Weekly Update (Dec 8th to 14th, 2025)

Israel/Gaza: Airstrike tests fragile truce

An Israeli airstrike killed senior Hamas commander Raed Saad on December 14, the highest-profile strike since the October ceasefire. Israel accused him of rebuilding militant capabilities, while Hamas condemned the attack as a violation of the truce. Daily low-level clashes have continued along Gaza’s perimeter, and mediators are scrambling to prevent a wider breakdown of the agreement.

Thailand/Cambodia: Border fighting continues

Clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border persisted despite renewed ceasefire efforts. Artillery exchanges displaced civilians and closed border crossings, while a U.S.-brokered truce collapsed within hours amid mutual accusations. Nationalist pressures on both sides continue to complicate de-escalation.

Sudan: UN peacekeepers killed in drone strike

The Rapid Support Forces admitted responsibility for a drone strike that hit a UN base in South Kordofan, killing six Bangladeshi peacekeepers. The group said it mistook the site for an army position. The UN condemned the attack, warning it could prompt further withdrawals of international staff and restrict humanitarian access.

Belarus: Prisoner release hints at limited thaw

Belarus freed 123 political prisoners, including Nobel laureate Ales Bialiatski, following a diplomatic arrangement with Washington. In exchange, the U.S. eased sanctions on key Belarusian firms. While welcomed in Western capitals, the release leaves hundreds still imprisoned and offers only limited signs of broader reform.