March 2026
Between a rock and a hard place
U. Profazio
Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, are raising concerns about energy supply shortages and increasing inflationary pressures worldwide. Attacks on energy infrastructure across the Gulf are further destabilising the region and amplifying economic uncertainty.
In response, regional producers are seeking alternative export routes. Iraq has resumed exports through the Kirkuk–Ceyhan pipeline, partially easing economic strain caused by a sharp drop in national oil production linked to the conflict. At the same time, Iranian affiliated militant groups have intensified attacks on Iraqi energy facilities connected to US companies, as well as on diplomatic missions and military bases hosting US and allied personnel.
These developments have heightened security tensions and complicated Iraq’s internal political dynamics.
More info.
Under The Radar
War Endangers Middle East AI Investments
The war between the US and Iran is threatening billions in Silicon Valley investments across the Gulf. As tech giants build massive data centers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Iranian strikes have already begun damaging this critical infrastructure. Experts warn that the region’s attempt to transition from oil to AI faces severe risks from escalating military hostilities.
The Hill
Dozens of civilians killed in Southern Sudan
Intensifying drone warfare in Sudan has killed dozens of civilians in recent strikes across the Kordofan and White Nile regions. Both the regular army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are accused of using increasingly sophisticated drones to target markets, schools, and hospitals, further escalating the human toll of the country’s nearly three-year-old civil war.
Le Monde
JNIM wave of terroristic attacks in Burkina Faso
At least 38 civilians have been killed in a series of brutal attacks by the Al-Qaeda-linked group JNIM in Burkina Faso. Human Rights Watch reports that the militants targeted communities perceived to be supporting government-backed militias, highlighting a deteriorating security situation and a rising toll on innocent lives in the Sahel region.
Africanews
Gulf States Shifting Regional Alliances
The Gulf monarchies are moving away from traditional security blocs to adopt a more flexible, multi-aligned foreign policy. By balancing relations between neighboring countries, and regional rivals like Iran, these nations aim to protect their economic interests and avoid being drawn into polarized conflicts.
Middle East Council
Morocco Leads African Weapons Procurement Race
Morocco has emerged as Africa’s top arms importer, significantly modernizing its military through massive deals with the United States and Israel. Driven by regional tensions with Algeria and the Western Sahara dispute, the kingdom is investing billions in advanced drones, fighter jets, and missile systems.
The Africa Report
Somalia Forces Target IS Strongholds
Somali soldiers are currently using drone technology to neutralise Islamic State militants entrenched in the remote Al-Miskad mountains. Despite the harsh terrain and the presence of many foreign fighters, local troops remain determined to stay until every insurgent is cleared from their land.
BBC
