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World News

Fresh news brought to you daily from around the world. Hot news, breaking stories as they happen.

Ecuador Deploys 75,000 Security Personnel in Escalating Fight Against Drug Gangs

The government of Ecuador has deployed more than 75,000 police officers and soldiers to several provinces as part of an intensified campaign against powerful criminal gangs linked to drug trafficking.

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Authorities say the operation targets four of the country’s most violence-affected regions — El Oro, Guayas, Los Ríos and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas — where security forces are attempting to curb rising crime and restore public order.
Curfew imposed in high-risk provinces
Interior Minister John Reimberg said the large-scale deployment marks a “new phase” in the government’s ongoing campaign against organised crime.

Speaking to residents in the affected provinces, he warned people to remain cautious and comply with new security restrictions.

“We’re at war,” Reimberg said, urging citizens not to leave their homes unnecessarily as authorities enforce a night-time curfew across the targeted regions.

The measures form part of the strategy introduced by President Daniel Noboa, who has pledged to confront criminal groups with tougher security policies since taking office in November 2023.
Rising violence despite crackdown
Despite these efforts, Ecuador has continued to experience increasing violence linked to drug trafficking and organised crime.

The country recorded its highest murder rate in 2025, highlighting the growing influence of criminal organisations that operate along regional drug routes.

Ecuador’s location between Colombia and Peru — the world’s largest producers of cocaine — has turned it into a major transit hub for narcotics destined for international markets.

Authorities estimate that roughly 70% of the cocaine produced in those countries passes through Ecuadorian territory before reaching destinations abroad.
International cooperation with the United States
The Ecuadorian government has increasingly sought international assistance to combat the flow of drugs and dismantle transnational criminal networks.

In recent weeks, the Federal Bureau of Investigation opened its first office in Ecuador, strengthening cooperation with local authorities. The move followed the launch of joint counter-narcotics operations between Ecuador and the United States.

President Noboa has also joined a US-backed coalition of 17 countries aimed at confronting criminal cartels across the Western Hemisphere.

The initiative was discussed at a summit hosted by Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago, where leaders addressed strategies to combat organised crime and drug trafficking.
Government vows tougher action
Noboa has repeatedly pledged to confront criminal groups with an uncompromising approach, declaring states of emergency in several parts of the country since taking office.

However, official figures show the national murder rate increased by more than 30% between 2024 and 2025, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing authorities.

The government says the latest deployment of troops and police is intended to regain control of areas most heavily affected by violence and weaken the influence of drug-trafficking organisations.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026

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Congress Divided as Republicans Resist Calls for Iran War Hearings

Republicans in the US Congress are resisting growing pressure from Democrats to hold public hearings on the war with Iran, creating a new political standoff on Capitol Hill as the conflict enters its third week.

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Democratic lawmakers say Congress has yet to properly examine the case made by Donald Trump’s administration for launching the military campaign, even as the cost of the war rises and American casualties increase.

So far, 13 US service members have been killed and billions of dollars spent on the conflict, but the president has not sought formal congressional authorisation for the military action.
Republicans point to private briefings
Republican leaders have largely avoided scheduling dedicated public hearings on the war, instead pointing to classified briefings provided by administration officials.

John Thune, the Senate majority leader, said lawmakers were being regularly briefed behind closed doors and suggested that questions about the conflict could also be addressed during routine hearings on military policy and spending.

Senior Republicans who chair national security committees have also indicated they do not currently plan to hold hearings focused specifically on the war.

Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said lawmakers would continue conducting what he described as “generous” and “thorough” oversight through existing congressional processes.

Administration officials, including Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, and Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have also been addressing questions from reporters during regular press briefings.
Democrats demand public scrutiny
Democrats argue that those steps fall short of the public oversight required for a major military conflict.

Cory Booker, a Democratic senator from New Jersey, said Congress had failed to hold a substantive public debate while the government was spending roughly $1bn per day on the war.

Several Democratic senators have threatened to force a series of votes on measures that would require the president to seek congressional approval before launching further military strikes.

Among them is Chris Murphy, who warned that Democrats could use procedural tactics to slow Senate business if hearings are not scheduled.
Unease emerging among some Republicans
While most Republican lawmakers have supported Trump’s decision to attack Iran, some have begun expressing concern about the lack of detailed explanations from senior officials.

Lisa Murkowski, a Republican senator from Alaska, said lawmakers should be involved in discussions before being asked to approve funding for the war.

“I don’t want to just be given the invoice,” she said, urging both classified briefings and public hearings so Americans could better understand the conflict.

Other Republicans have also criticised some of the briefings they have received. John Kennedy said a recent classified meeting failed to provide answers that lawmakers were seeking.
Debate may intensify
Democrats hope that repeated votes on war powers resolutions could force Republicans to confront the issue publicly, even if the measures are unlikely to pass in the Republican-controlled Congress.

The dispute comes as lawmakers prepare for a possible request from the Trump administration for additional funding to cover the cost of the war.

With congressional midterm elections approaching and public support for the conflict uncertain, analysts say the debate over oversight and funding could become a central political battle in Washington.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026

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Drone Strikes Hit Dubai Airport and Key UAE Oil Port as Regional Conflict Escalates

Drone attacks have struck major infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates, including areas near Dubai International Airport and the country’s largest oil storage hub in Fujairah, as regional tensions linked to the war involving Iran continue to escalate.

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Authorities temporarily suspended flights on Monday after a fire broke out near the airport following what officials described as a drone-related incident. Several flights were delayed or cancelled as emergency crews responded.

The attack marks the third reported drone incident near Dubai’s airport since the conflict began. The airport is widely regarded as the busiest in the world for international passengers.
Oil storage hub targeted
Another drone strike hit the strategic port and industrial zone in Fujairah, triggering a fire at one of the region’s largest oil storage facilities.

Officials said oil loading operations were briefly halted while damage assessments were carried out.

The attack followed an earlier strike on Saturday that hit an oil storage tanker at the same port. According to reports, the two incidents targeted key energy infrastructure used to store and transport crude oil.

Iran has launched more than 1,900 missiles and drones at the UAE since the wider conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran began, according to figures cited by officials.
Strategic role in global oil trade
Fujairah occupies a particularly important position in global energy logistics. Located on the Gulf of Oman rather than inside the Persian Gulf, the port allows oil shipments to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway through which a large portion of the world’s oil supply normally passes.

Analysts say this makes the facility critical for maintaining exports if the strait becomes blocked.

Energy companies transport crude from fields in Abu Dhabi through pipelines to Fujairah, where tankers can load cargo without navigating the contested strait.

Industry observers say the port also serves as a major refuelling and supply hub for ships travelling between the Middle East and Asian markets.
Concerns over infrastructure vulnerability
Analysts say the attacks highlight the vulnerability of Gulf energy infrastructure during periods of heightened regional tension.

Experts noted that the strikes appear aimed at disrupting the flow of oil supplies, particularly shipments destined for Asian buyers.

Despite the incidents, business activity in Dubai has continued, with local analysts describing the city’s economy as resilient even amid security concerns.

Commercial districts, shopping centres and restaurants have remained active, reflecting the emirate’s longstanding ability to maintain economic momentum during periods of uncertainty.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026
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Trump Stops Short of Declaring Victory After Strikes on Iran

US President Donald Trump has said he is not yet prepared to declare victory over Iran, despite claiming that recent American military action has inflicted severe damage on the country.

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Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump said the United States had significantly weakened Iran both militarily and economically but suggested the conflict was not yet fully resolved.

“No, I’m not going to do that. There’s no reason to,” the president said when asked whether he would declare victory.
“I just say they’re decimated. I think that we’ve done damage to them,” he added.
Claims of major military impact
Trump said that if the United States were to end its operations now, Iran could take many years to recover from the damage caused by the attacks.

“If we left right now, it would take them 10 years and more to rebuild,” he said, while emphasising that he was still not ready to formally declare the conflict won.

The remarks follow a series of US airstrikes targeting Iranian military facilities. In a message posted earlier on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump claimed the United States had defeated Iran “both militarily, economically, and in every other way.”
Bombing campaign intensifies conflict
The latest escalation came after Trump ordered what he described as “one of the most powerful bombing raids in the history of the Middle East.”
According to the president, the operation targeted military sites on Kharg Island, a strategic location connected to Iran’s energy infrastructure. Trump said the strikes “totally obliterated” the military targets there.
The attacks followed statements by Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who said the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed for as long as the conflict continues.
Uncertainty over next steps
When asked whether the United States might send ground troops into Iran, Trump declined to provide details about possible future military plans.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has raised concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supplies, as the narrow shipping route handles a large share of the world’s energy trade.
The continuing conflict has also heightened fears of wider economic consequences and further instability across the region.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026
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Harry and Meghan Dismiss New Royal Book as ‘Conspiracy and Melodrama’

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex have sharply criticised a new book about Britain’s royal family, accusing its author of promoting “deranged conspiracy and melodrama.”

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The couple issued a strongly worded statement responding to claims made in the latest publication by royal biographer Tom Bower, which contains critical commentary about their relationship with other members of the monarchy and their life after stepping back from royal duties.
Couple rejects claims in new book
In the statement released on Saturday, Harry and Meghan said Bower had gone beyond legitimate criticism and was instead driven by an obsession with them.
“Tom Bower has long crossed the line from criticism into fixation,” the statement said.
The couple also accused the author of building elaborate narratives about individuals he had never met, adding that readers seeking accurate information should look elsewhere.
The comments came after extracts from the book were published in The Times newspaper in London.
Allegations about royal tensions
According to the excerpts, Bower writes about tensions within the royal family during the period leading up to Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from their official duties and relocate to the United States.

The book claims that Queen Camilla once told a friend that Meghan had “brainwashed” her husband. It also suggests that Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales viewed Meghan as a potential threat rather than an ally within the royal household.
The Sussexes rejected the author’s portrayal, pointing to previous comments he had made about their place within the monarchy.

In their statement, they highlighted remarks attributed to Bower in which he said the survival of the monarchy depended on “obliterating the Sussexes from our state of life.”
Criticism of finances and charity work
Extracts from the book also include criticism of the couple’s financial arrangements and their charitable activities.
Among the topics discussed is the Invictus Games, the international sporting competition for wounded and injured military personnel founded by Prince Harry.

Bower’s book reportedly questions aspects of the couple’s work and public role since they stepped back from the royal family in 2020 and began building independent careers in the United States.
The author previously wrote the 2022 book Revenge: Meghan, Harry, And the War Between the Windsors, which also examined the couple’s relationship with the royal family and drew significant public attention.
Continuing tensions in royal coverage
The latest dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the Sussexes and sections of the British media and publishing world, where their departure from royal duties and public criticism of royal life continue to be the subject of books, documentaries and commentary.

Harry and Meghan have repeatedly said that inaccurate portrayals of their lives and motives have contributed to their strained relationship with the press.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026
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Cuba Opens Door for Overseas Nationals to Invest in Businesses on the Island

The government of Cuba plans to allow Cuban nationals living abroad to invest in and own private businesses in their homeland, in a move aimed at attracting fresh capital as the island struggles with a deep economic crisis.

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The announcement was outlined by Deputy Prime Minister Oscar Pérez‑Oliva Fraga in an interview in Havana, where he said the policy would enable members of the Cuban diaspora — including those living in the United States — to participate directly in the country’s private sector.
Opening investment to the diaspora
Fraga said the government wants to encourage stronger economic ties with Cubans living abroad as well as foreign companies.

“Cuba is open to having a fluid commercial relationship with U.S. companies and also with Cubans residing in the United States and their descendants,” he said.
The initiative would allow overseas Cubans to make investments in businesses on the island, ranging from small ventures to larger projects, including infrastructure development.

Officials say the reform is part of a broader effort to modernise the country’s economic framework and attract foreign capital, as the state attempts to revive growth and address mounting shortages. The government has been exploring several measures designed to make investment more flexible and encourage new funding for the struggling economy.
Economic crisis and energy shortages
The policy shift comes as Cuba faces severe economic pressures, including an energy crisis that has led to widespread power outages and disruptions to daily life.

According to Cuban officials, the country has not received petroleum shipments for several months, worsening electricity shortages and forcing hospitals and other public services to scale back operations.

President Miguel Díaz‑Canel has said the fuel shortage has created a nationwide emergency, contributing to blackouts across the island.

The difficulties have also sparked rare public unrest. Reports in state media described a protest in the city of Morón that turned violent after demonstrators threw stones at a local Communist Party building and set fires in the street.
US tensions remain a major obstacle
Fraga said the country’s economic reforms are being complicated by longstanding tensions with the United States.

Cuban officials frequently refer to US sanctions as a “blockade” that limits the country’s access to international financing, technology and markets.

Relations have been strained under the administration of Donald Trump, who has warned that the communist government could face consequences if it fails to reach an agreement with Washington.

Trump has suggested the United States could pursue stronger action against Havana and has indicated he may shift greater attention toward Cuba once the current conflict with Iran subsides.

Meanwhile, the collapse of Venezuela’s government under Nicolás Maduro — long a key ally of Cuba — has further disrupted energy supplies to the island, worsening its fuel shortages.
Attempt to attract new capital
Cuban officials say the new policy could help draw investment from millions of Cubans living overseas, many of whom maintain financial and family ties to the island.

Authorities hope that allowing diaspora investment will provide a fresh source of capital and support efforts to stabilise the economy amid ongoing shortages, migration and international sanctions.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026
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Trump Pressures Allies Over Hormuz as UK Seeks Plan to Reopen Oil Route

US President Donald Trump has warned that the future of the NATO alliance could be at risk if member countries do not assist in efforts to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blocked during the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

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The warning comes as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East, with renewed military activity involving Israel and armed groups in neighbouring countries.

Allies urged to help secure key shipping route
Trump said US allies must take a more active role in restoring access to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors. Roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments normally pass through the narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman.

Iran’s effective closure of the route following attacks by the United States and Israel has sent energy markets into turmoil and raised concerns about global supply disruptions.

The US president warned that the alliance could face serious consequences if other NATO members fail to support operations aimed at reopening the passage.

Britain working with partners
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the United Kingdom was working with international partners to develop a coordinated response to the crisis.
Speaking at a press conference in Downing Street, Starmer said restoring shipping access through the Strait of Hormuz was essential for stabilising global energy markets.

“Ultimately, we have to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to ensure stability in the market – that is not a simple task,” he said.

The prime minister added that the government was working with allies, including European partners, to assemble a collective plan aimed at restoring freedom of navigation in the region and reducing the economic impact of the conflict.

He did not outline specific measures under consideration.

Energy concerns and domestic support measures
The conflict has already prompted extraordinary steps in response to rising energy costs. Starmer described the recent release of emergency oil reserves as “completely unprecedented" but said such measures alone would not be enough to calm volatile markets.

He also announced a £53 million support package designed to help vulnerable households in Britain who rely on heating oil, marking the first major policy move to address the economic consequences of the widening conflict.

Meanwhile, the situation on the ground in the Middle East remains tense. Israeli forces said they had begun “limited and targeted” ground operations against the militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon, as the broader regional conflict continues to expand.

Reports have suggested that Iran may have begun laying naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, potentially complicating any attempt by international forces to reopen the crucial shipping route.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026
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US Energy Secretary Predicts Iran Conflict Could End Within Weeks

The US energy secretary has said the war involving Iran is likely to end within a matter of weeks, as American officials face mounting concerns over rising fuel costs and instability in global oil markets.

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Speaking in a television interview, Chris Wright said he expected the conflict to conclude relatively soon, although he acknowledged that wars rarely follow predictable timelines.

“I think that this conflict will certainly come to an end in the next few weeks,” Wright said during an appearance on ABC’s political programme hosted by Martha Raddatz. He added that the fighting could end even sooner, but stressed that uncertainty remained.
Rising oil prices fuel concern
The comments come as the war has pushed fuel prices higher across the United States, largely due to disruptions to oil shipments from the Middle East.

Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes through the narrow waterway, making it one of the most strategically important energy corridors globally.

The disruption has caused crude oil prices to surge and driven up petrol costs in the US. According to the fuel-tracking service GasBuddy, the national average price of gasoline has risen by about 76 cents per gallon since the conflict began.

Wright said he hoped prices would fall once the situation stabilises, but cautioned that there were no guarantees while fighting continues.

“There’s no guarantees in wars at all,” he said, describing the current price increases as temporary pain.
Coalition effort to reopen key shipping route
Officials are also considering measures to restore oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Wright previously suggested that the United States Navy could escort commercial oil tankers through the waterway in the coming weeks, although preparations were still under way.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump said on social media that several countries could contribute naval forces to help reopen the shipping lane, though it remains unclear which nations might take part in such an effort.
Wright noted that many Asian economies depend heavily on oil transported through the strait, making international cooperation likely.

“China, Japan, Korea and other Asian nations rely on energy that flows through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said, arguing that it would make sense for multiple countries to work together to ensure the route remains open.
Dispute over planning and security concerns
The conflict has also sparked political debate in Washington. Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate leader, criticised the administration for allegedly failing to prepare adequately for the possibility that Iran might close the strait and disrupt global oil supplies.

Wright rejected those claims, saying officials had carefully considered potential scenarios before the conflict began.

Separately, lawmakers have raised concerns about possible security threats within the United States during the conflict. Adam Smith, the senior Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, said authorities should remain alert to the possibility of attacks linked to rising tensions in the Middle East.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026
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Donald Trump is making America lose wars again

Critics warn Trump’s Iran war risks repeating past US military failures

Growing criticism is emerging over US President Donald Trump’s handling of the conflict with Iran, with opponents arguing that the war risks becoming another costly and damaging episode for the United States similar to past military campaigns in the Middle East.
As fighting continues, analysts and political critics say the war could undermine US global influence while increasing economic pressure at home and abroad.

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Concerns over strategy
Critics argue that Washington entered the conflict without a clear long-term strategy. While US and Israeli forces have carried out extensive air strikes across Iran, the Iranian government has continued to resist, launching retaliatory attacks on US facilities and regional targets.
Some US bases in the Gulf region have reportedly come under fire, highlighting the risks facing American forces stationed there.

The situation has also affected global energy markets. Disruption around the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes — has contributed to rising oil and gas prices, raising concerns about a wider energy shock.
Higher energy costs are already feeding into inflation and increasing pressure on global supply chains, with poorer countries expected to feel the greatest impact.

Israel’s expanded military operations
The war has also coincided with intensified military operations by Israel under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Israeli air strikes have targeted sites across Iran as well as positions linked to Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israeli officials say the operations are intended to weaken hostile military capabilities and reduce threats to Israeli civilians.

However, critics say the strikes have caused significant destruction and risk strengthening nationalist support for Iran’s leadership rather than weakening it.
The fighting in Lebanon has also raised humanitarian concerns, with reports of civilian casualties and large numbers of people displaced from their homes.

Risk of a prolonged conflict
Some analysts warn that the war could develop into a prolonged confrontation rather than the short campaign initially expected by supporters of the military action.

Iran’s conventional military capabilities have reportedly been weakened by the strikes, but Tehran retains missile and drone systems that continue to pose a threat to regional targets. Iran also maintains links with armed groups across the Middle East, which could extend the conflict beyond its current scope.
The continuing exchange of attacks suggests that a quick resolution may be unlikely.

Nuclear concerns remain unresolved
Another major issue is Iran’s nuclear programme, which was already a point of tension before the conflict began.
Although some Iranian nuclear facilities have reportedly been damaged during the strikes, experts note that the country retains technical knowledge and potentially hidden stockpiles of enriched uranium.

The future direction of Iran’s nuclear ambitions remains uncertain. Some hardline voices inside the country have argued that nuclear weapons could guarantee the regime’s survival, although Iranian leaders have previously said such weapons are forbidden under religious rulings issued by former supreme leader Ali Khamenei.

Political and legal criticism
The war has also triggered political debate within the United States about the legal basis for the military action.
Critics say the decision to launch strikes without formal authorisation from Congress raises constitutional concerns. Others have questioned whether the conflict complies with international law and the rules governing warfare.
The financial cost of the conflict has also become a point of contention. Some estimates suggest the war could be costing the United States billions of dollars each week, adding to concerns about long-term economic consequences.

International reaction
The conflict has strained relations between the United States and some of its allies. Several governments have expressed concern about the lack of consultation before the strikes and the potential risks of escalation across the Middle East.
At the same time, Washington has called on partners to help secure shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, where attacks on vessels and infrastructure have raised fears about global energy supplies.

Meanwhile, geopolitical rivals such as Russia and China are closely monitoring developments, with some analysts suggesting the conflict could shift the balance of influence in the region.

Political consequences ahead
With US elections approaching in the coming years, the outcome of the conflict may carry political consequences for the administration.
Rising energy prices and the prospect of a prolonged military campaign could become significant issues for voters, particularly if the war continues to expand.

For now, the conflict with Iran remains unresolved, leaving uncertainty about how long the fighting may continue and what impact it will have on US strategy in the Middle East.


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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026

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Europe’s cautious stance on Iran war raises questions over its global influence

Europe’s response to the war involving the United States, Israel and Iran has sparked debate about the continent’s role in global affairs, with critics arguing that many governments have avoided taking a clear position on the conflict’s legality.
While some European leaders have acknowledged concerns about the legal basis for the military action, most have stopped short of openly condemning the strikes. The cautious reaction contrasts with Europe’s response to earlier conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003.

A divided Europe in 2003
The Iraq war created one of the deepest divisions in Europe in recent decades. France and Germany strongly opposed the invasion and attempted to block it through the United Nations Security Council, arguing that it violated international law.
Other governments, including those of the United Kingdom, Italy and Spain, supported the United States and participated in the military campaign.

The dispute also highlighted tensions between established Western European powers and countries in central and eastern Europe that had recently emerged from Soviet influence. Many of those states backed the United States, seeing Washington as an important security partner.
The disagreement led to sharp political exchanges across the continent and between Europe and the United States.

A catalyst for European diplomacy
Despite the divisions, the Iraq crisis also triggered reflection about Europe’s role in international politics.
Large protests took place across European cities against the war, and many political thinkers argued that Europe should define itself through support for multilateral institutions, international law and diplomatic solutions to global conflicts.

The debate contributed to the development of new diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme.
France, Germany and the United Kingdom formed the core of a negotiating group later expanded to include the European Union, the United States, Russia and China. The talks eventually resulted in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, known as the Iran nuclear deal.

That agreement limited Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief and was widely viewed as one of Europe’s most significant diplomatic achievements.

A more restrained response today
In the current conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, European governments appear less divided but also less vocal.
Some leaders have acknowledged that the strikes on Iran may raise questions under international law because there was no clear evidence of an imminent threat.
However, few governments have issued direct criticism of Washington or Tel Aviv.

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been among the most outspoken critics, condemning the war and refusing to allow certain military bases in Spain to be used in support of the operation. Slovenia and Norway have also expressed opposition.
Most other European leaders have taken a more cautious approach, emphasising diplomacy and regional stability rather than focusing on the legal status of the military campaign.

Leaders emphasise pragmatism
Several senior European figures have suggested that legal arguments should not dominate the discussion about the conflict.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni told parliament that the war could be considered a violation of international law but said she neither condemned nor supported the action.

Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz also questioned whether international law provided a useful framework for judging the situation, arguing that allies should avoid publicly criticising each other during a crisis.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a speech to EU ambassadors that the debate over whether the conflict was legally justified might miss the broader geopolitical context.

Her remarks prompted European Council President António Costa to reaffirm that the European Union remained committed to international law and multilateral cooperation.

Questions about Europe’s role
The differing responses have reignited debate over Europe’s identity and influence on the world stage.
The European Union has often presented itself as a defender of international law, diplomacy and rules-based cooperation. Critics argue that failing to take a consistent stance in major conflicts could weaken that image.

At the same time, the United States has urged allies to support efforts to secure shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, raising questions about whether European governments will become more directly involved in the conflict.
Observers say the way Europe responds to the crisis could shape perceptions of its independence and its capacity to act collectively in international affairs.

As tensions continue in the Middle East, the debate over how Europe balances alliances with its stated principles is likely to remain a central issue for policymakers across the continent.


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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026

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Iran increases checkpoints and internet restrictions to prevent protests, residents say

Iranian authorities have increased security measures across Tehran in an effort to prevent potential anti-government protests, according to residents who spoke to the BBC.
People in the capital say new checkpoints have appeared on roads across the city, with security forces stopping vehicles and searching drivers and passengers. Some residents told BBC Persian that the checkpoints have been positioned under footbridges and inside road tunnels.

They said the locations may have changed after several checkpoints placed in open streets were reportedly targeted by drone strikes.
According to the hardline Fars News Agency, Israeli strikes earlier this month hit four checkpoints in Tehran, killing a number of security personnel. Unofficial estimates cited by the outlet suggested that around 10 members of the security forces died in the attacks.

Residents describe tighter controls
People in Tehran described a tense atmosphere as patrols and checkpoints have become more common.
One man in his twenties told the BBC he had been stopped at a checkpoint where officers searched his vehicle. He said he tried to avoid problems by speaking politely to the security forces.

“I started saying things like ‘thanks for your hard work’ as if I appreciated what they were doing,” he said, adding that he was eventually allowed to continue his journey.
Another resident, a woman also in her twenties, said she had changed the way she dresses because of increased patrols.
“I always wear colourful clothes. But now I don’t,” she said, explaining she was worried about attracting attention from security forces.

Internet shutdown limits communication
Residents also reported that internet access remains heavily restricted, making communication both inside and outside the country difficult.
The shutdown has also limited the ability of protesters to organise demonstrations. Messaging platforms and encrypted apps are often used to coordinate rallies and share information about protest locations.

Some people have tried to bypass the restrictions using satellite internet services such as Starlink. A man who said he sells secure internet connections described the risks involved.
“What I do as a job is considered a crime in the Islamic Republic,” he said, recalling his anxiety when a taxi he was travelling in passed through a checkpoint while he was carrying his laptop and phone.

Authorities target satellite internet use
Iranian authorities have warned that the use of satellite internet devices is illegal.
According to the semi-official Mehr News Agency, police in Fars Province arrested a 37-year-old man accused of setting up a network that sold access to “unfiltered” internet using Starlink equipment.

Officials said the devices were discovered during a search of the suspect’s property. Using Starlink in Iran can carry a prison sentence of up to two years.
Despite the restrictions, some residents are still able to access the internet through unofficial connections. Listings seen by the BBC on the Telegram messaging app show that some providers are charging around $6 for one gigabyte of data, a high price in a country where monthly salaries are often estimated between $200 and $300.

Warnings issued against protests
Authorities have also issued warnings aimed at discouraging demonstrations.
BBC Persian said it had seen a text message sent by the intelligence arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on 13 March cautioning residents against joining protests.

The message warned that “the evil enemy” was seeking to create unrest in the streets.
Police chief Brigadier General Ahmad Reza Radan also warned that anyone taking action in cities “at the behest of the enemy” would be treated as an adversary rather than a protester.

Conflict raises fears of unrest
Large anti-government protests earlier in the year saw deadly clashes over two nights in January.
So far, similar demonstrations have not reappeared during the current conflict. Instead, authorities have organised pro-government rallies and encouraged supporters of the Islamic Republic to take to the streets.

Some residents told BBC Persian they had heard loudspeakers broadcasting pro-government chants and music in parts of Tehran at night, while groups carrying the national flag moved through neighbourhoods.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi defended the country’s restrictions in an interview with CBS, saying he was able to speak online because he was “the voice of all Iranians”.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently urged the Iranian public to challenge the country’s leadership, though he later said he could not say with certainty whether the government would be overthrown.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026
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Netanyahu posts café video after Iranian media rumours claim he had died

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has released a video showing himself drinking coffee at a café, responding to rumours circulating in Iranian media that he had been killed or injured.
The short clip was posted on Netanyahu’s Telegram account on Sunday after reports spread in Iran suggesting the Israeli leader was dead. In the video, Netanyahu is seen sitting at a café on the outskirts of Jerusalem speaking with an aide.
During the exchange, the aide asks about the rumours. Netanyahu responds with a light-hearted remark involving a Hebrew slang expression.
“I’m crazy about coffee,” he says while picking up a cup. “You know what? I’m crazy about my people.”

Video filmed at Jerusalem café
The video appears to have been recorded at a café outside Jerusalem. Reuters said it verified the location by comparing the café’s interior with previous images of the venue.
The date was also confirmed using photos and videos posted by the café on Sunday that showed Netanyahu visiting the location.
The footage was released after Iranian state media broadcast claims that the Israeli prime minister had been killed or wounded, rumours that later circulated widely online in Iran.

Limited public appearances during conflict
Since the start of the conflict between Israel and Iran on 28 February, Netanyahu has made several visits to areas affected by the fighting.
These have included trips to towns struck by Iranian missiles as well as visits to a hospital, a port and military bases.
However, most of these appearances have been filmed by Netanyahu’s office, with limited access for journalists.

Restricted media access
Netanyahu has held few direct briefings with Israeli media since the conflict began. His first press conference of the war took place on Thursday and was conducted via video link.
The format mirrored a similar remote press briefing he used during a previous conflict with Iran last year.

Security restrictions imposed since the start of the war have also limited public activity across Israel. Authorities have banned large gatherings and advised residents to remain close to shelters.
Schools across most of the country have been closed as a precaution.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026
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UK will not rejoin EU or enter customs union, Starmer’s Europe minister says

The UK will not rejoin the European Union or enter into a customs union with the bloc, the minister leading efforts to reset relations with Brussels has said.

Nick Thomas-Symonds, the government’s European affairs minister, said there was “no appetite” in Britain to return to the debates that dominated politics after the Brexit referendum.
Speaking ahead of a speech in Brussels, he said the government wanted to strengthen cooperation with the EU but ruled out arrangements that would bind the UK into a customs union.

Customs union ruled out
Thomas-Symonds said even a bespoke arrangement similar to those the EU has with countries such as Turkey would not be pursued.
“We won’t have a customs union,” he said. “We will never go back to the days of making undeliverable promises on the side of red buses.”

His comments come despite some Labour figures backing closer economic ties with the bloc. In December, 13 Labour MPs supported a Liberal Democrat proposal calling for Britain to rejoin the customs union, which passed in the House of Commons.
However, the government has made clear that such a step is not part of its plans.

Push for closer cooperation
Thomas-Symonds said the focus instead was on improving cooperation in practical areas while respecting the outcome of the 2016 referendum.
He argued that closer alignment with European rules in some sectors should not be treated as politically controversial.

“We have to be clear that alignment is not a dirty word,” he said.
The government hopes to reach new agreements with the EU covering areas such as food and drink standards and youth mobility.
Officials say they aim to have parts of the new relationship framework in place by 23 June, the tenth anniversary of the referendum on EU membership.

No return to EU membership debate
Asked whether Britain might one day rejoin the EU, Thomas-Symonds said he did not believe that scenario was likely.
“I don’t see that, and I don’t see us returning to the debates of the past,” he said.
He added that his discussions with voters suggested there was support for improving relations with the EU without reopening arguments about membership.

Political tensions over EU ties
The minister acknowledged that debate over Britain’s future relationship with the bloc continues within UK politics.
Some senior Labour figures have previously spoken in favour of closer economic integration with Europe. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has said customs unions can boost economic growth, while Health Secretary Wes Streeting has suggested deeper trade links should be considered.

Thomas-Symonds said the government’s approach was guided by what it viewed as the national interest.
He also warned that efforts to rebuild ties with the EU could be jeopardised if a future government sought to abandon the agreements being negotiated.

“The UK and the EU are facing very similar challenges,” he said, adding that creating new trade barriers between the two sides would damage both economies.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026

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Oil executives warn Trump energy crisis could deepen as Iran denies seeking ceasefire

Senior executives from three major US oil companies have warned President Donald Trump that the global energy crisis triggered by the conflict with Iran could worsen, according to reports.

The chief executives of Exxon, Chevron and ConocoPhillips told the White House during meetings on Wednesday that disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is likely to continue affecting global energy markets, the Wall Street Journal reported.
The warning comes as governments and energy agencies attempt to stabilise oil supplies following sharp price increases since the start of the war.
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Concerns over Hormuz disruption
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow shipping route between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors.
A large share of global crude shipments normally passes through the waterway, making any disruption a major concern for international markets.

According to reports, the oil company executives told US officials that continued instability in the region could prolong supply disruptions and keep energy prices elevated.
Oil prices have already surged significantly since fighting began, raising fears of wider economic consequences.

Emergency reserves released
In response to the rising prices, more than 400 million barrels of oil from emergency reserves held by the International Energy Agency are expected to be released.
The move is intended to ease pressure on global markets and provide additional supply while the conflict continues.
Energy analysts have warned that prolonged disruption to shipping routes could still keep markets volatile despite the release of strategic reserves.

Iran rejects ceasefire claims
Meanwhile, Iran has denied that it has sought a ceasefire or negotiations with the United States.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran had not requested talks and intended to continue fighting.
“We never asked for a ceasefire, and we have never asked even for negotiation,” he said in an interview with CBS News.
His comments contradict earlier claims by Trump that Iran had asked for a ceasefire but that the United States was not prepared to agree because the proposed terms were unacceptable.

Conflict enters third week
The conflict has intensified in recent days as military operations continue.
Israel launched what it described as “wide-scale” strikes against Iranian targets on Saturday night as the war entered its third week.

The continuing fighting and the uncertainty around shipping routes in the Gulf have added to concerns about global oil supply and the potential for further increases in energy prices.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026
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Michigan synagogue attacker’s brother was Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli strike,

The brother of the man accused of carrying out an attack on a synagogue in Michigan had been a Hezbollah commander who was killed in an Israeli air strike last week, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Police say Ayman Muhammad Ghazali died after driving a vehicle loaded with explosives into the Temple Israel synagogue on Thursday. Authorities say the 41-year-old later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound during a confrontation with police.

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The IDF said one of Ghazali’s brothers, Ibrahim Muhammad Ghazali, had served as a commander within Hezbollah’s Badr Unit. The BBC has not independently verified the claim and has contacted US authorities for comment.

Israeli military identifies brother
In a statement posted on social media, the Israeli military described Ibrahim Muhammad Ghazali as a Hezbollah commander responsible for weapons operations.
The IDF said he oversaw activities linked to the launch of rockets toward Israeli targets during the conflict and was killed in an Israeli Air Force strike on a Hezbollah military site in Lebanon last week.

Sources in Lebanon also told CBS News, the BBC’s US partner, that two brothers killed in the same strike had been members of a Hezbollah rocket unit operating in southern Lebanon.
Hezbollah is a political and military organisation based in Lebanon that is backed by Iran. It is designated as a terrorist group by Israel and several other countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

Attack on Michigan synagogue
Authorities have not yet determined a clear motive for the attack on Temple Israel.
Ayman Muhammad Ghazali, who immigrated to the United States from Lebanon in 2011 and lived in Dearborn Heights, reportedly lost several family members overseas in recent months.

Dearborn Heights Mayor Mo Baydoun said the suspect had suffered “devastating and personal losses overseas” but emphasised that this did not justify the attack.
Investigators say Ghazali drove a vehicle containing explosives into the synagogue grounds before a gun battle with police.

Investigation continues
The FBI said Ghazali died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound during the confrontation.
Officials said the vehicle used in the attack contained large quantities of commercial-grade fireworks and containers of flammable liquid, which ignited during the incident.

No worshippers or students at the synagogue and its associated school were injured. A security guard was wounded but is expected to recover, while around 30 police officers were treated for smoke inhalation.
The FBI has described the incident as a targeted act of violence against the Jewish community.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said antisemitism was at a “historic high” and urged public figures to be careful with their rhetoric.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026
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Zelensky accuses EU allies of “blackmail” over Russian oil pipeline dispute

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused some European allies of attempting to “blackmail” Kyiv into restoring the flow of Russian oil through a major pipeline supplying Hungary and Slovakia.

Speaking to reporters in Kyiv, Zelensky said reopening the Soviet-era Druzhba pipeline would undermine sanctions imposed on Moscow over the war in Ukraine.
The pipeline was damaged during Russian air strikes in January and has not yet been repaired.

Dispute over Russian oil transit
Hungary, which relies heavily on Russian energy, has been pressing for the pipeline to be restored. Budapest has blocked both new European Union sanctions against Russia and a proposed €90bn loan package for Ukraine while the issue remains unresolved.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has made criticism of Ukraine a central theme ahead of national elections in April, with opinion polls suggesting his party is trailing.

EU officials have urged Kyiv to repair the pipeline quickly and have requested access for inspectors to assess the damage. Some officials are concerned the dispute could strengthen Orban politically if it remains unresolved.
However, Zelensky said allowing Russian oil to pass through Ukraine while Europe continues to sanction Moscow’s exports elsewhere would be inconsistent.

“We either sell Russian oil or we don’t,” he said, arguing that restoring the pipeline would effectively weaken the sanctions regime.

Ukraine rejects pressure
Zelensky said he opposed restarting the flow of oil through the pipeline but insisted he was not directly blocking the project.
“I am saying openly: I am against it,” he said.

The Ukrainian leader added that he had warned European partners that linking the issue to military support for Ukraine would amount to pressure.
“If I am given conditions that Ukraine will not receive weapons, then excuse me, I am powerless on this issue,” he said. “I told our friends in Europe that this is called blackmail.”
He also stressed that the €90bn EU loan package had been approved by all 27 member states and should be implemented.

Drone technology offered to partners
Zelensky also highlighted Ukraine’s growing expertise in drone warfare, describing interceptor drones developed during the conflict with Russia as “Ukrainian oil”.
He said Kyiv had proposed a $50bn joint drone production agreement with the United States and remained open to cooperation.

According to Zelensky, Washington had contacted Ukraine several times since the start of the conflict in the Middle East to discuss possible assistance or support for other countries.
Ukraine has become a major producer of interceptor drones designed to defend against Iranian-designed attack drones frequently used by Russian forces.

Concerns over Middle East conflict
Zelensky also warned that the conflict in the Middle East could affect Ukraine by shifting US attention and resources away from the war with Russia.
“The United States is currently more focused on the Middle East,” he said, adding that this could lead to delays or reductions in weapons deliveries.

He also criticised a recent US decision to temporarily ease sanctions on Russian oil shipments in order to stabilise global energy supplies.
“Lifting sanctions on Russia will not help the world; it will only help Russia,” Zelensky said.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026
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UK considering ships and mine-hunting drones to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Britain is considering sending naval vessels and mine-hunting drones to the Middle East to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has said.

The government is discussing possible contributions with allies after US President Donald Trump called on several countries, including the UK, to deploy ships to secure the strategic shipping route.

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About a fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes through the narrow waterway. Its effective closure earlier in the conflict has pushed oil prices up sharply, raising concerns about the impact on global energy markets.

UK discussing options with allies
Speaking to the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg programme on Sunday, Miliband said ministers were examining different ways Britain could help restore safe passage through the strait.
“It is very important that we get the Strait of Hormuz reopened,” he said, adding that the UK had already been in discussions with partners including the United States.

“There are different ways that we could contribute, including with mine-hunting drones,” he said. “All of these things are being looked at in concert with our allies.”
Miliband said the government was considering “any options” that could assist in reopening the vital shipping lane.

Trump calls for international naval support
The comments came a day after Trump urged multiple countries to send warships to the region.
Writing on his Truth Social platform, the US president said nations that rely on oil transported through the strait should help ensure its security.

He named the UK, China, France, Japan and South Korea among those that could deploy naval forces to keep the waterway open.
Trump said the United States would continue military operations in the area while working with other countries to restore safe passage for shipping.

Pressure over UK military response
The British government has faced criticism over the speed of its response to the crisis.
HMS Dragon left the UK earlier in the week and is heading to Cyprus, where it will support operations at the RAF base at Akrotiri.

However, the Royal Navy currently has no mine-hunting ships stationed in the Gulf after the last vessel in the region was withdrawn shortly before the conflict began.
Reports suggest the UK may instead deploy mine-hunting drones, which are designed to trigger naval mines safely by mimicking the movement of passing ships.
Concerns over energy prices
The disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has had an immediate impact on energy markets.
Oil prices have risen from around $65 a barrel before the conflict to roughly $100, raising fears of higher fuel costs and inflation in many countries.

Asked whether the government might reconsider a planned rise in UK fuel duty later this year, Miliband said ministers would support the public during the crisis.
“We will stand by the British people in this crisis,” he said, though officials indicated no final decision had yet been taken on the planned increase.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026
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Trump says US could strike Iran’s Kharg Island again “just for fun”

President Donald Trump has said the United States could launch further strikes on Iran’s main oil export hub at Kharg Island, suggesting additional attacks might occur “just for fun” after earlier bombardments.
Speaking to NBC News in a phone interview on Saturday, Trump said recent US strikes had caused extensive damage to the facility but indicated the site could still be targeted again.

“We may hit it a few more times just for fun,” he said, referring to the strategic oil terminal in the Persian Gulf.
Kharg Island is Iran’s primary oil export centre and a key part of the country’s energy infrastructure.

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Doubts over Iran’s leadership
During the same interview, Trump also questioned the status of Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, saying it was unclear whether he was still alive. He did not provide evidence for the claim.
His remarks came as US and Israeli forces continued military operations against Iranian targets during the ongoing conflict.

Strait of Hormuz operations
Trump also addressed the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for global oil supplies.
Asked whether Iran had deployed naval mines in the waterway, Trump said it was not yet clear.
He said the United States planned to carry out operations to secure the strait and ensure safe passage for ships.

“We’re going to be sweeping the strait very strongly,” he said, adding that other countries affected by the disruption to oil shipments could join the effort.

Call for international support
In a post on Truth Social, Trump urged nations that rely on oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz to help safeguard the route.

“The United States of America has beaten and completely decimated Iran, both militarily and economically,” he wrote, adding that countries receiving oil through the strait “must take care of that passage”.
He said the US would coordinate with partners to keep the route open during the conflict.

Deal with Iran not close
Trump also said he was not ready to agree to a deal with Tehran to end the fighting.
“Iran wants to make a deal,” he said, but added that the proposed terms “aren’t good enough yet”.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 14.March 2026
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Iran warns of wider attacks as Trump calls for international naval force in Hormuz

Iran signals further escalation in regional conflict
Iran has warned it may expand its military actions across the Middle East, threatening facilities linked to the United States after President Donald Trump suggested that several countries could send warships to support efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

The strategic waterway, through which a large share of global oil supplies normally passes, has been largely closed by Iran since the start of the current conflict. The fighting began nearly three weeks ago following coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets.
Since then, Tehran has launched repeated strikes against oil and infrastructure sites around the Gulf as well as missile attacks on Israel.

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On Saturday, Iranian forces fired additional projectiles at Israel while also launching ballistic missiles towards the United Arab Emirates.

Missile attacks affect Gulf energy hub
Some oil-loading operations in Fujairah in the UAE were halted after the latest strikes, according to industry and trade sources. The emirate is one of the world’s major refuelling centres for shipping.

Television footage showed dark smoke rising above the area following the missile barrage. An Iranian military spokesperson urged residents in the UAE to avoid ports, docks and locations described as “American hideouts”, claiming US forces had carried out attacks on Iranian islands from those sites.

The UAE condemned the strikes. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the country’s president, said the state had the right to defend itself against what he described as “terrorist aggression”.
Despite that, he said the UAE was still seeking restraint and a diplomatic path that could reduce tensions in the region.

US and Israeli strikes intensify
The United States continued air operations against Iran, targeting the country’s main oil export hub on Kharg Island. US aircraft bombed the facility on Friday and carried out further attacks on Saturday.
In an interview with NBC News, President Trump said the strikes had severely damaged much of the island’s infrastructure and indicated additional attacks were possible.

Trump also said negotiations with Iran were not currently possible because the conditions were “not good enough”.
Israeli aircraft meanwhile conducted dozens of air raids across Iran. Iranian media reported that at least 15 people were killed when a strike hit a refrigerator and heater factory in the city of Isfahan.
The Israeli military said its operations were aimed at weakening Iran’s missile-launching capabilities and targeting the security forces of the Iranian government.

Trump calls for international naval presence
In social media posts, Trump said several countries could join the United States in protecting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

He specifically mentioned China, France, Japan, South Korea and the United Kingdom as nations that might deploy naval vessels to help ensure passage through the waterway.
The strait typically carries about a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied gas supplies. Iran’s closure of the route has already pushed energy prices sharply higher and raised concerns about global economic disruption.

The United States has not yet outlined a detailed plan for reopening the passage.
Earlier in the week, Trump warned that Iranian oil facilities could become targets if shipping continued to be blocked. He said he had so far chosen not to destroy key infrastructure on Kharg Island but could reconsider if Iran interfered with maritime traffic.

Iran targets regional partners
Iranian officials signalled they may broaden their response. Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for Iran’s joint military command, said energy and economic infrastructure connected to companies with US ties across the region could become targets.

Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, urged neighbouring states to remove US military forces from their territories, arguing that American security guarantees in the region had failed to prevent conflict.
Analysts say Tehran’s strategy appears aimed at putting pressure on Washington by targeting US partners and disrupting global energy markets.

Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group said Iran’s approach combines three objectives: ensuring the survival of the government, maintaining the ability to retaliate and prolonging the conflict long enough to negotiate from a stronger position.

Rising casualties and regional tensions
The fighting has caused significant casualties. Reports indicate between 1,400 and 1,800 people have been killed in Iran since the conflict began, while 13 people have died in Israel and around 20 in Gulf countries.

The US embassy in Baghdad has advised American citizens to leave Iraq immediately after a missile strike near the embassy compound.
The warning cited threats from Iran-aligned militia groups as well as the risk of further missile and drone attacks in Iraqi airspace.

President Trump has not provided a timeline for ending the conflict, saying the fighting would continue “as long as it’s necessary”.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 14.March 2026
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North Korea launches barrage of ballistic missiles amid show of power

Large-scale missile test seen as signal during US-South Korea military drills and wider global conflict
North Korea fired a volley of about 10 ballistic missiles on Saturday in what analysts believe could be one of the country’s largest single missile displays in recent years.

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According to the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff, the missiles were launched from the Sunan district of Pyongyang at approximately 1:20pm local time.
The projectiles travelled roughly 350 kilometres before falling into waters in the East Sea, also known internationally as the Sea of Japan.

South Korea’s military said it was closely monitoring the situation and was prepared to respond to any further escalation.

Missiles monitored by Japan
Authorities in Japan also tracked the launches.
The Japan Coast Guard said the missiles landed outside the country’s exclusive economic zone, meaning they did not violate Japanese territorial waters.

Officials from the Japanese Ministry of Defense reported that the missiles reached an altitude of about 80 kilometres and travelled approximately 340 kilometres before splashing down.
While no damage or injuries were reported, the launches raised concerns across the region about the potential for further military demonstrations by Pyongyang.

Timing linked to military drills
The missile barrage occurred during the annual joint military exercises conducted by the United States and South Korea.
These drills, known as Freedom Shield, run from 9 to 19 March and involve thousands of troops.

The exercises are largely computer-simulated command-post drills designed to test joint operational readiness between the two allies. They are accompanied by a field training programme called Warrior Shield, which involves practical manoeuvres and defensive scenarios.
North Korea routinely criticises these exercises, describing them as rehearsals for an invasion.
Both United States and South Korea reject that accusation, saying the drills are defensive and necessary given Pyongyang’s continued expansion of its nuclear and missile capabilities.

Analysts see wider geopolitical message
Some experts believe the timing of the missile launches also reflects broader global tensions.
Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, said Pyongyang may be drawing lessons from the recent military operations involving the United States and Israel against Iran.

According to Easley, North Korea has been investing heavily in strengthening its naval capabilities in recent years, possibly with assistance from Russia.
However, the rapid destruction of much of Iran’s naval capacity during recent operations has likely caught the attention of North Korean leadership.

Easley suggested the missile launches were intended to demonstrate that the country could still inflict serious damage if its own military forces came under attack.

Perceived opportunity during global conflict
Analysts also note that some U.S. military assets have reportedly been redeployed from the Korean Peninsula to the Middle East due to the conflict involving Iran.

That shift could create an opportunity for Pyongyang to apply political pressure on Seoul, even if it does not intend to initiate a direct military confrontation.
Rather than escalating into immediate conflict, Easley suggested North Korea may instead focus on propaganda aimed at increasing political divisions within South Korea over the role of American forces in the region.

Diplomatic signals and rhetoric
The launches come amid renewed discussion about potential diplomatic engagement between Washington and Pyongyang.
According to reports from Yonhap News Agency, South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min Seok recently indicated that Donald Trump remains open to meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during a future visit to China.

At the same time, Pyongyang has sharply criticised the joint military drills.
Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of Kim Jong Un, warned that such exercises undermine regional stability during a period when global security structures are already under strain.
North Korea’s foreign ministry has also condemned the recent U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran, publicly voicing support for Tehran’s leadership.

Continuing tensions on the peninsula
Missile launches remain a common tactic used by Pyongyang to demonstrate military capability and political resolve.

While the latest test did not directly threaten neighbouring countries, it highlights the persistent volatility surrounding the Korean Peninsula.
With major military exercises under way and global conflicts affecting strategic calculations, analysts warn that tensions in the region could continue to fluctuate in the coming months.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 14.March 2026


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Shipwreck treasure hunter released after decade in jail over missing gold coins

Engineer who found legendary “Ship of Gold” treasure never revealed the location of hundreds of coins
A U.S. deep-sea treasure hunter who discovered one of the most famous shipwrecks in American history has been released from prison after spending nearly a decade behind bars for refusing to reveal the location of hundreds of missing gold coins.

Tommy Thompson, 73, became famous in 1988 after locating the wreck of the SS Central America — a 19th-century vessel known as the “Ship of Gold.”
But his spectacular discovery later turned into a long legal battle with investors who accused him of hiding profits from the treasure.

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Legendary shipwreck discovery
The SS Central America sank in 1857 during a hurricane off the coast of the United States while carrying a massive shipment of gold from California.
The ship had been transporting around 30,000 pounds of newly minted gold from San Francisco to banks on the East Coast when it went down.

More than 425 passengers and crew members died, and the loss of the gold shipment helped trigger the economic turmoil known as the Panic of 1857.
The wreck lay nearly 7,000 feet below the ocean surface for more than a century before Thompson and his expedition team finally located it in 1988 after years of searching.

Millions recovered from the ocean floor
At the time, Thompson was working as an engineer at the Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, Ohio.
His expedition eventually recovered thousands of gold bars and coins from the seabed, making it one of the most valuable shipwreck recoveries in U.S. history.

Many of the artifacts were later sold in 2000 for around $50 million.
However, a later criminal complaint suggested that the total value of the gold recovered from the wreck could be as high as $400 million.

Investors claim they were cheated
The expedition had been financed by 161 investors, who together provided about $12.7 million to fund the search for the shipwreck.
They were promised a share of the treasure recovered from the seabed.

But years passed without many investors receiving any returns from the discovery.
In 2005, a group of investors filed a lawsuit accusing Thompson of withholding profits and failing to share proceeds from the sale of the treasure.

Years on the run
As legal pressure mounted, Thompson disappeared in 2012 after failing to appear in court.
Authorities spent several years searching for him before he and an associate were eventually arrested in 2015 in Boca Raton, Florida.

Investigators discovered that Thompson and his partner had been living quietly in a hotel for two years, paying cash for their room under a false name and avoiding attention by relying on taxis and public transportation.

Prison over missing coins
After his arrest, Thompson was jailed for criminal contempt and later held in civil contempt for refusing to answer questions about roughly 500 gold coins that remained missing from the shipwreck recovery.

Civil contempt sentences can continue indefinitely until a defendant complies with a court order — in this case, revealing the location of the missing treasure.
Despite years of legal pressure, Thompson repeatedly insisted that the coins had been placed in a trust in Belize.

He also claimed that much of the money from earlier treasure sales had been consumed by legal costs and loan repayments.

Judge ends contempt sentence
After nearly ten years behind bars, a judge recently ordered Thompson’s release.
The court concluded that further imprisonment was unlikely to force him to disclose the coins’ whereabouts.

Because civil contempt is intended to pressure someone into complying with a court order, the judge ruled that continuing to hold him would serve little purpose if he remained unwilling or unable to provide answers.

Mystery remains unsolved
Although Thompson is now free, the mystery surrounding the 500 missing gold coins remains unresolved.
Some investors continue to argue that large portions of the treasure recovered from the wreck have never been fully accounted for.

The case has become one of the most unusual legal sagas connected to a shipwreck discovery — a story involving a legendary lost treasure, a decade-long prison sentence and a fortune in gold that may still be hidden somewhere.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 14.March 2026
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Banknote redesign replacing historic figures with animals sparks backlash

Proposal to feature British animals on new currency sparks political criticism and public debate
The Bank of England plans to feature British wildlife on its next generation of banknotes, replacing historical figures such as Winston Churchill and Jane Austen — a move that has already sparked a political backlash.

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The central bank says the redesign follows public consultation and is partly driven by the need to introduce more sophisticated anti-counterfeiting technology.
However, some political leaders argue that removing well-known figures from the currency risks downplaying Britain’s history.

Political leaders voice criticism
Several prominent politicians have criticised the proposal since it was announced.
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, dismissed the idea as unnecessary, arguing that replacing historical figures with wildlife would be a mistake.

Meanwhile Nigel Farage of Reform UK described the proposal as “absolutely crackers”, suggesting that revered national figures could end up being replaced by animals such as beavers.
Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, also questioned the timing of the change, saying it seemed odd to debate banknote designs while conflict continues in Europe.

Public consultation favoured nature
Despite the criticism, the Bank of England says the wildlife theme was the most popular choice during a consultation process involving tens of thousands of responses.
About 60 percent of participants selected nature or wildlife as one of their preferred themes for future banknotes.

Other options included architecture and landmarks, historical figures, arts and culture, innovation and major national milestones.
The new designs would appear on the reverse side of £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes, replacing portraits that have appeared on Bank of England banknotes for more than five decades.

Portraits of notable individuals were first introduced in 1970, beginning with William Shakespeare.
The current series features Churchill on the £5 note, Austen on the £10, artist J. M. W. Turner on the £20, and mathematician and wartime codebreaker Alan Turing on the £50.

Animal charities join the discussion
The debate has attracted attention beyond politics, with the RSPCA suggesting that lesser-known animals could also be considered.
The charity highlighted species such as pigeons, rats and gulls, arguing they have played significant roles alongside humans.

RSPCA wildlife expert Geoff Edmond pointed out that pigeons famously carried military messages during both world wars, while rats have been trained to detect landmines and identify diseases.
He said animals that are often overlooked — including foxes and gulls — might also deserve recognition on the country’s currency.

Family reaction to Churchill removal
Emma Soames, a granddaughter of Winston Churchill, said she was not surprised that the wartime leader might eventually disappear from the £5 note.
She told the BBC she never expected the portrait to remain on the currency indefinitely.
Asked about the possibility of Churchill being replaced by an animal such as a badger, she joked that either the badger or her grandfather would be fortunate.

Security features driving redesign
Officials say the wildlife theme offers new possibilities for modern security features designed to prevent counterfeiting.
Designs could include moving elements built into the notes, such as birds appearing to flap their wings or animals depicted in motion.

Victoria Cleland, the Bank of England’s chief cashier — whose signature appears on British banknotes — acknowledged that currency designs often provoke strong opinions.
She said consulting the public was an important part of the process.

Wildlife imagery already appears on some British banknotes issued by other institutions. For example, notes produced by the Royal Bank of Scotland feature animals such as otters, red squirrels and mackerel.

Online reaction adds humour
The debate has also produced a wave of jokes on social media.
Supermarket chain Aldi UK even suggested that its well-known “Cuthbert the Caterpillar” cake could appear on a future banknote design, sharing a playful mock application for the role.

The Bank of England has not yet decided which species will appear on the new notes.
Experts will now compile a shortlist of wildlife candidates that will be presented to the public later this year.

A final decision will ultimately be made by the bank’s governor, although it may take several years before the redesigned notes enter circulation.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 14.March 2026
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Cuban protesters ransack Communist office as energy crisis deepens

Rare unrest erupts as blackouts, shortages and rising prices fuel public anger
Protesters in Cuba have ransacked a local Communist Party building following a demonstration over soaring food prices and persistent power cuts, marking a rare public display of dissent in the country.

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Authorities said five people were arrested after a small group vandalised the party offices overnight in the central city of Morón.
The unrest comes as frustration grows across the island over rolling blackouts and widespread shortages of food, fuel and medicine.

Protest turns violent
According to Cuba’s Interior Ministry, the protest began as a peaceful rally but escalated into vandalism later in the evening.
State media reported that a group of demonstrators threw stones at the entrance of the local headquarters of the Communist Party of Cuba and removed furniture from inside the building.

The furniture was then set on fire in the street outside the offices.
Other nearby state-run facilities, including a pharmacy and a government-operated market, were also targeted during the unrest.
Videos circulating on social media appeared to show protesters shouting “liberty” while flames burned in the street outside the building.

Government response
President Miguel Díaz-Canel acknowledged that many of the demonstrators’ complaints were legitimate but condemned the destruction of property.

He said that while citizens’ grievances were understandable, “violence and vandalism that threatens citizen tranquility” would not be tolerated.
Writing on the social media platform X (Twitter), Díaz-Canel said the country’s prolonged power outages had caused understandable distress.

He blamed the worsening crisis on what he described as a tightening U.S. blockade that has severely limited the island’s access to fuel.

Energy crisis pushes economy to brink
Cuba’s economy has been under growing pressure as the island struggles with an energy shortage that has disrupted daily life.

The government says no fuel shipments have reached the country in three months due to restrictions imposed by the administration of Donald Trump.
Havana relies heavily on imported fuel to generate electricity, and the supply shortages have triggered rolling blackouts across the country.

In the capital Havana, residents have endured outages lasting as long as 15 hours per day, while services such as rubbish collection, hospital operations, transport and education have also been affected.

Talks with Washington
The protest occurred just hours after the Cuban government confirmed it had opened talks with the United States to try to resolve long-standing disputes between the two countries.

Díaz-Canel said the negotiations aim to “seek solutions through dialogue” to bilateral tensions.
Washington has significantly increased pressure on Havana in recent months.
Trump has openly expressed support for political change on the island and recently warned that Cuba was in “deep trouble.”

He has also threatened what he described as a possible “friendly takeover” of the country’s government.

Growing unrest
Public protests remain uncommon in Cuba, where political dissent has historically been tightly controlled.

Although the country’s 2019 constitution formally recognizes the right to protest, legislation defining how demonstrations can legally take place has yet to be passed.
In recent weeks, frustration over the energy crisis has led to a rise in smaller acts of protest.

Many Cubans have taken to banging pots and pans at night — a traditional form of protest in Latin America known as a cacerolazo — to express anger over the prolonged blackouts.
Earlier this month, students at University of Havana staged a demonstration over disruptions to their education caused by the power shortages.
As the economic crisis deepens, analysts say similar protests could become more common across the island.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 14 Mar 2026
ASEAN NOW News
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Trump: US carried out 'most powerful bombing raid in history'

US president claims military targets were “obliterated” in one of the most powerful strikes in the region

Donald Trump has said the United States carried out a massive bombing raid on Kharg Island, claiming American forces destroyed every military target there in what he described as one of the most powerful strikes in the region’s history.
The U.S. president announced the operation in a post on the social media platform Truth Social on Friday evening.
He said the attack targeted what he called “Iran’s crown jewel”, referring to the strategic island in the Persian Gulf.
“Moments ago, at my direction, the United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the history of the Middle East and totally obliterated every military target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island,” Trump wrote.

Strategic oil hub
Kharg Island is a small island belonging to Iran, located in the northern Persian Gulf.
Roughly five miles long and about two and a half miles wide, the island serves as the main terminal for nearly all of Iran’s oil exports, making it one of the most strategically important energy sites in the country.
Until now, it had largely been spared in the ongoing military campaign involving the United States and Israel.
Trump said the raid specifically targeted military facilities, adding that U.S. forces deliberately avoided destroying the island’s oil infrastructure.
“For reasons of decency, I have chosen not to wipe out the oil infrastructure on the island,” he said.

Warning over Strait of Hormuz
Trump warned that the decision could change if Iran interferes with shipping in the nearby Strait of Hormuz.
The narrow waterway is one of the world’s most critical energy routes, carrying a large share of global oil shipments.
“Should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the free and safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision,” Trump wrote.
The strait has been a focal point of tensions during the ongoing conflict.

Trump boasts of US military power
In the same statement, Trump praised the strength of the U.S. armed forces.
He said the American military had been rebuilt during his presidency into “the most lethal, powerful and effective force anywhere in the world.”
He also warned that Iran lacked the ability to defend itself against U.S. strikes.

“Iran has no ability to defend anything that we want to attack,” he said.
Trump repeated his long-standing pledge that Iran would never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
“Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, nor will it have the ability to threaten the United States, the Middle East or the world,” he wrote.

Earlier comments on possible operation
In an interview broadcast earlier Friday on Fox News, Trump was asked whether the United States might seize Kharg Island.
He dismissed the question, suggesting it would be foolish for a president to reveal military plans.
“Let’s say I was going to do it or let’s say I wasn’t going to do it — why would I tell you?” he said.
The comments came as fighting between Iran and its regional adversaries continues to escalate, raising fears that the conflict could further disrupt global energy markets and shipping routes.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 13.03 2026
ASEAN NOW News
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UN panel says Trump migration policies and rhetoric violate human rights

Watchdog criticizes “racist hate speech” and mass deportations in the United States

A United Nations watchdog has accused Donald Trump and other U.S. political leaders of using “racist hate speech” against migrants and overseeing policies that have led to serious human rights violations.

In a decision issued this week, the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) called on the United States to meet its obligations under international agreements to combat racism and discrimination.
The committee said it was deeply concerned by the use of dehumanising language and harmful stereotypes directed at migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

“Portraying them as criminals or as a burden, by politicians and influential public figures at the highest level, particularly the president, may incite racial discrimination and hate crimes,” the panel said.
The statement marked a rare instance in which the UN body appeared to directly criticize remarks made by a sitting U.S. president.

Concerns about migration crackdown
The panel also documented concerns about a wide range of measures introduced during Trump’s current administration to control migration.
These include allegations of systematic racial profiling by officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and border patrol agencies.
The committee also cited reports describing “discriminatory, dangerous and violent methods” used in immigration enforcement operations.
According to the report, at least eight people have died since January 2026 in incidents linked to immigration enforcement.

Minneapolis cases highlighted
Particular attention was given to events in Minneapolis, where federal immigration agents carried out large-scale operations earlier this year.
The panel said it had identified a pattern of serious human rights violations during the crackdown.
It referenced the deaths of two individuals — Alex Pretti and Renee Good — who were killed in separate shootings involving federal agents.
The committee said the incidents could amount to gross violations of international human rights law, and may constitute extrajudicial killings of peaceful protesters.

Surge in detention and deportations
CERD also expressed concern about the rapid rise in the number of migrants being held in detention facilities.
According to the report, the number of people detained increased from about 40,000 in late 2024 to roughly 73,000 at the beginning of 2026.
At least 675,000 migrants have been deported since Trump returned to power in January 2025.

The committee also noted that the administration had moved to remove legal protections from hundreds of thousands of migrants who had previously been allowed to live in the United States.
Reports of detainees being held in inhumane conditions and receiving inadequate medical care were also cited as major concerns.
At least 29 migrants died in detention facilities in 2025, with six additional deaths reported in January 2026, according to the report.

Complaint brought by civil liberties group
The UN committee issued its decision after the American Civil Liberties Union asked it to review possible rights violations connected to immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota.

CERD’s decisions are non-binding, meaning they do not impose legal penalties but are intended to highlight potential violations of international standards.
Previous U.S. administrations, including those led by Barack Obama and Joe Biden, have also faced criticism from the panel over immigration policies.
However, the committee did not previously single out presidential rhetoric in the same way.

White House rejects criticism
The Trump administration dismissed the report and criticized the United Nations.
White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said the assessment was biased and out of touch with conditions in the United States.

“This United Nations assessment is just as useless as their broken escalator, and their extreme bias continues to prove why no one takes them seriously,” she said in a statement.
She added that the administration’s border policies had made the country “safer and stronger than ever before.”

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 13.03 2026
ASEAN NOW News
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