Executive Summary 

This weekly report provides a comprehensive analysis of critical events, emerging threats, and significant developments across our global watchlist countries. Our Geopolitical & Security Analysis Teams continuously monitor and assess incidents affecting regional stability, security, and business operations.

Key Global Concerns

Talks and Potential Tension Continues Between US and Iran

Parties from the United States and Iran continue to hold talks about the future of Iran’s nuclear program. Iran is pushing to keep the dialogue focused on the nuclear program without expanding to other matters, such as ballistic missiles, and continues to insist for a relief from sanctions. Both parties seem willing to pursue compromises, with the US signaling a willingness to accept limited uranium enrichment and Iran wishing to make a deal. 

President Trump, meanwhile, is increasing pressure on Iran by announcing the preparations to deploy another Aircraft Carrier to the Middle East. He also met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss possible options for Iran. Prime Minister Netanyahu is pushing to add limits to Iran’s ballistic missile program to any deal as well as limiting the state’s support for militant groups, such as Hamas or Hezbollah. 

Russia Deploys Missile System in Belarus

Satellite imagery appears to show that Russia has been deploying its missile system Oreshnik in Belarus. The Oreshnik is an intermediate range, mobile system developed by Russia that can launch nuclear capable, hypersonic missiles. The system has been used at least twice, without nuclear warheads, by Russia in its war against Ukraine. The closeness of the possible deployment site to Russia’s border speaks more to its selection for political reasons than military advantage.