> ## 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 16, 2026

## Regional Summary

**The Price of Protection**

American security guarantees across the Indo-Pacific are no longer free, and every government in the region is scrambling to decide what currency to pay in. From Tokyo's investment pledge to Canberra's calls to end the Iran campaign, each capital is repricing its alliance because Donald Trump has made protection's price tag impossible to ignore.

Japan's \$550 billion investment commitment is the clearest receipt yet for an alliance that once rested on shared values and quiet burden-sharing. Sanae Takaichi, the prime minister, travelled to Washington with a chequebook, pledging semiconductor plants, small modular reactors and gas facilities across American swing states. The logic is simple: Japan's constitution and security laws make joining a Hormuz operation legally risky, so Tokyo will pay its way through investment instead. Yet even as it bought goodwill, Japan deployed upgraded Type-12 missiles capable of reaching China's coast — hedging against a future where no amount of investment keeps American carriers in the western Pacific.

Taiwan and South Korea are repricing from positions of greater vulnerability. Lai Ching-te, Taiwan's president, announced a \$38 billion "Shield of Taiwan" defence budget, floated nuclear restarts and sent his premier on a baseball-diplomacy trip to Tokyo — all moves to build independent deterrence while courting a secondary patron in Japan. These steps infuriate Beijing because they imply doubt about Washington's reliability. In Seoul, Lee Jae Myung, the president, enjoys a 67% approval rating that has given him confidence to overhaul capital markets, restructure the prosecution and float troop deployments to Hormuz. Even the ruling party backs the last proposal as leverage for American nuclear submarines and trade concessions. Both governments treat security contributions as bargaining chips rather than obligations, a posture unthinkable a decade ago.

Australia shows what happens when the invoice arrives and the public refuses to pay. Anthony Albanese, the prime minister, is calling on America to end the Iran campaign, citing achieved objectives, but the real pressure is domestic: a confrontation at a Sydney mosque that forced him to flee Eid prayers, a Reserve Bank rate rise blamed on Middle Eastern fuel costs and a One Nation surge in South Australia that signals voter exhaustion with foreign entanglements. Even an Iranian missile strike near an Australian air base in the UAE failed to rally public support for deeper involvement. Canberra has learned that the political cost of alliance loyalty now competes dollar-for-dollar with the economic cost of staying out.

Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia's president, shows that a country outside the formal alliance network can exploit the repricing without bearing its burdens. His denunciation of the Iran campaign as "irrational," his refusal to pay into the Gaza reconstruction board and his populist Eid photo-ops in flood-hit Aceh all serve the same purpose: positioning Indonesia as a voice of the global south while conceding nothing material. That four military intelligence officers were arrested for attacking a human-rights activist the same week suggests Mr Prabowo understands he must offer just enough accountability to keep Western donors and domestic reformers quiet — another form of transactional politics, albeit pointed inward.

Each government — ally or not — is calculating what protection costs, what autonomy is worth and how little it can offer before the arrangement collapses. Alliances based on shared threat perception are giving way to alliances built on invoices, and nobody in the region is sure the arithmetic will hold.

## Country Summaries

***

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

Japan pledged \$550 billion in US investments this week — its biggest economic commitment ever — as Sanae Takaichi, the prime minister, fought to preserve the alliance while Donald Trump questioned why America protects ungrateful allies.

The commitment came during Ms Takaichi's first Washington summit as prime minister. When reporters asked why the US had not warned allies before striking Iran, Mr Trump responded with a Pearl Harbor reference. Ms Takaichi explained Japan's legal constraints on joining any Strait of Hormuz operation but agreed to boost oil cooperation from Alaska. Japan would pay its way through investment, not military action.

Even as it wrote the cheque, Japan deployed its first long-range strike weapons. The Self-Defence Forces brought into service upgraded Type-12 missiles at Camp Kengun in Kumamoto. The new version can hit targets 1,000 kilometres away — potentially reaching China's coast — compared with 200 kilometres for the original. Japan can move mobile truck-mounted systems quickly to Oita Prefecture and Okinawa as part of its island defence strategy.

Japan is also examining whether it could send minesweepers to the Strait of Hormuz after any ceasefire. Toshimitsu Motegi, the foreign minister, said the government was reviewing legal options including minesweeping, vessel protection and intelligence expansion. Current fighting does not meet the thresholds for Japan's 2015 security legislation, but officials are studying what might be possible when fighting ends.

The \$550 billion investment spans semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and energy. Three immediate projects worth \$73 billion include small modular reactors in Tennessee and Alabama plus natural gas plants in Pennsylvania and Texas. The Bank of Japan held its benchmark rate at 0.75%, with Kazuo Ueda, its governor, citing Middle East developments and oil prices as constraints on the economy.

Mr Motegi secured the release of one of two Japanese nationals detained in Iran, though a second — possibly a Japanese broadcaster's journalist arrested in January — remains in custody. The release followed what Mr Motegi called "strong calls" to Iran's foreign minister, showing Japan maintained diplomatic channels even amid regional crisis.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Major Japanese companies offer large wage increases in spring negotiations** — Major Japanese firms including Toyota offered wage hikes of 5-7% in annual spring negotiations, with the head of Japan's main business federation noting progress toward a 'virtuous cycle of growth and wealth distribution.' *([japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/business/major-japan-firms-offer-large-pay-hikes-in-spring-negotiations))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Takaichi holds first Washington summit with Trump, navigates Iran and Strait of Hormuz pressure" type="March 19–21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [Takaichi and Trump talk Iran, economy at summit — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260320_08/)
      * [Japan PM Takaichi heads to Washington for summit with Trump — www3.nhk.or.jp](https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260319_02/)
      * [Takaichi returns home to tough issues after Trump summit — asahi.com](https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/16438176)
      * [Iran conflict looms large over Trump's meeting with Japan PM — bbc.com](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cde4e2xyelpo)
      * [Trump, Japan's Takaichi to Announce \$40B US Nuclear Power Project — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-19/trump-takaichi-set-to-announce-40-billion-us-reactor-project)
      * [Using Charm and Restraint, Japan's Leader Mostly Avoids Trump's Wrath — nytimes.com](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/20/world/asia/trump-japan-prime-minister-meeting.html)
      * [Trump Jokes About Pearl Harbor in Meeting With Japan's Prime Minister — nytimes.com](https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/19/us/politics/trump-japan-pearl-harbor-oval-office-takaichi.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Bank of Japan maintains policy rate, Ueda cites Middle East uncertainty as constraint" type="March 19, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [BOJ stands pat as chief Ueda says rising oil price could drag on economy — asia.nikkei.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/economy/bank-of-japan/boj-stands-pat-as-chief-ueda-says-rising-oil-price-could-drag-on-economy)
      * [BOJ stands pat amid growing Middle East uncertainty — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2026/03/19/economy/boj-maintain-rate/)
      * [BOJ Governor Ueda's comments at news conference — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/business/finance/boj-governor-uedas-comments-news-conference-2026-03-19)
      * [BOJ governor Ueda: A rate hike is possible under a temporary economic downturn — investinglive.com](https://investinglive.com/centralbank/boj-governor-ueda-a-rate-hike-is-possible-under-a-temporary-economic-downturn-20260319)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan examines legal options for potential JSDF involvement in Strait of Hormuz operations" type="March 18–21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Japan could consider Hormuz minesweeping if ceasefire reached, minister says — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/japan-could-consider-hormuz-minesweeping-if-ceasefire-reached-minister-says)
      * [Japan mulls permissible SDF role in Hormuz amid constraints — asahi.com](https://asahi.com/ajw/articles/16427120)
      * [How Trump's Hormuz push tests Japan's pacifist limits — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/politics/explainer-how-trump's-hormuz-push-tests-japan's-pacifist-limits)
      * [Japan's SDF Goes Abroad: Past Overseas Actions in Support of the United States — nippon.com](https://nippon.com/en/japan-data/h02740)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Japan Innovation Party adopts new policy agenda after poor election showing" type="March 17–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Japan Innovation Party adopts policy agenda for 2026 — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/22/japan/politics/jip-policy-agenda/)
      * [Takaichi says she 'respects' panel proposals regarding imperial succession — japantimes.co.jp](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/17/japan/takaichi-panel-imperial-succession/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Major Japanese companies offer large wage increases in spring negotiations" type="March 16–20, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Major Japanese firms offer large pay hikes in spring negotiations — japantoday.com](https://japantoday.com/category/business/major-japan-firms-offer-large-pay-hikes-in-spring-negotiations)
      * [Korea, Japan Must Design Future Trade Order Through CPTPP, FTA — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/03/16/korea-japan-must-design-future-trade-order-through-cptpp-fta)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Iran releases one Japanese detainee, one remains in custody" type="March 21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Japan foreign minister says Iran released one of two detained Japanese nationals — channelnewsasia.com](https://channelnewsasia.com/east-asia/japan-foreign-minister-says-iran-released-one-two-detained-japanese-nationals-6009631)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [JSDF deploys new island defense missiles to Kyushu — asianmilitaryreview.com](https://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/2026/03/japan-deploys-new-island-defence-missiles-foc/)
      * [JSDF plans new medical information sharing system for 2028 — asianmilitaryreview.com](https://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/2026/03/jsdf-set-to-launch-new-medical-information-sharing-system-for-frontline-casualties-nsbt/)
      * [Japanese shipyards deliver new vessels to JMSDF before fiscal year end — asianmilitaryreview.com](https://asianmilitaryreview.com/2026/03/flurry-of-launches-boosts-jmsdf-fleet-before-fiscal-year-ends-foc)
      * [Hiroshima hibakusha Shigeaki Mori dies at 88 — nippon.com](https://nippon.com/en/news/yjj2026031700648)
      * [Cherry blossom season 2026 forecasts and bloom tracking — nippon.com](https://nippon.com/en/japan-data/h02731)
    </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

Taiwan faces its toughest diplomatic pressure from China in months after Lai Ching-te, the president, compared Japanese colonial rule favorably to early Chinese Nationalist rule, prompting Beijing to accuse him of "glorifying Japanese colonial rule" and step up military flights around the island.

China's reaction came as Taiwan deepens ties with Japan. Cho Jung-tai, the premier, made the first visit by a premier to Japan since 1972, ostensibly to watch Taiwan's team in the World Baseball Classic. Though he called it private and self-funded, Beijing protested to Tokyo over what critics and supporters alike called "baseball diplomacy."

Even as China steps up pressure, Mr Lai is boosting defense spending. He announced an eight-year special budget of NT\$1.25 trillion (\$38 billion) to build what he calls a "Shield of Taiwan," integrate AI into defense systems, and increase domestic arms production. The plan needs legislative approval but would move Taiwan closer to its goal of spending 5% of GDP on defense by 2030.

The president faces resistance at home and abroad. His suggestion that Taiwan might restart nuclear power alongside green energy has angered environmental groups and anti-nuclear advocates within his own Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), who accuse him of betraying party principles. Taiwan Power is preparing restart plans for submission by the end of March.

Opposition parties, meanwhile, are working together. The Kuomintang and Taiwan People's Party approved a cooperation agreement for November's local elections. But the Kuomintang itself faces internal strain — nearly a third of its legislators skipped a lunch with the party chairwoman, a sign of dissatisfaction with her leadership.

Through the political turbulence, Taiwan's tech sector keeps its lead. TSMC's chairman said his company makes 95% of AI chip "brains" and dismissed Chinese robotic capabilities as "useless" and "just for show," arguing that while Chinese robots can perform tricks, real functionality requires the brain components that TSMC makes for companies like Nvidia and AMD.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Lai conducts diplomatic meetings with foreign officials amid supply chain cooperation push** — Lai met with officials from St. Vincent, Japan, and spoke at the Yushan Forum calling for democratic partners to strengthen supply chain cooperation. He emphasized Taiwan's role in forming 'international teams' with like-minded countries for economic resilience. *([rti.org.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603160012))*
  * **Wellington Koo warns of pressing China threat, emphasizes deterrence needs** — Wellington Koo, Taiwan's defense minister, said China poses a pressing threat with continued military buildup and that effective deterrence is needed to make any attack very risky for Beijing. He emphasized that China has neither given up using force against Taiwan nor slowed military spending. *([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-poses-pressing-threat-deterrence-needed-avert-invasion-taiwan-says-2026-03-20/))*
  * **Cho expands migrant domestic helper eligibility with new fee structure** — The premier approved expansion of eligibility to hire migrant domestic helpers, with employers required to pay monthly fees between NT\$2,000 and NT\$10,000 to fund Ministry of Labor measures aimed at reducing impacts on Taiwanese workers. *([focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202603190017))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="President Lai Ching-te announces major defense budget increase and nuclear policy review" type="March 16–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Taiwan's Lai Ching-te Marks 30 Years of Direct Presidential Elections, Vows to Resist The CCP — visiontimes.com](https://visiontimes.com/2026/03/16/taiwan-marks-30-years-of-direct-presidential-elections-and-vows-to-resist-the-ccp.html)
      * [Nuclear review can go hand in hand with green energy push: Lai — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603220008)
      * [Lai reveals nuclear power revival plan — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2026/03/22/2003854247)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Beijing condemns Lai Ching-te over comments comparing Japanese colonial rule to early KMT period" type="March 16–18, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Taiwan leader William Lai 'glorifying Japanese colonial rule', Beijing says — scmp.com](https://scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3347164/taiwan-leader-william-lai-glorifying-japanese-colonial-rule-beijing-says)
      * [Lai Ching-te's attempt to reverse process of China's reunification by distorting history doomed to fail: spokesperson — english.news.cn](https://english.news.cn/20260318/cb76489ee90a47319eaa0e3512d8e145/c.html)
      * [(Multimedia) Intento de Lai Ching-te de revertir proceso de reunificación de China distorsionando la historia está condenado a fracasar, afirma portavoz — spanish.xinhuanet.com](https://spanish.xinhuanet.com/20260318/23e61bba36434a539ffa8d44d7b19fea/c.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Premier Cho Jung-tai's Japan trip to watch World Baseball Classic sparks political controversy" type="March 16–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Attacks on premier's Japan trip infuriating — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2026/03/22/2003854241)
      * [KMT questions Cho's stance on NT\$71.8 billion budget — taiwannews.com.tw](https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/6324078)
      * [Taiwan premier's Japan WBC trip sparks diplomatic ripples and domestic scrutiny — tcn.tw](https://tcn.tw/news/6797313)
      * [China's Air Displays Fail to Deter Emerging Taiwan–Japan Alignment — legalinsurrection.com](https://legalinsurrection.com/2026/03/chinas-air-displays-fail-to-deter-emerging-taiwan-japan-alignment)
      * [Gas, oil prices soar as Trump threatens to blow up South Pars gas field and Iran intensifies Gulf retaliation — nbcnews.com](https://www.nbcnews.com/world/iran/live-blog/live-updates-iran-war-energy-prices-trump-gas-field-israel-qatar-rcna264010)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lai conducts diplomatic meetings with foreign officials amid supply chain cooperation push" type="March 16, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [President Lai highlights 45 years of ties with St. Vincent — rti.org.tw](https://rti.org.tw/en/news?pid=198122\&uid=3)
      * [President Lai urges supply chain cooperation among democracies — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603160012)
      * [Taiwan President Lai Ching-te meets Japan's Keiji Furuya — news.tvbs.com.tw](https://news.tvbs.com.tw/english/3152754)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="KMT internal disputes surface amid cooperation agreement with TPP for local elections" type="March 18–23, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [鄭麗文主席期許藍白合作「任重道遠」 為2028 政黨輪替奠定堅不可摧的合作基石 — kmt.org.tw](https://www.kmt.org.tw/2026/03/2028.html)
      * [中常會通過尹乃菁擔任文傳會主委案 — kmt.org.tw](https://www.kmt.org.tw/2026/03/blog-post_18.html)
      * [民生讓路軍購？主計總處說出財政真相 民進黨讓長輩年金「有夢最美」？ — kmt.org.tw](https://www.kmt.org.tw/2026/03/blog-post_19.html)
      * [Many no-shows at lunch with KMT chair — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/20/2003854150)
      * [KMT convener's ruling sparks rush of podium — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/18/2003854023)
      * [KMT, TPP approve cooperation pact for local elections — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/politics/202603180022)
      * [EDITORIAL: KMT seems divided under Cheng — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2026/03/23/2003854284)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="TSMC demonstrates continued technology leadership amid AI boom and competitive pressures" type="March 19–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [TSMC chair dismisses Chinese robots as useless — taiwannews.com.tw](https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/news/6325504)
      * [《TAIPEI TIMES》TSMC chair gets honorary degree — news.ltn.com.tw](https://news.ltn.com.tw/news/focus/breakingnews/5378284)
      * [台積電安檢爆爭議！ 被要求「脫內衣過掃描」 — fnc.ebc.net.tw](https://fnc.ebc.net.tw/fncnews/headline/207320)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Defense Minister Wellington Koo warns of pressing China threat, emphasizes deterrence needs" type="March 20, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [China poses pressing threat, deterrence needed to avert invasion, Taiwan says — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-poses-pressing-threat-deterrence-needed-avert-invasion-taiwan-says-2026-03-20/)
      * [Tan See Leng reassures Singapore's energy security amid global tensions; 2026 degree ranking reveals top jobs for fresh grads: Singapore live news — sg.news.yahoo.com](https://sg.news.yahoo.com/live/tan-see-leng-reassures-singapores-energy-security-amid-global-tensions-2026-degree-ranking-reveals-top-jobs-for-fresh-grads-singapore-live-news-013557739.html)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Premier Cho Jung-tai expands migrant domestic helper eligibility with new fee structure" type="March 19, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Premier greenlights migrant domestic helper eligibility expansion — focustaiwan.tw](https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202603190017)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [Editorial on Taiwan's democratic progress and defense resolve — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2026/03/23/2003854286)
      * [Brookings analysis advocates for greater clarity in Taiwan Strait policy — brookings.edu](https://brookings.edu/articles/the-case-for-greater-clarity-and-less-ambiguity-in-the-taiwan-strait)
      * [President Lai proposes three-year drug price adjustment suspension — tmuhprc.tmu.edu.tw](https://tmuhprc.tmu.edu.tw/en/%E3%80%90media-reportpresident-lai-ching-te-recently-proposed-suspending-drug-price-adjustments-for-three-years-sparking-heated-discussion-within-the-medical-and-pharmaceutical-sectors-lee-po-chang/)
      * [Prosecutors raid KMT Taipei councilor's office over corruption allegations — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2026/03/20/2003854182)
      * [Analysis of KMT heavyweight clash in Taichung mayoral race — taipeitimes.com](https://taipeitimes.com/News/feat/archives/2026/03/19/2003854072)
      * [Taiwan independence analysis in context of US-China rivalry — taipeitimes.com](https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2026/03/23/2003854285)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>

***

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

Lee Jae-myung launched his biggest economic reforms since taking office this week, nominating a banker who predicted the 2008 crisis to run the central bank while promising stock market changes to end Korea's chronic undervaluation.

Mr Lee picked Shin Hyun-song, head of the monetary department at the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), to replace the Bank of Korea governor. Mr Shin takes a hawkish stance on monetary policy. The central bank also expanded its digital currency trials to nine banks for testing, including government subsidies for electric vehicle charging. Mr Lee set out capital market reforms including bans on duplicate listings by conglomerates and faster settlement systems. The stock market rallied on the news.

The reform push shows Mr Lee's growing political strength. His approval rating hit a record 67 percent this week, with voters citing economic management as the main reason for their support. The rating has climbed for five straight weeks since early February.

That political capital brought other victories. The ruling Democratic Party passed prosecution reform bills to create a new agency to investigate serious crimes, winning a 166-1 vote after the opposition's 24-hour filibuster collapsed. The reforms separate investigative and indictment powers, the biggest change to the prosecutor's office since democratisation.

Mr Lee also confronted the media. He demanded an apology from the SBS broadcaster's investigative programme over 2018 reports alleging ties to organised crime. The broadcaster issued an apology acknowledging the courts had found the allegations false, though its union condemned Mr Lee's demand as pressure on media independence.

Even the opposition bent. The People Power Party backed deploying South Korean troops to the Hormuz Strait, viewing it as leverage for demanding nuclear submarines and favourable trade terms from the United States.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Lee Jae-myung nominates BIS economist Shin Hyun-song as Bank of Korea governor** — Mr Lee nominated Shin Hyun-song, head of the Monetary and Economic Department at the BIS, as the new Bank of Korea governor to replace Rhee Chang-yong. Mr Shin is known for predicting the 2008 financial crisis and takes a hawkish stance on monetary policy. *([koreaherald.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/bis-economist-shin-hyun-song-named-bank-korea-governor-presidential-office-says-2026-03-22/))*
  * **Lee Jae-myung demands apology from SBS over past gang allegation reporting** — Mr Lee demanded an apology from the SBS broadcaster's investigative programme 'Unanswered Questions' over 2018 reporting that alleged his ties to organised crime. The broadcaster issued an apology, acknowledging the allegations were legally determined to be false. *([upi.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10699823))*
  * **Lee Jae-myung issues safety directives ahead of BTS concert in Seoul** — Mr Lee called for comprehensive safety and security measures for BTS's comeback concert at Gwanghwamun Square, emphasising government agency coordination and public cooperation. The statements drew mixed reactions online about presidential involvement in entertainment events. *([mk.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260318006400315))*
  * **Lee Jae-myung responds to deadly Daejeon factory fire with investigation pledge** — Mr Lee visited the site of a deadly fire at an auto parts factory in Daejeon that killed 14 people and injured 60. He pledged a thorough investigation, met with bereaved families, and ordered comprehensive safety measures to prevent future industrial accidents. *([koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/20260321/lee-vows-thorough-probe-into-daejeon-car-parts-plant-fire))*
  * **Lee Jae-myung implements real estate policy targeting multiple homeowners** — Mr Lee announced measures excluding government officials who own multiple homes from real estate policy-making decisions and warned property speculators using business loans for real estate purchases to voluntarily repay before facing criminal prosecution. *([koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/economy/policy/20260322/lee-excludes-officials-with-multiple-homes-from-real-estate-policymaking))*
  * **Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon registers for People Power Party primary after delays** — Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon finally registered his candidacy with the People Power Party for the June local elections after twice refusing to register. The decision came amid internal party strife over nomination processes and reform direction. *([koreatimes.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260317007452315))*
  * **Lee Jae-myung criticises police response to stalking murder case** — Mr Lee ordered an investigation into police officials over the murder of a stalking victim and called for stronger protective measures for stalking and dating violence victims, criticising authorities for their slow and inadequate response. *([koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10695498))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Lee Jae-myung nominates BIS economist Shin Hyun-song as Bank of Korea governor" type="March 22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (22)">
      * [BIS executive committee member tapped as Bank of Korea governor — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10699870)
      * [Bank of Korea's newly appointed chief pledges 'balanced' policy — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/bis-economist-shin-hyun-song-named-bank-korea-governor-presidential-office-says-2026-03-22/)
      * [South Korea Nominates BIS's Shin Hyun Song as Next Central Bank Governor — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-22/skorea-s-lee-nominates-bis-official-shin-as-new-bok-governor)
      * [Shin Hyun-song nominated governor of Bank of Korea — ft.com](https://www.ft.com/content/e70ea434-f585-4271-bb75-7265b3f02a37)
      * [South Korea names BIS veteran as new central bank governor — businesstimes.com.sg](https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/south-korea-names-bis-veteran-new-central-bank-governor)
      * [South Korea names Shin Hyun-song as central bank governor — asia.nikkei.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/economy/south-korea-names-shin-hyun-song-as-central-bank-governor)
      * [BIS economist Shin Hyun-song to lead Bank of Korea, prioritize property and won — biz.chosun.com](https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-policy/2026/03/22/67JAQIYWIZCLLIUN7EFPKRN6F4)
      * [BIS economist Shin Hyun-song tapped as next BOK governor — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260322/bis-economist-shin-hyun-song-tapped-as-next-bok-governor)
      * [(LEAD) (profile) BOK chief nominee known for expertise in int'l finance, macroeconomics — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260322002451320)
      * [South Korea Names BIS Economist Shin Hyun-song As Central Bank Governor — arise.tv](https://www.arise.tv/south-korea-names-bis-economist-shin-hyun-song-as-central-bank-governor/)
      * [Bank of Korea signals hawkish turn as South Korea appoints anti-debt expert Shin — bworldonline.com](https://www.bworldonline.com/banking-finance/2026/03/22/737797/bank-of-korea-signals-hawkish-turn-as-south-korea-appoints-anti-debt-expert-shin/)
      * [Lee appoints new Bank of Korea governor — breakingthenews.net](https://breakingthenews.net/Article/Lee-appoints-new-Bank-of-Korea-governor/65922627)
      * [In a paper released last year, Shin Hyun-song, the candidate for the new governor — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/economy/11994848)
      * [International business briefs | Economist Shin Hyun-song tapped to lead Bank of Korea — businessday.co.za](https://businessday.co.za/world/international-companies/2026-03-22-international-business-briefs-economist-shin-hyun-song-tapped-to-lead-bank-of-korea-amid-inflation-risks)
      * [BOK governor nominee: Shin Hyun-song, BIS monetary and economic department director — en.bloomingbit.io](https://en.bloomingbit.io/feed/news/108382)
      * [President Lee Nominates BIS Official Shin Hyun-song as BOK Governor — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/03/22/president-lee-nominates-bis-official-shin-hyun-song-as-bok)
      * [The governor of the Bank of Korea has changed for the first time in four years — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/economy/11995102)
      * [As Shin Hyun-song, director of the Monetary Economy Bureau — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/economy/11995096)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Nominates Shin Hyun-song as Bank of Korea Governor — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/22/ACSNLMBFDZG2XOERRFNHCVJHDQ)
      * [(LEAD) Lee taps BIS official Shin Hyun-song as BOK chief — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260322001851315)
      * [Stablecoin-sceptic BIS exec set to become new South Korean central bank boss — dlnews.com](https://www.dlnews.com/articles/regulation/stablecoin-sceptic-bis-exec-set-to-become-new-south-korean-central-bank-boss/)
      * [South Korea's next central bank chief eyes 'balanced' approach — asia.nikkei.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/economy/south-korea-s-next-central-bank-chief-eyes-balanced-approach)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lee demands apology from SBS over past gang allegation reporting" type="March 20–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (9)">
      * [President Lee to SBS union: Press freedom carries responsibility — upi.com](https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/03/22/president-lee-jae-myung-media-independence/1401774218158/)
      * [President Lee Jae-myung's involvement in gangs..I want to know that' an official apology — starnewskorea.com](https://starnewskorea.com/en/star/2026/03/20/2026032018245699613)
      * [While President Lee Jae Myung demanded an apology from SBS' current affairs — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/society/11993966)
      * [Unanswered Questions issues official apology over President Lee organized crime allegations — mk.co.kr](https://www.mk.co.kr/en/broadcasting-service/11993988)
      * ['Unanswered Questions' apologizes for alleging ties between President Lee, organized crime — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10699823)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Demands Apology Over SBS Gangster Allegation Report — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/hot-issues/11993376)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung countered on the 22nd that freedom comes with responsibility — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/politics/11994723)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Rejects SBS Union Backlash on Press Responsibility — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/22/JKHDFFA34ZAANO6MH5XIK66XPQ)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung demanded an official apology from SBS's I Want to Know — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/society/11993370)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Bank of Korea expands digital currency pilot program with nine banks" type="March 18–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Bank of Korea kicks off real-world testing of its CBDC with nine banks — coindesk.com](https://www.coindesk.com/business/2026/03/18/bank-of-korea-adds-two-banks-to-digital-won-trials-as-real-world-testing-begins)
      * [Bank of Korea CBDC Experiment Expands: Project Hangang Phase 2 — cryptorank.io](https://cryptorank.io/news/feed/eae0b-bank-korea-cbdc-project-hangang-phase2)
      * [BOK Opens Treasury Disbursement to All Banks in 'Han River' Phase 2 — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/03/18/bok-opens-treasury-disbursement-to-all-banks-in-han-river)
      * [Bank of Korea launches Phase 2 of 'Project Hangang'… CBDC pilot resumes — en.bloomingbit.io](https://en.bloomingbit.io/feed/news/108390)
      * [Bank Of Korea's Digital Won Pilot Expands Scope With New Banks — en.coin-turk.com](https://en.coin-turk.com/bank-of-koreas-digital-won-pilot-expands-scope-with-new-banks-and-large-scale-trials)
      * [Bank of Korea launches Phase 2 of Project Han River tokenized deposit pilot — ledgerinsights.com](https://ledgerinsights.com/bank-of-korea-launches-phase-2-of-project-han-river-tokenized-deposit-pilot)
      * [Bank of Korea Expands Digital Currency Subsidy Plan — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/market-money-en/2026/03/19/IE27GEYQYVFPNI3UURVTJYRPMQ)
      * [Bank of Korea Expands Digital Won Pilot With Phase 2 Launch — news.bitcoin.com](https://news.bitcoin.com/bank-of-korea-expands-digital-won-pilot-with-phase-2-launch-and-two-new-banks)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lee issues safety directives ahead of BTS concert in Seoul" type="March 17–18, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [President Lee Jae Myung said on his X account on the 18th about BTS — mk.co.kr](https://www.mk.co.kr/en/politics/11991277)
      * [South Korea President Lee Jae Myung Makes Statement About BTS's Concert — koreaboo.com](https://www.koreaboo.com/news/south-korea-president-lee-jae-myung-makes-statement-bts-concert/)
      * [Lee asks for public's cooperation in ensuring safety at BTS comeback show — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260318006400315)
      * [South Korea President Lee Jae Myung Makes Statement About BTS's Concert — threads.com](https://www.threads.com/@koreaboo/post/DWAwm5clJyL/south-korea-president-lee-jae-myung-makes-statement-about-bt-ss-concert)
      * [South Korean President Personally Speaks Out On BTS's Performance, Triggers Backlash — koreaboo.com](https://koreaboo.com/news/lee-jae-myung-personally-speaks-bts-performance-triggers-backlash)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Addresses Upcoming BTS Gwanghwamun Concert — otakukart.com](https://otakukart.com/president-lee-jae-myung-addresses-upcoming-bts-gwanghwamun-concert/)
      * [S. Korean President Lee Jae Myung orders safety, security measures ahead of BTS show — straitstimes.com](https://www.straitstimes.com/life/s-korean-president-lee-jae-myung-orders-safety-security-measures-ahead-of-bts-show)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lee announces stock market reform measures to address Korea discount" type="March 18, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [S.Korean President Lee vows more stock market reforms, triggering share rally — reuters.com](https://reuters.com/sustainability/boards-policy-regulation/skorean-president-lee-vows-more-stock-market-reforms-triggering-share-rally-2026-03-18)
      * [Lee flags KOSPI rally as bubble risk, pushes market reforms in South Korea — biz.chosun.com](https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-policy/2026/03/18/MZPURDYHWVAJDHCE2ZA25VCFPA)
      * [Lee-Jae-myung Administration Launches National Economic Advisory Council — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/03/18/lee-jae-myung-administration-launches-national-economic)
      * [Lee Jae Myung President Attends Meeting to Stabilize and Normalize Capital Markets — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/politics/11991576)
      * [Lee to preside over meeting on reform plans of capital markets — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10696741)
      * [President Lee Proposes Shortening Stock Settlement to T+1 — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/18/WES6H4IPOZAZTGMF4A2CSOZ4JY)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lee responds to deadly Daejeon factory fire with investigation pledge" type="March 21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Lee vows thorough probe into Daejeon car parts plant fire — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/20260321/lee-vows-thorough-probe-into-daejeon-car-parts-plant-fire)
      * [Lee vows accountability after deadly Daejeon factory fire in South Korea — biz.chosun.com](https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-policy/2026/03/21/7KFXCHWUONED5E43EFVRGQF53Y)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Vows Full Responsibility, Probe into Daejeon Fire — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/21/FV3P3TFRIRBRTPDNFJXVQRFTGA)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung visited the fire site of the safety industry in Daedeok-gu — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/politics/11994350)
      * [President Lee Visits Daejeon Fire Site, Offers Chief of Staff's Contact to Bereaved — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/politics/2026/03/21/president-lee-visits-daejeon-fire-site-offers-chief-of)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lee implements real estate policy targeting multiple homeowners" type="March 21–23, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Lee excludes officials with multiple homes from real estate policymaking — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/economy/policy/20260322/lee-excludes-officials-with-multiple-homes-from-real-estate-policymaking)
      * [President Lee Warns Property Speculators to Repay Loans Before Fraud Charges — en.sedaily.com](https://en.sedaily.com/finance/2026/03/22/president-lee-warns-property-speculators-to-repay-loans)
      * [President Lee Jae Myung Excludes Multiple Homeowners from Real Estate Policy — chosun.com](https://chosun.com/english/national-en/2026/03/23/CTU24AXNLJHRJJZUTBGGK3TDX4)
      * [On the 21st, President Lee Jae Myung repeatedly targeted the case of out-of-purpose misappropriation — mk.co.kr](https://mk.co.kr/en/realestate/11994284)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Lee's approval rating reaches record high of 67 percent" type="March 19, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Lee Jae Myung's approval climbs to record high amid economic focus — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10699127)
      * [Lee's approval rating hits new high since inauguration: poll — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10698991)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Democratic Party passes prosecution reform bills after 24-hour filibuster" type="March 17–23, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [DPK to push for plenary vote on prosecution reform bills this week — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260317/dpk-to-push-for-plenary-vote-on-prosecution-reform-bills-this-week)
      * [Korea takes major stride in prosecution reform with passage of bills — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/law-crime/20260323/explainer-korea-takes-major-stride-in-prosecution-reform-with-passage-of-bills)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon registers for People Power Party primary after delays" type="March 16–17, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Seoul mayor snubs PPP primary again, fueling leadership speculation — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260316/seoul-mayor-snubs-ppp-primary-again-fueling-leadership-speculation)
      * [(2nd LD) Seoul mayor registers candidacy with PPP for local elections — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260317007452315)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="President Lee criticizes police response to stalking murder case" type="March 16, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Lee orders stronger protections after stalking victim's murder — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10695498)
      * [Lee criticizes belated, insufficient response to fatal stalking case — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260316008100315)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="People Power Party supports parliamentary approval for Hormuz deployment" type="March 20, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [The government said a Hormuz deployment requires parliament's approval. The PPP wants to give it — koreajoongangdaily.joins.com](https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2026-03-20/national/politics/The-government-said-a-Hormuz-deployment-requires-parliaments-approval-The-PPP-wants-to-give-it/2549864)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Democratic Party lawmaker leaves party amid sexual harassment allegations — koreatimes.co.kr](https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/law-crime/20260320/dpk-lawmaker-says-to-leave-party-amid-sexual-harassment-allegations)
      * [Lee emphasizes worker acceptance in labor flexibility push — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/politics/20260319/lee-emphasizes-worker-acceptance-in-labor-flexibility-push)
      * [Lee calls for end to practices exploiting small and medium enterprises — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10699333)
      * [Lee hosts luncheon for Winter Paralympics athletes — en.yna.co.kr](https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20260320006900315)
      * [Samsung chief heads to Beijing forum for second year — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10699837)
      * [HYBE chief Bang tops richest K-culture shareholder list — koreajoongangdaily.joins.com](https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2026-03-19/business/finance/HYBE-chief-Bang-tops-richest-Kculture-shareholder-list-by-wide-margin-JYP-second/2548725)
      * [KB, Shinhan banks thrive abroad as Hana, Woori lag behind — koreatimes.co.kr](https://koreatimes.co.kr/business/banking-finance/20260320/kb-shinhan-thrive-abroad-as-hana-woori-lag-behind)
      * [Internet-only banks face scrutiny over system failures — koreaherald.com](https://koreaherald.com/article/10699310)
    </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

Australia is pulling back from the Iran war as pressure mounts at home and economic costs bite. Anthony Albanese called for America to end the conflict this week, arguing that the goals of weakening Iran's nuclear and military capabilities have been met. The government faces domestic opposition to its foreign policy and rising fuel costs that led the Reserve Bank to raise interest rates again.

Protesters at a Sydney mosque called the prime minister a "genocide supporter" and "putrid dog" over his Gaza stance, forcing him to leave Eid prayers after just 15 minutes. The confrontation at Lakemba Mosque came despite an invitation from religious leaders and showed rising public anger over Australia's support for Israel.

One Nation scored a breakthrough in South Australia, where the party won 22% of the primary vote compared with the Liberals' 19% — its best result anywhere in nearly 30 years. The Coalition is now planning to attack One Nation's credibility to prevent a similar wipeout in the Farrer by-election.

An Iranian missile struck near the Australian air base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), damaging accommodation and medical facilities but causing no injuries. Mr Albanese confirmed all personnel were safe while noting Iran's unpredictable attacks across the Gulf region.

The Reserve Bank raised interest rates by 0.25 percentage points to 4.1% in a close 5-4 vote, blaming the Middle East conflict for higher fuel prices and inflation. The split decision suggests growing internal debate over how to respond to outside pressures. Separately, the government appointed Anthea Harris as fuel supply coordinator and drew up emergency plans as global oil supplies tighten, warning that supplies may run short from mid-next month.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Albanese defends Australian multiculturalism after One Nation gains in South Australia** — After the mosque protests, Anthony Albanese gave a speech defending Australia's multicultural identity and warning against politicians who want to 'turn back the clock' to a less accepting era. This comes after One Nation's strong showing in the South Australian election. *([abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-22/albanese-defends-multiculturalism-after-one-nation-swing-in-sa/106483540))*
  * **South Australian Labor Party retains power despite One Nation surge to historic levels** — The Labor Party won re-election in South Australia while One Nation achieved its best electoral result anywhere in Australia in nearly 30 years, particularly in regional areas where it polled strongly against traditional conservative parties. *([abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-21/labor-party-projected-to-win-sa-election/106482248))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Prime Minister Albanese heckled and called 'genocide supporter' at Sydney mosque over Gaza stance" type="March 1–8, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (23)">
      * [Australia PM heckled at Sydney mosque Ramadan event — bbc.com](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz90wy2190go)
      * [Anthony Albanese heckled at Lakemba Mosque over Gaza war stance — foxnews.com](https://www.foxnews.com/world/australian-pm-heckled-mosque-called-putrid-dog-protestors)
      * [Australian mosque protesters heckle PM Albanese over Israel stance — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/australian-mosque-protesters-heckle-pm-albanese-over-israel-stance-2026-03-20/)
      * [At Australia's biggest mosque, Albanese heckled as 'putrid dog, genocide supporter' for Israel stance — timesofisrael.com](https://www.timesofisrael.com/albanese-heckled-as-putrid-dog-genocide-supporter-for-israel-stance-during-mosque-visit/)
      * [Australian PM Albanese heckled during visit to mosque — yahoo.com](https://www.yahoo.com/news/videos/australian-pm-albanese-heckled-during-202231036.html)
      * [Tense moment as Anthony Albanese is heckled at Sydney mosque and branded a 'genocide supporter' — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15662997/anthony-albanese-mosque.html)
      * [PM Albanese faces protests at Eid prayers, anger over Israeli offensive in Gaza — jpost.com](https://www.jpost.com/international/article-890626)
      * ['Genocide supporters': Why was Australia's PM Anthony Albanese heckled, booed at Sydney's largest mosque — indianexpress.com](https://indianexpress.com/article/world/anthony-albanese-heckled-eid-prayers-sydney-gaza-protest-10592486/)
      * [Australian PM Anthony Albanese called 'genocide supporter' by Gaza protesters at mosque visit — independent.co.uk](https://independent.co.uk/bulletin/news/australia-anthony-albanese-mosque-b2942664.html)
      * [Anthony Albanese claims hecklers at Lakemba mosque unhappy Labor outlawed 'extremist organisations' — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/20/anthony-albanese-tony-burke-heckled-lakemba-mosque-protestors-ntwnfb)
      * [Anthony Albanese branded 'putrid dog' and chased out of mosque as furious worshippers swarm Australian PM — gbnews.com](https://gbnews.com/news/world/anthony-albanese-australia-pm-mosque-worshippers-heckled)
      * [PM Albanese faces vocal opposition at Sydney mosque over Australia's stance on Gaza conflict — firstpost.com](https://www.firstpost.com/world/pm-albanese-faces-vocal-opposition-at-sydney-mosque-over-australias-stance-on-gaza-conflict-13991602.html)
      * [Anthony Albanese: Australian PM declares: 'Diversity is our strength' just hours after being chased out of mosque — gbnews.com](https://gbnews.com/news/world/anthony-albanese-australian-pm-diversity-chased-out-of-mosque)
      * [Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese booed at Sydney mosque — indiatoday.in](https://indiatoday.in/world/story/australian-prime-minister-booed-sydney-mosque-gaza-conflict-tensions-2884517-2026-03-20)
      * [Mosque defends Albanese visit, as PM claims hecklers upset over hate group outlawing — sbs.com.au](https://sbs.com.au/news/article/anthony-albanese-heckled-eid-prayers-lakemba-mosque/f4hyhw870)
      * [Prime Minister Anthony Albanese makes hasty exit from Lakemba Mosque amid heckling incident — 7news.com.au](https://7news.com.au/news/prime-minister-anthony-albanese-makes-hasty-exit-from-lakemba-mosque-amid-heckling-incident-c-22003737)
      * [TRT World - Australia PM Albanese faces backlash as protesters challenge Israel stance — trtworld.com](https://trtworld.com/article/d92096f3d955)
      * [Australia's PM called a 'putrid dog' and chased out of mosque — independent.co.uk](https://independent.co.uk/tv/news/anthony-albanese-lakemba-mosque-gaza-video-b2942405.html)
      * [Albanese Finds Out Appeasement Doesn't Always Equal Popular — hotair.com](https://hotair.com/tree-hugging-sister/2026/03/20/albanese-finds-out-appeasement-doesnt-always-equal-popularity-n3813064)
      * [The Blogs: The Starmerization of Anthony Albanese — timesofisrael.com](https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/the-starmerization-of-anthony-albanese)
      * ['Putrid Dog': Chaos Ensues When Australian PM Visits Mosque — legalinsurrection.com](https://legalinsurrection.com/2026/03/putrid-dog-chaos-ensues-when-australian-pm-visits-mosque)
      * [Albanese Finds Out Appeasement Doesn't Always Equal Popular – HotAir — hotair.com](https://hotair.com/tree-hugging-sister/2026/03/20/albanese-finds-out-appeasement-doesnt-always-equal-popularity-n3813064)
      * [The Blogs: The Starmerization of Anthony Albanese | Branko Miletic — blogs.timesofisrael.com](https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/the-starmerization-of-anthony-albanese)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="RBA raises interest rates to 4.1% in split decision amid inflation concerns driven by Iran war" type="March 16–19, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (29)">
      * [Statement by the Monetary Policy Board: Monetary Policy Decision — rba.gov.au](https://www.rba.gov.au/media-releases/2026/mr-26-08.html)
      * [Why did the RBA raise interest rates? Will higher petrol prices have same effect? — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-19/rba-interest-rates-inflation-demand-petrol-prices-explainer/106468646)
      * [The RBA has made one of its most controversial calls in recent years - and this rate rise may not age well — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/17/the-rba-has-made-one-of-its-most-controversial-calls-in-recent-years-and-this-rate-rise-may-not-age-well)
      * [RBA Rate Hike: The Iran War Forces the First Central Bank's Hand — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2026-03-17/rba-rate-hike-the-iran-war-claims-its-first-central-bank-scalp)
      * [RBA interest rate: Millions dealt back-to-back blows as Australia set to be lone mover amid Iran war — au.finance.yahoo.com](https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/rba-interest-rate-decision-big-banks-predict-painful-blow-not-seen-in-three-years-as-possible-2026-lifeline-identified-224418108.html)
      * [The RBA is asking Australians to show restraint. They may want to take their own advice — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/mar/17/rba-interest-rate-hike-australia-inflation-economy)
      * [RBA's Rate-Hike Split Raises Questions Over Timing of Tightening — bloomberg.com](https://bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-18/rba-s-rate-hike-split-raises-questions-over-timing-of-tightening)
      * [What are the chances the RBA will raise interest rates today? — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-17/will-rba-increase-rates-today/106452926)
      * [Economists call for budget bravery as rising inflation contributes to another RBA rate rise — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-17/budget-bravery-urged-new-rba-rate-rise-pain-hits-economists/106463250)
      * [RBA lifts interest rates by 0.25pc for second time this year — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-17/rba-lifts-interest-rates-for-second-time-in-2026/106463146)
      * ['If we have to change tack, we will': RBA hikes rates but not aiming to put Australia into recession, Bullock says — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/17/rba-interest-rate-australia-increase-fuel-petrol-prices)
      * [RBA mulls rate rise today as global economy plunges into chaos — crikey.com.au](https://www.crikey.com.au/2026/03/17/rba-interest-rates-donald-trump-iran-war-matt-canavan-coalition/)
      * [RBA Interest rates: Big four banks pass on rate rises to mortgage holders after RBA decision — 9news.com.au](https://www.9news.com.au/national/australia-interest-rates-rba-banks-response/e91beb9a-3be4-491a-9b0c-10869b6878d0)
      * [RBA's only question was when, not if — commbank.com.au](https://commbank.com.au/articles/newsroom/2026/03/rba-rates-increase-analysis.html)
      * [RBA Interest Rate Decision Today: Live Tracker — forbes.com.au](https://forbes.com.au/news/investing/rba-interest-rate-decision-live-tracker)
      * [Yes, what you think about inflation can influence what the RBA does next — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/yes-what-you-think-about-inflation-can-influence-what-the-rba-does-next-278549)
      * [Major banks announce interest rate increase after Reserve Bank lifts cash rate by 0.25 per cent — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-17/australian-banks-rba-interest-rates-response/106462942)
      * [RBA hikes cash rate to 4.1 per cent in a split decision — as it happened — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-17/asx-markets-business-live-news-march17-2026/106460458)
      * [RBA interest rates: Reserve Bank lifts cash rate to 4.1 per cent amid Middle East conflict, inflation fears — afr.com](https://afr.com/policy/economy/rba-warns-australia-is-at-risk-of-recession-20260316-p5ob0d)
      * [Here's what experts think will happen with the RBA interest rate this year — fool.com.au](https://fool.com.au/2026/03/19/heres-what-experts-think-will-happen-with-the-rba-interest-rate-this-year)
      * [AUD/USD Price Forecast: More upside likely amid hawkish RBA bets — fxstreet.com](https://www.fxstreet.com/news/aud-usd-price-forecast-more-upside-likely-amid-hawkish-rba-bets-202603180528)
      * [RBA Hikes Rates, Trump-Xi Meeting Postponed, Beijing Tightens Restrictions On Fertilizer — seekingalpha.com](https://seekingalpha.com/article/4883085-rba-hikes-rates-trump-xi-meeting-postponed-beijing-tightens-restrictions-fertilizer)
      * [Households can handle higher mortgage repayments, reckons RBA, but not everyone convinced — mpamag.com](https://www.mpamag.com/au/news/general/households-can-handle-higher-mortgage-repayments-reckons-rba-but-not-everyone-convinced/569080)
      * [Australian Dollar Steady Near 0.71 Amid RBA Rate Hike Aftermath and Hawkish Outlook — ibtimes.com.au](https://www.ibtimes.com.au/australian-dollar-steady-near-071-amid-rba-rate-hike-aftermath-hawkish-outlook-1863743)
      * [Westpac CEO Miller Says Energy Spike Adding to RBA's Challenge — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-16/westpac-ceo-miller-says-energy-spike-adding-to-rba-s-challenge)
      * [\$A surges with the RBA poised to raise rates and flag more to come — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/markets/debt-markets/rba-set-to-pull-the-rates-trigger-while-others-hold-firm-20260316-p5oary)
      * [RBA set to raise interest rates in March meeting, accusations of Reserve Bank politicising monetary policy unfair — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/policy/economy/richard-holden-is-wrong-about-rates-inflation-and-the-rba-20260316-p5oaqq)
      * [RBA says few borrowers at risk of default and mortgage stress despite interest rate increases — afr.com](https://www.afr.com/companies/financial-services/households-can-handle-global-shocks-interest-rate-pain-says-rba-20260319-p5prwe)
      * [U.S. Dollar Shows Remarkable Resilience Amid Iran Conflict Fallout and RBA Rate Decision — bitcoinworld.co.in](https://bitcoinworld.co.in/us-dollar-iran-war-rba-rate/)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Australia responds to Iran war with emergency fuel measures and diplomatic calls for de-escalation" type="March 1–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (19)">
      * [Trump has made it clear Australia is a friend in name only. For Albanese, the pressure at home is rising — theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2026/mar/21/trump-has-made-it-clear-australia-is-a-friend-in-name-only-for-albanese-the-pressure-at-home-is-rising)
      * [Iran war updates: Albanese denies Australia out of step with allies after release of joint statement — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-20/iran-israel-us-war-live-updates/106475836)
      * [Anthony Albanese pushes back on WFH suggestion as Middle East crisis puts a strain on fuel supply — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15668289/Anthony-Albanese-WFH-Bowen-Middle-East-fuel.html)
      * [Anthony Albanese to announce emergency measures amid global crisis as war drags on — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15655977/Anthony-Albanese-announce-emergency-measures-amid-global-crisis-war-drags-on.html)
      * [Iran Strikes Australian Military Base In UAE; PM Albanese Confirms Damage In Direct Hit — timesofindia.indiatimes.com](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/videos/international/iran-strikes-australian-military-base-in-uae-pm-albanese-confirms-damage-in-direct-hit/videoshow/129651975.cms)
      * [Anthony Albanese urges US and Israel to end war with Iran, releases emergency fuel plan — afr.com](https://afr.com/politics/federal/albanese-urges-us-to-end-war-releases-emergency-fuel-plan-20260318-p5oki2)
      * [Anthony Albanese to appoint fuel tsar as petrol price soars — afr.com](https://afr.com/politics/federal/it-s-a-different-world-now-albanese-calls-in-national-cabinet-20260318-p5okij)
      * [Iran projectile hits Australian air base in UAE, says PM Albanese — theprint.in](https://theprint.in/world/iran-projectile-hits-australian-air-base-in-uae-says-pm-albanese/2882163/)
      * [Australian official says Iranian soccer players were persuaded to leave — kimatv.com](https://kimatv.com/news/nation-world/australian-official-tina-kordrostami-says-iranian-soccer-players-were-persuaded-to-leave-tournament-war)
      * [US-Iran war as it happened: Trump gives Iran 48 hours to open Strait of Hormuz; Iran threatens to destroy energy, oil infrastructure; Israel strikes bridges in southern Lebanon — watoday.com.au](https://www.watoday.com.au/world/middle-east/us-iran-war-live-updates-trump-gives-iran-48-hours-to-open-strait-of-hormuz-iran-threatens-to-destroy-energy-oil-infrastructure-israel-strikes-bridges-in-southern-lebanon-20260322-p5rmj4.html?before=cDVhNWE0IzIwMjYtMDMtMjJUMjI6MjM6Mzha\&gb=1)
      * [Albo pushes back after Donald Trump accuses Australia of 'not getting involved' in his war in Iran - as Australia joins calls for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15666949/Anthony-Albanese-Donald-Trump-war-Iran.html)
      * [Wong urges against escalation of war in call with US counterpart Marco Rubio — sbs.com.au](https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/penny-wong-speaks-to-us-counterpart-urging-middle-east-war-not-escalate/81733ma2b)
      * [EAM Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong "share assessments" of West Asia conflict as hostilities enter 21st day — news.webindia123.com](https://news.webindia123.com/news/Articles/World/20260320/4429542.html)
      * [Jaishankar, Australian FM Wong discuss West Asia, Indo-Pacific — newsable.asianetnews.com](https://newsable.asianetnews.com/world/jaishankar-australian-fm-wong-discuss-west-asia-indopacific-articleshow-nug35te)
      * [Middle East crisis: Email Foreign Minister Penny Wong Middle East crisis: Email Foreign Minister Penny Wong — amnesty.org.au](https://amnesty.org.au/act-now/middle-east-crisis-protect-civilians)
      * [️Vietnam is the next country in the line to secure reliable, cheap Russian diesel imports - Pravda Australia — au.news-pravda.com](https://au.news-pravda.com/world/2026/03/22/28572.html)
      * ['A bigger scar': prolonged war in Middle East could slash \$16.5bn from Australian economy, Chalmers warns — theguardian.com](https://theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/mar/18/anthony-albanese-national-cabinet-iran-war-fuel-shortages-self-reliance-economic-resilience)
      * [Reckless, feckless war and PM should've known — theage.com.au](https://theage.com.au/national/victoria/reckless-feckless-war-and-pm-should-ve-known-20260319-p5qly1.html)
      * [Government to roll out more support measures should need arise amid Middle East situation: PM Wong — businesstimes.com.sg](https://businesstimes.com.sg/singapore/government-roll-out-more-support-measures-should-need-arise-amid-middle-east-situation-pm-wong)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Opposition Leader Angus Taylor faces pressure from One Nation surge following South Australian election" type="March 1–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (9)">
      * [Angus Taylor: Opposition Leader plans assault on One Nation's credibility to avoid South Australia-style wipeout — smh.com.au](https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/coalition-plans-assault-on-one-nation-s-credibility-to-avoid-south-australia-style-wipeout-20260322-p5rmga.html)
      * [View from The Hill: One Nation's performance in SA will send shivers down Angus Taylor's spine for Farrer campaign — theconversation.com](https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-one-nations-performance-in-sa-will-send-shivers-down-angus-taylors-spine-for-farrer-campaign-278787)
      * [Why the SA election result will send shivers down Taylor's spine — thenewdaily.com.au](https://thenewdaily.com.au/opinion/2026/03/22/sa-election-angus-taylors)
      * [One Nation surge rattles Angus Taylor in SA — womensagenda.com.au](https://womensagenda.com.au/latest/view-from-the-hill-one-nations-performance-in-sa-will-send-shivers-down-angus-taylors-spine-for-farrer-campaign)
      * [Angus Taylor: Sutherland Shire businesses face tough times — theleader.com.au](https://theleader.com.au/story/9202791/angus-taylor-sutherland-shire-businesses-face-tough-times)
      * [Liberals pledge revival as Taylor oversees historic low — thenewdaily.com.au](https://thenewdaily.com.au/news/politics/australian-politics/2026/03/16/angus-taylor-coalition-polling)
      * [One Nation sends shivers down Angus Taylor's spine — citynews.com.au](https://citynews.com.au/2026/one-nation-sends-shivers-down-angus-taylors-spine)
      * ['Absurd' - Angus Taylor calls Bowen out over broken promises — 2gb.com](https://2gb.com/absurd-angus-taylor-calls-bowen-out-over-broken-promises)
      * [In federal parliament, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has just asked about shipments of fuel to Australia, to begin question time — watoday.com.au](https://www.watoday.com.au/world/middle-east/us-iran-war-live-updates-trump-gives-iran-48-hours-to-open-strait-of-hormuz-iran-threatens-to-destroy-energy-oil-infrastructure-israel-strikes-bridges-in-southern-lebanon-20260322-p5rmj4.html?before=cDVhNWE0IzIwMjYtMDMtMjJUMjI6MjM6Mzha\&gb=1)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Albanese defends Australian multiculturalism after One Nation gains in South Australia" type="March 8–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (2)">
      * [Anthony Albanese urges 'vigilance' against those seeking to 'turn back the clock' on Australia — abc.net.au](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-22/albanese-defends-multiculturalism-after-one-nation-swing-in-sa/106483540)
      * [Anthony Albanese: Australian PM declares: 'Diversity is our strength' just hours after being chased out of mosque — gbnews.com](https://gbnews.com/news/world/anthony-albanese-australian-pm-diversity-chased-out-of-mosque)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="South Australian Labor Party retains power despite One Nation surge to historic levels" type="March 21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (1)">
      * [Labor Party retains power in South Australia, as One Nation vote surges — abc.net.au](https://abc.net.au/news/2026-03-21/labor-party-projected-to-win-sa-election/106482248)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Australia PM Albanese has asked Treasury to model a tax on windfall gas profits — reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/australia-pm-albanese-has-asked-treasury-model-tax-windfall-gas-profits-abc-2026-03-20/)
      * [Gen Z worker, 24, accuses Anthony Albanese of doing 'nothing' to help Australians as cost-of-living crisis bites during expletive-laden rant — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15663343/aussie-woman-anthony-albanese-cost-living.html)
      * [Fiery moment Liberal MP slams Anthony Albanese for 'not saying a word' when two of Australia's oil refineries were shut down while he was transport minister — dailymail.co.uk](https://dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15657375/Anthony-Albanese-refinery-oil-fuel.html)
      * [Raytheon unveils new electromagnetic army vehicle — defenceconnect.com.au](https://www.defenceconnect.com.au/joint-capabilities/17855-raytheon-unveils-new-electromagnetic-army-vehicles)
      * [​​Speaking of Australian media… - This is ASIO activating their assets in the Australian MSM — au.news-pravda.com](https://au.news-pravda.com/world/2026/03/19/28385.html)
    </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 US-Israel military campaign against Iran "irrational" this week, his sharpest criticism of American policy since taking office. The Indonesian president said he was "surprised" by the strategy and questioned whether air operations alone could achieve regime change, describing it as an "asymmetrical war."

The criticism came as Mr Prabowo set conditions for Indonesia's role in the Board of Peace, the US-led Gaza reconstruction body. He denied ever committing to pay \$1 billion to the board, noting that Indonesia was not among the "founding donors" at the February meeting in Washington. He set withdrawal conditions, saying Indonesia would quit if board decisions did not align with Palestinian interests. Indonesia would contribute peacekeeping troops, he said, not cash.

While challenging American policy abroad, Mr Prabowo worked to shore up his image at home. He spent Eid al-Fitr with flood victims in Aceh Tamiang rather than attending elite celebrations in Jakarta, performing prayers at a local mosque and distributing aid packages. His staff said this showed his care for disaster victims.

He also criticised wasteful regional officials, attacking a governor's purchase of an 8.5 billion rupiah official vehicle. Mr Prabowo contrasted this with his own 700 million rupiah presidential car, saying that money should go to schools, not luxury. He was modest compared to his subordinates.

Meanwhile, military police arrested four intelligence officers suspected of throwing acid at a human rights activist on March 12. The attack on Andrie Yunus of the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence (KontraS) exposed the military-civilian tension that has persisted since Mr Prabowo expanded the armed forces' mandate last year. But the arrests also proved that some accountability still works, even as rights groups demanded the case be tried in civilian courts.

Bank Indonesia cut foreign exchange purchase limits from \$100,000 to \$50,000 per person per month, citing the Middle East conflict's impact on the global economy. The central bank kept interest rates steady at 4.75 per cent.

<Accordion title="Other Stories">
  * **Vice President Gibran celebrates Eid at Istiqlal Mosque with family** — Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the vice-president, performed Eid prayers at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, accompanied by his wife Selvi Ananda and children including Jan Ethes. He took selfies with congregants and did not host an open house celebration. *([kompas.com](https://www.liputan6.com/news/read/6301923/gibran-salat-id-di-masjid-istiqlal-didampingi-selvi-ananda-dan-jan-ethes))*
  * **Prabowo discusses wide-ranging policies in Bloomberg interview and public forums** — President Prabowo Subianto gave extensive interviews and participated in public discussions covering Indonesia's Middle East policy, nuclear energy possibilities, education reforms, and defence spending. He defended his administration's policies and criticised market sceptics from his Hambalang retreat. *([bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-16/indonesia-president-prabowo-spars-with-tycoons-and-market-skeptics))*
  * **Golkar party conducts Eid celebrations and political consolidation activities** — Golkar party members held Eid prayers at their Jakarta mosque and conducted various political activities during Ramadan, including constituency outreach and preparation for future elections. Party leadership emphasised unity and social welfare themes. *([news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8409593/ace-dan-pengurus-golkar-salat-id-di-masjid-thayyibah-golkar-bahlil-di-papua))*
  * **Banks announce operational schedules and limited services during Eid holidays** — Major Indonesian banks including Mandiri, BRI, BNI, and Bank Indonesia announced their operational schedules for the extended Eid holiday period from March 18-24, 2026. Most offered limited services at select branches while maintaining ATM and digital banking operations. *([cnnindonesia.com](https://cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20260317124539-78-1338974/jadwal-dan-layanan-operasional-bank-selama-libur-lebaran-2026))*
</Accordion>

<Accordion title="Notes">
  <ResponseField name="Prabowo performs Eid prayers with Aceh flood victims, inspects temporary housing" type="March 19–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (16)">
      * [Foto : Prabowo Shalat Id di Masjid Darussalam Aceh Tamiang, Duduk di Antara Teddy dan Tito Halaman 1 — nasional.kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/image/2026/03/21/07390001/prabowo-shalat-id-di-masjid-darussalam-aceh-tamiang-duduk-di-antara-teddy?page=1)
      * [Video: Prabowo Tinjau Huntara di Aceh Tamiang, Warga Terharu — 20.detik.com](https://20.detik.com/detikupdate/20260322-260322114/video-prabowo-tinjau-huntara-di-aceh-tamiang-warga-terharu)
      * [Momen Prabowo Sapa Warga di Aceh dan Jakarta Saat Hari Lebaran — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8410567/momen-prabowo-sapa-warga-di-aceh-dan-jakarta-saat-hari-lebaran)
      * [Presiden Prabowo tiba di Aceh untuk shalat Id bersama penyintas bencana — ambon.antaranews.com](https://ambon.antaranews.com/amp/berita/322510/presiden-prabowo-tiba-di-aceh-untuk-salat-id-bersama-penyintas-bencana)
      * [Presiden Prabowo bersalaman dengan warga usai salat Id di Aceh Tamiang — antaranews.com](https://www.antaranews.com/berita/5487806/presiden-prabowo-bersalaman-dengan-warga-usai-salat-id-di-aceh-tamiang)
      * [Prabowo Salat Id di Aceh Tamiang, Warga Harap Bantu Pemulihan Pascabencana — detik.com](https://www.detik.com/hikmah/khazanah/d-8409832/prabowo-salat-id-di-aceh-tamiang-warga-harap-bantu-pemulihan-pascabencana)
      * [Prabowo Salat Id di Aceh, Menag: Presiden Ingin Bersama Warga Terdampak Bencana — rctiplus.com](https://www.rctiplus.com/news/detail/nasional/5345697/prabowo-salat-id-di-aceh-menag-presiden-ingin-bersama-warga-terdampak-bencana)
      * [Salat Id di Aceh, Presiden Prabowo Cek Langsung Pemulihan Pasca-bencana — metrotvnews.com](https://www.metrotvnews.com/read/kWDCzzX3-salat-id-di-aceh-presiden-prabowo-cek-langsung-pemulihan-pasca-bencana)
      * [Korban banjir di Nagan Raya terima bantuan daging dari Presiden Prabowo — aceh.antaranews.com](https://aceh.antaranews.com/berita/403250/korban-banjir-di-nagan-raya-terima-bantuan-daging-dari-presiden-prabowo)
      * [Presiden Prabowo Rayakan Idulfitri 1447 H di Sumatera Utara dan Aceh — merdeka.com](https://www.merdeka.com/peristiwa/presiden-prabowo-rayakan-idulfitri-1447-h-di-sumatera-utara-dan-aceh-552005-mvk.html)
      * [Usai Salat Id, Prabowo Tinjau Huntara Banjir Aceh — beritamanado.com](https://beritamanado.com/usai-salat-id-prabowo-tinjau-huntara-banjir-aceh/)
      * [Aceh Dapat Bantuan Sapi Meugang Kedua Kali, Mualem-Dek Fadh Ucapkan Terima Kasih ke Presiden Prabowo — aceh.tribunnews.com](https://aceh.tribunnews.com/nanggroe/1016719/aceh-dapat-bantuan-sapi-meugang-kedua-kali-mualem-dek-fadh-ucapkan-terima-kasih-ke-presiden-prabowo)
      * [Langkah Prabowo di Hari Raya Dipuji: Hadir di Tengah Luka Korban Banjir Aceh — voi.id](https://voi.id/berita/565656/langkah-prabowo-di-hari-raya-dipuji-hadir-di-tengah-luka-korban-banjir-aceh)
      * [Presiden Prabowo pilih Aceh untuk Salat Id, Ternyata ini tujuan dan maknanya — hops.id](https://www.hops.id/nasional/29416894235/presiden-prabowo-pilih-aceh-untuk-salat-id-ternyata-ini-tujuan-dan-maknanya)
      * [Prabowo Gelar Salat Id Bersama Penyintas dan Buka Istana untuk Silaturahmi Lebaran — murianetwork.com](https://www.murianetwork.com/ragam/pr-208785/prabowo-gelar-salat-id-bersama-penyintas-dan-buka-istana-untuk-silaturahmi-lebaran?page=2)
      * [Tradisi Lebaran Presiden: Soeharto - Prabowo Pilih Hari Raya di Mana? — cnbcindonesia.com](https://www.cnbcindonesia.com/research/20260321101920-128-720573/tradisi-lebaran-presiden-soeharto--prabowo-pilih-hari-raya-di-mana)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Vice President Gibran celebrates Eid at Istiqlal Mosque with family" type="March 19–21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (14)">
      * [Jemaah Antusias Foto dengan Gibran Rakabuming Raka di Istiqlal — video.kompas.com](https://video.kompas.com/watch/1918551/jemaah-antusias-foto-dengan-gibran-rakabuming-raka-di-istiqlal)
      * [Wapres Gibran Dijadwalkan Shalat Id di Istiqlal — nasional.kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/03/20/15380261/wapres-gibran-dijadwalkan-shalat-id-di-istiqlal)
      * [Gibran sempatkan swafoto dan berbincang dengan warga usai salat Id — ambon.antaranews.com](https://ambon.antaranews.com/berita/322518/gibran-sempatkan-swafoto-dan-berbincang-dengan-warga-usai-salat-id)
      * [Gibran Salat Id di Masjid Istiqlal, Didampingi Selvi Ananda dan Jan Ethes — liputan6.com](https://www.liputan6.com/news/read/6301923/gibran-salat-id-di-masjid-istiqlal-didampingi-selvi-ananda-dan-jan-ethes)
      * [Sikap Kalem Jan Ethes Salat di Samping Wapres Gibran di Istiqlal — cnbcindonesia.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/news/20260321084540-7-720537/sikap-kalem-jan-ethes-salat-di-samping-wapres-gibran-di-istiqlal)
      * [Wapres Gibran Tak Menyelenggarakan Open House — metrotvnews.com](https://www.metrotvnews.com/read/kM6C44VL-wapres-gibran-tak-menyelenggarakan-open-house)
      * [Bukan di Solo, Wapres Gibran Pilih Shalat Id di Masjid Istiqlal bersama Jan Ethes — radarjogja.jawapos.com](https://radarjogja.jawapos.com/nusantara/657321000/bukan-di-solo-wapres-gibran-pilih-shalat-id-di-masjid-istiqlal-bersama-jan-ethes)
      * [Gibran Salat Idulfitri di Istiqlal, Ditemani Jan Ethes — bloombergtechnoz.com](https://bloombergtechnoz.com/detail-news/103582/gibran-salat-idulfitri-di-istiqlal-ditemani-jan-ethes)
      * [Gibran Agendakan Salat Id Bersama Prabowo, Lanjut ke Solo — bloombergtechnoz.com](https://www.bloombergtechnoz.com/detail-news/103464/gibran-agendakan-salat-id-bersama-prabowo-lanjut-ke-solo)
      * [Wapres Gibran Sempatkan Swafoto dan Sapa Warga Seusai Salat Id di Istiqlal — jpnn.com](https://jpnn.com/news/wapres-gibran-sempatkan-swafoto-dan-sapa-warga-seusai-salat-id-di-istiqlal)
      * [Wapres Gibran Salat Ied di Masjid Istiqlal Bersama Keluarga, Sejumlah Menteri Turut Hadir — nusantaratv.com](https://www.nusantaratv.com/news/wapres-gibran-salat-ied-di-masjid-istiqlal-bersama-keluarga-sejumlah-menteri-turut-hadir)
      * [Wapres Gibran Dipastikan Akan Salat Idulfitri di Jakarta — liputan6.com](https://liputan6.com/news/read/6301697/wapres-gibran-dipastikan-akan-salat-idulfitri-di-jakarta)
      * [Gibran Salat Id di Istiqlal Bareng Keluarga di Masjid Istiqlal — beritasatu.com](https://www.beritasatu.com/multimedia/2978310/gibran-salat-id-di-istiqlal-bareng-keluarga-di-masjid-istiqlal)
      * [Prabowo Lebaran di Aceh, Gibran Salat Id di Istiqlal — visi.news](https://visi.news/prabowo-lebaran-di-aceh-gibran-salat-id-di-istiqlal)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Prabowo discusses wide-ranging policies in Bloomberg interview and public forums" type="March 16–21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (10)">
      * [Indonesia President Prabowo Spars With Tycoons and Market Skeptics — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-03-16/indonesia-president-prabowo-spars-with-tycoons-and-market-skeptics)
      * [Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto Defends His Vision From Hilltop Retreat — bloomberg.com](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2026-03-21/indonesian-president-prabowo-subianto-defends-his-vision-from-hilltop-retreat)
      * [Prabowo says he sees no 'rationality' in 'asymmetrical' US-Israel war on Iran — channelnewsasia.com](https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/indonesia-iran-war-prahowo-subianto-rational-trump-us-israel-5998151)
      * [Prabowo's quest for Indonesian greatness warps his diplomacy — asia.nikkei.com](https://asia.nikkei.com/opinion/prabowo-s-quest-for-indonesian-greatness-warps-his-diplomacy)
      * [Prabowo targets sweeping school reforms, digital push — en.antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/409558/prabowo-targets-sweeping-school-reforms-digital-push)
      * [Prabowo: Lebih baik uang untuk makan rakyat daripada dikorupsi — antaranews.com](https://www.antaranews.com/berita/5489338/prabowo-lebih-baik-uang-untuk-makan-rakyat-daripada-dikorupsi)
      * [Soal Energi Nuklir, Prabowo Why Not, Nuclear Power Paling Murah — mediaindonesia.com](https://mediaindonesia.com/ekonomi/872861/soal-energi-nuklir-prabowo--why-not--nuclear-power-paling-murah)
      * [Prabowo Diskusi Bareng Jurnalis-Pakar hingga Dini Hari, Bahas Apa Saja? — nasional.kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/03/19/09020041/prabowo-diskusi-bareng-jurnalis-pakar-hingga-dini-hari-bahas-apa-saja)
      * [Prabowo Pemimpin Egaliter dalam Sejarah Republik Indonesia — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/kolom/d-8411013/prabowo-pemimpin-egaliter-dalam-sejarah-republik-indonesia)
      * [Read the Edited Highlights of Prabowo's Interview With Bloomberg — financialpost.com](https://financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/read-the-edited-highlights-of-prabowos-interview-with-bloomberg)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Four TNI members arrested over acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus" type="March 18–19, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (7)">
      * [Indonesia's Komnas HAM to question TNI chief over acid attack case — en.antaranews.com](https://en.antaranews.com/news/409218/indonesias-komnas-ham-to-question-tni-chief-over-acid-attack-case)
      * [Puspom Amankan 4 TNI Terduga Penyiram Air Keras Aktivis KontraS — cnnindonesia.com](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20260318141447-12-1339367/tni-tangkap-4-tentara-terduga-penyiram-air-keras-aktivis-kontras)
      * [Habiburokhman soal 4 Anggota TNI Siram Air Keras ke Andrie Yunus: Khianati Komitmen Prabowo Tegakkan HAM — liputan6.com](https://www.liputan6.com/news/read/6301178/habiburokhman-soal-4-anggota-tni-siram-air-keras-ke-andrie-yunus-khianati-komitmen-prabowo-tegakkan-ham)
      * [TAUD Urges Probe Into TNI Leaders Over Andrie Yunus Acid Attack Case — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2093538/taud-urges-probe-into-tni-leaders-over-andrie-yunus-acid-attack-case)
      * [TNI Usut Dugaan Prajurit Terlibat Penyiraman Air Keras Aktivis KontraS Andrie Yunus — liputan6.com](https://www.liputan6.com/news/read/6300317/tni-usut-dugaan-prajurit-terlibat-penyiraman-air-keras-aktivis-kontras-andrie-yunus)
      * [Profesional dan Terbuka! Pengamat Hukum Apresiasi Kecepatan Puspom TNI Ungkap Oknum Terlibat Kasus Air Keras KontraS — lombokpost.jawapos.com](https://lombokpost.jawapos.com/nasional/1507319886/profesional-dan-terbuka-pengamat-hukum-apresiasi-kecepatan-puspom-tni-ungkap-oknum-terlibat-kasus-air-keras-kontras)
      * [Puspom TNI amankan empat oknum Denma BAIS TNI — antarafoto.com](https://www.antarafoto.com/id/view/2756466/puspom-tni-amankan-empat-oknum-denma-bais-tni)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Indonesia clarifies Board of Peace participation terms and funding commitments" type="March 16–22, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (6)">
      * [Indonesian president signals exit from 'Board of Peace' if it fails to support Palestine — news.cgtn.com](https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-03-20/Indonesian-president-signals-potential-exit-from-Board-of-Peace--1LFEuwR6FRC/p.html)
      * [InfoPublik - Presiden Prabowo Buka Alasan Indonesia Akhirnya Gabung ke BoP — infopublik.id](https://infopublik.id/kategori/nasional-politik-hukum/963335/presiden-prabowo-buka-alasan-indonesia-akhirnya-gabung-ke-bop)
      * [Prabowo Tegaskan RI Tak Pernah Komitmen Bayar Iuran BoP USD 1 Miliar — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8411369/prabowo-tegaskan-ri-tak-pernah-komitmen-bayar-iuran-bop-usd-1-miliar)
      * [Prabowo Tegaskan Tak Pernah Janji Sumbang 1 Miliar Dollar untuk Board of Peace — nasional.kompas.com](https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2026/03/22/16501021/prabowo-tegaskan-tak-pernah-janji-sumbang-1-miliar-dollar-untuk-board-of)
      * [Prabowo Pertahankan Keanggotaan RI di Board of Peace — cnnindonesia.com](https://cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20260316131905-32-1338595/prabowo-pertahankan-keanggotaan-ri-di-board-of-peace)
      * [Prabowo Beberkan Awal Mula RI Diajak Masuk Board of Peace Trump — cnbcindonesia.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/news/20260320145634-4-720456/prabowo-beberkan-awal-mula-ri-diajak-masuk-board-of-peace-trump)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Prabowo criticizes regional officials for wasteful spending on luxury items" type="March 19–21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (3)">
      * [Prabowo slams 'inefficient' spending by regional officials, including governor's US\$500,000 official car — channelnewsasia.com](https://channelnewsasia.com/asia/prabowo-inefficient-spending-regional-officials-governor-8-billion-rupiah-official-car-6006286)
      * [Prabowo Sindir Pejabat Beli Mobil Mewah: Mobil Saya Cuma Rp700 Juta! — uzone.id](https://uzone.id/prabowo-sindir-pejabat-beli-mobil-mewah-mobil-saya-cuma-rp700-juta)
      * [Today's Top 3 News: Prabowo Calls for National Unity on Eid al-Fitr 1447 H — en.tempo.co](https://en.tempo.co/read/2093913/todays-top-3-news-prabowo-calls-for-national-unity-on-eid-al-fitr-1447-h)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Golkar party conducts Eid celebrations and political consolidation activities" type="March 16–21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (12)">
      * [Ace dan Pengurus Golkar Salat Id di Masjid Thayyibah Golkar, Bahlil di Papua — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8409593/ace-dan-pengurus-golkar-salat-id-di-masjid-thayyibah-golkar-bahlil-di-papua)
      * [Wacana WFH Imbas Konflik Timteng, Golkar Usul 3 Provinsi Ini Jadi Prioritas — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8403764/wacana-wfh-imbas-konflik-timteng-golkar-usul-3-provinsi-ini-jadi-prioritas)
      * [Legislator Golkar Dukung Kaster TNI untuk Kawal Program Prabowo — cnnindonesia.com](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20260317142358-32-1339039/legislator-golkar-dukung-kaster-tni-untuk-kawal-program-prabowo)
      * [Tatap Pemilu 2029, Partai Golkar Gresik Targetkan Rebut 9 Kursi Legislatif dan Siapkan Kader Internal — radargresik.jawapos.com](https://radargresik.jawapos.com/politik-dan-pemerintahan/2603160003/tatap-pemilu-2029-partai-golkar-gresik-targetkan-rebut-9-kursi-legislatif-dan-siapkan-kader-internal)
      * [Kader Partai Golkar Kalsel dan Banjarmasin Bagikan Paket Sembako — shalokalindonesia.com](https://shalokalindonesia.com/kader-partai-golkar-kalsel-dan-banjarmasin-bagikan-paket-sembako)
      * [Golkar Dukung Pejabat Open House Sederhana: Tak Kurangi Silaturahmi — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8409736/golkar-dukung-pejabat-open-house-sederhana-tak-kurangi-silaturahmi)
      * [Salat Idul Fitri 1447 H, Golkar tekankan persatuan dan kepedulian sosial — elshinta.com](https://elshinta.com/kategori/1/politik/salat-idul-fitri-1447-h-golkar-tekankan-persatuan-dan-kepedulian-sosial-157184)
      * [Dukung Cegah Stunting, DPD Golkar Jembrana Gelar Bhakti Sosial — balipost.com](https://www.balipost.com/news/2026/03/16/535908/Dukung-Cegah-Stunting,DPD-Golkar...html)
      * [Golkar Bojonegoro Perkuat Konsolidasi, Optimistis Tingkatkan Kursi di Pemilu 2029 — kabarjagad.id](https://www.kabarjagad.id/politik/golkar-bojonegoro-perkuat-konsolidasi-optimistis-tingkatkan-kursi-di-pemilu-2029/)
      * [Golkar Dukung Revisi Uang Pensiun Bagi Pejabat Negara, DPR Diminta Responsif — liputan6.com](https://www.liputan6.com/news/read/6299842/golkar-dukung-revisi-uang-pensiun-bagi-pejabat-negara-dpr-diminta-responsif)
      * [Golkar Dukung Usulan Prabowo Kaji Pemotongan Gaji Pejabat demi Efisiensi APBN — porostimur.com](https://porostimur.com/golkar-dukung-usulan-prabowo-kaji-pemotongan-gaji-pejabat-demi-efisiensi-apbn/)
      * [Dukung Rencana Penghematan Prabowo, Legislator Golkar: Potong Gaji Pejabat Harus Terukur-Transparan — suara.com](https://www.suara.com/news/2026/03/16/192004/dukung-rencana-penghematan-prabowo-legislator-golkar-potong-gaji-pejabat-harus-terukur-transparan)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Banks announce operational schedules and limited services during Eid holidays" type="March 17–21, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (8)">
      * [Jadwal dan Layanan Operasional Bank Selama Libur Lebaran 2026 — cnnindonesia.com](https://cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20260317124539-78-1338974/jadwal-dan-layanan-operasional-bank-selama-libur-lebaran-2026)
      * [Kapan Bank Buka Setelah Lebaran? Cek Jadwal Operasional Bank Mandiri, BRI, BNI, BTN, dan BSI di Sini — finansial.bisnis.com](https://finansial.bisnis.com/read/20260321/90/1961672/kapan-bank-buka-setelah-lebaran-cek-jadwal-operasional-bank-mandiri-bri-bni-btn-dan-bsi-di-sini)
      * [Catat! Jadwal Operasional Bank saat Libur Lebaran 2026 — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8403980/catat-jadwal-operasional-bank-saat-libur-lebaran-2026)
      * [Bank Tutup Tanggal Berapa Jelang Lebaran 2026? Ini Jadwal Lengkap Operasional dan Layanan Terbatas — tvonenews.com](https://tvonenews.com/ekonomi/424767-bank-tutup-tanggal-berapa-jelang-lebaran-2026-ini-jadwal-lengkap-operasional-dan-layanan-terbatas)
      * [Jadwal Operasional Bank Mandiri-BRI-BNI Selama Libur Lebaran 2026 — cnbcindonesia.com](https://cnbcindonesia.com/market/20260319111332-17-720233/jadwal-operasional-bank-mandiri-bri-bni-selama-libur-lebaran-2026)
      * [Jadwal Layanan BNI Lebaran 2026, Ini Daftar Kantor Cabang yang Buka Terbatas 20 Maret dan 23 Maret — money.kompas.com](https://money.kompas.com/read/2026/03/17/140000126/jadwal-layanan-bni-lebaran-2026-ini-daftar-kantor-cabang-yang-buka-terbatas-20)
      * [Jadwal Libur Bank Lebaran 2026: Cek Kapan Mulai Tutup dan Kembali Beroperasi — merdeka.com](https://merdeka.com/uang/jadwal-libur-bank-lebaran-2026-cek-kapan-mulai-tutup-dan-kembali-beroperasi-550726-mvk.html)
      * [Bank Indonesia Janji Jaga Rupiah 24 Jam saat Libur Panjang Nyepi dan Lebaran — suara.com](https://suara.com/bisnis/2026/03/18/100951/bank-indonesia-janji-jaga-rupiah-24-jam-saat-libur-panjang-nyepi-dan-lebaran)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Bank Indonesia adjusts monetary policy amid Middle East conflicts" type="March 17, 2026">
    <Expandable title="Sources (5)">
      * [Breaking News: BI Rilis Aturan Baru Beli Dolar AS, Kini Dibatasi Maksimal 50.000 per Bulan — rctiplus.com](https://www.rctiplus.com/news/detail/inews/5342737/breaking-news--bi-rilis-aturan-baru-beli-dolar-as--kini-dibatasi-maksimal-50-000-per-bulan)
      * [BI Ubah Batasan Transaksi Dolar Mulai April 2026, Jadi Segini! — cnbcindonesia.com](https://www.cnbcindonesia.com/market/20260317144013-17-719850/bi-ubah-batasan-transaksi-dolar-mulai-april-2026-jadi-segini)
      * [Imbas Perang Timur Tengah, BI Tahan Suku Bunga Acuan 4,75 Persen di Maret 2026 — infobanknews.com](https://infobanknews.com/imbas-perang-timur-tengah-bi-tahan-suku-bunga-acuan-475-persen-di-maret-2026)
      * [To protect rupiah, BI cut foreign exchange purchase limit to US\$50,000 — idnfinancials.com](https://www.idnfinancials.com/news/62282/to-protect-rupiah-bi-cut-foreign-exchange-purchase-limit-to-us50-000)
      * [BI: Perang AS-Iran Picu Perlambatan Ekonomi Global-Kerek Inflasi — bloombergtechnoz.com](https://www.bloombergtechnoz.com/detail-news/103243/bi-perang-as-iran-picu-perlambatan-ekonomi-global-kerek-inflasi/2)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>

  <ResponseField name="Other" type="">
    <Expandable title="Sources (4)">
      * [Anies calls for thorough investigation of Prabowo's order on Andrie Yunus case — video.kompas.com](https://video.kompas.com/watch/1918768/anies-perintah-prabowo-soal-andrie-yunus-harus-diusut-tuntas-aparat)
      * [PDIP responds to Prabowo's comments about critics and analysts — news.detik.com](https://news.detik.com/berita/d-8403971/pdip-soal-prabowo-mau-tertibkan-pengamat-risiko-rakyat-yang-telah-memilih)
      * [Prabowo calls ministers to palace to discuss budget efficiency amid Middle East conflict — liputan6.com](https://liputan6.com/bisnis/read/6301355/prabowo-panggil-airlangga-hingga-purbaya-ke-istana-bahas-efisiensi-anggaran)
      * [Indonesia's Danantara sovereign wealth fund faces performance concerns — asiasentinel.com](https://asiasentinel.com/p/indonesia-prabowo-warns-pet-investment-fund-danantara)
    </Expandable>
  </ResponseField>
</Accordion>