North Korea has accused South Korea of sending drones into its airspace to spread anti-government propaganda, threatening to retaliate if such intrusions continue. South Korea has denied these accusations, but tensions remain high between the two nations.
Amid growing tensions with Israel, Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad visited Kharg Island, the country’s main oil export terminal, on Sunday. This visit comes after Israel’s threats of retaliatory strikes on Iranian oil facilities following a barrage of missiles launched by Iran this week. Paknejad reassured the public that Iran is ‘not afraid’ of potential attacks, highlighting the importance of the Kharg Island facility and the security measures in place.
South Korea showcased its most powerful ballistic missile and other advanced weapons during a large-scale Armed Forces Day ceremony, sending a strong message to North Korea. The event was marked by a stark warning from South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who declared that any use of nuclear weapons by the North would result in its regime’s collapse. The display of military might comes amid heightened regional tensions following North Korea’s recent unveiling of a uranium-enrichment facility and provocative missile tests.
The U.S. military has condemned a Russian fighter jet’s dangerous maneuver near Alaska, highlighting ongoing tensions between the two nations. The incident, which involved a routine aerial intercept of Russian aircraft, saw a Russian Su-35 fighter jet perform an unsafe and unprofessional maneuver, endangering all involved. This incident follows a string of provocative actions by Russian military forces, including harassment of U.S. drones over Syria and recent changes in Russia’s nuclear policy.
Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has condemned the presence of a US nuclear submarine in South Korea, calling it a blatant display of US aggression and a threat to regional stability. This follows the arrival of the USS Vermont in Busan for resupply and crew rest, further escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Taiwan has vehemently denied China’s accusations of Taiwanese-backed cyberattacks, calling them baseless and part of a disinformation campaign. The accusations come amidst escalating tensions between the two nations, with China tightening export controls and Taiwan seeking to strengthen ties with the US.
Hezbollah’s walkie-talkies, allegedly targeted by Israel, exploded due to highly explosive batteries, escalating tensions between the two groups. The situation is further inflamed by ongoing rocket exchanges and threats of retaliation, raising concerns of a full-scale war.
Pakistan has removed its special representative to Afghanistan, Asif Durrani, amid escalating tensions between the two countries. The decision comes amid reports of Durrani’s limited impact on the relationship and dissatisfaction with his performance. The move highlights the complexities of the Pakistan-Afghanistan relationship, particularly in the wake of the Taliban takeover in Kabul.
Amidst escalating tensions in the South China Sea, the US military has expressed openness to escorting Philippine ships delivering supplies to Filipino troops in the disputed waters. The possibility, however, faces potential legal hurdles and raises concerns about direct confrontation with China, which has become increasingly assertive in its territorial claims. The situation highlights the growing friction between the two countries and the potential for a larger conflict in the region.
Libya’s eastern-based administration has shut down oil fields and suspended production, citing repeated attacks on the Central Bank in Tripoli. The move comes amid escalating tensions between the eastern administration and the UN-recognised government in Tripoli, further complicating the country’s already fragile situation.
