Between Saturday, February 14 and Monday, February 16, 2026, international news was dominated by a tense Middle East, a war in Ukraine that is intensifying militarily and strategically, and financial markets hinging on signals from energy, central banks and global growth. Here is the full overview.
Gaza and Israel: fragile ceasefire and new tensions
In the Gaza Strip, strikes attributed to the Israeli occupation forces have left 11 dead, according to Palestinian officials, amid mutual accusations between Israel and the Hamas resistance movement regarding ceasefire violations.
Diplomatically, Washington has put a political initiative around Gaza back on the table. The American president spoke of a pledge of 5 billion dollars for reconstruction, as well as the possibility of an international stabilization mechanism under UN auspices.
In the West Bank, several administrative decisions concerning land procedures sparked new criticisms, reinforcing tensions already high in the region.
Iran: nuclear negotiations and immediate impact on oil markets
Energy markets remain highly attentive to the resumed discussions between the United States and Iran on the nuclear dossier. At the same time, Washington has maintained a firm regional posture.
Direct consequence: oil moves cautiously. Brent sits around $67.78 per barrel, while WTI stands at $62.91. Investors are watching for any signal that could influence Iranian exports or the sanctions regime.
Ukraine–Russia: intensification of strikes and NATO alert
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says that Russia launched about 1,300 drones, 1,200 guided bombs, and 1,000 missiles against Ukrainian territory in a week, calling for a rapid strengthening of defense capabilities.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian drone strikes targeted infrastructure on Russian territory, notably in the Krasnodar region. Local authorities reported injuries.
At the Euro-Atlantic level, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte spoke of Russian losses he called “senseless,” estimating around 65,000 soldiers killed or wounded over two months. He stressed the need to strengthen long-term deterrence.
Europe: strategic reconfigurations and political tensions
The tour of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Central Europe aims to bolster strategic ties with several capitals, in a context marked by energy concerns and continental security.
In France, the political climate remains tense after violent incidents resulting in the death of a protester, prompting calls for calm at the highest levels of the state.
Asia-Pacific: mobility records in China and climate uncertainties
In China, the Lunar New Year period confirms its status as the world’s largest annual migratory movement. Authorities forecast 9.5 billion domestic trips over 40 days, with more than one billion rail journeys already recorded by mid-period.
In New Zealand, a storm caused significant disruptions, with strong winds and up to 30,000 households temporarily without electricity.
In North Korea, Kim Jong Un inaugurated a new residential district intended for families of fallen soldiers, in a highly symbolic political display.
Global economy: ECB, Japanese growth and market nerves
The European Central Bank announced the continuation of its euro-area support mechanism at an international level starting in the third quarter of 2026, with an envelope that could reach up to 50 billion euros. The aim is to strengthen the international role of the euro and anticipate potential liquidity tensions.
In Japan, fourth-quarter growth rose by only 0.2% annualized, well below market expectations which had anticipated around 1.6%. This weakness rekindles questions about the dynamics of Asia’s recovery.
In Gulf countries, markets moved in a mixed fashion, influenced by geopolitical uncertainties and expectations about U.S. rate movements.
Strategic technologies: symbolic breakthrough in mobile nuclear power
The United States achieved the first airborne transport of a micro-nuclear reactor, without fuel, to demonstrate the logistical feasibility of this technology. This 5-megawatt module could eventually power around 5,000 households. Low-power tests are planned from July 2026.
Additionally, Vietnam authorized the launch of Starlink satellite internet service, illustrating the acceleration of technological and geoeconomic competition in Asia.
