Diary

ISTANBUL

Here are the main topics Anadolu's English Desk plans to cover on Saturday, March 7, 2026 (coverage may change depending on developing/breaking stories):

Mideast conflicts

Expanding and ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, with Tehran’s retaliatory attacks, reverberates across the region and beyond, leaving nearly every Middle Eastern country grappling with the fallout from missile strikes, while major embassies, economic hubs, and key transit routes have been shut down.

Israeli military is also stepping up attacks in Lebanon, targeting the country’s south, west, and east along with Beirut’s southern suburbs, resulting in displacement and Hezbollah’s announced confrontations with the Israeli army.

Monitoring reactions to joint US-Israel attacks on Iran, Tehran’s retaliatory attacks

Following European reactions and statements on developments across Middle East after US and Israel launched joint attack on Iran as talks between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear program had been ongoing.

Azerbaijan-Iran tensions

Developments in growing diplomatic tensions after Iran’s drone strike on Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan exclave. Most recently, Azerbaijan issued an order to evacuate its embassy in Tehran and consulate general in Tabriz.

Tensions between Hungary and Ukraine

Developments in diplomatic tensions between Hungary and Ukraine after oil shipments through Druzhba pipeline were disrupted by Jan. 27 incident. Ukraine on Friday accused Hungarian authorities in Budapest of "taking hostage" seven employees of its state-owned Oschadbank.

Nepal awaits new government as Rastriya Swatantra Party takes lead

Nepal’s Rastriya Swatantra Party is leading after the Himalayan nation saw about 60% turnout in general elections, the first polls since mass protests ousted Oli Sharma government last September. Official election watchdog is expected to share results.

Calls for de-escalation between Afghanistan, Pakistan

Monitoring developments as calls grow for de-escalation between Afghanistan and Pakistan after recent weeks have seen at least 88 dead in fierce clashes.