Twenty Major Geopolitical Events (January–March 2026)

No.

Event

One-Line Explanation

1

Escalation of Israel–Iran tensions

Rising military confrontation and proxy conflicts increased the risk of a wider Middle East war and threatened global energy supply.

2

Disruption in the Strait of Hormuz

Iranian actions affecting shipping highlighted the vulnerability of a chokepoint through which nearly one-fourth of global oil trade passes.

3

Emergency oil reserve release by IEA

The International Energy Agency coordinated a large strategic petroleum release to stabilize global oil prices amid Middle East tensions.

4

Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi

India hosted a major global geopolitical conference emphasizing multipolar diplomacy, technological governance, and global cooperation.

5

Launch of Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative

India introduced a platform to address international governance of emerging technologies such as AI, semiconductors, and research security.

6

Kosovo political crisis and dissolution of parliament

Institutional deadlock in Kosovo triggered fresh elections, reflecting ongoing instability in the Balkans region.

7

Intensification of U.S.–China technological rivalry

Strategic competition expanded in semiconductors, AI, and supply chains, shaping the global technological order.

8

European Union debate on “Buy European” industrial policy

The EU explored economic security strategies to reduce dependence on external suppliers and strengthen strategic autonomy.

9

U.S. Supreme Court ruling on tariff authority

The court limited emergency tariff powers of the U.S. government, affecting global trade policy and economic diplomacy.

10

Continued Russia–Ukraine conflict

The prolonged war continued to reshape European security architecture and NATO’s strategic posture.

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