The Weekly Report: October 4-11 2026
United States
On Friday, the Trump administration announced a sanctions package targeting the International Criminal Court, which is the latest move against the court that has come under increasing scrutiny. The sanctions, which were unveiled by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, will target transactions with the court following an implementation period of six months. After the six months of leeway, any company that conducts business with the court could become a target and be subject to punishment by the U.S. government. This move could severely affect the court's day-to-day operations.
Asia
Myanmar’s president U Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Malaysia for a meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in a move to boost his international legitimacy. Hlaing’s trip to Malaysia is his latest trip in an overseas tour that has seen him visit Russia, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Belarus, India, and China over recent months. The talks with the Malaysian prime minister focused on investment opportunities in Myanmar as well as the potential repatriation of Myanmar citizens in Malaysia to Myanmar. Only five years ago, Hlaing led a coup in Myanmar, and now he is attempting to find his way onto the world stage.
Europe
Student protests continued on this week across France as government authorities worked on finding solutions to cause the rising tensions. Students have been protesting against a lack of teachers in the classroom as well as sub-par schools and facilities. The student protests have gained traction over recent days as parents and labor unions have joined in support. Many of the protesters in France are mad at the way police have dealt with the demonstrations. Police have been seen using force against protesters; however, protesters have also been seen launching fireworks at officers.
Americas
According to the New York Times, U.S. officials have said plans are already underway to move MQ-9 Reaper drones from Africa to South America in an effort to combat drug cartels. The MQ-9 drones are extremely effective for carrying out precision strikes against targets, as was seen when the U.S. targeted General Qassim Suleimani of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in 2020. This move by the administration is the latest in an ever-expanding anti-cartel campaign. The U.S. has, for over a year, been carrying out drone strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels; however, it now appears that drone strikes on land will soon commence.
Africa
The first case of Ebola in Kenya was revealed by government health authorities after a man who arrived from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) tested positive. The case ignited concerns of further cross border infections among Kenyan citizens. Kenyan health officials said that cases could quickly be contained as long as everyone followed proper health procedures. Travel restrictions between Kenya and the DRC remain in place. Anyone seeking to travel from the DRC to Kenya has to fill out an online health questionnaire regarding potential Ebola exposure. It remains unknown how this man got past airport screening upon arriving in Kenya.
Middle East
A Houthi-launched attack on the international airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, resulted in the deaths of three Saudi citizens as well as injuries to many more. This escalatory move by the Houthis, a terrorist group, has raised fears that broader conflict could restart. More worryingly, however, is how the attack exposed Saudi Arabia’s inability to prevent all Houthi attacks from hitting their desired targets. The Saudi Government remains under increased pressure to find solutions that will see Houthi attacks cease. Following the Houthis’ attack, Saudi Arabia launched air strikes on the Yemeni capital city of Sanaa.
