Weekly Update (Dec 15th to 21st, 2025)

Israel: West Bank settlement expansion draws backlash

Israel approved plans for 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, prompting condemnation from the UN and European Union. The move further undermines potential for a two-state solution. The decision comes amid rising settler violence and heightened regional tensions amid the fragile Gaza ceasefire.

Pakistan: Imran Khan jailed on corruption charges

A Pakistani court sentenced former prime minister Imran Khan to 17 years in prison over corruption-related offences involving undeclared state gifts. Khan rejected the ruling as politically motivated. The sentence is likely to sideline him from politics and deepen Pakistan’s already sharp political divisions.

Libya/Pakistan: Arms deal breaches UN embargo

Libya’s eastern authorities reportedly agreed to buy more than $4 bn in weapons from Pakistan, violating a UN arms embargo in place since 2011. The deal is believed to benefit forces loyal to Khalifa Haftar and has alarmed diplomats trying to preserve Libya’s fragile ceasefire.

China/EU: Dairy tariffs fuel trade tensions

China imposed tariffs of over 40% on European dairy products, citing alleged dumping. This follows EU restrictions on Chinese electric vehicles and raises fears of a broader trade dispute. Though economically limited, the tariffs carry strong political symbolism at a time of strained Sino-European relations.