AGP Executive Report

Digital Crackdown in Iran: Iran’s internet blackout—now reported as the longest nationwide state-imposed shutdown—has dragged on for about 80 days, disrupting education, commerce, and basic communication while authorities frame it as “security necessity.” Gulf Tensions: As the Iran war deepens, Saudi Arabia and the UAE are reportedly pulling in different directions, with Israel-UAE ties and alleged Netanyahu visits adding fresh friction inside the Gulf. Ebola Alarm in Central Africa: The WHO has declared the Congo and Uganda Ebola outbreak a public health emergency of international concern, with deaths rising and experts warning the response may have come late after a rarer strain slowed early identification. Sudan Humanitarian Push: UN partners say they’re still delivering food and cholera protection in Darfur, even as fighting continues to drive new displacement. Migration Pressure in Georgia: Georgia registered 201 asylum seekers in Q1 2026 and expelled 904 foreign nationals, underscoring tightening regional migration controls.

Ebola Emergency: The WHO has declared the Congo and Uganda Ebola outbreak a public health emergency of international concern, with officials saying the outbreak may have started weeks ago and warning of “significant uncertainties” about spread as cases and suspected deaths rise. Sudan Accountability: A Sudanese paramilitary commander tied to filmed civilian killings has reportedly returned to active combat, reigniting pressure for accountability as the war grinds on. Sudan Cost of Living: Sudan’s inflation jumped to 45.84% in April as the currency keeps sliding, squeezing households even further. Sahel Reality Check: A new security map argues the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has failed “systematically,” with Burkina Faso described as effectively lost beyond a few urban pockets. Migration Warning: A new analysis warns that conflict-driven food shocks could trigger a “migration tsunami” as hunger pushes people toward wealthier countries.

Ebola Emergency: WHO has declared the Congo–Uganda Ebola outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, driven by the rare Bundibugyo strain with no approved vaccines or treatments and at least 80 suspected deaths as fears grow over containment. Sudan, Still Off the World’s Radar: A new spotlight on Khartoum’s war-battered life shows how people are slowly returning to the Nile to fish again, even as displacement and services collapse continue to define daily survival. UK Street Tensions: London saw huge rival protests—Tommy Robinson’s “Unite the Kingdom” and Nakba Day—ending with dozens of arrests and a police probe into alleged hate crimes. Iraq’s New Line: Iraq’s new leadership says it will not allow its territory to be used as a launching pad for attacks, aiming to avoid getting pulled into regional conflict. Human Rights Spotlight: Ruben Vardanyan has been nominated for the 2026 Václav Havel Human Rights Prize, with backers citing his humanitarian work.

Ebola Emergency: WHO has declared a new Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern, with fears rising over a Bundibugyo strain, suspected deaths, and no approved vaccine as cases spread after a detection delay. Sudan War & Hunger: Football returned to Khartoum’s war-scarred capital as the domestic league staged first matches since fighting began, while aid agencies warn acute food insecurity remains severe for millions. Iraq Power Shift: Iraq’s new prime minister, Ali al-Zaidi, officially took office after parliament approved him and 14 ministers, promising a “comprehensive” reform plan and a tougher fight against corruption. London Protests: In London, tens of thousands marched for Tommy Robinson’s “Unite the Kingdom” and the pro-Palestine Nakba Day, with police reporting 31 arrests and an active hate-crime investigation. Horn of Africa Diplomacy: Egypt sent foreign and transport ministers to Eritrea to deepen ties and press Red Sea governance, amid ongoing regional rivalry with Ethiopia. Global Watch: The ICC reportedly issued secret arrest warrants for five senior Israeli officials, adding pressure to an already tense international legal fight.

Abyei Reunion: An 11-year-old boy, Biong Riing, was finally handed back to his family in Abyei after six years in captivity, with officials citing improved talks with Messiriya as Sudan’s war pushed refugees into the area. Iraq Power Shift: Iraq’s new Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi officially took office in Baghdad after parliament approved him and 14 ministers, promising a “comprehensive” reform drive and a tougher line on corruption. US-Iran Pressure: In the background of nuclear talks, President Trump said Iran has “an interest in reaching an agreement,” while warning that if talks fail, “they’re going to have a very bad time.” Security Crackdown: US authorities arrested Kataib Hezbollah-linked figure Mohammed Baqer al-Saadi, and a released hostage, Elizabeth Tsurkov, says her captors shared details about the group’s operations. Sudan War at Home: Football returned to Khartoum’s war-scarred capital as the league staged first matches, while hunger monitors warn the crisis is deepening. London Protests: Tens of thousands marched in London for Nakba Day and a Unite the Kingdom rally, with police reporting dozens of arrests.

Sudan War Update: Sudan’s army says it has recaptured Khor Hassan in Blue Nile state from the RSF, dealing losses in personnel and equipment as the border flashpoint with Ethiopia stays central to the fight. Humanitarian Crisis: UN-backed monitoring warns 19.5 million people in Sudan face crisis-level hunger or worse, with 135,000 in catastrophe conditions and no formal famine yet—aid funding remains far below needs. Khartoum Life Returns: Football is back in the capital, with league matches staged at battered stadiums in Khartoum North and Omdurman, a small sign of normal life amid devastation. Diplomacy: Sudan’s PM Kamil Idris met President Mohammed Shahabuddin in London for courtesy talks while Shahabuddin continues medical treatment. Regional Security: US and Nigerian forces report killing Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as ISIS’s global second-in-command. Protests in London: Tens of thousands turned out for two rallies; police reported 43 arrests as Tommy Robinson urged supporters to prepare for a “battle of Britain.”

Sudan’s Drone Toll: UN rights chief Volker Türk says armed drones are now the leading cause of civilian deaths in Sudan, with at least 880 civilians killed between January and April, as strikes hit hospitals, schools, markets and even Khartoum airport. Hunger Warning: UN agencies warn the crisis is set to worsen: nearly 19.5 million people face acute food insecurity, with 135,000 in “famine-like” conditions across hotspots and conditions expected to deteriorate during the June–September lean season. Iraq Power Struggle: Iraq’s new PM Ali al-Zaidi won confidence for 14 of 23 ministers, but key posts remain blocked amid Shiite, Sunni and Kurdish disputes—while rival Shiite blocs signal a possible new alliance. Iraq Press Freedom: A Baghdad rights group tallies nearly 1,000 press freedom violations under al-Sudani and warns upcoming appointments could further erode expression. Culture, Not Conflict: In Nepal’s Tamghas, the Newar community is reviving the Dhime Baja to reconnect youth with indigenous tradition.

Sudan Hunger Alarm: UN agencies say Sudan’s war is pushing the country toward an “even greater tragedy,” with nearly 19.5 million people facing acute food insecurity and 135,000 in catastrophic conditions across Darfur and nearby regions; they warn the situation will likely worsen during the June–September lean season as fighting, displacement, and blocked aid keep families from eating. Humanitarian Pressure: WFP says hunger is deepening, with aid unable to match needs due to insecurity and attacks on supply routes. Local Politics Under Strain: In Nepal, the Nepali Congress is demanding a fair probe into former Home Minister Sudan Gurung after he resigned over alleged financial links, while critics question the logic behind a recent ministry overhaul. Iraq Power-Shifts: In Iraq, Kurdish lawmakers signal possible withdrawal or boycott from Baghdad over delayed salaries, and MPs have been leaving Sudani’s alliance after cabinet vote turmoil.

Famine alarm in Sudan: WFP/FAO/UNICEF warn the risk of famine is still real as nearly 19.5 million people face acute food insecurity, with 135,000 in Darfur, South Darfur and South Kordofan classed as catastrophic and more deterioration expected in the June–September lean season. Sudan war escalates: UN reporting says drone strikes are pushing the conflict into a deadlier phase, while fighting continues around key areas like Nyala, with both sides trading claims of drone downings and attacks. Humanitarian funding pressure: The US announced another $1.8B for UN relief work under its “Humanitarian Reset,” but CARE says cuts hit women and girls first, threatening clinics and education projects. Regional spillover: Sudan–Ethiopia tensions are rising after accusations over drones and armed groups, raising fears of a wider clash. Global stakes beyond Sudan: Italy warns that any prolonged disruption to the Strait of Hormuz would shock energy and food systems worldwide.

Sudan War Escalation: Khartoum’s airport—just reopened to international flights—was hit again by drones, and the SAF has been accused of widening the fight with more drone strikes as UN warnings say the conflict is entering a deadlier phase. Food Crisis: New IPC data puts nearly 19.5 million Sudanese facing high acute food insecurity, with famine risk in 14 areas and severe malnutrition projected to rise. Regional Tensions: Sudan and Ethiopia trade fresh political and military accusations, with fears of a wider clash growing as forces mass near the border. Humanitarian Pressure: AU and UN leaders denounce external interference fueling Africa’s security crises, while RSF claims drone attacks and continued bombardment in Darfur. Diplomacy Elsewhere: Yemen’s government and Houthis sign a UN-backed deal to swap over 1,600 detainees, the biggest since the war began. Iraq Politics: Ali Al Zaidi is sworn in as Iraq’s PM after parliament backs his cabinet picks, amid US-Iran militia pressure.

Sudan War & Khartoum Airport: After a drone attack hit Khartoum’s airport and SAF sites on May 4, Sudan recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia, accusing complicity—coming right after the airport saw its first international landing since the war began. Iraq Cabinet Standoff: In Baghdad, debate over keeping weapons under state control is now a key hurdle ahead of Ali Al-Zaidi’s cabinet vote, with blocs tying participation to unresolved negotiations. Israel–UAE Tensions: Netanyahu claims a secret UAE visit during the Iran war; the UAE denies it as baseless, as reports point to deeper Israel-UAE security coordination. Kenya Passport Row: Kenya’s foreign affairs PS defended issuing travel documents to people linked to Sudan’s RSF, saying it’s exceptional diplomacy, not “candy.” Humanitarian Pressure: MSF says Sudan’s war persists amid “political failure,” with civilians facing violence, hunger, and a collapsing health system.

Sudan War: UN rights chief Volker Türk says armed drones are now the leading cause of civilian deaths in Sudan, with at least 880 killed by drone strikes between January and April, warning the conflict could enter an even deadlier phase as violence spreads and humanitarian access worsens. Humanitarian Pressure: MSF calls the lack of political will to end the war and fund aid a “political failure,” pointing to a collapsing health system, rising sexual violence, and looming cholera. Regional Diplomacy: At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Nigeria’s Tinubu pushed for reform of the global financial system and stronger African economic integration, while UN chief Guterres and the AU reaffirmed their partnership for peace and development. Sudan Mediation Row: Kenya’s Ruto rejects claims of “babysitting” Sudan’s generals, insisting Kenya backs dialogue and stability rather than either side. Middle East Backdrop: Netanyahu disclosed a secret UAE trip during the Iran war, underscoring how Gulf-Israel ties are shifting amid the wider Iran conflict.

Sudan’s Humanitarian Slide: The UN warns the war is entering a “catastrophically bloodier” phase as drones, artillery, camp fires and intercommunal violence spread, with at least 880 civilians killed in drone strikes from January to April and markets and hospitals repeatedly hit. Khartoum Airport Under Fire: After the government recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia over alleged involvement in the May 4 drone attack on Khartoum’s airport and SAF sites, the fragile return of flights has been shattered again. War Crimes, Up Close: A new AFP account puts a face on the abuse—rape survivors giving birth to children of RSF assaults, with victims describing the trauma and the “double injustice” of being blamed and abandoned. Regional Shockwaves: OCHA says Middle East tensions are disrupting routes tied to the Strait of Hormuz, raising costs and delaying aid deliveries to Sudan. Diplomatic Friction: Sudan also circulated claims of external aggression—training camps, mercenaries and drone facilities—aimed at undermining its sovereignty.

Sudan Flashpoint: Iraq has launched a sweeping “Imposing Sovereignty” operation in the western desert after reports of foreign military activity, with forces searching and sweeping deep into Najaf and Karbala to secure key routes—while Baghdad insists claims of illegal foreign bases are exaggerated. Regional Diplomacy: Egypt’s Al-Sisi met UN chief Guterres in Nairobi, pressing for Gulf security and continued humanitarian delivery for Sudan and Gaza as funding strains mount. Middle East Pressure: The US says its Iran war bill is now about $29bn, as Hormuz-related fears keep rattling energy and food systems. Information & Rights: World Press Freedom Day warnings hit hard: journalists “must never be a target,” with Sudan and Ukraine flagged among the deadliest places. Africa’s Economic Push: Kenya’s Ruto tells the Africa-Forward Summit in Nairobi that Africa wants investment and equal partnership—not aid—while calling for fairer global finance. Culture & Signal: Cannes opens with a strong Arab film presence, including entries from Morocco, Palestine, Yemen, and Sudan.

Sudan Drone Toll: The UN says drone strikes in Sudan killed at least 880 civilians between January and April, with drones now driving more than 80% of conflict-related civilian deaths and raising fears the war will enter an even deadlier phase. Khartoum Airport Fallout: In the wake of a May 4 drone attack on Khartoum’s airport, Sudan recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia, accusing complicity—after the airport had just seen a rare return of international flights. Displacement at Record High: A new global report finds conflict-driven internal displacement hit a record in 2025, surpassing disaster-driven flight for the first time. Sudan Accountability Push: Sudanese victims have filed a sanctions request to the EU, targeting alleged Emirati links to the RSF. Regional Tensions: Iran says it’s concerned about reports of a clandestine Israeli base in Iraq, while the UAE is again in the spotlight over alleged secret strikes tied to the Iran conflict. Business Watch: Zain Group posted Q1 growth—revenue up 6% to $1.86bn and net profit at a 15-year high.

Sudan War Update: The UN warns Sudan’s drone war is pushing the conflict into an “even deadlier phase,” saying drone strikes killed at least 880 civilians between January and April—over 80% of conflict-related civilian deaths in that period—while violence risks spreading deeper into central and eastern states. Khartoum Airport Fallout: After drones hit Khartoum International Airport and nearby SAF sites on May 4, Sudan recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia, accusing Addis Ababa of involvement; Ethiopia denies the claims. Accountability Push: Sudanese victims have filed a sanctions request to the EU’s High Representative, urging targeted action against Emirati officials and Sudanese businessmen allegedly tied to the RSF. Regional Politics: The Arab League held an emergency meeting in Cairo over Sudan’s accusations against Ethiopia, with officials urging de-escalation. South Africa Politics: ANC leaders called an emergency NEC meeting as Ramaphosa’s impeachment threat returns after the Constitutional Court’s Phala Phala ruling.