The full archive of daily intelligence briefs from The Basedment desks.

The escalating war between al-Qaeda and Islamic State in the Sahel is forcing both groups to divert resources, potentially giving embattled governments breathing room while deepening instability across the region.

Malian and Russian forces have regained Kidal as Ethiopia’s federal counteroffensive pushes further into Tigray, with both advances raising questions over whether territorial gains can secure lasting control amid continued insurgent activity and growing regional involvement.

Renewed war in northern Ethiopia is reshaping regional alliances, threatening stability across the Horn of Africa and potentially complicating external support for Sudan’s RSF.

After many months of preparation and difficulties, the SAF have recaptured Kurmuk from RSF and allied forces.

Russian forces have faced another setback in Mali, after anti-government forces launched a series of attacks in the contested Kidal region.

A recent photo with the new Israeli ambassador had many anti-westerners scratching their heads, but if you have been paying attention this has been a long relationship.

And in today’s conflict tracker, we zoom into two conflict zones - Sudan and the Strait of Hormuz.