Global Scans · Conflict · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: Rising tensions around are bringing new and regional geopolitical threats and the possibility of eventual global war. Keep abreast of the unfolding drama and know where the risks and opportunities are in the world.

• [New] The Military AI market's foremost strength lies in advanced technological capabilities, such as autonomous weapon systems that enhance defence precision and reduce human risk, providing a competitive edge in global defence strategies. The Niche Research
• [New] Defence is expected to see significant developments in 2026, with officials pointing to domestically produced weapons labeled Made in Albania and the introduction of anti-drone systems as part of efforts to align national security standards with EU criteria. ALBANIA DAILY NEWS
• [New] Continued tension in Eastern Europe and the Indo-Pacific has made state-sponsored cyber threats feel like a normal part of doing business. Windsor Drake | Sell-Side M&A Advisory
• [New] Washington is expecting a response from Iran to its proposals for an interim deal to end the conflict in the Middle East, as Iran accused the US of breaching the increasingly fragile ceasefire announced last month. The Guardian
• [New] With war raging in the Middle East and Ukraine, extreme weather becoming more frequent, and warnings that the UK's critical infrastructure is at risk from cyber-attacks and power outages, many people feel the world has become a more dangerous and chaotic place. The Guardian
• [New] Iran has approximately 450 kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity, a concentration level that, with further processing, could potentially yield material for over 10 nuclear weapons. Crypto Briefing
• [New] Brent crude rose above US$100 a barrel as hopes faded for a quick resolution to the Middle East conflict and the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a key transit route for oil and liquefied natural gas. ST
• [New] Although Pakistan's mediation efforts contribute to increasing its diplomatic footprint, Islamabad is still acutely aware of the potential fallouts if the current conflict persists, particularly when it comes to economic disruptions or security pressures. Al Jazeera Centre for Studies
• [New] The U.S. admiral in charge of the Indo-Pacific Command testified last month that the Chinese government would undoubtedly use access to advanced A.I. to bolster its war-fighting capabilities and threaten U.S. forces. Mimir's Well
• [New] America faces an ongoing threat of terrorism, with targets including government buildings, schools, places of worship, airports, other transportation hubs, major tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centers, markets and hotels. Pique Newsmagazine
• [New] Southeast Asian leaders adopted a contingency plan Friday to mitigate the impact of the Iran war on their people and economies but acknowledged it will be difficult to enforce complex steps like establishing a regional fuel reserve to ensure a steady supply. Los Angeles Times
• [New] The US Centre for AI Standards and Innovation will evaluate models for cybersecurity, biosecurity and chemical weapons-related risks before they are released to the public. Euronews
• [New] The first comprehensive military doctrine issued by Germany since the Cold War identifies Russia as the main threat to European security, warning that Moscow is laying the groundwork for a military attack on NATO member states. Virginia's home for Public Media
• [New] Ukraine instead sought and received even more military help from Western Europe, which sees Russia as a direct threat, while simultaneously stepping up its own domestic production of weapons. HuffPost UK
• [New] A prolonged Iran conflict could force management teams back into defensive mode focused on hedging, affordability and operational resilience. BakeryAndSnacks.com
• [New] Usually, conflict in the Middle East pushes energy prices higher, increases inflation concerns, and raises expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates high. investing.com
• [New] Governments are rushing to secure supplies of critical crop nutrients ahead of spring planting as the Middle East war chokes off the flow of commodities and amplifies fears of a global food crisis. Insurance Journal
• [New] If the Iran conflict escalates beyond the current love tap framing and oil pushes meaningfully above $105, inflation expectations re-anchor higher, the Fed is forced to delay any 2027 cut path further, and real yields grind higher again. investing.com
• [New] The disruption triggered by the Iran conflict unfolded with a speed and intensity few in the airline industry would have anticipated outside of a global shutdown. Skift
• [New] The arrival of the Malta-flagged Odessa, carrying 1m barrels of crude oil, will likely ease Seoul's concerns over energy security as the war in the Middle East drags on. The Guardian
• [New] While March inflation readings came in hotter, partly reflecting the lagged impact of higher energy prices tied to the Iran conflict, central banks remain focused on balancing inflation risks with growth stability. Middlefield
• [New] Sudan's conflict has triggered regional health crises with mass displacement, collapsing infrastructure, and heightened outbreak risks, while Yemen's prolonged war leaves 19.6 million without basic services, forcing facility closures. PubMed Central (PMC)
• [New] The Strait of Hormuz remains closed, and shipping flows resume in the first quarter of 2027, but do not return to pre-conflict levels until the end of 2028. SBS News

Last updated: 12 May 2026