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 conflict between the U.S.-Israeli coalition and Iran has resulted in significant disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. Crypto Briefing
• [New] The Islamic Republic's terrorism exports and missile force have posed as great a threat to European security as they have to American and Israeli security. Hudson Institute
• [New] Differences over Taiwan could lead to conflict between China and the U.S. Democracy Now!
• [New] A new US military wargame simulated a nuclear weapon in orbit, highlighting the risks of space-based conflicts. Coaio Limited
• [New] The ongoing conflict and strategic developments in the Strait of Hormuz could indicate a decreased likelihood of a permanent peace deal between Israel and Iran. Crypto Briefing
• [New] The US slowdown in weapons delivery to Poland, the Baltic states, and Finland in particular could be viewed as a greenlight of sorts by the Kremlin. Global Defense Insight
• [New] Even a limited incursion into Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, or eastern Poland would immediately force emergency debates over Article 5 obligations, escalation thresholds, reserve mobilization, air defence allocation, and the risk of direct war between nuclear powers. Global Defense Insight
• [New] The war in the Middle East creates immense danger for the global African Diaspora. African Elements | Black History, Politics and News
• [New] The Kremlin has issued a stark warning that United States support for Taiwan could trigger World War III, intensifying fears of a global conflict involving Russia, China and the West. International Business Times UK
• [New] The US-China intelligence relationship, up to early 2026, witnessed an unprecedented escalation, which could be described as a comprehensive espionage war encompassing technological, military, and cyber domains. Modern Diplomacy
• [New] Washington's involvement in other conflicts, such as the conflict with Iran, could affect the pace and strength of intelligence deterrence directed against China. Modern Diplomacy
• [New] While virtually the entire global industry struggles against Iran war-induced disruptions, it is striking that Chinese automakers are indicating a sunnier outlook. Automotive World
• [New] The Iran war, rising oil prices, inflation fears, and geopolitical uncertainty are helping the U.S. dollar maintain its strength, as it is seen as a haven. investing.com
• [New] The trade war between the US and China has influenced many companies to shift nearshoring manufacturing to Mexico to avoid tariffs and supply chain disruptions. NATEK Work IT with us
• [New] The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil transit chokepoint, and Iran has historically threatened to disrupt traffic there during periods of regional tension. Crypto Briefing
• [New] Food shortage fears have been building since the start of the Iran war, which has closed the Strait of Hormuz, choking off crude oil flows and fertilizer shipments from the Persian Gulf, but are seen as more of a 2027 story for grain markets amid relatively ample stockpiles. Pro Farmer
• [New] The primary driver of inflationary pressure remains the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and disruptions to supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, which continue to influence global energy markets. investing.com
• [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

Last updated: 19 May 2026