Madinah Media Weekly News Round-Up

19 Rajab 1447 • 09 January 2026 • يوم الجمعة

Assalaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullaahi Wa Barakaatuh,

Welcome to this week’s global news summary bringing you important developments from around the world.

📰 1. SA President Reflects on Transformation Challenges

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said that undoing the deep legacy of colonial dispossession has been a long and difficult process that cannot be reversed overnight. He highlighted how centuries of inequity have made transformative progress complex and ongoing. While critics have challenged his leadership, Ramaphosa maintains that structural reform takes time and collective effort.

⚓ 2. “Will for Peace” Naval Drill Commences in SA

South Africa has begun hosting the “Will for Peace 2026” joint naval exercises in its coastal waters with navies from countries including China, Russia, and Iran. These drills are part of BRICS-related cooperation aimed at improving joint maritime coordination and ensuring safer shipping routes. The exercise has drawn international attention, including scrutiny over how participation decisions were made, and a government board of inquiry has been announced to examine the Iranian navy’s role.

🇺🇸 3. South African Communist Party Criticizes US Policies

The South African Communist Party, led by General Secretary Solly Mapaila, joined a coalition protesting what it described as U.S. interventionist actions abroad, especially regarding recent moves in Venezuela. The group condemned U.S. foreign policy and called on Americans to reconsider their leadership’s approach to global conflicts and sovereignty issues.

🛢️ 4. US Signals Control Over Venezuela’s Oil and Politics

Reports suggest the United States plans to maintain significant influence over Venezuela’s decisions and control of its oil exports for the foreseeable future, especially after recent political turmoil that saw Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro removed from power by force. This development reflects escalating geopolitical tensions over energy resources and regional influence.

🇴🇲 5. Friction Grows Between Saudi Arabia and the UAE

Relations between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates — both key Gulf states — are reported to be strained. Although they were once united in coalition efforts, particularly in Yemen, Riyadh and Abu Dhabi are now backing different factions and strategies in regional conflicts, highlighting emerging diplomatic rifts within the Middle East.

📵 6. Iran’s Internet Blackout Amid Widespread Unrest

Iran has experienced a major internet shutdown amid escalating nationwide protests triggered by economic hardship and inflation. Monitoring groups reported that digital communications were cut off as demonstrations grew in size across major cities. Recent reporting shows the blackout has been one of the most significant in the country’s history, disrupting daily life and communication while drawing international concern.

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