**Summary:** Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev announced plans to increase gas supplies to Europe, noting that Azerbaijani gas now reaches 16 countries, including new EU members Germany and Austria. This expansion is contingent on developing existing gas transport infrastructure, as the Southern Gas Corridor is currently fully utilized.

**Key points:**
- Azerbaijan currently supplies pipeline gas to 16 countries, leading globally in the number of recipient nations.
- Gas supplies have reached destinations outside Europe for the first time, with 1.5 billion cubic meters sent to Syria.
- The Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), part of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC), delivered 56 bcm of gas and was expanded by 1.2 bcm/year in January 2026.
- New gas production from Azerbaijani fields is expected to yield an additional 10 to 15 billion cubic meters annually in the coming years.
- The statements were made at the 12th Ministerial Meeting of the SGC Advisory Council and the 4th Ministerial Meeting of the Green Energy Advisory Council in Baku.
- EU Commissioner for Energy Dan Jørgensen expressed the EU's interest in expanding energy partnership with Azerbaijan.

**Why it matters:** Azerbaijan's increased gas output and infrastructure development are positioned as crucial for strengthening Europe's long-term energy supply security, as highlighted by both Azerbaijani and EU officials.

Еврокомиссар Йоргенсен заявил об интересе ЕС к сотрудничеству с Азербайджаном в энергетике

EU-Azerbaijan partnership holds strategic nature and strengthens Europe's energy security

Southern Gas Corridor plays strategic role in ensuring long-term energy supply security – Turkish deputy minister

Президент Ильхам Алиев: Мы хотим расширять свое присутствие на европейском энергетическом рынке - ПОЛНЫЙ ТЕКСТ ВЫСТУПЛЕНИЯ ГЛАВЫ ГОСУДАРСТВА

Президент Ильхам Алиев: В 2028 году мы ожидаем начала добычи в рамках новой фазы разработки Шахдениз

We want to increase our presence in the European energy market - President Ilham Aliyev

Azerbaijan Aims to Expand European Energy Market Presence, Citing Production Growth

**Summary:** The death toll for US military personnel in the offensive against Iran has increased to six, confirmed by the US Central Command (CENTCOM). US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the strikes were preemptive due to an imminent Iranian threat following an Israeli attack, with the operation aiming to destroy Iran's ballistic missile and naval capabilities.

**Key points:**
- CENTCOM recovered the remains of two service members whose whereabouts were unknown following initial Iranian attacks.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio asserted the next phase of attacks against Iran will be "even tougher."
- The stated objectives of the US/Israel operation, 'Operation Epic Fury,' include neutralizing Iran's missile program and naval threat.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed responsibility for drone attacks on a Honduran-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz and military facilities in Kuwait, UAE, and Bahrain.
- Donald Trump confirmed the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

**Why it matters:** The escalating conflict, involving direct military action and threats to global oil transit via the Strait of Hormuz, has caused significant disruption to maritime traffic and major volatility in oil markets, with Brent crude rising over 13%.

Conflicto que se aviva entre Irán, Israel y EE.UU. - El Norte

Aumentan a 6 militares de EEUU muertos por ofensiva en Irán - AlMomento.net

Rubio Says Military Op In Iran Targets Missile, Naval Capabilities As Sixth American Soldier Dies | World News - News18

Marco Rubio aseguró que el ataque a Irán fue una acción preventiva: “Había una amenaza inminente” - Infobae

El régimen de Irán anunció el cierre del estrecho de Ormuz: “Ni una sola gota de petróleo” saldrá del Golfo Pérsico - Infobae

Marco Rubio: “los golpes más duros” contra Teherán “aún están por venir” - EL COMERCIO PERÚ

US Military Deaths Rise to Six Amidst Offensive in Iran

**Summary:** U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright is scheduled to return to the Powering Africa Summit (PAS) in Washington, D.C. on March 19-20, 2026, to participate in a fireside chat focusing on energy access and clean cooking. The summit's theme is 'Powering the US-Africa Partnership: Energy Infrastructure, Critical Minerals & Investment Strategies,' building on the previous year's focus on the US-Africa Energy Partnership.

**Key points:**
- Secretary Wright previously gave a keynote address at the 10th anniversary PAS in 2025.
- Discussions will cover US-Africa cooperation on energy infrastructure, critical minerals, and investment strategies.
- Key sessions will explore large-scale infrastructure investment, guarantees, financing, and US-Africa gas strategies for energy security.
- Confirmed attendees include Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung of Liberia and Ministers from Ethiopia and Ghana.
- Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), will give welcome remarks.
- Sponsors include Sun Africa (Summit Sponsor) and Petrodex (Lead Sponsor).

**Why it matters:** The event highlights the ongoing commitment to practical, investment-driven solutions for expanding energy access in Africa, with high-level representation from US government agencies and African nations.

https://africa.com/united-states-u-s-secretary-of-energy-chris-wright-is-back-to-powering-africa-summit-2026-to-discuss-energy-access-and-clean-cooking/

United States (U.S.) Secretary of Energy Chris Wright is back to Powering Africa Summit 2026 to discuss energy access and clean cooking

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright to attend Powering Africa Summit 2026

United States (U.S.) Secretary of Energy Chris Wright is back to Powering Africa Summit 2026 to discuss energy access and clean cooking | africa.com - Africa.com

**Summary:** French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will reinforce and increase the number of nuclear warheads in its arsenal, stating he would not hesitate to use the weapon if vital national interests are threatened. The announcement was made during a speech at the French nuclear submarine base in Ile Longue.

**Key points:**
- Macron stated the reinforcement is necessary due to the combination of geopolitical risks and a hardening world.
- The French President confirmed he has ordered an increase in the number of nuclear warheads.
- Macron declared he will no longer disclose the exact figures regarding the French nuclear arsenal.
- The decision comes amid European leaders expressing uncertainty about US commitments to European defense under the US nuclear umbrella.

**Why it matters:** France's decision to increase its nuclear arsenal and maintain secrecy around its numbers signals a significant shift in its defense posture, potentially impacting European security dynamics.

Макрон заявил о необходимости расширения ядерного арсенала Франции

Macron: "No dudaré en usar el arma nuclear para proteger nuestros intereses vitales"

Macron anuncia que Francia aumentará el número de sus ojivas nucleares

Macron anuncia que aumentará el arsenal nuclear y amenaza con usarlo para “proteger sus intereses”

Macron: “No dudaré en usar el arma nuclear para proteger nuestros intereses vitales”

Macron announces increase in French nuclear arsenal, threatens use to protect interests

**Summary:** Three US F-15E Strike Eagles flying in support of Operation Epic Fury were mistakenly shot down by Kuwaiti air defences over Kuwait during active combat involving Iranian attacks. All six crew members ejected safely and are in stable condition, with Kuwait acknowledging the incident and assisting recovery efforts.

**Key points:**
- The incident occurred during active combat that included attacks from Iranian aircraft, ballistic missiles, and drones.
- The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the friendly fire incident.
- Kuwait's Defence Ministry also confirmed the crash of several US warplanes and the survival of the crew members.
- The cause of the friendly fire incident is under investigation.
- The US launched Operation Epic Fury against Iran on February 28.

**Why it matters:** This friendly fire incident highlights the high-risk and complex operational environment in the Gulf region amidst ongoing US military action against Iran, potentially straining US-Kuwaiti military coordination.

Кілька військових літаків США розбилися в Кувейті через іранські удари - Кілька військових літаків США розбилися в Кувейті через іранські удари

কুয়েতের ‘ভুল গুলিতে’ ৩ মার্কিন যুদ্ধবিমান ভূপাতিত: সেন্টকম - কুয়েতের ‘ভুল গুলিতে’ ৩ মার্কিন যুদ্ধবিমান ভূপাতিত: সেন্টকম

Кувейт по ошибке сбил американские истребители - CENTCOM: Кувейт по ошибке сбил три американских истребителя, пилоты живы

Three US Air Force Fighter Jets 'Mistakenly' Shot Down By Kuwaiti Air Defences - Three US Air Force Fighter Jets &#x27;Mistakenly&#x27; Shot Down By Kuwaiti Air Defences

Официалната версия на САЩ: Кувейт ни свали 3 изтребителя F-15 погрешка. Нов танкер гори в Оманския залив (ВИДЕО) - Официалната версия на САЩ: Кувейт ни свали 3 изтребителя F-15 погрешка. Нов танкер гори в Оманския залив (ВИДЕО)

Se estrellan varios aviones de Estados Unidos en Kuwait y todos los tripulantes sobreviven - Se estrellan varios aviones de Estados Unidos en Kuwait y todos los tripulantes sobreviven

Kuwaiti Air Defences Accidentally Shoot Down Three US F-15 Fighter Jets

**Summary:** Iran's Red Crescent reported that at least 555 people were killed across 131 city districts following recent attacks by the USA and Israel, which reportedly occurred during the morning prayer. Meanwhile, Israeli radio GLZRadio cited sources claiming Germany is seriously considering joining the campaign against Iran if the attacks on the Middle East continue.

**Key points:**
- Iranian Red Crescent stated 555 compatriots died in the US-Israeli strikes.
- The attacks in Tehran's eastern, western, and southern districts coincided with the morning call to prayer, according to ISNA.
- German Foreign Ministry representatives and Bundestag Foreign Affairs Committee members have reportedly begun planning potential joint actions with the USA, ranging from bombing to military support.
- Iranian state TV and agencies reported the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and family members following a strike on his residence.
- Iran's ambassador to Azerbaijan stated the casualty figures do not include the previous day's attack on Gandhi hospital.

**Why it matters:** The escalating military confrontation between Iran and the US/Israel has resulted in significant Iranian casualties and raised the prospect of direct German military involvement, signaling a potential wider regional conflict.

day.az - Посол Ирана назвал число жертв последних атак по стране

day.az - НПЗ в Саудовской Аравии приостановил работу после атаки иранского дрона - ВИДЕО

newsfeed.zeit.de - Bericht: Mehr als 550 Tote bei Angriffen im Iran

lenta.ru - В Иране подсчитали число жертв от атак Израиля и США

lenta.ru - Стало известно о планах Германии вступить в конфликт с Ираном

espreso.tv - США не наважаться на повномасштабну сухопутну операцію в Ірані, - політолог Богданов

Iran reports over 555 killed in US/Israeli attacks; Germany considers conflict involvement

**Summary:** A shooting in Austin, Texas, resulted in two deaths and fourteen injuries near Buford's bar early Sunday morning. The 53-year-old American shooter, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, was neutralized by police and reportedly held pro-Iranian regime views, raising fears of terrorism linked to international tensions.

**Key points:**
- The attack began around 01:58 near Buford's bar, with the assailant first opening fire from a SUV before continuing on foot.
- The suspect was identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old American of Senegalese origin.
- SITE Intelligence Group noted Diagne expressed 'pro-Iranian regime opinions and a hatred towards Israeli and American leaders' on Facebook between 2017 and 2019.
- The FBI, through Alex Doran, responsible for the San Antonio office, indicated potential links to terrorism based on evidence found in the suspect's vehicle.
- The incident occurred shortly after Israeli-American strikes in Iran, which killed the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, prompting the FBI Director Kash Patel to place counter-terrorism teams on maximum alert.
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott reacted by threatening 'decisive and overwhelming force' against any threats to Texans or critical infrastructure.

**Why it matters:** This violent incident in the US, immediately following major international military escalation in the Middle East, suggests a potential act of retaliatory terrorism on American soil.

DIRECT - Frappes au Moyent-Orient : front ouvert au Liban contre le Hezbollah, l'Iran toujours sous les bombes - RTBF Actus

Attentat à Austin : 2 morts dans une fusillade, l’assaillant a des "opinions pro régime iranien"… le FBI redoute un acte terroriste - ladepeche.fr

Fusillade meurtrière au Texas: le suspect affichait un soutien au régime iranien, la crainte de représailles grandit aux États-Unis - La Libre

Austin Shooting: 2 Dead, 14 Injured; Suspect Linked to Iranian Regime

**Summary:** The Lebanese Shiite militia Hezbollah attacked Israel with rockets, marking the first major attack since the November 2024 ceasefire, in retaliation for the Israeli killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Israel responded with air strikes across Lebanon, including in Beirut, resulting in at least 31 deaths and 149 injuries in Lebanon.

**Key points:**
- Hezbollah justified its rocket and drone attacks on northern Israel as revenge for the death of Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
- The Israeli military, led by Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, stated they began an offensive campaign against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.
- Israeli strikes targeted Hezbollah infrastructure, including houses in Beirut, where 20 deaths and 91 injuries were reported.
- Lebanon's Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned Hezbollah's attack as irresponsible, fearing it gives Israel pretext for further bombing.
- Israel's actions occurred despite the ceasefire agreement established in November 2024.

**Why it matters:** This exchange marks a significant escalation of the Middle East conflict, breaking the 2024 ceasefire and raising international concerns about wider regional involvement.

Израиль объявил о начале наступательной операции против "Хезболлы"

ইসরায়েলি বিমান হামলায় লেবাননে নিহত ৩১, আহত ১৪৯

Hisbollah greift Israel an: Konflikt weitet sich auf den Libanon aus

Израиль начал наступательную операцию в Ливане

Más de 30 muertos y casi 150 heridos por ataques de Israel contra Líbano

Escalation in Middle East: Hezbollah Attacks Israel, Israel Retaliates