Global Watch

On January 7, US forces seized a Russian-linked oil tanker off the coast of Iceland. The tanker, originally known as Bella 1 and later renamed Marinera, had been running from US patrols for weeks as it tried to slip through Washington’s blockade on Venezuelan oil exports. After the crew resisted a US boarding attempt in December, the vessel vanished into the Atlantic and spent two weeks at sea in what officials describe as a desperate bid t...

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has warned that any attack on Iran would be met with a “harsh and discouraging” response. His remarks followed comments by US President Donald Trump, who threatened to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities if Tehran resumes its nuclear program.   The US warning has fueled speculation about possible military action. On January 6, a significant number of US military aircraft were tracked enter...

The Grand Egyptian Museum officially opened in November 2025 beside the pyramids of Giza. After more than 20 years of delays caused by political unrest, regional conflict, and the COVID-19 pandemic, the launch marks a major cultural moment for Egypt.   Egypt is presenting the museum as proof that it can protect, preserve, and display its ancient heritage on its own terms. But the opening has also reignited a long-running debate over Egypti...

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was captured by US forces during a dramatic overnight military operation on January 3, 2026. While the jaw-dropping raid removed one of Latin America’s most notorious strongmen, Venezuela’s authoritarian system is still in place. The country and region now face deep uncertainty, with risks of greater repression, instability, and prolonged crisis.   What Happened: US Captures Nicol&aacu...

China’s large military drills near Taiwan have raised tensions in the Taiwan Strait, drawing US criticism and renewed global concern over regional stability.