ZAU Highlights
Spotlight on regional risk and security
Explore #ZAUHighlights, a quick taste of current regional, national, and global security trends.
Lebanon in crisis: collapse, tension, and humanitarian emergency
Lebanon faces a humanitarian crisis and widespread destruction after thousands of ceasefire violations, with millions in need of urgent aid.
The United States advances the military megaproject ‘Golden Dome’
The United States is accelerating ‘Golden Dome,’ a key anti‑missile system for its defense, despite technical doubts and its impact on the global military balance.
China intensifies cyber‑espionage campaigns.
China is intensifying its cyber‑espionage efforts through Salt and Volt Typhoon, infiltrating telecommunications and critical infrastructure to gain strategic advantage.
Iran partially closes its airspace due to rising tensions.
Iran partially closes its airspace due to tensions with the United States, affecting flight routes and increasing concern over a possible regional escalation.
Albania in protests over national corruption scandal.
Albania is in the midst of a wave of protests after corruption charges were revealed against Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, who is accused of favoring public contracts; her immunity has further fueled public outrage.
Public anger in Indonesia sparks nationwide protests
Indonesia sees mass protests over MPs’ lavish perks as anger at inequality spreads; security tightens, reforms pledged, investor confidence shaken.
Xi Jinping to host Putin and Kim in Beijing military parade
Xi Jinping hosts Putin and Kim in Beijing military parade, showcasing China’s strength and signaling closer Russia-China-North Korea ties.
6.0-magnitude earthquake strikes Afghanistan
Afghanistan earthquake kills 800+, injures thousands, devastates eastern provinces, and prompts urgent appeals for international aid.
Wildfires devastate 380,000 hectares in Spain
Spain wildfires 2025 burn 380,000+ hectares, force 31,000 evacuations, and mark the worst fire season in decades.
Amazon deforestation in Brazil spikes amid policy shifts
Brazil’s Amazon faces a 27% deforestation spike amid policy shifts; investigations into illegal logging and agricultural expansion raise concerns.
Unprecedented surge in cyberattacks, raising regional alarm
Kenya records 4.6 billion cyberattacks in Q2 2025, highlighting critical vulnerabilities and raising regional cybersecurity concerns.
Türkiye accelerates defense drone exports to Africa and Asia
Türkiye accelerates defense drone exports to Africa and Asia, with UAVs enhancing military capabilities and strengthening geopolitical ties.