Arab Press

بالشعب و للشعب
Wednesday, Feb 18, 2026

North Korea Seals Borders Amid Rising Global Tensions; Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza Deepens

North Korea seals borders and strengthens defenses amid growing tensions with South Korea and the US. Humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza with continued Israeli strikes and rising casualties.
In response to escalating tensions with South Korea and the US, North Korea has decided to seal its border permanently and bolster front-line defenses, a move aimed at countering what it terms "confrontational hysteria." This announcement raises questions about the future of inter-Korean relations, given the already limited cross-border exchanges in recent years.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is deepening as Israeli airstrikes continue to hit the Jabalia refugee camp, claiming 18 lives overnight according to Palestinian medics. With over 400,000 people trapped in northern Gaza, the conflict's toll is rapidly rising, underscoring the urgent need for safety and essential supplies amid increasing displacement.

As tensions escalate in the Middle East, Iran has firmly rejected the UK's allegations of being involved in 20 thwarted plots, with its officials pressing Britain to reassess its policies. Tehran's dismissal highlights the ongoing geopolitical friction and calls for greater dialogue on matters of security and free speech.

Shifting our focus to Asia, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has called for a snap election on October 27, seeking to consolidate his newly-formed government's power after assuming office in the wake of corruption scandals. Despite critiques of prioritizing politics over policy discussions, the fragmented opposition appears unlikely to challenge the ruling party effectively.

In a more uplifting story, Sister Rosita Milesi is being celebrated for her incredible contributions to refugee welfare in Brazil, receiving the prestigious UNHCR Nansen Award. Her decades-long dedication to migrant rights and support through Brazil's Migration and Human Rights Institute have left a lasting impact, marking a significant achievement for the Catholic order of Scalabrini.

Finally, tensions are simmering near the Golan Heights as an Israeli airstrike claimed the life of a Syrian policeman, with the situation further complicated by earlier attacks in Damascus. The complex dynamics in this region continue to unfold, with Israel aiming to curb Iranian influence while balancing its strategic military actions.
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