Iran IRGC Launches Ballistic Missiles and Drones on US Bases in Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait; US Blockades Hormuz

Iran rial hits record low at 2.02 million/USD as US prepares fresh sanctions and Strait of Hormuz blockade

Iran's rial plunged to a record low of 2.02 million per USD as the US announced new sanctions. The war with Israel and US naval blockade have devastated Iran's economy, while Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz threatens global oil supply. This is a critical geopolitical flashpoint with implications for India's energy security and global trade.

U.S. Establishes Two New Military Bases in Greenland Under 2026 Security Deal to Counter Russia, China

The U.S., Denmark, and Greenland signed a landmark security deal on September 22, 2026, at the UN General Assembly. The agreement allows the U.S. to establish two new military bases in Greenland (Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig), expand its Arctic presence, and counter growing Russian and Chinese influence in the region. While respecting Danish sovereignty and Greenland's self-determination, the deal grants the U.S. indefinite access to military facilities and influence over Greenland's rare earth resources.

US-Denmark-Greenland Security Pact Allows Permanent US Basing, Bans Non-NATO Presence in Arctic

The US-Denmark-Greenland security pact, announced on September 18, gives the US permanent basing and overflight rights in Greenland and bars non-NATO nations from building bases or making sensitive investments without US approval. It resolves the NATO strain caused by Trump's annexation demand while preserving Danish/Greenland sovereignty, and remains valid even if Greenland becomes independent. This reshapes Arctic geopolitics amid Russia's military expansion and China's growing footprint.

Houthi Capture of Mokha (60 km from Bab-el-Mandeb) Threatens Saudi Oil Routes, East-West Pipeline Shut

Houthi forces seized the strategic port of Mokha (60 km from Bab-el-Mandeb Strait) on September 11, 2026, threatening Saudi Arabia's oil transit via both the Red Sea and the East-West pipeline. This escalation in Yemen's civil war has direct implications for global energy security and Iran's proxy strategy, making it a critical case study for security and international relations exams.

India Formally Names 27 Locations in Arunachal Pradesh; China Slams Move as Unilateral

India formally identified 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh by their standard names on its official map, countering China's frequent renamings. China's state media slammed the move as 'self-deception', warning it could harm improving bilateral ties. This is a key flashpoint in the India-China boundary dispute, with implications for border negotiations and bilateral relations.

MEA Rejects China's Objection to Naming 27 Places in Arunachal Pradesh, Stresses Border Peace for Bilateral Ties

India firmly rejected China's criticism over naming 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh, calling the state an 'inalienable' part of the nation. The MEA linked border peace on the LAC to the broader bilateral relationship, signaling that unresolved border issues remain the most serious constraint in India-China ties.

Russia in 'Productive' Talks with India, China for Arctic Cooperation; Northern Sea Route Key

Russia confirms productive talks with India and China for Arctic cooperation, including the Northern Sea Route. This opens strategic opportunities for India in polar diplomacy, energy security, and global logistics. A parliamentary panel has recommended appointing a polar ambassador to strengthen India's engagement.

Putin Visits Disputed Kuril Islands; Japan Protests Over Northern Territories Claim

Russian President Putin's first visit to the disputed Kuril Islands since 2010 has triggered a sharp diplomatic protest from Japan, which claims the southern islands as its 'Northern Territories.' The visit underscores the unresolved territorial dispute stemming from WWII and delays a formal peace treaty between the two nations.