Japan is preparing to lead a high-level briefing on nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation during its presidency of the Security Council, chaired by Foreign Minister Yōko Kamikawa with a briefing by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The Security Council has historically pursued disarmament, but progress is challenged by geopolitical tensions, nuclear arsenal modernization, and increased military expenditures. Recent actions by Russia and North Korea, along with Iran's uranium enrichment, have heightened nuclear risks. The Council faces hurdles in promoting disarmament due to the reluctance of nuclear-armed states and divisions among members. Japan's unique position as the only country to have experienced nuclear bombing drives its commitment to disarmament, as evidenced by a resolution it led in the General Assembly, supported by 148 member states.

Recent escalations in the Middle East have seen Hamas launch rockets towards Israel and engage in kidnappings, resulting in significant Israeli and Palestinian casualties. The attacks are seen as an attempt to disrupt Saudi-Israeli normalization talks, threatening Iran's regional influence. The situation has drawn diverse international reactions, with the US supporting Israel, and the EU and UN condemning Hamas. The absence of a Speaker of the House in the US could delay military support to Israel. Egypt and Qatar's roles in the crisis are noteworthy, given their ties with Hamas. The conflict's impact on the Palestinian civilian population is severe, with little hope for a swift resolution.

The passing of Queen Elizabeth II has led to global expressions of sorrow. As the UK's longest reigning monarch, she was respected for her grace and dedication. She visited the UN twice and was commended for her charitable work and environmental advocacy, including her speech at COP26. UN Secretary General António Guterres expressed condolences to her family, the UK, and the Commonwealth.

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has shifted the country's stance on Western Sahara, now recognizing Morocco's autonomy plan as the most serious, realistic, and credible solution to the long-standing dispute. This comes after a period of strained relations between Spain and Morocco, which saw diplomatic visits and discussions. The change in position aligns Spain with other countries like the US and Germany, which have shown support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara. The Polisario Front, seeking independence for Western Sahara, has been involved in resumed hostilities with the Moroccan army. Spain's Foreign Minister has been invited to Rabat for further discussions, with Spain expressing intent to collaborate on common challenges.

US Vice President Kamala Harris is set to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Munich during the Munich Security Conference. This marks their first-ever engagement amidst Russia's military buildup on Ukraine's border. Harris will lead the US delegation and maintain a 'very intense' schedule, with discussions expected to cover Russia's actions and US support for NATO allies. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin is also present to discuss the situation and readiness to reinforce NATO's eastern flank.

The European Commission is investigating whether France allowed the sale of cyber-surveillance technology to Egypt, a country facing accusations of repression under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has contacted French authorities for clarification in compliance with EU export regulations. French Green MEP Mounir Satouri and other EU legislators called for action after a report by Disclose. The issue is particularly sensitive given France's current EU presidency and President Emmanuel Macron's previous honor bestowed on El-Sisi. Human Rights Watch and the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies express concerns over the potential misuse of the technology for cracking down on dissent.

A drone strike at Saudi Arabia's Abha airport on Thursday injured 12 civilians, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. The Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen intercepted the Iranian-backed Houthi drone, causing shrapnel to injure individuals including two Saudis, four Bangladeshis, three Nepalese, and an Indian. Coalition spokesman Brig. Gen. Turki Al-Maliki labeled the attack a war crime. The incident follows a phone call between King Salman and US President Joe Biden, discussing regional cooperation and the threat of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Yemeni government troops have been combating Houthi rebels in Haradh, with at least 200 Houthis killed in the last 24 hours. Yemen's Army and coalition forces are considering sending military support from Saudi Arabia to bolster the fight against the Houthis, who have been targeting the central city of Marib.