Analysis & Reports

U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026, leading to Spain denying U.S. access to military bases and Italy refusing to support U.S. operations. Diplomatic tensions escalated as President Trump threatened a trade embargo against Spain and withdrew 5,000 troops from Germany, indicating a significant shift in U.S.-European relations.

U.S. President Trump announced a postponement of military strikes against Iran, responding to requests from leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE due to ongoing negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program. Iran has warned of a decisive response if attacked again, while the U.S. military remains prepared for significant action if talks do not yield satisfactory results.

Hezbollah militants attacked and destroyed an Israeli Iron Dome air defense system using a suicide drone on May 19. The operation targeted a military base in Israel, marking a significant military engagement by Hezbollah against Israeli defense capabilities.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted airstrikes against over 25 Hezbollah targets in Southern Lebanon within the past 24 hours. The strikes targeted weapons storage facilities, command centers, and other infrastructure used for planning attacks against Israel, as well as Hezbollah personnel and rocket launchers.

On May 19, the Israel Defense Forces issued evacuation warnings for parts of Southern Lebanon, citing Hezbollah's violation of ceasefire agreements. The IDF plans to retaliate and had previously intercepted a drone from Lebanon earlier that day.

RAF 9 Squadron conducted operational sorties with APKWS-guided rockets in the Middle East on May 17, 2026. This integration, completed in under two months, aims to provide a cost-effective solution for intercepting drones, reflecting a shift in air defense strategy. The operational use of Typhoon with APKWS is significant for Gulf states, emphasizing the need for economical defense solutions against low-cost threats.

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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced on April 18 that he will do everything possible to halt Israel's military actions against Lebanon. He outlined conditions for a ceasefire, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the return of displaced Lebanese citizens. Diplomatic talks facilitated by the U.S. have occurred, with a temporary ceasefire established on April 17, 2023, amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu convened security cabinet meetings in Jerusalem on May 18, 2023, to prepare for potential military action against Iran, following a call with U.S. President Trump. The situation is tense, with expectations of military action possibly resuming soon. Trump announced a delay in military strikes against Iran at the request of leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, who believe an agreement is imminent.

Iran announced the formation of the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to manage traffic in the Strait of Hormuz on May 18, 2026. President Trump delayed a planned military strike against Iran at the request of leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The situation reflects a complex interplay of military readiness and diplomatic negotiations, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear activities and regional security dynamics.

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SAHA Expo 2026 opened in Istanbul on May 5, showcasing advancements in defense technology with 1,478 exhibitors from over 120 countries. The event featured new military equipment, including drones and missiles, and was attended by official delegations from 74 countries. Key figures from Turkey's defense industry inaugurated the exhibition, emphasizing high-tech developments.

The Israeli Navy intercepted a fleet attempting to reach the Gaza Strip on May 18. The fleet had departed from southern Turkey and was reportedly carrying humanitarian aid. Israeli forces warned that those involved in the provocation should change course. This follows a previous interception of a similar fleet near Crete in late April.

Two temporary Israeli bases were established in western Iraq on May 18, 2026, to support military operations against Iran. These bases enhance Israel's operational capabilities, integrating air support and special operations. Iraqi forces reportedly approached one site in March, resulting in airfire and casualties. The presence of these bases raises concerns about the military sovereignty of Gulf states despite their advanced military equipment.

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ASELSAN showcased over thirty advanced military systems at the EFES 2026 Exercise in Turkey, including the KOCATEPE Battlefield Management System, which was used for the first time. The exercise demonstrated ASELSAN's capabilities in air defense, electronic warfare, and battlefield management, attracting significant attention from international military delegations. The event underscored the strength of the Turkish defense industry and its technological advancements.

Turkey is developing the Yıldırımhan long-range hypersonic ballistic missile, which will enhance its strategic capabilities with a range of 6,000 km and a payload of approximately 3 tonnes. The missile was showcased at Saha Expo 2026 in Istanbul, alongside DeltaV's HISTEP hypersonic test platform. The Yıldırımhan is designed to reach speeds of Mach 9 and Mach 25, reflecting Turkey's advancements in military technology in response to regional threats.

Three drones attacked the vicinity of the Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi on May 17, 2026, with one drone successfully hitting an external generator. UAE air defense forces intercepted two of the drones, revealing vulnerabilities in the country's air defense system. This incident raises significant concerns regarding the security of critical infrastructure in the Gulf amid ongoing regional tensions.

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Israeli Defense Forces struck over 30 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon within the past 24 hours, targeting weapon depots, observation posts, and military infrastructure. The operation resulted in the deaths of several Hezbollah militants who were planning attacks on Israeli soldiers.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced on May 17, 2023, that Israel is nearing the completion of a key military objective in the Gaza Strip, which involves eliminating Hamas leaders responsible for the October 7 attack. The Israeli Defense Forces have reported significant casualties, with over 72,000 Palestinians killed, primarily civilians, and approximately 1200 Israelis dead since the attack. The situation remains tense with ongoing violence despite a ceasefire agreement.

Saudi Arabian Defense Forces intercepted and destroyed three drones that entered Saudi airspace from Iraq on May 17. The Defense Ministry emphasized its right to respond to any violations of Saudi sovereignty and security.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that Israel has expanded its control over 60% of the Gaza Strip as of May 17, 2023. He emphasized that this expansion is part of efforts to strengthen control over Hamas, ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. A new map indicating these changes was released in March 2023, which includes a newly designated restricted area.

On May 17, 2023, a drone attack targeted the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the UAE, causing a fire at a generator. The UAE's air defense intercepted three drones, successfully shooting down two. IAEA Director General Grossi condemned the attack, emphasizing the need for military restraint near nuclear facilities. The UAE Armed Forces are currently on high alert to address any threats to national security.