|
Global Politics Team
23 February 2026 |
The World Today
Mexico: Violence erupts in Mexico following the killing of El Mencho, head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG)
On 23 February, the BBC reported that a wave of violence had swept Mexico after security forces killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho”, the country’s most wanted drug lord and leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). He was killed in a military operation near the mountain town of Tapalpa in Jalisco state. Officials said four suspected cartel members were killed and three soldiers wounded before El Mencho died from his injuries while being flown to Mexico City. In response, armed CJNG members set fire to buses and trucks, blocked highways and exchanged gunfire with security forces across several states. Violence has erupted in cities across Mexico, including cities like Jalisco, Colima, Guanajuato and Michoacán. Videos shared online showed masked men with rifles setting vehicles alight, while residents described the situation as “like a warzone." Mexico’s President urged people to stay indoors and said extra troops were being deployed to restore order. The White House confirmed that US intelligence had helped locate El Mencho, who was wanted in the US for shipping large quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl to the United States.
The US: The US Customs and Border Protection to halt collecting tariffs imposed under the IEEPA on 24 February
On 23 February, Reuters reported that US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will stop collecting tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) on 24 February, following the US Supreme Court’s decision declaring the duties unlawful. In a notice to shippers through its Cargo Systems Messaging Service, CBP put forth that all tariff codes associated with President Trump’s IEEPA orders would be deactivated. The suspension does not affect other tariffs, including those under the Section 232 national security statute and the Section 301 unfair trade practices statute. According to Reuters, the ruling places over USD 175 billion in previously collected revenue for potential refund claims. This tariff halt comes as President Trump introduced a new 15 per cent global tariff under Section 122, that permits tariffs up to 15 per cent but requires congress approval to extend them beyond 150 days. This raises the prospects of further legal challenges given no President has invoked Section 122 so far. Meanwhile, China’s Commerce Ministry stated it is conducting a “full assessment” of the ruling and called on Washington to remove “unilateral tariff measures,” noting that continued tensions are “harmful” for both countries. The European Commission similarly called on the US to uphold the terms of the EU-US trade deal reached last year, stating that “a deal is a deal.” The Commission stated that the US must provide complete clarity on the follow-up measures after the court-ruling.
Pakistan and Afghanistan: Islamabad conducts airstrikes across seven camps along Pakistan-Afghanistan border; kills “over 80 terrorists” as per Dawn
On 22 February, Dawn reported that Pakistan conducted retaliatory airstrikes in Afghanistan killing “more than 80 terrorists,” according to Pakistani security sources. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated that seven terrorist camps and hideouts linked to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and Islamic State-Khorasan Province were targeted in Nangarhar, Paktika, and Khost provinces. The operation followed recent suicide bombings in Pakistan, including attacks in Islamabad, Bajaur, and Bannu. Authorities stated that there was “conclusive evidence” that these attacks were directed by Afghanistan-based leadership, and that responsibility had been claimed by affiliated groups. According to reports from the BBC, the Taliban stated at least 18 people were killed, including women and children, and condemned the strikes as targeting civilian homes and a religious school. The new strikes come despite a fragile ceasefire agreed upon by the two countries in October following earlier cross-border clashes, though subsequent clashes have taken place.
The US and Iran: Washington and Tehran to hold third round of nuclear talks in Geneva
On 22 February, Reuters reported that the US and Iran will hold a third round of nuclear talks in Geneva on 26 February amid growing concerns about the risk of military escalation between the two countries. Oman’s foreign minister, who acts as a mediator, confirmed that the talks aim to finalise the deal on Iran’s nuclear programme. As per media reports, Iran is considering fresh concessions on its nuclear programme in order to reach a deal, in exchange for economic sanctions relief and recognition of its right to peaceful nuclear enrichment. The concessions being considered by Iran include sending half of its highly enriched uranium abroad while diluting the rest, taking part in creation of a regional enrichment consortium and opening its oil and gas industries to US companies to participate as contractors. The US has offered opportunities for investment in Iran’s oil industry. It has also sought to expand the talks to cover Iran’s missile programme and its support for regional armed groups, which Iran rejected. However, unlike the missile programme, the issue of regional proxies is not a red line for Tehran.
The War in Ukraine: Hungary to block new EU sanctions over Druzhba oil pipeline
On 22 February, Hungary made a statement that it would block the 20th sanctions package by EU on Russia, amid a dispute with Ukraine over the suspension of Russian oil imports via the Druzhba pipeline. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto stated that Hungary will not support sanctions of high importance to Ukraine until oil transit to Hungary and Slovakia is resumed. Oil transit via the pipeline has been stopped since 27 January, when Kyiv claimed that a Russian drone attack damaged equipment in western Ukraine. Hungary has also threatened to block a proposed 90 billion euro EU loan intended to support Ukraine’s defence, a move that requires unanimous approval.
The Indian Neighbourhood Today
Bangladesh and the EU: European Union eyes stronger ties with Dhaka
On 23 February 2026, The Daily Star reported that the European Union Ambassador to Bangladesh, Michael Miller, described the EU as Bangladesh’s most reliable and largest commercial partner, as well as a significant political ally of the new government. Speaking after meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, he expressed optimism about launching a new chapter of intensified bilateral relations. Miller noted that the two sides are close to finalising the Partnership Cooperation Agreement (PCA) and voiced hope that it would soon be signed. He added that discussions covered the broad scope of EU-Bangladesh ties, including trade, development cooperation, humanitarian issues, and migration, underscoring the EU’s commitment to deepening engagement and exploring the full potential of the partnership.
Bangladesh: President convenes 13th parliament session on 12 March
On 23 February 2026, Dhaka Tribune reported that the President of Bangladesh, Mohammad Shahabuddin, had convened the first session of the 13th National Parliament, scheduled to begin on 12 March 2026, at 11:00 hours. The session was called under Article 72(1) of the Constitution of Bangladesh. The information was disclosed in a notification signed by Md Emadul Haque, Director (Deputy Secretary) of Public Relations Sub-division-1 at the National Parliament Secretariat. The session will take place in the chamber of the National Parliament Building in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka.
Myanmar: New scam compounds emerge in Myawaddy region
On 23 February 2026, Irrawaddy reported that new Chinese-run scam compounds are rapidly expanding in territory south of Myawaddy in Karen State, despite the Myanmar junta’s claims of cracking down on online fraud syndicates. Residents and activists said criminal networks displaced from the notorious KK Park have regrouped in more remote and fortified locations to evade scrutiny. Locals reported that at least seven new buildings, including two five-story structures, have been constructed in Mitta Lin Myaing, an area controlled by the junta-aligned Karen State Border Guard Force (BGF). Some syndicates allegedly shifted there after the junta’s October raid on KK Park. New facilities have also appeared along the Myawaddy–Mae Htaw Thalay road. Residents alleged that the BGF facilitated the relocation of scam operations from KK Park and Shwe Kokko, despite the junta portraying earlier demolitions as part of joint enforcement efforts. Activists claim the crackdowns were largely cosmetic, while recruitment for online fraud roles continues openly, with thousands believed to be working in scam centres across Myawaddy Township.
Sri Lanka: Namal Rajapaksa’s visit to the UK deemed as controversial
On 23 February, the Daily Mirror reported that a senior Member of Parliament, Namal Rajapaksa from the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Party, began a visit overseas to the United Kingdom. This came amidst protests taking place among the Sri Lankan diaspora. The visit is considered politically sensitive since Rajapaksa’s family is still considered to be the most associated with the 2022 financial collapse. The appearance may signal rebuilding legitimacy amongst the diaspora and also test the waters to enter into mainstream politics. Foreign visits by Sri Lankan dignitaries often have a precedent of narrative reframing and image rehabilitation.
Maldives: Policy focus shifts towards agricultural expansion and economic diversification
On 23 February, The Sun reported that the Maldivian authorities are looking into a multi-million dollar investment in the domestic agriculture sector as part of broader efforts towards economic diversification. The initiative takes place in the backdrop of the Maldives’ long-standing dependency on tourism, which historically exposed the nation’s economy to global shocks, climate disruptions, and fluctuations in international travel. Discussions surrounding the investment proposal emphasises on strengthening food security, reducing reliance on imports, and generating domestic employment opportunities for the local population. This development suggests a governance shift toward economic resilience and diversification, cost-of-living management, and reform of fiscal policy.
Afghanistan: Officials look to assess the extent of the attack damages
On 23 February, Al Jazeera reported that several nations, such as India, have condemned Pakistan’s actions against Afghanistan, with most terming it an attack on Kabul’s sovereignty. Further, Pakistani agencies have noted that these were intelligence-based strikes and were focused on terror hideouts rather than civilian dwellings. The Islamabad Ministry of Information and Broadcasting claimed that there was “conclusive evidence” concerning Afghan handlers being involved in the recent suicide bombings of Pakistan. These heated exchanges between the two countries primarily revolve around organisations like the Tehreek-e-Taliban, which has been criticised and blamed on several occasions for cross-border terrorism. Pakistan further added that it had repeatedly demanded that the Taliban regime take appropriate action, and the attacks were conducted as a result of inaction.
Iran: Tehran shows optimism concerning upcoming US talks
On 23 February, Al Jazeera reported that Iranian officials are largely positive about the nuclear talks set for Thursday. Despite the buildup of US military presence in the Gulf, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian notes that the United States has given “encouraging signals” but also noted that Tehran is well prepared for any possibility of attack. He stressed how the nation is poised for “peace and stability in the region.” These developments come after Oman confirmed that a third set of talks between the two nations will be taking place in Geneva, Switzerland. Despite both sides giving positive signs about prior rounds of discussions, the two have failed to reach an agreement on the highly debated nuclear program.
Pakistan and Bangladesh: Islamabad and Dhaka discuss expanding bilateral cooperation
On 22 February, The Express Tribune reported that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Bangladesh’s newly-appointed Foreign Minister, Dr Khalilur Rehman, had their first phone conversation, where they discussed strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation across various sectors. During the call, both ministers emphasised a shared vision of peace, stability and prosperity in the region. This comes following the victory of the BNP in last week’s general elections in Bangladesh. In August 2025, Pakistan and Bangladesh signed several agreements to expand cooperation in trade, diplomacy, education and cultural exchanges, among others.
Pakistan: Government borrowing rises almost fivefold
On 22 February, Dawn reported that government borrowing in the first seven months of FY26 was almost five times more than the same period last year. Data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) showed that the government borrowed PKR 1912 billion in 7MFY26, compared to PKR 408 billion a year ago. The government borrowed PKR 5.4 trillion in FY25, but the situation is even worse this year, with borrowing already touching nearly PKR 2 trillion in the first seven months. This has left little room for the private sector to borrow, curtailing growth despite low inflation. While the State Bank reduced the Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) for banks from 6 per cent to 5 per cent, experts believe the private sector is still reluctant to borrow for long-term investments.
