12 May 2026
Iran Ceasefire
Each time the US Navy sends a destroyer through the Strait of Hormuz, it costs millions of dollars in extra costs. This is because of the extra surveillance needed, and fighter jet and helicopter escort. This estimate does not even include the missiles that the destroyers may have to use to defend themselves, which can cost up to $6 million each.
Aramco’s CEO stated that if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened soon, the recovery of oil markets and price stabilization will be delayed into 2027.
Iran’s chief negotiator stated that the US has to accept the latest Iranian counter-proposal, which Trump did not do yesterday, or face failure. President Trump described the ceasefire of being on “life support”.
North Korea
It is estimated that North Korea has earned more than $13 billion from its military assistance to Russia. In 2025 alone, North Korea sent rocket artillery, shells and short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, which was valued between $7 billion and $13.8 billion. Russia has been helping the regime bypass sanctions, and it is believed to have provided hard currency, energy supplies and critical military technologies to North Korea.
Sudan
The UN reports that between January and April of this year, more than 880 civilians were killed in Sudan. 80 percent of these deaths are attributed to drone strikes.
Afghanistan
Zabihullah Mujahid, Taliban spokesman, rejected the remarks made by Pakistani Field Marshal Munir. Munir stated that the Afghan Taliban have to be responsible for dismantling terrorist organizations that operate on Afghan soil. Of course, the Afghan Taliban do not recognise that Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan are a terrorist organization.
Between January and April, 372 civilians were killed and 397 injured in border clashes between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban.
The Taliban have ordered fibre-optic cables to be cut in the capital. On the orders of Mullah Abdul Ahad Fazli, public access to the internet would be further restricted and residential fibre-optic internet services disconnected.
Democratic Republic of Congo
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have withdrawn from some areas in the DRC. It is believed that the US is attempting to establish another ceasefire agreement between the M23 and the Congolese government.
Social Media Wires
Jam-resistant Ukrainian drones operating behind Russian lines
Attack in Pakistan
Featured Photo: “M23 troops near Bunagana” – Wikimedia Commons, 2026
The Wires Brief is a daily breaking news report incorporating wire service news and social media updates. DefRep cannot verify the authenticity of social media reporters nor the accuracy of social media updates. Feature photos are altered with grayscale.