> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://middlepowers.fyi/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Asia-Pacific

> Week of March 9, 2026

## Regional Summary

**The Shield Slips**

American security guarantees, once seen as permanent, are now contingent on Washington's priorities elsewhere. Every capital in the Indo-Pacific is rushing to adjust, and each response exposes contradictions in its own position.

South Korea proves this. America stripped THAAD and Patriot batteries from the peninsula to use in the Middle East, over Seoul's objections—the first time Washington has removed defence assets from South Korea against its ally's wishes. Lee Jae-myung, South Korea's leader, admitted that his country "cannot stop" the move, exposing the asymmetry that decades of alliance had concealed. Mr Lee's response—fuel price caps, military pension pledges, an invitation to Emmanuel Macron—are domestic sedatives and hedging, neither of which replaces missile defence. His opposition is too busy disowning an impeached predecessor to exploit the opening. Pyongyang may not be so distracted.

Japan drew the opposite lesson and acted first. Sanae Takaichi, the prime minister, released oil reserves unilaterally—before consulting G7 partners—and deployed long-range missiles covering the East China Sea. The moves signal that Japan has decided waiting for partnership is itself a risk. Hosting Taiwan's premier for the first time in 52 years reinforces the point: Tokyo is building relationships that Washington long discouraged, because Washington can no longer be relied upon to hold every line. Ms Takaichi's approval rating dipped, but her boldness has a domestic constituency that her gift-catalogue scandal cannot touch.

Taiwan, most exposed to any shift in American attention, responded with hardware. Parliament unanimously approved \$9 billion in arms purchases, and the defence minister denied that Washington had asked Taipei to divert weapons to the Middle East—a denial whose necessity illustrates the anxiety. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company's (TSMC) record revenues and deepening market dominance provide Taiwan with deterrence no missile system can match: the world's dependence on its chips makes an interruption of its economy everyone's catastrophe. The opposition's decision to unite for the next elections suggests that even domestic rivals sense the island cannot afford internal division when external shelter is uncertain.

Anthony Albanese, Australia's prime minister, and Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia's president, illustrate two poles of response to American rebalancing. Mr Albanese sent warplanes to the Gulf and endorsed strikes on Iran, binding Australia more tightly to Washington at the cost of rising interest rates and Labour backbench dissent—loyalty to the alliance has a price measured in mortgage payments as well as political capital. Mr Prabowo moved in the opposite direction, calling American strikes "irrational" and offering to mediate, language far sharper than Jakarta's usual non-aligned boilerplate. Yet his boldness abroad coexists with the quiet intimidation of domestic critics and implausible claims of 300% returns from a sovereign wealth fund—foreign-policy independence is easier to declare than democratic accountability is to practice.

America's pivot to the Middle East has turned its Indo-Pacific alliances from a ceiling into a floor: a baseline each government must build above, using its own resources, diplomacy and economic leverage. The allies are not breaking away, but they are no longer standing still. What holds them together is less shared conviction than shared uncertainty about what Washington will do next.

## Country Summaries

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/kr.svg" alt="South Korea flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> South Korea

The United States moved missile defense systems from South Korea to the Middle East this week despite Seoul's objections, creating the biggest test of the alliance since Lee Jae-myung took office. Washington redeployed parts of its Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and Patriot systems to support operations against Iran, forcing Mr Lee to acknowledge that South Korea "cannot stop" the move while insisting his country can defend itself against North Korea. Analysts warned that Pyongyang might see the withdrawal as an opening for low-level provocations.

The weapons transfer marks the first time America has removed defense assets from Korea for other theaters over Seoul's opposition. Mr Lee has tried to manage the alliance through what he calls balanced diplomacy, but the redeployment shows how American global commitments can override Korean preferences even within the partnership. The president will host Emmanuel Macron in early April for talks on trade and technology cooperation, part of his effort to build ties beyond Washington.

At home, Mr Lee continues to govern effectively while his opposition crumbles. He announced fuel price caps—the first in 30 years—as oil surged because of the Middle East conflict, tackled Seoul's housing crisis with new measures, and promised military pension increases. The conservative People Power Party, meanwhile, broke with Yoon Suk-yeol, the impeached former president, this week, apologizing for last year's martial law crisis and barring his return to politics. But the split has exposed factional divisions as hardliners loyal to Mr Yoon clash with reformists trying to distance the party from the disgraced leader. With local elections coming in June, the party faces candidate shortages and internal conflicts that may prevent it from mounting effective opposition.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Lee Jae-myung announces domestic policy measures including housing controls and fuel price caps** — President Lee announced measures to tackle Seoul's housing crisis, implemented South Korea's first fuel price cap in 30 years due to Middle East crisis, and called for supplementary budget funding. He also visited local markets and announced military pension service credit increases. *([economist.com](https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/03/12/seouls-housing-market-is-a-huge-political-and-economic-headache))*
  * **Samsung reports record R\&D spending and competitive smartphone market performance** — Samsung spent a record 37.7 trillion won on R\&D in 2025, tied with Apple for top smartphone production globally at 239.8 million units each, and launched new Galaxy S26 series showing strong pre-order momentum. *([koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10691933))*
  * **Former PM Han Duck-soo faces appellate trial on insurrection charges** — An appellate trial began for former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on charges of abetting former President Yoon Suk-yeol's martial law declaration in 2024. *([koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/law-crime/20260311/appeal-trial-begins-for-ex-pm-han-over-insurrection-charges))*
  * **Yoon Suk-yeol refuses to attend Itaewon disaster investigation hearing** — Former President Yoon declined to meet with representatives from the special investigation committee on the 2022 Itaewon crowd crush, refusing to attend a hearing despite requests from the commission. *([koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10690932))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="US moves air defense systems from South Korea to Middle East despite Seoul's objections" type="March 10–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (12)">
      * [South Korea says can deter threats if US weapons redeployed to Middle East — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korea-president-says-cant-stop-us-forces-redeploying-weapons-2026-03-10/)
      * [South Korea's Lee Downplays Risk of US Arms Shift to Mideast — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-10/south-korea-s-lee-says-security-intact-even-if-us-weapons-moved)
      * [South Korea President Voices Displeasure Over U.S. Military Assets Shifting Away From The Country — theatlasnews.com](https://www.theatlasnews.com/south-korea-president-voices-displeasure-over-u-s-military-assets-shifting-away-from-the-country/)
      * [Iran's Strait of Hormuz Toolkit: Drones, Missiles, and Mines — foreignpolicy.com](https://foreignpolicy.com/2026/03/12/iran-war-strait-hormuz-ships-mines-missiles-drones/)
      * [Iran Scores a Victory as US Forced to Take THAAD Defenses From Asia — newsweek.com](https://www.newsweek.com/iran-war-us-forced-take-thaad-defenses-asia-11652200)
      * [President Lee "The removal of U.S. Forces Korea air defense weapons poses no obstacle to deterrence against the North" — khan.co.kr](https://khan.co.kr/en/article/202603101111007)
      * [President Lee: USFK Relocation 'Opposed but Unavoidable' — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/10/NFEU3J6COZCBRGXJXXYXRCNRU4/)
      * [South Korea upset at US moving air defense system to Middle East — washingtonexaminer.com](https://washingtonexaminer.com/policy/defense/4488441/south-korea-moving-air-defense-system-middle-east)
      * [The US may move some of its anti-missile system - and it's sparking unease in South Korea — bbc.com](https://bbc.com/news/articles/cgmlk8dlekgo)
      * [U.S. moving parts of THAAD anti-missile system from S. Korea to Middle East: report — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260310006300315)
      * [The United States began the redeployment of THAAD anti-ballistic systems from South Korea to the Middle East — zona-militar.com](https://zona-militar.com/en/2026/03/12/the-united-states-began-the-redeployment-of-thaad-anti-ballistic-systems-from-south-korea-to-the-middle-east)
      * [The US may move some of its anti-missile system - and it's sparking unease in South Korea — bbc.co.uk](https://bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgmlk8dlekgo)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Lee Jae-myung announces domestic policy measures including housing controls and fuel price caps" type="March 9–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Seoul's housing market is a huge political and economic headache — economist.com](https://www.economist.com/asia/2026/03/12/seouls-housing-market-is-a-huge-political-and-economic-headache)
      * [Oil shock prompts South Korea to impose fuel price cap for the first time in 30 years — cnbc.com](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/09/south-korea-fuel-price-cap-oil-price-surging.html)
      * [On the 13th, President Lee Jae Myung personally jumped into announcing the results of the national s.. — mk.co.kr](https://www.mk.co.kr/en/politics/11987118)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Recognizes Full Military Service in Pension — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/13/CGOE4YIOQ5FJBHESTHMPLPWOCQ/)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung visited the Sachang Market in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province on the 13.. — mk.co.kr](https://www.mk.co.kr/en/politics/11987799)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung's Supplementary Budget Risks Inflation, Housing Surge — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/market-money-en/2026/03/13/QOSOXK5WLFH6ZONOZT7D64VY3M/)
      * [Lee says big business-SME cooperation is key to survival — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260310/lee-says-big-business-sme-cooperation-is-key-to-survival)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Expands 100 Trillion Stabilization, Orders Oil Price Cap — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/09/KPYDKUHNUVE5VC2IBUSLCR5OTI/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="People Power Party formally breaks ties with impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol" type="March 9–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (15)">
      * [PPP's break with Yoon sparks conservative rift ahead of local elections — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260310/ppps-break-with-yoon-sparks-conservative-rift-ahead-of-local-elections)
      * [PPP faces candidate shortage for local elections as heavyweights skip primaries — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260309/ppp-faces-candidate-shortage-for-local-elections-as-heavyweights-skip-primaries)
      * [South Korea's Conservative Party Tanks Amid Warring Factions' Fight for Legitimacy — thediplomat.com](https://thediplomat.com/2026/03/south-koreas-conservative-party-tanks-amid-warring-factions-fight-for-legitimacy)
      * [Conservative party formally severs ties with ex-President Yoon — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10690385)
      * [People Power Party Adopts Resolution Opposing Yoon's Return — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/11/B5ACD75DBVHFJLDII2KTUXTCMM/)
      * [People Power Party Resolution Rejects Yoon Suk-yeol's Return — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/10/AYEQ7CTUBJC7FIJMH7IS43YV6A/)
      * [The power of the people declared insulation from former President Yoon Suk Yeol — mk.co.kr](https://www.mk.co.kr/en/politics/11983197)
      * [People Power Party moves to distance itself from Yoon, but doubts linger — koreaherald.com](https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10691090)
      * [People Power Party Approval Remains 17% Despite Resolution — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/12/UTUF32RDXBEHPBYCK66AVGLIYY/)
      * [People Power Party on the Brink Ahead of June 3 Local Elections — asiae.co.kr](https://asiae.co.kr/en/article/2026030918101081661)
      * [Can the PPP Really Move on From Yoon Suk-yeol? — thediplomat.com](https://thediplomat.com/2026/03/can-the-ppp-really-move-on-from-yoon-suk-yeol/)
      * [PPP official in charge of nomination for local elections rescinds resignation offer — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260315/ppp-official-in-charge-of-nomination-for-local-elections-rescinds-resignation-offer)
      * [People Power Party seeks more candidates for Seoul and South Chungcheong — biz.chosun.com](https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-policy/2026/03/11/MVMHGOVGJJCNHAIIVM7ZKXMZPU/)
      * [People Power Party Incumbents Avoid Races Outside Strongholds — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/10/B4GN7FCRJBCUPCW3FCZP2MFNQQ/)
      * [People Power Party Floor Leader Demands Apology, Cuts Ties With Yoon — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/09/Z737OMW4XBHTVPMXDAP27U2TP4/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Lee Jae-myung conducts diplomatic outreach with France, Ghana, and other nations" type="March 9–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [South Korea to host French President Macron for April 2-3 state visit, Blue House says — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-korea-host-french-president-macron-april-2-3-state-visit-blue-house-says-2026-03-13/)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung to hold summit with France's Macron during state visit — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10693884)
      * [President Mahama holds bilateral talks with South Korea's Lee Jae Myung — ghanaiantimes.com.gh](https://ghanaiantimes.com.gh/president-mahama-holds-bilateral-talks-with-south-koreas-lee-jae-myung/)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung thanks Singapore, Turkmenistan for evacuating South Koreans from Iran — straitstimes.com](https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/president-lee-jae-myung-thanks-singapore-turkmenistan-for-evacuating-south-koreans-from-iran)
      * [Lee Jae Myung to send special envoy to Chile for presidential inauguration — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10690129)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Announces Safe Return of 204 Compatriots via Whole-of-Government Effort — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/15/J3RVT2MTHZDFDMIKBK5I2S23J4/)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung sent a letter of gratitude to the leaders of Turkmenistan and Singapore — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/politics/11982470)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Bank of Korea implements market stabilization measures amid Middle East crisis" type="March 9, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Bank of Korea vows to stabilise bond, forex markets — marketscreener.com](https://www.marketscreener.com/news/bank-of-korea-vows-to-stabilise-bond-forex-markets-ce7e5fd9da8cf52c)
      * [Bank of Korea Signals Intervention as Oil Prices, Exchange Rate Surge — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/market-money-en/2026/03/09/QD75VCG2V5EGRCQRSMGSKX4P7E/)
      * [Bank of Korea, Swiss National Bank Renew Currency Swap Pact — chosun.com](https://www.chosun.com/english/market-money-en/2026/03/09/XU5KY7FDCZBUJIMPCRZNCF4APE/)
      * [Singapore Investors Rush to Buy Korean Government Bonds — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/03/09/korean-bonds-draw-oil-money-family-offices-as-dollar)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Samsung reports record R&D spending and competitive smartphone market performance" type="March 9–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Samsung Electronics spends record W37.7tr on R\&D — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10691933)
      * [Samsung Caught Apple In Smartphone Sales — 247wallst.com](https://247wallst.com/investing/2026/03/09/samsung-caught-apple-in-smartphone-sales)
      * [Apple Ties Samsung as Top Smartphone Maker in 2025 — macrumors.com](https://macrumors.com/2026/03/11/apple-ties-samsung-as-top-smartphone-maker)
      * [Galaxy S26 Series U.S. Pre-orders Showing Strong Early Momentum — news.samsung.com](https://news.samsung.com/us/galaxy-s26-series-pre-orders-showing-strong-early-momentum)
      * [Samsung Electronics Named No. 1 in Global Soundbar Sales for 12th Consecutive Year — news.samsung.com](https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-electronics-named-no-1-in-global-soundbar-sales-for-12th-consecutive-year)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Former PM Han Duck-soo faces appellate trial on insurrection charges" type="March 11, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Appeal trial begins for ex-PM Han over insurrection charges — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/law-crime/20260311/appeal-trial-begins-for-ex-pm-han-over-insurrection-charges)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Yoon Suk-yeol refuses to attend Itaewon disaster investigation hearing" type="March 10, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Ex-President Yoon refuses to attend hearing on 2022 Itaewon disaster — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10690932)
      * [Ex-President Yoon refuses to attend hearing on 2022 Itaewon disaster — koreajoongangdaily.joins.com](https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2026-03-10/national/politics/ExPresident-Yoon-refuses-to-attend-hearing-on-2022-Itaewon-disaster/2541158)
      * [South Korea: Ex-President Yoon refuses to attend hearing on 2022 Itaewon disaster — prokerala.com](https://prokerala.com/news/articles/a1737671.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Japan, South Korea Nuclear Operators Get US Ex-Im Bank Support — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-15/japan-south-korea-nuclear-operators-get-us-ex-im-bank-support)
      * [US Treasury sanctions North Korean IT worker fraud scheme — home.treasury.gov](https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0416)
      * [Crown Agents Bank partners with KEB Hana Bank for cross-border payments — financialit.net](https://financialit.net/news/banking/crown-agents-bank-announces-strategic-partnership-keb-hana-bank-cross-border-payments)
      * [Goldman Sachs forecasts Korea stock market to rise to record highs — goldmansachs.com](https://goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/why-koreas-stock-market-is-forecast-to-rise-to-record-highs)
      * [Non-bank units redraw scorecard for South Korea's financial giants — kedglobal.com](https://www.kedglobal.com/banking-finance/newsView/ked202603120006)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/au.svg" alt="Australia flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> Australia

Anthony Albanese deployed Australian warplanes and 85 troops to the Gulf following Iranian attacks on regional partners.

Mr Albanese announced that E-7 Wedgetail aircraft and air-to-air missiles would deploy to the UAE and endorsed US-Israel strikes on Iran. Labor MPs questioned the legal basis, while the Coalition welcomed the deployment and the Greens warned against being "dragged into Trump and Netanyahu's latest forever war."

The military deployment is hitting Australian households. Financial markets now price a 70% chance that the Reserve Bank will raise interest rates at its March 17 meeting, with three of the big four banks linking expected hikes to oil price spikes from the Iran conflict. Andrew Hauser, the deputy governor, warned that inflation pressures from the conflict were "not helpful" and called persistent inflation "toxic."

The deployment sparked domestic criticism. Labor MPs criticized the government for quickly endorsing the strikes, while Grace Tame, the former Australian of the Year, called Mr Albanese a "coward" and "turncoat" for refusing to condemn them. She contrasted his position with his past advocacy for Palestine.

The government appears stable. The Greens confirmed they will support Labor's superannuation tax hikes in May's budget, calling it a "once-in-a-generation opportunity for ambitious tax reform." Dennis Richardson, the former ASIO director-general, resigned from the royal commission into antisemitism, saying he felt "surplus to requirements" and "grossly overpaid" at \$5,500 per day.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Albanese criticised for joining field invasion at Rabbitohs game** — Anthony Albanese faced criticism after running onto the field at Allianz Stadium to celebrate Rabbitohs player Alex Johnston's record-breaking 213th NRL try. Critics called the move 'embarrassing' while supporters defended the long-time Souths fan's enthusiasm. The incident included reports of an altercation with Roosters officials over lift access. *([dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15644633/Anthony-Albanese-Rabbitohs-Alex-Johnston.html))*
  * **Grace Tame calls Albanese a 'coward' over Iran war stance** — Grace Tame, the former Australian of the Year, published a scathing essay in Crikey accusing Anthony Albanese of being a 'coward' and 'turncoat' for refusing to condemn US-Israel strikes on Iran, contrasting his current position with his historical advocacy for Palestine. *([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/13/grace-tame-crikey-essay-albanese-critique-ntwnfb))*
  * **US launches forced labour trade investigation including Australia among 60 countries** — The Trump administration initiated Section 301 trade investigations targeting Australia and 59 other countries over their policies on goods made with forced labour. The probe could result in new tariffs if countries are found to have inadequate enforcement against forced labour imports. *([cnbc.com](https://cnbc.com/2026/03/13/us-section-301-probe-trade-trump-labor-practices.html))*
  * **Northern Territory requests ADF assistance for flood recovery as waters recede** — Lia Finocchiaro, the NT chief minister, requested federal ADF assistance for flood recovery in the Top End as the Daly River reached record levels. Katherine's mayor had earlier called for military help, with ADF personnel already volunteering in the community. *([abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-14/nt-calls-on-adf-in-flood-recovery-darwin-katherine-daly-river/106455690))*
  * **Angus Taylor faces scrutiny over wealth holdings and opposition leadership approach** — Angus Taylor's extensive property holdings and family trusts came under examination, while his immigration rhetoric and positioning against One Nation drew political commentary. Taylor's wealth stems from four generations of farming in the Snowy Mountains region. *([smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/how-rich-is-angus-taylor-the-a-to-z-of-the-opposition-leader-s-portfolio-20260224-p5o55e.html))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Australia deploys military assets to Middle East amid Iran conflict, government endorses US-Israel strikes" type="March 8–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (18)">
      * [Australia to send aircraft and air-to-air missiles to Gulf to 'protect and defend' civilians, PM says — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/10/australia-to-send-aircraft-and-air-to-air-missiles-to-gulf-to-protect-and-defend-civilians-pm-says)
      * [Labor MPs quietly alarmed by Albanese government's response to US-Israel strikes on Iran — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/10/albanese-government-response-iran-war-labor-mps)
      * [Peter Van Onselen: Albanese has thrown us into the frontline of the Middle East conflict — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15630501/PVO-Anthony-Albanese-Iran-Australia-military.html)
      * [Anthony Albanese might not want to admit it, but Australia is now part of the Iran war — smh.com.au](https://smh.com.au/politics/federal/whether-you-say-it-or-not-we-re-in-this-war-now-prime-minister-20260310-p5o920.html)
      * [Defence MP Richard Marles won't reveal if Albanese Government has answered Trump's call to arms — thenightly.com.au](https://thenightly.com.au/politics/alliance-ghosted-after-trump-administration-makes-requests-to-australia-for-iran-war-c-21907046)
      * [Penny Wong warns Australians in the Middle East to LEAVE NOW — dailymail.co.uk](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15638089/Penny-Wong-warns-Australians-Middle-East-LEAVE-NOW.html)
      * [Federal politics: Australia closes several Middle East diplomatic missions, Wong confirms — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-11/federal-politics-live-iran-wong-albanese-nationals-leadership/106438658)
      * [Albanese government won't say the 'w' word about Iran — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-12/chris-bowen-fuel-prices-war-iran-nationals/106436196)
      * [The Echidna imagines minister briefing: 'Don't mention the war' — canberratimes.com.au](https://canberratimes.com.au/story/9195280/the-echidna-imagines-minister-briefing-dont-mention-the-war)
      * [Iran war: Australian Army's 1st Division prepares for Middle East despite Penny Wong's no-combat promise — thenightly.com.au](https://thenightly.com.au/politics/iran-war-australian-armys-1st-division-prepares-for-middle-east-despite-penny-wongs-no-combat-promise--c-21883920)
      * [Australia's involvement in war in Iran, Middle East: We may well be about to face decision on troops — theage.com.au](https://theage.com.au/national/victoria/we-may-well-be-about-to-face-decision-on-troops-20260308-p5o8jr.html)
      * [Penny Wong denies Australia is at war with Iran as personnel and aircraft deployed to Gulf — 7news.com.au](https://7news.com.au/sunrise/penny-wong-denies-australia-is-at-war-with-iran-as-personnel-and-aircraft-deployed-to-gulf-c-21902983)
      * [US-Iran war updates: Iran women's soccer team saga deepens; mines placed in Strait of Hormuz — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/world/middle-east/us-iran-war-live-updates-at-least-one-iranian-player-refuses-to-leave-sydney-us-warns-iran-of-most-intense-day-of-strikes-20260310-p5o98j.html)
      * [Israel minister praises Penny Wong on Iran, Queensland speech ban — michaelwest.com.au](https://michaelwest.com.au/israel-minister-praises-penny-wong-on-iran-queensland-speech-ban/)
      * [Trump's re-election may have helped Albanese – but the US war in Iran is creating economic conundrums — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/business/2026/mar/10/as-trumps-bombing-of-iran-drives-up-energy-prices-australias-labor-government-may-face-backlash)
      * [Iranian women's soccer team plight led Donald Trump to troll Anthony Albanese on Truth Social — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/trump-should-have-rung-first-instead-of-trolling-the-pm-20260310-p5o8yj)
      * [Albanese wanted to end political alienation. Thanks to his support for Trump, there's a new batch of pissed off voters — crikey.com.au](https://crikey.com.au/2026/03/11/anthony-albanese-donald-trump-political-alienation)
      * [Iran women's soccer team asylum move sees Trump praise Albanese after initial criticism — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/world/middle-east/trump-urges-albanese-to-grant-asylum-to-iranian-football-team-20260310-p5o8wu)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="RBA expected to raise interest rates in March as inflation concerns mount amid oil price surge" type="March 9–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (31)">
      * [Economists scramble to change their interest rate forecasts after RBA speaks — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-11/rba-forecast-to-hike-interest-rates-as-middle-east-war-continues/106441154)
      * [Australian Dollar Forecast: AUD/USD Tests 0.6970 as RBA-Fed Divergence Clashes with Geopolitical Safe-Haven Demand — fxempire.com](https://www.fxempire.com/forecasts/article/australian-dollar-forecast-aud-usd-tests-0-6970-as-rba-fed-divergence-clashes-with-geopolitical-safe-haven-demand-1584034)
      * [Politics with Michelle Grattan: Middle East war set to push inflation higher than forecast, warns RBA deputy governor — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-middle-east-war-set-to-push-inflation-higher-than-forecast-warns-rba-deputy-governor-277959)
      * [Three of Australia's Big Four Banks See RBA Hiking in March — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-11/three-of-australia-s-top-banks-see-rba-hiking-key-rate-in-march)
      * [RBA's Andrew Hauser Says Further Price Pressure From Iran Unhelpful — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-10/rba-s-hauser-says-further-price-pressures-from-iran-not-helpful)
      * [RBA's Hauser expects 'genuine' policy debate next week as Iran war uncertainty mounts — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/rbas-hauser-expects-genuine-policy-debate-next-week-iran-war-uncertainty-mounts-2026-03-10/)
      * [RBA to raise cash rate to 4.10% on March 17 - Reuters poll — fxstreet.com](https://www.fxstreet.com/news/rba-to-raise-cash-rate-to-410-on-march-17-reuters-poll-202603130038)
      * [Bank of America pulls forward RBA rate hike expectation to next week — capitalbrief.com](https://www.capitalbrief.com/briefing/bank-of-america-pulls-forward-rba-rate-hike-expectation-to-next-week-bd2bde91-3029-4bcd-9627-b2cd07ef8058/)
      * [RBA to deliver back-to-back hikes as Iran war refuels inflation — businesstimes.com.sg](https://businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/banking-finance/rba-deliver-back-back-hikes-iran-war-refuels-inflation)
      * [RBA, Inflation, Iran War: Australia Briefing — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2026-03-15/rba-inflation-iran-war-australia-briefing)
      * [What to expect from the RBA in March 2026 — canstar.com.au](https://canstar.com.au/finance-news/what-to-expect-from-the-rba-in-march-2026)
      * [March RBA hike now on the cards — financialstandard.com.au](https://financialstandard.com.au/news/march-rba-hike-now-on-the-cards-179811852)
      * [CBA rates call: RBA expected to lift rates in March and May — commbank.com.au](https://commbank.com.au/articles/newsroom/2026/03/cba-rates-call-rba-expected-to-lift-rates-in-march-and-may.html)
      * [ANZ lifts fixed mortgage rates ahead of RBA rate call — mpamag.com](https://www.mpamag.com/au/news/general/anz-lifts-fixed-mortgage-rates-ahead-of-rba-rate-call/568494)
      * [ANZ hikes fixed rates ahead of RBA decision — canstar.com.au](https://canstar.com.au/finance-news/anz-hikes-fixed-rates-ahead-of-rba-decision)
      * [ASX posts modest win as Asian markets regain ground, NAB and Westpac tip March and May rate hikes — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-11/asx-markets-business-live-news/106439790)
      * [RBA interest rate rise predicted after deputy governor Andrew Hauser's inflation warning — afr.com](https://afr.com/markets/debt-markets/markets-readies-for-rate-rise-next-week-after-rba-warning-20260311-p5o9df)
      * [RBA Set for Another Rate Hike as Iran War Refuels Inflation — financialpost.com](https://financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/rba-to-deliver-back-to-back-hikes-as-iran-war-refuels-inflation)
      * [Here's what experts think will happen with the RBA interest rate this month — fool.com.au](https://fool.com.au/2026/03/12/heres-what-experts-think-will-happen-with-the-rba-interest-rate-this-month)
      * [Will the RBA be dumb enough to raise rates this week? — switzer.com.au](https://switzer.com.au/will-the-rba-be-dumb-enough-to-raise-rates-this-week)
      * [The RBA must not hike rates — macrobusiness.com.au](https://www.macrobusiness.com.au/2026/03/the-rba-must-not-hike-rates/)
      * [RBA Interest rates: Bank of America first to tip a rate hike next week — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/markets/debt-markets/bank-of-america-tips-rba-to-raise-interest-rates-next-week-20260310-p5o95u)
      * [Interest rate rise looms as RBA faces critical test amid higher inflation — afr.com](https://afr.com/policy/economy/oil-shock-takes-the-rba-deeper-into-its-inflation-pickle-20260310-p5o95j)
      * [Experts divided on outcome of RBA's next rate decision — financialnewswire.com.au](https://financialnewswire.com.au/investment/experts-divided-on-outcome-of-rbas-next-rate-decision/)
      * [Australian unemployment rising for white-collar workers as RBA interest rate hikes loom — afr.com](https://afr.com/policy/economy/professional-class-leading-the-climb-in-unemployment-rate-20260311-p5o9ce)
      * [RBA interest rate inflation fears grow as panic grips bond market amid oil surge — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/markets/debt-markets/panic-grips-bond-market-as-oil-chaos-forces-rba-s-hand-20260309-p5o8o0)
      * [Despite denials, there are signs the RBA does consider house prices in setting rates — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/despite-denials-there-are-signs-the-rba-does-consider-house-prices-in-setting-rates-277477)
      * [Why the RBA could lift interest rates again this month — fool.com.au](https://fool.com.au/2026/03/11/why-the-rba-could-lift-interest-rates-again-this-month)
      * [Markets brace for more RBA interest rate increases amid inflation concerns — afr.com](https://afr.com/markets/equity-markets/the-next-inflation-crisis-has-arrived-20260313-p5oa73)
      * [Mortgage pain warning as oil price surge has markets expecting two RBA rate hikes — marketindex.com.au](https://www.marketindex.com.au/news/mortgage-pain-warning-as-oil-price-surge-has-markets-expecting-two-rba-rate)
      * [Finder's RBA Survey: 2 in 5 experts say the RBA will raise cash rate — finder.com.au](https://finder.com.au/news/finders-rba-survey-13-march-2026)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Former ASIO chief Dennis Richardson resigns from antisemitism royal commission" type="March 11–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [Dennis Richardson quits Bondi terror attack royal commission role after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's delay — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/politics/how-albanese-s-bondi-delay-led-to-investigator-s-shock-exit-20260312-p5o9r4)
      * [Former ASIO boss Dennis Richardson says he was 'surplus to requirements' of royal commission — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-12/asio-boss-dennis-richardson-explains-royal-commission-exit/106444456)
      * [Former spy chief on \$5500 a day says he was paid too much to do too little on royal commission — smh.com.au](https://smh.com.au/politics/federal/former-spy-chief-quits-antisemitism-royal-commission-20260311-p5o9na.html)
      * [Former ASIO chief says he quit antisemitism royal commission as he felt 'surplus', was 'overpaid' — sbs.com.au](https://sbs.com.au/news/article/dennis-richardson-quits-antisemitism-royal-commission/m2g3vkzog)
      * [Ex-ASIO chief's resignation rocks Bondi royal commission — thenightly.com.au](https://thenightly.com.au/politics/dennis-richardson-resignation-rocks-anti-semitism-royal-commission-as-ex-asio-chief-quits-bondi-terror-inquiry-c-21916978)
      * [Former Iranian diplomat was granted asylum in Australia after defecting — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/13/former-iranian-diplomat-granted-asylum-in-australia-after-defecting-ntwnfb)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Prime Minister Albanese criticized for joining NRL field invasion at Rabbitohs game" type="March 13–14, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [NRL fans blast Anthony Albanese over 'embarrassing' move after Rabbitohs player Alex Johnston made history — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15644633/Anthony-Albanese-Rabbitohs-Alex-Johnston.html)
      * [How Anthony Albanese 'suffered an embarrassing snub' before joining footy fans' pitch invasion — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/sport/nrl/article-15648637/Footy-club-heavyweights-throw-Albo-lift-PM-took-field-invasion-Anthony-Albanese-Sydney-Roosters-South-Sydney-Rabbitohs.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Grace Tame calls Albanese a 'coward' over Iran war stance" type="March 13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * ['We're living in an Orwellian nightmare': Grace Tame calls Anthony Albanese a 'coward' in scathing critique — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/13/grace-tame-crikey-essay-albanese-critique-ntwnfb)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="US launches forced labor trade investigation including Australia among 60 countries" type="March 12–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [U.S. launches fresh Section 301 probes into 60 economies over forced-labor trade practices — cnbc.com](https://cnbc.com/2026/03/13/us-section-301-probe-trade-trump-labor-practices.html)
      * [Trump Targets Forced Labor in Global Tariff Scheme — nytimes.com](https://nytimes.com/2026/03/12/us/politics/trump-forced-labor-tariffs.html)
      * [US opens new unfair trade practices probes of 60 countries over forced labor — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/business/us-opens-unfair-trade-practices-probe-60-countries-over-forced-labor-2026-03-13)
      * [Trump administration launches Section 301 trade and forced labor probes targeting 16 countries — thehindubusinessline.com](https://thehindubusinessline.com/news/world/us-section-301-probe-may-impose-new-tariffs-on-india-china-eu/article70732843.ece)
      * [US launches 'forced labour' probe against India and 59 other countries: What is Section 301? — timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/international-business/us-launches-forced-labour-probe-against-india-and-59-other-countries-what-is-section-301/articleshow/129541154.cms)
      * [U.S. opens unfair trade practices probe of 60 countries over forced labour — bnnbloomberg.ca](https://bnnbloomberg.ca/business/2026/03/13/us-opens-unfair-trade-practices-probe-of-60-countries-over-forced-labour)
      * [Trump administration launches new forced labor investigations into dozens of countries — cbsnews.com](https://cbsnews.com/news/trump-administration-forced-labor-investigations-tariffs)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Northern Territory requests ADF assistance for flood recovery as waters recede" type="March 12–14, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Daly River flooding worst on record as Katherine mayor calls for ADF assistance — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-13/nt-flooding-daly-river-record-flood-level-katherine-adf-calls/106450316)
      * [NT Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro requests ADF help with flood recovery — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-14/nt-calls-on-adf-in-flood-recovery-darwin-katherine-daly-river/106455690)
      * [Katherine flood victims forced to stand in line for hours for relief payments — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-12/katherine-flooding-line-up-for-hours-for-disaster-payments/106445750)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Angus Taylor faces scrutiny over wealth holdings and opposition leadership approach" type="February 24 – March 13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Peter Hartcher column: Matt Canavan has done in an hour what Angus Taylor failed to do in a month — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/matt-canavan-has-done-in-an-hour-what-angus-taylor-failed-to-do-in-a-month-20260313-p5oadr.html)
      * [How rich is Angus Taylor? The A to Z of the opposition leader's portfolio — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/how-rich-is-angus-taylor-the-a-to-z-of-the-opposition-leader-s-portfolio-20260224-p5o55e.html)
      * [Angus Taylor's immigration rhetoric faces policy reality — johnmenadue.com](https://johnmenadue.com/post/2026/03/angus-taylors-immigration-rhetoric-faces-policy-reality)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Greens agree to support Labor's superannuation tax increases in May budget" type="March 9, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Superannuation tax increase to pass parliament after Greens agree to Labor's plan — afr.com](https://afr.com/politics/federal/greens-give-labor-the-go-ahead-for-a-high-taxing-may-budget-20260309-p5o8ml)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [NSW rejects federal housing bonus scheme — cathnews.com](https://cathnews.com/2026/03/16/nsw-snubs-albanese-governments-housing-bonus-scheme)
      * [Former Iranian diplomat granted asylum after defecting to Australia — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/13/former-iranian-diplomat-granted-asylum-in-australia-after-defecting-ntwnfb)
      * [Senators demand Labor change parliamentary rules to counter racism — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/11/independents-and-greens-demand-labor-change-parliamentary-rules-to-counter-overt-racism-ntwnfb)
      * [AUKUS debate intensifies amid Iran war implications — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/aukus-is-binding-australia-to-a-dangerous-unpredictable-leader-we-need-a-plan-b-now-276364)
      * [Liberal Party inquiry into election conduct calls for Dutton testimony — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/election-inquiry-into-brethren-election-involvement-calls-on-dutton-to-appear-20260313-p5oad5.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/tw.svg" alt="Taiwan flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> Taiwan

Cho Jung-tai became the first Taiwanese premier to visit Japan in 52 years, attending a baseball game in Tokyo and deepening ties despite Beijing's fury.

No premier had visited since 1972, when Japan severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan. China's foreign ministry condemned the visit as "evil designs" and separatist provocations, while Taiwan's opposition questioned the NT\$2.14 million cost. Mr Cho defended it as a private trip he paid for himself. The visit signals Japan and Taiwan are moving beyond economic and security cooperation toward normal diplomatic relations.

At home, Taiwan's opposition parties plan to fight the ruling party together. The Kuomintang and Taiwan People's Party announced formal cooperation for November's local elections and the 2028 presidential race. Cheng Li-wun, the KMT chairwoman, and Huang Kuo-chang, the TPP chairman, outlined shared policies on housing, wages, the birth rate, artificial intelligence and climate change. They will pick candidates together, probably using opinion polls to decide who runs where.

Parliament unanimously authorised the government to sign four US arms packages worth \$9 billion. The deals include TOW anti-tank missiles, M109A7 howitzers, Javelin missiles and HIMARS rocket systems. Wellington Koo, the defence minister, denied reports that deliveries of MQ-9B drones would be delayed, saying they remain on schedule for the second half of this year. He also said America had not asked Taiwan to transfer weapons to the Middle East.

TSMC, the world's biggest contract chipmaker, reported record February revenue of NT\$318 billion, up 22% from a year earlier, driven by demand for AI chips. The company captured nearly 70% of the global foundry market in 2025, up from 64% the year before. Sales for the first two months reached NT\$719 billion, up 30% from the previous year.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **President Lai Ching-te faces Beijing criticism over democracy-sovereignty remarks** — Lai Ching-te, the president, linked democracy with sovereignty in speeches, prompting sharp criticism from Beijing. China's Taiwan Affairs Office rejected his remarks as misleading, while mainland officials accused him of making secessionist statements and stirring cross-strait confrontation. *([news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-03-14/Mainland-slams-Lai-Ching-te-s-secessionist-remarks-1LvMfdXmJPi/p.html))*
  * **Taiwan defense minister addresses US arms deliveries and drone procurement** — Wellington Koo, the defence minister, addressed several weapons procurement issues, denying delays in MQ-9B drone deliveries and confirming receipt of US letters for HIMARS purchases. Taiwan's parliament also authorised \$9 billion in US arms deals, while Mr Koo stated the US has not approached Taiwan about weapons transfers to the Middle East. *([focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603150006))*
  * **Taiwan detects Chinese military vessels and aircraft around territory** — Taiwan's defence ministry detected multiple Chinese navy vessels and aircraft operating around Taiwan's territory over several days in March. Taiwan detected 5-8 naval vessels and aircraft, with some crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait. *([newsable.asianetnews.com](https://newsable.asianetnews.com/world/taiwan-detects-8-chinese-naval-vessels-around-its-territory-on-monday-articleshow-x8r1yxn))*
  * **Taiwan shares open lower amid market volatility** — Taiwan's stock market opened down 366 points on Friday, with the main index affected by domestic political developments and global economic conditions. *([focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202603130002))*
  * **Former National Security Bureau officer's prison sentence upheld for leaking classified information** — Taiwan's Supreme Court upheld a four-year prison sentence for a former National Security Bureau officer who leaked classified information while seeking employment in China. The officer was responsible for decrypting electronic cipher machines. *([focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202603130018))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Premier Cho Jung-tai's controversial Japan visit for World Baseball Classic sparks cross-strait tensions" type="March 9–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (28)">
      * [Cho Jung-tai defends Japan trip - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/11/2003853618)
      * [China condemns 'evil designs' of Taiwan premier's Japan visit - CNA — channelnewsasia.com](https://www.channelnewsasia.com/east-asia/japan-taiwan-pm-cho-jung-tai-baseball-game-china-5980811)
      * [Swing and a miss? Taiwan's premier under fire over baseball trip to Tokyo — scmp.com](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/politics/article/3346546/swing-and-miss-taiwans-premier-under-fire-over-baseball-trip-tokyo)
      * [Cho shows receipts for World Baseball Classic in Tokyo — taiwannews.com.tw](https://taiwannews.com.tw/news/6320130)
      * [Why Has the KMT and TPP Hit Out at Cho Jung-tai's Visit to Japan? — newbloommag.net](https://newbloommag.net/2026/03/11/cho-japan-visit/)
      * [Premier Cho defends 'private' Japan visit amid WBC controversy — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603130014)
      * [Taiwan's Premier self-funded Japan trip to support baseball team — rti.org.tw](https://www.rti.org.tw/en/news?uid=3\&pid=196335)
      * [Cho presents receipts for Japan trip - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/14/2003853805)
      * [Taiwan premier's rare visit to Japan to watch baseball a home run for diplomacy — straitstimes.com](https://straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/taiwan-premiers-rare-visit-to-japan-to-watch-baseball-a-home-run-for-diplomacy)
      * [Baseball or diplomacy? Taiwan premier's Japan trip draws scrutiny — thinkchina.sg](https://thinkchina.sg/politics/baseball-or-diplomacy-taiwan-premiers-japan-trip-draws-scrutiny)
      * [Premier Cho's trip to Japan sparks controversy - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/10/2003853568)
      * [China Warns Japan Over Taiwan Premier's First Visit Since 1972 — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-09/china-warns-japan-over-taiwan-premier-s-first-visit-since-1972)
      * [China lashes out at Japan over Taiwan premier attending WBC game — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/china-lashes-out-at-japan-over-taiwan-premier-attending-wbc-game)
      * [Taiwan opposition questions premier's charter flight cost — t.media](https://t.media/3150384)
      * [EDITORIAL: Baseball diplomacy sets precedent - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2026/03/13/2003853719)
      * [How a Baseball Game in Japan Is Testing China on Taiwan — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2026-03-11/how-a-baseball-game-in-japan-is-testing-china-on-taiwan)
      * [Japan says no contact with Taiwan PM during visit — thestandard.com.hk](https://www.thestandard.com.hk/world/article/326202/Japan-says-no-contact-with-Taiwan-PM-during-visit)
      * [China's Foreign Ministry 'firmly' opposes Japan's interference in Taiwan question — news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-03-09/China-firmly-opposes-Japan-s-interference-in-Taiwan-question-1LncUMMV3wY/p.html)
      * [Cho hits home run in baseball diplomacy - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2026/03/10/2003853541)
      * [China Slams Taiwan Premier's Japan Trip as 'Provocation' — moderndiplomacy.eu](https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2026/03/09/china-slams-taiwan-premiers-japan-trip-as-provocation)
      * [China Criticizes Taiwan Premier's Japan Visit as 'Provocative' — tovima.com](https://tovima.com/world/china-criticizes-taiwan-premiers-japan-visit-as-provocative)
      * ['Sinister intentions:' China slams Taiwanese premier's trip to Japan — aa.com.tr](https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/sinister-intentions-china-slams-taiwanese-premiers-trip-to-japan/3856244)
      * [Taiwan's Premier Makes First Unofficial Visit to Japan Since 1972 — ua.news](https://ua.news/en/world/premier-taivaniu-zdiisniv-pershii-neofitsiinii-vizit-do-iaponiyi-z-1972-roku)
      * [Taiwan Premier Japan Visit Sparks Controversy — chinaglobalsouth.com](https://chinaglobalsouth.com/2026/03/09/china-condemns-taiwan-premier-cho-jung-tai-japan-visit/)
      * [Taiwan's premier made the first public visit to Japan in 50 years — mezha.net](https://mezha.net/eng/bukvy/taiwan-s_premier_made_the)
      * [China says Taiwan Premier's Japan visit 'harbours evil designs' — marketscreener.com](https://marketscreener.com/news/china-says-taiwan-premier-s-japan-visit-harbours-evil-designs-ce7e5fd9dc8bff22)
      * [《TAIPEI TIMES》 Cho presents receipts for Japan trip — news.ltn.com.tw](https://news.ltn.com.tw/news/focus/breakingnews/5369654)
      * [Taiwan baseball diplomacy throws curveball into China-Japan spat — ft.com](https://ft.com/content/d24b9313-90fc-406d-a8db-b9a24881b63f)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lai Ching-te faces Beijing criticism over democracy-sovereignty remarks" type="March 11–16, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Mainland slams Lai Ching-te's secessionist remarks - CGTN — news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-03-14/Mainland-slams-Lai-Ching-te-s-secessionist-remarks-1LvMfdXmJPi/p.html)
      * [China Rejects Lai Remarks Linking Democracy With Sovereignty — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-14/china-rejects-lai-remarks-linking-democracy-with-sovereignty)
      * [Lai promotes unity, democracy at 2026 Yushan Forum - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/16/2003853919)
      * [Lai highlights Taiwan-Japan friendship on earthquake anniversary — taiwannews.com.tw](https://taiwannews.com.tw/news/6318281)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Taiwan defense minister addresses US arms deliveries and drone procurement" type="March 10–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Taiwan military official denies delay in delivery of MQ-9Bs — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603150006)
      * [Taiwan parliament authorizes signing of stalled \$9 billion U.S. arms deals — nbcnews.com](https://www.nbcnews.com/world/asia/taiwan-parliament-authorizes-signing-stalled-9-billion-us-arms-deals-rcna263313)
      * [Taiwan says US drone orders not impacted by Middle East war — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/taiwan-says-us-has-not-approached-it-about-weapons-transfers-middle-east-2026-03-10/)
      * [Taiwan receives US letter for HIMARS purchase: Koo - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2026/03/11/2003853608)
      * [Taiwan says US has not approached it about weapons transfers to Middle East — al-monitor.com](https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2026/03/taiwan-says-us-has-not-approached-it-about-weapons-transfers-middle-east)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="TSMC reports strong revenue growth driven by AI chip demand" type="March 10–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (18)">
      * [TSMC nets nearly 70% of 2025 foundry market - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/biz/archives/2026/03/14/2003853777)
      * [Kaohsiung signs semiconductor MOU with Kumamoto, Arizona — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202603140005)
      * [TSMC expansion triggers filter material shortage and price surge — digitimes.com](https://digitimes.com/news/a20260310PD215/tsmc-expansion-wafer-manufacturing-gases.html)
      * [TSMC的AI瓶頸：市場認知明朗化，未來回報成為焦點 — cmoney.tw](https://www.cmoney.tw/notes/note-detail.aspx?nid=1147780)
      * [2330 - Investment Narrative: The Strategic Position of TSMC in the AI-Driven Semiconductor Industry — simplywall.st](https://simplywall.st/community/narratives/tw/semiconductors/twse-2330/taiwan-semiconductor-manufacturing-shares/pgrq2j4l-investment-narrative-the-strategic-position-of-tsmc-in-the-ai-driven-semiconductor-industry)
      * [AMD vs. TSMC: Which Chip Stock Actually Delivers the Smarter Return in 2026? — finance.yahoo.com](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/amd-vs-tsmc-chip-stock-135501377.html)
      * [TSMC February sales hit record high on strong 3nm demand — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202603100015)
      * [TSMC: Recent Fears Make This Another Bargain Buying Opportunity — seekingalpha.com](https://seekingalpha.com/article/4880959-tsmc-recent-fears-make-this-another-bargain-buying-opportunity)
      * [TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING AKTIE — finanzen.net](https://www.finanzen.net/aktien/taiwan_semiconductor_manufacturing-aktie)
      * [TSMC Sales Jump 30% Though Memory Chip Crunch Saps Mobile Demand — finance.yahoo.com](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/tsmc-sales-grow-30-sustained-054308789.html)
      * [TSMC February 2026 revenue climb on AI demand despite seasonal dip — digitimes.com](https://digitimes.com/news/a20260310VL215/tsmc-revenue-2026-demand-growth.html)
      * [TSM Stock Price - Taiwan Semiconductor — morningstar.com](https://www.morningstar.com/stocks/xnys/tsm/quote)
      * [TSMC Extends Market Share Lead Over Samsung Electronics — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/industry-en/2026/03/14/D7XT7Q5GSNDIJG77RBJTNKOQ6A)
      * [Up Over 100% in 1 Year, Should You Buy Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Right Now? — fool.com](https://fool.com/investing/2026/03/13/up-over-100-in-1-year-should-you-buy-taiwan-semico)
      * [TSMC February 2026 Revenue Report — pr.tsmc.com](https://pr.tsmc.com/english/news/3290)
      * [TSMC-Aktie: Wohin die vielen Milliarden fließen — finanztrends.de](https://finanztrends.de/news/tsmc-aktie-jetzt-wirds-spannend)
      * [TSMC Stock Jumps Pre-Market On Strong Sales Update — stocktwits.com](https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/tsmc-stock-jumps-pre-market-on-strong-sales-update-but-iran-war-jitters-keep-retail-traders-cautious/cZdomVbRIep)
      * [TSMC February Revenue NT\$317.66 Billion, Taiwan Stocks Rally — tradingkey.com](https://tradingkey.com/news/stocks/261663487-tsmc-reports-february-revenue-22-yoy-growth-tradingkey)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Opposition parties KMT and TPP announce cooperation for local elections" type="March 10–16, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [Political infighting continues over Chinese-born TPP legislator - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/16/2003853921)
      * [IN FOCUS: DPP voices concerns over opposition-sponsored bills - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/10/2003853569)
      * [Legislative Yuan party caucuses name 16 committee conveners — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603110019)
      * [KMT, TPP to collaborate for presidential election - Taipei Times — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/15/2003853847)
      * [KMT nominates candidates for New Taipei, Yilan, Chiayi City races — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603110021)
      * [KMT, TPP team up for November local elections — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603140008)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Taiwan detects Chinese military vessels and aircraft around territory" type="March 9–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Taiwan detects 8 Chinese naval vessels around its territory on Monday — newsable.asianetnews.com](https://newsable.asianetnews.com/world/taiwan-detects-8-chinese-naval-vessels-around-its-territory-on-monday-articleshow-x8r1yxn)
      * [Taiwan detects 5 Chinese aircraft, 6 vessels; 3 cross median line — newsable.asianetnews.com](https://newsable.asianetnews.com/world/taiwan-detects-5-chinese-aircraft-6-vessels-3-cross-median-line-articleshow-ghadu3v)
      * [Chinese Warplanes Return to Taiwan's ADIZ After Weeklong Absence — thedefensepost.com](https://thedefensepost.com/2026/03/09/china-aircraft-resume-taiwan/)
      * [Republic of China Defence Ministry Highlights Key Lessons From U.S.-Iranian War For Future Taiwan Strait Conflict — militarywatchmagazine.com](https://militarywatchmagazine.com/article/republicchina-mod-lessons-iranian-war)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Taiwan shares open lower amid market volatility" type="March 13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Taiwan shares open lower — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/business/202603130002)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Former National Security Bureau officer's prison sentence upheld for leaking classified information" type="March 13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Prison term upheld for NSB officer who leaked information — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202603130018)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [DPP slammed for seeking Taiwan independence through external forces — news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-03-09/DPP-slammed-for-seeking-Taiwan-independence-through-external-forces-1LnvU0950Wc/p.html)
      * [KMT legislators visit airport in probe of premier — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/13/2003853748)
      * [KMT Open to Backing TPP Defense Budget — dominotheory.com](https://dominotheory.com/kmt-open-to-backing-tpp-defense-budget/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/jp.svg" alt="Japan flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> Japan

Japan became the first G7 nation to release oil reserves on its own during the Iran crisis, breaking from its usual preference for multilateral coordination to take the lead in global energy markets.

Sanae Takaichi, the prime minister, announced the release of 15 days of private reserves plus one month from state stockpiles without waiting for G7 partners, capping petrol prices at 170 yen per litre. The move signals new confidence in independent economic action when alliance coordination proves too slow, even as Ms Takaichi prepares for a four-day Washington visit next week to meet Donald Trump on Iran and other regional issues.

Japan also kept building military capabilities that give it more room for independent action. It deployed Type-12 surface-to-ship missiles with 1,000-kilometre range near the East China Sea, allowing coverage of almost the entire sea from Kyushu and reaching coastal cities in mainland China. At the National Defence Academy, Ms Takaichi pledged to "drastically strengthen defence capabilities without excluding any option," using her electoral mandate for constitutional revision and defence expansion.

Even as Japan acts more independently, it maintains close coordination with neighbours when needed. Ms Takaichi thanked South Korea for transporting three Japanese nationals from Saudi Arabia on military aircraft, calling it "bilateral cooperation to protect citizens in third countries."

Domestically, Ms Takaichi's approval rating fell 4.5 percentage points to 59.3% in March, the lowest since she took office in October, following her distribution of gift catalogues to Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers. But the rating remains high, and she showed tactical flexibility by retaining Yohei Matsumoto, the education minister, despite reports of an extramarital affair, saying she wants him to "repay us through work" and emphasising his specialist qualifications.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Emperor Naruhito and family attend baseball game, plan Europe visit** — Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and Princess Aiko attended Japan's World Baseball Classic game against Australia, marking the first time a sitting Japanese monarch has attended a professional baseball game since 1966. The imperial couple is also preparing to visit the Netherlands and Belgium in June. *([japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/13/japan/emperor-empress-netherlands-belgium/))*
  * **Takaichi states Iran conflict not 'survival-threatening situation' for Japan** — The prime minister said the Iran war does not constitute a 'survival-threatening situation' under Japan's security legislation, a designation that would allow Self-Defence Forces deployment. She also said Japan has no plans to send minesweepers to the Middle East. *([japantimes.co.jp](https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/10/japan/politics/iran-takaichi-situation))*
  * **Japan marks 15th anniversary of tsunami disaster as Takaichi promotes nuclear energy** — Japan marked the 15th anniversary of the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster. Ms Takaichi attended a ceremony in Fukushima and has pushed to accelerate reactor restarts and promote nuclear power as a stable energy source. *([japan.kantei.go.jp](https://japan.kantei.go.jp/105/statement/202603/11tsuitou.html))*
  * **US military movements affect Japan-based forces amid Middle East deployment** — Reports indicate the US is moving parts of THAAD anti-missile system from South Korea to the Middle East, while Japan-based Marine expeditionary units are being deployed to the Middle East conflict. These movements are reducing US military assets in the Indo-Pacific region. *([bbc.com](https://bbc.com/news/articles/cgmlk8dlekgo))*
  * **G7 nations coordinate on potential emergency oil reserves release** — G7 finance and energy ministers held multiple meetings to discuss coordinated release of strategic oil reserves amid surging crude prices. While initially hesitant, the group expressed readiness to take 'necessary measures' and announced support for potential joint action with the IEA. *([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/no-decision-yet-g7-releasing-oil-stocks-frances-lescure-says-2026-03-09/))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Takaichi prepares for high-stakes Washington visit to meet Trump amid health concerns" type="March 11–14, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (9)">
      * [Takaichi to discuss global tensions with Trump in Washington next week — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260314_02/)
      * [Takaichi needs a new blueprint for a lasting U.S. alliance — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/commentary/2026/03/13/japan/takaichis-us-alliance-blueprint/)
      * [Takaichi Misses Events Due to Cold Symptoms Before Trump Visit — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-13/japan-pm-takaichi-s-health-draws-concerns-ahead-of-trump-meeting)
      * [Japan PM Takaichi cancels meeting with Muslim envoys due to cold symptoms, TBS says — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/japan-pm-takaichi-cancels-official-duties-over-suspected-cold-symptoms-jiji-2026-03-12/)
      * [In Japan, video of exhausted Takaichi sparks health fears ahead of US trip — scmp.com](https://scmp.com/news/asia/east-asia/article/3346437/japan-video-exhausted-takaichi-sparks-health-fears-ahead-us-trip)
      * [BERNAMA - Japan PM Takaichi Recovers From Feeling Ill, Returns To Official Duties — bernama.com](https://bernama.com/en/world/news.php?id=2533905)
      * [Prime Minister Takaichi's Foreign Policy Challenge: Balancing Vision and Pragmatism in the Trump 2.0 Era — nippon.com](https://www.nippon.com/en/in-depth/d01214/)
      * [Trump puts Japan's Takaichi under pressure with call to send warships — ft.com](https://ft.com/content/f21ad35f-bfd2-4c48-929e-3bfc7e5a2d14)
      * [Sanae Takaichi's Victory and the Prospect of a 'Normal' Japan — cppr.in](https://cppr.in/articles/sanae-takaichi-victory-japan-security-policy)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan becomes first G7 nation to release strategic oil reserves amid Iran conflict" type="March 11, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Prime Minister Takaichi: Japan will release stockpiled oil — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260311_888/)
      * [Takaichi says oil reserves to be tapped as Iran conflict hits crude flows — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2026/03/11/takaichi-oil-release/)
      * [Japan to release oil reserves as early as Monday: PM Takaichi — english.kyodonews.net](https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/72081)
      * [Japan to release strategic oil reserve amid US-Israel-Iran War, first G7 nation to do so — indiatvnews.com](https://www.indiatvnews.com/business/news/japan-to-release-strategic-oil-reserve-amid-us-israel-iran-war-first-g7-nation-to-do-so-2026-03-11-1033403)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Takaichi's cabinet approval rating drops to 59% in latest poll" type="March 12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Approval rate for Takaichi's Cabinet drops to 59%: poll — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/12/japan/takaichi-cabinet-approval-poll/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Takaichi backs education minister despite extramarital affair report" type="March 12–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Takaichi backs education minister after affair report — japantimes.co.jp](https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/12/japan/politics/takaichi-scandal-education-minister)
      * [Takaichi says she won't fire education minister over affair with woman — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/japan-pm-vows-not-to-dismiss-education-minister-over-affair-with-woman)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Emperor Naruhito and family attend baseball game, plan Europe visit" type="March 8–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Emperor and empress to visit Netherlands and Belgium in June — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/13/japan/emperor-empress-netherlands-belgium/)
      * [Emperor, Empress to Visit Netherlands, Belgium in June — nippon.com](https://nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026031200963)
      * [BASEBALL/ Even Emperor Naruhito and the royal family are Ohtani fans, make appearance at Tokyo Dome — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16406599)
      * [Samurai Japan top gutsy Czech team on way to WBC playoffs — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/sports/samurai-japan-top-gutsy-czech-team-way-wbc-playoffs-2026-03-10)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Takaichi pushes constitutional revision and defense capability strengthening" type="March 6–14, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Japan's Sanae Takaichi Pushes to Revise Pacifist Constitution — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/features/2026-03-13/japan-s-sanae-takaichi-pushes-to-revise-pacifist-constitution)
      * [Takaichi vows to bolster Japan's defense capabilities — japantimes.co.jp](https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/14/japan/takaichi-defense-academy-speech)
      * [VOX POPULI: Is Japan truly prepared to undo its 'final bastion' of pacifist ideals? — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16409707)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Takaichi states Iran conflict not 'survival-threatening situation' for Japan" type="March 10–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Can the U.S. ask for Japan's help in the Iran war? — japantimes.co.jp](https://japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/10/japan/politics/iran-takaichi-situation)
      * [Japan not planning to send minesweepers to Middle East, Takaichi says — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/12/japan/politics/takaichi-no-sdf-minesweepers-in-middle-east/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan thanks South Korea for evacuating Japanese nationals from Saudi Arabia" type="March 15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Takaichi thanks S.Korea for transporting Japanese nationals from Saudi Arabia — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260315_13)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan marks 15th anniversary of tsunami disaster as Takaichi promotes nuclear energy" type="March 11, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Address by Prime Minister TAKAICHI Sanae to the 2026 Memorial Ceremony for the Great East Japan Earthquake — japan.kantei.go.jp](https://japan.kantei.go.jp/105/statement/202603/11tsuitou.html)
      * [Japan marks 15 years since tsunami disaster as Takaichi pushes more nuclear energy use — nbcnews.com](https://nbcnews.com/world/asia/japan-marks-15-years-tsunami-disaster-takaichi-pushes-nuclear-energy-rcna263098)
      * [The State of Fukushima's Recovery 15 Years after 3/11 — nippon.com](https://nippon.com/en/japan-data/h02705)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="US military movements affect Japan-based forces amid Middle East deployment" type="March 13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [The US may move some of its anti-missile system - and it's sparking unease in South Korea — bbc.com](https://bbc.com/news/articles/cgmlk8dlekgo)
      * [Marine Expeditionary Unit Deploying To The Middle East: Report (Updated) — twz.com](https://twz.com/news-features/marine-expeditionary-unit-deploying-to-the-middle-east-report)
      * [Marine Expeditionary Unit Ordered to the Middle East — navalnews.com](https://navalnews.com/naval-news/2026/03/marine-expeditionary-unit-ordered-to-the-middle-east)
      * [More Marines and Warships Being Sent to Middle East, U.S. Officials Say — nytimes.com](https://nytimes.com/2026/03/13/world/middleeast/us-marines-warships-middle-east.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="G7 nations coordinate on potential emergency oil reserves release" type="March 9, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [G7 ready to act on oil surge but holds off tapping reserves — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/no-decision-yet-g7-releasing-oil-stocks-frances-lescure-says-2026-03-09/)
      * [G7 weighs using emergency oil reserves amid soaring prices driven by war – POLITICO — politico.eu](https://politico.eu/article/g7-finance-ministers-weigh-using-emergency-oil-reserves-amid-soaring-prices)
      * [G7 energy ministers to meet Tuesday morning to discuss release of oil reserves, sources say — cnbc.com](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/09/iran-war-g7-energy-minister-oil-reserves.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan deploys Type-12 missiles near East China Sea in response to China tensions" type="March 14, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [How Japan's long-range Type-12 missiles could force Beijing to rethink Taiwan and regional strategy — timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/defence/international/how-japans-long-range-type-12-missiles-could-force-beijing-to-rethink-taiwan-and-regional-strategy/articleshow/129586464.cms)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [LDP Senior Officials Listed Among Unification Church's Roster — en.tansajp.org](https://en.tansajp.org/investigativejournal/9062/)
      * [Former SDF chief takes helm of top defense academy — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16414372)
      * [China's economic coercion strengthens Takaichi's hand — eastasiaforum.org](https://eastasiaforum.org/2026/03/11/chinas-economic-coercion-strengthens-takaichis-hand/)
      * [Japan ruling party urges 'careful' decision on Mideast ship escort mission — english.kyodonews.net](https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/72320)
      * [Japan's Digital Deficit Raises Sovereignty Concerns — nippon.com](https://nippon.com/en/in-depth/d01204/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

### <img src="https://flagcdn.com/id.svg" alt="Indonesia flag" style={{ width: "24px", height: "18px", display: "inline", verticalAlign: "middle", marginRight: "8px" }} /> Indonesia

Prabowo Subianto called the American-Israeli military campaign against Iran 'irrational' and offered to negotiate peace, his sharpest criticism of US policy since taking office.

The president said he was 'surprised' by the bombing strategy and questioned whether it could achieve regime change. He offered Indonesia as a neutral mediator through its conditional membership in the Board of Peace. Mr Prabowo said the criticism followed Indonesia's 'free and active' foreign policy tradition, but the language was direct for a country that has carefully managed relations with Washington.

Even as he criticised American strategy abroad, Mr Prabowo tightened control at home. Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the vice-president, met a researcher who had claimed that former president Joko Widodo's university diplomas were fake. Rismon Sianipar apologised and said his research showed the diplomas were authentic, promising to write a book correcting his previous findings. The meeting showed how the government converts critics into supporters.

Mr Prabowo attacked analysts he described as 'unpatriotic' and 'paranoid' about government success. The opposition research group Celios warned this threatened democratic discourse, but the president's criticism fits a pattern of undermining civil society critics.

Mr Prabowo claimed the Danantara sovereign wealth fund had achieved a 300% return in its first year while announcing plans to spend up to \$1bn on subsidised housing. The fund is expanding from resource extraction into property development, targeting 140,000 apartment units in the Meikarta project. Separately, four Pertamina oil tankers were caught up in Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, though two left the Persian Gulf.

The military responded to the Middle East crisis. General Agus Subiyanto, the armed forces commander, ordered Alert Level 1 for all units, including increased patrols at strategic sites and readiness checks. Officials called it standard preparation.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Bank Indonesia announces operational schedule for Lebaran holidays** — Bank Indonesia set its operational schedule for the Lebaran holiday period from March 18-24, 2026, suspending most services while keeping BI-FAST payment system running. The bank also provided currency exchange services for the holiday through its SERAMBI program. *([antaranews.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/market/20260309160616-17-717410/bi-umumkan-jadwal-operasional-selama-hari-raya-idulfitri-2026))*
  * **Prabowo considers work-from-home and four-day work week to save fuel** — President Prabowo instructed his cabinet to prepare options for work-from-home policies and shortened work weeks to reduce fuel consumption amid global energy price concerns from the Middle East conflict. *([economy.okezone.com](https://economy.okezone.com/read/2026/03/16/320/3207002/4-fakta-prabowo-soal-hemat-bbm-dan-wfh-imbas-perang-as-israel-vs-iran))*
  * **Golkar party addresses corruption issues and political developments** — Golkar party officials commented on recent arrests of regional leaders by anti-corruption commission KPK, calling for reflection on high political costs. The party also discussed parliamentary threshold proposals and internal organizational matters. *([detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8394443/golkar-bicara-pilkada-mahal-soal-ott-kepala-daerah-masa-saban-bulan-ott))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Prabowo criticizes US-Israel war in Iran, offers Indonesia as mediator" type="March 9–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (12)">
      * [Indonesia's Prabowo Sees No Rationality to US-Israel War in Iran — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-15/indonesia-s-prabowo-sees-no-rationality-to-us-israel-war-in-iran)
      * [Prabowo 'surprised' by Iran war, says US bombing won't spark regime change — scmp.com](https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3346646/indonesias-prabowo-surprised-iran-war-says-us-bombing-wont-spark-regime-change)
      * [Indonesia still 'free and active', Prabowo claims — thejakartapost.com](https://thejakartapost.com/world/2026/03/11/indonesia-still-free-and-active-prabowo-claims.html)
      * [How the 'tough guy' of South-East Asia is reshaping Australia's largest neighbour — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-10/indonesian-president-prabowo-subianto-iran-offer/106430034)
      * [Prabowo says peace requires work to end poverty, injustice — antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/407919/prabowo-says-peace-requires-work-to-end-poverty-injustice)
      * [Di Tengah Perang Iran, Presiden Prabowo Tegaskan Indonesia Tetap pada Posisi Non-Blok — kompas.id](https://kompas.id/artikel/di-tengah-perang-iran-presiden-prabowo-tegaskan-indonesia-tetap-pada-posisi-non-blok)
      * [Israel to deploy 5,000-strong international force in Gaza from May under Trump plan — en.yenisafak.com](https://en.yenisafak.com/world/israel-to-deploy-5000-strong-international-force-in-gaza-from-may-under-trump-plan-3715871)
      * [Old Soldiers Never Learn: Prabowo's Misfire in the Middle East — internationalaffairs.org.au](https://internationalaffairs.org.au/australianoutlook/old-soldiers-never-learn-prabowos-misfire-in-the-middle-east)
      * [Presiden Prabowo: Di Tengah Ketidakpastian Dunia, Indonesia Harus Perkuat Persatuan dan Perdamaian — ksp.go.id](https://ksp.go.id/presiden-prabowo-di-tengah-ketidakpastian-dunia-indonesia-harus-perkuat-persatuan-dan-perdamaian.html)
      * [Prabowo Akan Beri Taklimat Jelaskan Kondisi Geopolitik ke Masyarakat — detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8392729/prabowo-akan-beri-taklimat-jelaskan-kondisi-geopolitik-ke-masyarakat)
      * [Prabowo Tiba-Tiba Sebut Masih Ada Pejabat yang Mengecewakan, Ada Apa? — cnbcindonesia.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/news/20260309171335-4-717446/prabowo-tiba-tiba-sebut-masih-ada-pejabat-yang-mengecewakan-ada-apa)
      * [Prabowo: Masih Ada Pejabat yang Mengecewakan — tempo.co](https://tempo.co/politik/prabowo-masih-ada-pejabat-yang-mengecewakan-2120760)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Danantara celebrates first anniversary with 300% return on assets growth" type="March 9–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Prabowo: Return on Assets Danantara Naik 300 Persen Lebih — tempo.co](https://bisnis.tempo.co/read/2092057/prabowo-return-on-assets-danantara-naik-300-persen-lebih)
      * [Prabowo Marah soal Laporan Palsu: Jangan Main-main dengan Saya — detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8395539/prabowo-marah-soal-laporan-palsu-jangan-main-main-dengan-saya)
      * [Prabowo di HUT Danantara: Jangan Main-Main dengan Laporan Palsu — cnnindonesia.com](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20260311192115-532-1336975/prabowo-di-hut-danantara-jangan-main-main-dengan-laporan-palsu)
      * [Prabowo Senang, Dapat Laporan Return on Assets Danantara Naik 300 persen — kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/03/12/06461641/prabowo-senang-dapat-laporan-return-on-assets-danantara-naik-300-persen)
      * [Danantara readies up to \$1b to develop subsidized housing in Meikarta — thejakartapost.com](https://www.thejakartapost.com/business/2026/03/09/danantara-readies-up-to-1b-to-develop-subsidized-housing-in-meikarta.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Vice President Gibran meets with researcher who retracted Jokowi diploma claims" type="March 13–14, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Rismon Sianipar Kini Nyatakan Ijazah Jokowi dan Gibran Asli — detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8398431/rismon-sianipar-kini-nyatakan-ijazah-jokowi-dan-gibran-asli)
      * [Temui Wapres Gibran, Rismon Sianipar Akui Ijazah Jokowi Asli — cnbcindonesia.com](https://www.cnbcindonesia.com/lifestyle/20260313110457-33-718721/temui-wapres-gibran-rismon-sianipar-akui-ijazah-jokowi-asli)
      * [Gibran Beri Parsel ke Rismon Usai Ajukan RJ Kasus Ijazah Jokowi — cnnindonesia.com](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20260314071939-20-1337928/gibran-beri-parsel-ke-rismon-usai-ajukan-rj-kasus-ijazah-jokowi)
      * [Rismon Sianipar Temui Gibran di Istana Wapres — kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/03/13/10410171/rismon-sianipar-temui-gibran-di-istana-wapres)
      * [Rismon akui ijazah Jokowi dan Gibran asli, akan rilis buku antitesis — antaranews.com](https://antaranews.com/berita/5472554/rismon-tegaskan-ijazah-jokowi-gibran-asli-akan-rilis-buku-antitesis)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Indonesian Pertamina tanker ships trapped in Strait of Hormuz amid conflict" type="March 10–14, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Kabar Terkini Kapal Pertamina di Timur Tengah — detik.com](https://finance.detik.com/energi/d-8397613/kabar-terkini-kapal-pertamina-di-timur-tengah)
      * [4 Fakta Kapal Pertamina Masih Tertahan Imbas Iran Blokade Selat Hormuz — detik.com](https://finance.detik.com/energi/d-8394133/4-fakta-kapal-pertamina-masih-tertahan-imbas-iran-blokade-selat-hormuz)
      * [2 Kapal Minyak Pertamina Berhasil Keluar dari Timur Tengah — cnbcindonesia.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/news/20260314120528-16-719011/2-kapal-minyak-pertamina-berhasil-keluar-dari-timur-tengah)
      * [Dua Kapal Tanker Pertamina sampai Sekarang Masih Tertahan di Teluk Persia — kompas.id](https://kompas.id/artikel/dua-kapal-tanker-pertamina-masih-tertahan-di-teluk-arab)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="TNI implements Alert Level 1 status amid Middle East conflict concerns" type="March 9–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Siaga 1! Panglima TNI Perintahkan Menyiagakan Personel dan Alutsista — kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/03/09/10155061/siaga-1-panglima-tni-perintahkan-menyiagakan-personel-dan-alutsista)
      * [TNI Siaga 1 Saat Konflik Timur Tengah, Panglima: Hal Biasa Lah Itu — kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/03/10/21555531/tni-siaga-1-saat-konflik-timur-tengah-panglima-hal-biasa-lah-itu)
      * [Di Balik Perintah Siaga 1 TNI Imbas Konflik Timur Tengah — detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8390770/di-balik-perintah-siaga-1-tni-imbas-konflik-timur-tengah)
      * [TNI restructuring raises eyebrows — thejakartapost.com](https://thejakartapost.com/indonesia/2026/03/13/tni-restructuring-raises-eyebrows.html)
      * [Siaga 1 TNI Berakhir, Angkatan Darat Kini Terapkan Siaga 3 — tempo.co](https://tempo.co/politik/siaga-1-tni-berakhir-angkatan-darat-kini-terapkan-siaga-3-2121747)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Bank Indonesia announces operational schedule for Lebaran holidays" type="March 9–12, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [BI Umumkan Jadwal Operasional Selama Hari Raya Idulfitri 2026 — cnbcindonesia.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/market/20260309160616-17-717410/bi-umumkan-jadwal-operasional-selama-hari-raya-idulfitri-2026)
      * [Ini Jadwal Operasional Bank Indonesia Selama Periode Lebaran 2026 — kumparan.com](https://kumparan.com/kumparanbisnis/ini-jadwal-operasional-bank-indonesia-selama-periode-lebaran-2026-26ytTjW2fEg)
      * [Jelang Lebaran, Warga Ramai-Ramai Tukarkan Uang Baru di GBK — cnbcindonesia.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/news/20260312150801-7-718512/jelang-lebaran-warga-ramai-ramai-tukarkan-uang-baru-di-gbk)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Prabowo considers work-from-home and four-day work week to save fuel" type="March 10–16, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [4 Fakta Prabowo soal Hemat BBM dan WFH Imbas Perang AS-Israel vs Iran — economy.okezone.com](https://economy.okezone.com/read/2026/03/16/320/3207002/4-fakta-prabowo-soal-hemat-bbm-dan-wfh-imbas-perang-as-israel-vs-iran)
      * [Antisipasi Krisis BBM: Presiden Prabowo Minta Kabinet Siapkan Opsi Radikal WFH dan Pemotongan Hari Kerja Nasional — bisnismarket.com](https://bisnismarket.com/post/antisipasi-krisis-bbm-presiden-prabowo-minta-kabinet-siapkan-opsi-radikal-wfh-dan-pemotongan-hari-kerja-nasional)
      * [Prabowo Kaji WFH dan Sistem Kerja 4 Hari untuk Antisipasi Krisis Energi Global — mirrorpontianak.com](https://www.mirrorpontianak.com/nasional/1267304987/prabowo-kaji-wfh-dan-sistem-kerja-4-hari-untuk-antisipasi-krisis-energi-global)
      * [Konversi Kompor LPG ke Listrik: Langkah Prabowo Reduksi Subsidi — cnnindonesia.com](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20260310112857-85-1336265/konversi-kompor-lpg-ke-listrik-langkah-prabowo-reduksi-subsidi)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Golkar party addresses corruption issues and political developments" type="March 7–13, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Golkar Bicara Pilkada Mahal soal OTT Kepala Daerah: Masa Saban Bulan OTT — detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8394443/golkar-bicara-pilkada-mahal-soal-ott-kepala-daerah-masa-saban-bulan-ott)
      * [Sekjen Golkar usulkan PT 5 persen dengan kombinasi factional threshold — antaranews.com](https://antaranews.com/berita/5467735/sekjen-golkar-usulkan-pt-5-persen-dengan-kombinasi-factional-threshold)
      * [Nama Partai Golkar Terseret di PSN Galang: Kebijakan atau Politik? — batamnow.com](https://batamnow.com/nama-partai-golkar-terseret-di-psn-galang-kebijakan-atau-politik)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Prabowo criticizes unpatriotic analysts and demands transparency" type="March 13–15, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Prabowo Singgung Pengamat Tak Patriotik, Celios: Paranoid — tempo.co](https://tempo.co/politik/prabowo-singgung-pengamat-tak-patriotik-celios-paranoid-2122341)
      * [Prabowo kritik pengamat yang picu kecemasan publik — antaranews.com](https://antaranews.com/berita/5473614/prabowo-kritik-pengamat-yang-picu-kecemasan-publik)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Prabowo suggests converting LPG stoves to electric to reduce subsidies — cnnindonesia.com](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20260310112857-85-1336265/konversi-kompor-lpg-ke-listrik-langkah-prabowo-reduksi-subsidi)
      * [Purbaya reveals Prabowo's proposal to disband Customs and replace with SGS — kompas.com](https://money.kompas.com/read/2026/03/10/164707126/purbaya-ungkap-usulan-prabowo-bubarkan-bea-cukai-dan-ganti-dengan-sgs)
      * [Puan reveals Prabowo sent letter with OJK leadership candidates to parliament — cnbcindonesia.com](https://www.cnbcindonesia.com/market/20260310123852-17-717646/puan-ungkap-prabowo-sudah-kirim-surat-calon-bos-ojk-ke-pimpinan-dpr)
      * [Indonesia says TNI officers ready for Gaza international stabilization force — antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/408127/indonesia-says-tni-officers-ready-for-gaza-intl-stabilization-force)
      * [Gibran calls for unity as Nyepi and Eid celebrations coincide — kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/03/15/11595671/momen-nyepi-dan-idul-fitri-berdekatan-gibran-sampaikan-pesan-persatuan)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>