The Middle East conflict, which began in late February 2026, became a catalyst for profound structural changes in the global trading system, which was already under pressure from rising protectionism and economic fragmentation. International institutions — the IMF, UNCTAD, the World Bank, and the WTO — unanimously warn of serious …

The European energy crisis is not over. Gas prices remain stubbornly high across the continent as Europeans face a long winter. Faced with an energy crisis stemming from Europe’s continued dependence on imported liquefied natural gas, in a context of continuous global geopolitical volatility, European leaders are working to diversify …

ToplinesIt remains unclear whether Ukrainian forces can use SpaceX’s low-earth orbit satellite communication technology (Starlink and Starshield) to intercept Russian jet-powered drones as of October 17. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on October 17 that Ukrainian forces cannot use “Starlink or Starshield technology” to intercept jet-powered drones in Ukraine as …

Key Takeaways: Iraq’s parliament approved the remaining Cabinet appointments for Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, including Laith al-Khazali of the U.S.-designated terrorist group Asaib Ahl al-Haq as a deputy prime minister, prompting concerns about continued Iran-backed militia influence in Baghdad. U.S. officials reaffirmed support for al-Zaidi’s vision of a sovereign Iraq …

Key TakeawaysThe Iranian regime has reportedly found ways to ship a very limited and relatively inconsequential amount of petroleum product exports via maritime routes despite the US naval blockade. Iran’s ability to export energy products continues to be severely hampered by the US economic campaign, however.The Houthis are using imitative …

Key Takeaways: The AfD, which emerged as the largest party in two of three German state elections in September and leads national polls at 28–30 percent, pursues a “nation-first” foreign policy that is relatively soft on Russia, skeptical of traditional U.S. security ties, and more positive toward China. Internally the …

A full-spectrum strategic partnership is in the cards. Russia’s recent praise of the Taliban’s anti-terrorist successes, foreign spy chief Sergey Naryshkin’s historic visit to Kabul, and the impending trip of Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk as part of an economic delegation have prompted global interest in Russia’s game plan in …

Key Takeaways: Iran is finalizing a response to U.S. comments on its New York proposal, with both sides signaling openness to diplomacy, yet remaining divided over the sequence of steps: Tehran seeks blockade relief, asset releases, and an end to fighting before reopening Hormuz, while Washington wants verifiable nuclear progress …

Key Takeaways: Iran’s traditional “forward defense” through affiliated groups such as Hezbollah, Iraqi militias, the Houthis, and Palestinian militants has suffered setbacks since October 2023, including major losses for Hezbollah and Hamas and the loss of the Assad government in Syria. Direct Israel–Iran exchanges have exposed the limits of proxy-based …

Key TakeawaysThe Iranian regime has reportedly found ways to ship a very limited and relatively inconsequential amount of petroleum product exports via maritime routes despite the US naval blockade. Iran’s ability to export energy products continues to be severely hampered by the US economic campaign, however.The Houthis are using imitative …