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EU and Gulf Cooperation Council leaders have condemned Iranian attacks on Gulf countries, urging Iran to cease immediately. European countries are showing support for their Gulf allies by sending warships and air defense assets to the region. The escalating conflict has raised concerns about global energy markets and security. Want More Context? 🔎

Several South Africans were repatriated from Russia after being lured under false pretences and sent to fight in the Ukraine war. Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, was implicated in the recruitment drive. The recruits were promised security training but ended up on the front lines in Ukraine. They were allegedly paid by Russia's Wagner Group. The returnees fear reprisals and prosecution under South African law. The President of South Africa intervened to secure their repatriation. The men were subjected to dangerous duties and racial abuse while in Ukraine. Want More Context? 🔎

Players of the Iranian women’s football team chose to sing the national anthem before their Asian Cup match against Australia, in contrast to their previous silence. The team, facing concerns over the ongoing conflict with the US and Israel, changed their stance amid fears for their families back home. Despite a 4-0 loss to Australia, the team received support from expatriate Iranians and protesters against the current regime. Iran now faces a must-win game against the Philippines to keep their hopes of advancing in the tournament alive. Want More Context? 🔎

Iran has launched operations targeting Iranian and Iraqi Kurdish groups in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region in neighboring Iraq amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel. More than 1,000 people have been killed in the country as a result. Iranian missiles hit Sulaimaniyah city in the Kurdistan region, with Tehran striking "anti-Iran separatist forces" believed to be based near the Iran-Iraq border. The US is reportedly in talks with Kurdish groups to weaken Iranian forces and potentially create a buffer for Israeli forces. Various Kurdish groups in Iraq and Iran are involved, including the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan. Iraqi Kurds are in a difficult position as they try to navigate their relationships with the US, Iran, and other forces in the region. Want More Context? 🔎

Beijing's Tiananmen Square was closed to tourists for the annual political event known as Lianghui, China's version of the State opening of Parliament. Nearly 3000 delegates gathered to discuss policy and vote on new laws, showcasing China's diverse ethnic minorities. The event highlighted China's focus on technological self-reliance and national security, reflecting President Xi Jinping's vision for an ascendant China amidst a backdrop of international tensions. Want More Context? 🔎

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs directed a message towards The Hague Group, a coalition of nations meeting to discuss Gaza actions. The post compared the meeting to a successful military strike on an Iranian vessel. The Hague Group, including G20 members, proposed concrete measures to enforce international law, prompting Israel to dismiss them as "corrupt regimes". The history of Israeli support for apartheid South Africa complicates the framing of this coalition. The recent strikes on Iran have brought Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi into focus, thanking Trump for the intervention. Want More Context? 🔎

Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, the Israeli military’s chief of staff, unexpectedly gave the orders to attack Iran, including the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, from an underground command center in Tel Aviv. Zamir, a key architect of the joint Israeli-American offensive, has long focused on the threat from Iran and its proxies. The conflict, which began with a surprise attack on the Iranian nuclear program, marks the first open war between Israel and Iran, not just their proxies. General Zamir has been working closely with top U.S. military officials, including hosting Admiral Brad Cooper for Shabbat dinner in Israel. Want More Context? 🔎

Tehran, Iran is facing intense bombing and missile attacks, causing damage to water and electricity facilities. Despite the chaos, basic necessities are still available, but prices have skyrocketed due to high inflation rates. The government is struggling to provide enough medicine and medical equipment, and has implemented cash subsidies for essential goods. The Iranian economy, already weakened by corruption and sanctions, is further impacted by the ongoing war. The internet blackout by authorities is limiting access to information, with state-run news channels controlling the narrative. Want More Context? 🔎

Nepalis voted for a new government in the first election since a Gen Z revolution in September. The full results are yet to be known, but the electorate is energized by a onetime rapper named Balendra Shah. With a focus on fighting corruption and bringing change, the election could determine the future of Nepal as voters seek accountability and fair opportunities at home. Want More Context? 🔎

The US-Israel attack on Iran has reignited tensions between Lebanon and Israel, with Hezbollah facing its most critical moment in history. Following a recent attack on northern Israel, Hezbollah is under intense scrutiny regarding its military capabilities and plans against Israel. The Lebanese government has banned all Hezbollah security and military activities, raising questions about potential further conflict and the involvement of Iran. This escalation has significant implications for the Middle East region, impacting political and military dynamics across various actors. Want More Context? 🔎