Asia

• Iran / USA: Trump’s optimism about talks as blockade takes effect 16 April 2026
  With the two week cease-fire between the USA and Iran in a fragile state, Donald Trump has expressed optimism that a peace agreement may be close, with potential new talks under discussion as a Pakistani delegation has arrived in Tehran. However, tensions remain high as the US is now blockading…
• Lebanon / Israel: direct talks for the first time in over thirty years 16 April 2026
  In a rare diplomatic breakthrough, Israel and Lebanon have held their first direct talks in over thirty years, mediated by Marco Rubio. The discussions aim to reduce violence and address the ongoing conflict involving Hezbollah, which continues to launch attacks despite the meeting: Israel has continued to bombard targets in…
• Iran / USA: ceasefire is announced, but Israel continues to bombard Lebanon 10 April 2026
  In the end, cooler heads prevailed – at least for now. A fragile pause has emerged in the conflict between the USA and Iran after Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire to allow negotiations towards a potential agreement. The arrangement includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and suspending hostilities, offering…
• North Korea: Kim’s sister praises apology by South Korean president 10 April 2026
  Tensions remain delicate following a recent drone-related incident between South Korea and North Korea. South Korea’s president, Lee Jae-myung, expressed regret over actions which contributed to heightened tensions, describing them as unintended and acknowledging the need to prevent recurrence. Kim Yo-jong, the powerful sister of Kim Jong-un, has welcomed his…
• Iran / USA: Trump’s mixed messages create uncertainty 2 April 2026
  As the conflict in the Middle East continues, Donald Trump has alternated between signalling possible de-escalation and threatening further military action, leaving the situation highly uncertain. Increased military deployments in the Gulf region and continued strikes have heightened concerns about potential ground operations, particularly around strategic areas such as the…