World

Dhaka, Bangladesh – Bangladesh's newly formed cabinet, following the February 2026 general election, features a stark reduction in women's representation, signaling a potential setback for gender equality in the nation's highest political echelon. Despite a history of female leadership at the prime ministerial level, the new government includes only three women among its 50 members, a significant decline from previous administrations and a concerning trend for advocates of inclusive governance. ### A Striking Decline in Representation The 13th national election saw the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) form a new government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, marking the first time in 35 years that a male leads the country

Paris, France – A palpable sense of concern is rippling through French political circles as the nation braces for a potential surge of far-right influence, increasingly echoing the "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) movement from across the Atlantic. With pivotal municipal and presidential elections on the horizon in 2027, French authorities and the political establishment are observing a concerted effort by American conservative groups to forge alliances and infuse their ideological tenets into France's domestic political landscape, sparking a robust resistance from those committed to the tenets of the French Republic. The convergence of internal populist forces and external ideological alignment presents a significant challenge to France's traditional political equilibrium

Beirut is on high alert, its already fragile stability threatened by the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. The prospect of a potential U.S

Brussels, Belgium – In a critical juncture for Middle East diplomacy, Bulgarian veteran diplomat Nickolay Mladenov has been appointed as the High Representative for Gaza, tasked with leading the newly established "Board of Peace." This U.S.-led initiative, chaired by former President Donald Trump, aims to navigate the complex post-ceasefire landscape of the Gaza Strip, overseeing crucial aspects of governance, reconstruction, and security coordination. Mladenov's appointment in January 2026 has placed him at the forefront of efforts to implement a comprehensive plan for the war-torn enclave, a role that leverages his extensive experience in some of the world's most intractable conflicts. Mladenov's current mission represents perhaps his most formidable challenge yet, as he steps into a role demanding nuanced diplomacy and robust leadership amidst ongoing regional tensions

The Islamic Republic of Iran stands at a precarious crossroads, facing a decisive "countdown" that could lead either to a fragile diplomatic resolution of its contentious nuclear program and deepening regional tensions or to a dangerous escalation with global ramifications. As of late February 2026, a flurry of indirect negotiations between Tehran and Washington are underway, juxtaposed with a significant U.S

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Israel, beginning February 25, marks a pivotal moment in India's evolving foreign policy, underscoring New Delhi's determination to deepen strategic ties while simultaneously navigating the volatile geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. The visit, his second to the Jewish state and the first by an Indian premier since 2017, comes amidst intense international scrutiny of Israel's actions in Gaza, setting the stage for a delicate balancing act that could significantly impact India's global standing and its traditional relationships in the Arab world. The journey aims to reaffirm a robust and multifaceted strategic partnership, focusing on enhanced cooperation in defense, advanced technology, trade, and cybersecurity

THE HAGUE, NETHERLANDS – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is currently facing a pivotal confirmation of charges hearing at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, a significant moment for thousands of victims of his administration's deadly "war on drugs." The proceedings, which began February 23, 2026, mark an unprecedented step in international accountability for alleged crimes against humanity committed during a campaign that claimed thousands of lives and drew widespread global condemnation. Prosecutors allege that Duterte, during his tenure as president and earlier as mayor of Davao City, encouraged death squads to carry out extrajudicial killings, using fear and financial incentives to facilitate a systematic attack against a civilian population. ## The Genesis of the "War on Drugs" and International Scrutiny Rodrigo Duterte launched his aggressive anti-drug campaign immediately upon assuming the presidency on June 30, 2016, a cornerstone promise of his election platform

MEXICO CITY – Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, the notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and one of the world's most wanted drug traffickers, was killed Sunday, February 22, 2026, during a high-stakes military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. The dramatic demise of "El Mencho," a figure synonymous with extreme violence and illicit power, has ignited a wave of retaliatory attacks across Mexico and left the nation grappling with profound questions about the future of its volatile drug war

A profound and complex tension grips Iran, where a population grapples with a deepening economic crisis, pervasive state repression, and a persistent, often defiant, desire for fundamental change. From the bustling bazaars to the quiet corners of homes, a potent mix of anger over deteriorating living conditions, fear of brutal state crackdowns, and an unshakeable aspiration for greater freedoms defines daily life for millions

TOKYO, Japan – A decades-long plan to significantly reduce the U.S. military footprint on the Japanese island of Okinawa is now confronting the complex and urgent realities of an increasingly assertive China, prompting a critical re-evaluation of regional defense strategies

MANDERA, Kenya – After a 15-year closure, the border between Kenya and Somalia is slated to officially reopen in April 2026, a move hailed by Kenyan President William Ruto as a step toward revitalizing cross-border trade and reconnecting fractured communities. However, the decision comes weighted with significant security concerns, particularly regarding the enduring threat posed by the Al-Shabaab militant group, whose attacks originally prompted the border's shutdown

KYIV, Ukraine – Four years into the full-scale invasion, Ukraine's war effort against Russia has undergone a profound transformation, evolving from an initial, desperate defense into a sophisticated and adaptable military strategy marked by technological innovation, robust domestic production, and a persistent quest for international support. What began as a fierce, nation-wide resistance to an overwhelming initial assault has matured into a complex, multi-faceted struggle aimed at national survival and attrition of the adversary, redefining modern warfare in the process. ### The Crucible of Early Defense: From Resistance to Resilience When Russia launched its full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, Ukraine faced an existential threat

Berlin's cherished identity as a vibrant cultural capital and a leading hub for research and education is facing an existential threat, as sweeping budget cuts implemented by the city's government send shockwaves through its universities and diverse cultural institutions. A reported €130 million less for the cultural sector in 2025, alongside a staggering €250 million reduction for tertiary education, research, and science, has ignited widespread protests and sparked fears that Berlin's hard-won reputation could be permanently damaged

Across the Middle East, governments are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to create sophisticated surveillance networks, a development reshaping the dynamics between state power and citizen dissent. While proponents argue these technologies enhance national security and public safety, their widespread deployment raises profound concerns about privacy, freedom of expression, and the potential for pre-emptive suppression of opposition, often before it even materializes

Across Southeast Asia, the allure of strongman rule often surfaces amidst public disillusionment with persistent corruption and perceived governmental inefficiencies. The promise of decisive action and swift justice from authoritarian leaders frequently resonates with citizens weary of systemic graft