March 28, 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — Organized crime groups, particularly the Calabrian ‘Ndrangheta and the Sicilian Cosa Nostra, have transformed from regional racketeers into sophisticated global enterprises. Central to their modern success is the “submersion” strategy—a tactical move away from overt, bloody violence toward the silent infiltration of the legal economy, public administration, and global financial systems.
UN General Assembly Makes History: Declares Transatlantic Slave Trade the “Gravest Crime Against Humanity”
March 27, 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — On March 25, 2026, coinciding with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a historic resolution declaring the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Africans and racialized chattel enslavement as “the gravest crime against humanity”. Spearheaded by Ghana and heavily supported by the African Union and Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Resolution A/80/L.48 marks a significant shift in international human rights by calling for a comprehensive framework of reparatory justice.
The “Epic Fury” Fallout: 6 Takeaways That Are Redefining the Middle East
10 Feb. 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — These reports detail a 2026 military escalation involving coordinated U.S. and Israeli air strikes against Iran under the Trump administration. Operation “Epic Fury” resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the destruction of significant nuclear and missile infrastructure, prompting Iranian retaliation against Israel and Gulf states. Experts describe the American strategy as maximalist but improvised, noting a lack of clear plans for regime change or post-war governance. The conflict has triggered global economic anxiety due to potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and surging energy prices. Regional security is further complicated by Hezbollah’s involvement in Lebanon and the selection of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new hardline leader. Ultimately, the sources highlight a strategic dilemma for Washington: balancing the desire for a decisive victory against the risk of an endless regional war. Continue reading
The U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict is triggering severe shocks across the global economy, primarily through disruptions to energy supplies, international trade routes, financial markets, and critical technology infrastructure.
Energy Market Upheaval The most immediate economic threat stems from rising energy prices due to the disruption of the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial maritime chokepoint that normally handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Following Iranian threats, commercial shipping through the strait has slowed to a near-standstill, with tanker traffic dropping by about 90% and multiple insurance firms canceling coverage for Gulf vessels. Continue reading
Hundreds of Thousands Stranded: Middle East Airspace Shutdown and Strait of Hormuz Closure Paralyze Global Transit
March 2, 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — The United States and Israel launched a massive, coordinated military campaign—codenamed Operation Epic Fury and Operation Lion’s Roar—against the Islamic Republic of Iran. The coalition conducted nearly 900 strikes in the first 12 hours, targeting Iranian air defenses, missile production facilities, and IRGC command centers. The strikes successfully assassinated Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and dozens of top Iranian military and government officials. In retaliation, Iran launched “Operation True Promise 4,” firing waves of ballistic missiles and drones at Israel and US military installations across the Persian Gulf, including bases in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and the UAE.
Middle East in Flames: US-Israeli Strikes on Tehran Prompt Massive Iranian Counterattack
28 Feb. 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — These reports detail a massive joint military operation by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28, 2026, aimed at dismantling its nuclear program and security apparatus. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the strikes, with the later claiming that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was likely killed in an attack on his compound. In response, Iran and its regional allies launched retaliatory missile and drone barrages at Israel and several U.S. military bases in the Persian Gulf. International reactions vary, as Western leaders support the effort to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran while Oman, Russia, and China warn of a catastrophic regional war. Domestic chaos has gripped Iran, characterized by infrastructure damage, internet blackouts, and civilians attempting to flee the capital amidst calls for regime change. Continue reading
5 Radical Realities Reshaping the Middle East
The 2026 Global Pivot: 5 Surprising Realities Reshaping the Middle East and Beyond
28 Feb. 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — The geopolitical landscape has drastically deteriorated, culminating in joint “pre-emptive” military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iran in late February 2026. The US military announced “major combat operations” aimed at razing Iran’s missile industry and naval capabilities. This severe escalation follows a previous 12-day war in June 2025, during which Israel and the US targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow and Natanz, fundamentally altering the region’s risk profile. Continue reading
25 Feb. 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — The Department of Justice’s (DOJ) recent release of documents mandated by the Epstein Files Transparency Act (EFTA) has ignited a fierce political and constitutional crisis. While the DOJ claims to have complied with the law by publishing roughly 3.5 million pages, investigations and congressional leaders allege a systemic cover-up designed to protect President Trump and his associates, alongside gross negligence regarding victim privacy. Continue reading
Zambia’s Strategic Evolution: From Landlocked to Land-Linked Economic Powerhouse
25 Feb. 2026 /Mpelembe Media/ — This is an analysis of John McDermott, The Economist chief Africa correspondent
interview with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema (often referred to as “HH”) ahead of the country’s upcoming August elections,. Hichilema is urging voters to “stay the course,” arguing that his administration has made significant strides in repairing the damage left by his predecessor, Edgar Lungu. He highlights several achievements, including securing a debt restructuring deal, delivering free education, enacting liberal reforms in power and agriculture, and initiating major infrastructure projects like the Lobito Corridor and Tazara railway renovations to transform Zambia into a “land-linked” nation. He also aims for the country to reach 1 million tonnes of copper production this year. Continue reading