Analysis & Reports

The Chinese Navy hospital ship 'Peace Ark' concluded its visit to Dakar, Senegal, on October 1, 2023, after providing medical services to 6060 patients and performing 29 surgeries. During its stay, the ship engaged in community activities, including training local medical staff and hosting a basketball match. The visit was well-received by the local population and officials.

Amnesty International reported that Malian armed forces and the Wagner Group killed at least 34 civilians in Mali between 2023 and 2025. The report details allegations of torture and abuses in rural areas, where military operations are aimed at combating jihadist groups like JNIM. Malian authorities have dismissed foreign investigations, asserting they undermine national sovereignty. The situation reflects a broader crisis in which military actions have led to significant civilian casualties and distrust within local communities.

Marie DuboisThu Oct 01 2026Loading...

Saudi Arabia increased oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz to 13.1 million barrels per day as of February 2026, despite challenges from Houthi control over key chokepoints. The Bab el-Mandeb saw a decline in oil exports to 2.53 million barrels per day. Saudi Arabia is redirecting tankers to the Indian Ocean to meet Chinese orders, indicating a shift in strategy amid ongoing regional tensions.

The U.S. Navy announced the procurement of 30 Medium Unmanned Surface Vessels (MUSVs) on September 29, 2026, as part of a $1.2 billion investment to enhance maritime presence in the Western Pacific. The vessels are scheduled for delivery before the end of FY2027 following successful Phase I at-sea testing. However, operational details regarding their capabilities and integration into naval operations remain unspecified, raising concerns about their effectiveness in contested environments.

Marcus ChenWed Sep 30 2026Loading...

JNIM has conducted over 3,000 incidents in the Sahel in 2026, significantly increasing violent activities in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. The April offensive resulted in the death of the Malian Defense Minister and highlighted the group's tactics of ambushes and control over logistics. JNIM's operations have forced the Malian military to defend fixed positions, indicating a shift in the operational landscape.

Marie DuboisWed Sep 30 2026Loading...

Saudi Arabia requested a $24 billion purchase of F-35s. Syria is looking to reacquire its military bases following the Assad regime. Angola's navy has received six helicopter drones, indicating a shift in regional military capabilities.

The UAE government has regularly utilized Aviacon Zitotrans, a sanctioned Russian airline, for military-linked operations in Africa since mid-2025. This includes over 100 missions supporting the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan's civil war, with flights often departing from UAE military bases. The airline is also involved in delivering weapons for the Russian government, indicating a complex relationship between the UAE and Russia in regional conflicts.

JNIM and ISSP exploit security fractures along the Nigeria-Niger border in 2026, conducting incursions into Katsina and Sokoto. The border has transformed into exploitable corridors for jihadist activities, as local authorities struggle with banditry and community conflicts. Cooperation between Nigerian and Nigerien forces has decreased since the 2023 coup, complicating efforts to address the rising threat.

Marie DuboisWed Sep 30 2026Loading...

Ethiopian National Defense Forces engaged in armed conflict with the Tigray People's Liberation Front in northern Ethiopia, which began on September 23, 2023. The conflict has led to significant displacement, with around 150,000 individuals affected. A drone strike targeted the Tigray TV building, and the TPLF has claimed to be responding to federal forces' actions. Reports indicate external support for the TPLF from neighboring countries.

Saudi Arabia has resumed oil exports through the Red Sea, undermining Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic move provides Riyadh with an alternative route for oil shipments, reducing reliance on the Gulf. Despite the reopening, threats to maritime security persist, and Iran's ability to exert control is challenged as regional dynamics shift. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing risks to shipping in the region.

Alexandra ReevesTue Sep 29 2026Loading...

JNIM attacked the Malian military camp in Dioura on September 10, 2026, resulting in 120-130 soldiers killed and over 100 taken hostage. Following this, JNIM conducted airstrikes on the military airport in Sévaré, claiming 33 pro-government forces killed. The situation reflects a coordinated offensive against Malian forces, highlighting vulnerabilities in their operational capabilities.

Marie DuboisTue Sep 29 2026Loading...

The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) neutralized at least 50 combatants in an operation near Abeïbara on September 26, 2026. This action, based on precise intelligence, marks a significant military engagement against armed groups in the Kidal region. The operation's success is critical for maintaining control over strategic routes and preventing the reconstitution of combatant forces.

Marie DuboisTue Sep 29 2026Loading...

Intense fighting continues between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces in Kordofan and Darfur, with significant casualties reported. Since mid-September 2023, the Sudanese Armed Forces have conducted large-scale military operations, advancing their front lines. Both sides are increasingly utilizing drones, with over 110 drones reportedly shot down by the Sudanese Armed Forces this year. The conflict has resulted in over 59,000 deaths since its escalation in April 2023.

EU officials called for an increased military presence in the Red Sea during a defense ministers' meeting in Brussels on September 28, 2023, to enhance maritime security. They also discussed advancing financial aid to Ukraine to address its current funding gap, following the EU's approval of a €90 billion loan for military and financial support.

On September 23, 2026, two attacks attributed to ISIS resulted in the deaths of 57 Nigerien soldiers in Dabaga and Abala-Filingué. The attacks underscore the Nigerien military's vulnerabilities in protecting its forces and maintaining operational control. Reports indicate missing soldiers and the evacuation of bodies to Tahoua and Niamey, highlighting significant operational challenges for the Nigerien Armed Forces.

Marie DuboisMon Sep 28 2026Loading...

European Union naval forces are increasing their presence in the Red Sea to over 10 ships as part of Operation Aspidis, responding to escalating Houthi attacks. This decision, made on September 28, 2026, follows Italy's request for reinforcements after its frigate escorted a commercial vessel. The operation aims to secure vital trade routes, but logistical challenges remain in maintaining effective naval operations against Houthi threats.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Sep 28 2026Loading...

The Chinese 6th Batch Peacekeeping Helicopter Unit successfully completed transportation tasks for UN forces in Abyei on the 27th, conducting 20 helicopter sorties over 25 hours. They transported 220 personnel and 4.3 tons of equipment, overcoming challenging weather conditions. This operation is part of their ongoing commitment to support UN peacekeeping efforts.

Seven armed groups in Ethiopia, including the TPLF, formed the Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival to oppose Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government. This coalition, announced on September 28, 2026, aims to address the fragmentation of the country and could lead to increased military tensions. The Ethiopian government recognizes the coalition's formation but asserts its control over Addis Ababa.

Marie DuboisMon Sep 28 2026Loading...

Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso formed the Sahel States Alliance (AES) after leaving ECOWAS in January 2025. The UN is discussing its reduced presence in the Sahel as local governments assert military sovereignty, following the closure of the MINUSMA mission in late 2023. The AES aims for strategic autonomy amid increasing jihadist activity and Russian political support.

Marie DuboisSun Sep 27 2026Loading...

Boko Haram and ISWAP attacked the village of Wumbi on September 21, 2026, resulting in five fatalities, including a militia leader. The assault caused significant civilian displacement and highlighted vulnerabilities in local security. Concurrently, the Nigerian Army repelled an ISWAP attack in Pulka on September 7, 2026, maintaining their positions with air support.

Marie DuboisSun Sep 27 2026Loading...