque and other key religious sites in Jerusalem, citing security concerns linked to regional conflict and Iran's regional actions. The closures, ongoing since early March, coincide with heightened restrictions during Ramadan and regional tensions, provoking condemnation from Jordan, Palestinian groups, and Arab states.
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As of March 13, 2026, intense fighting continues along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border following Pakistani airstrikes on Afghan territory starting February 26. Both sides report heavy casualties and territorial gains amid ongoing military operations. The conflict has displaced over 115,000 people, with civilian deaths reported on both sides. International calls for restraint remain unheeded, and no ceasefire negotiations are underway.
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Pakistan is navigating increased regional tensions amid Iranian missile and drone attacks on Gulf states, its defense commitments, and domestic protests following Iran's killing of Khamenei. The country is balancing its alliances with Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the US amid escalating violence and sectarian unrest.