This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news coverings foreign affairs and international relations. Once a week, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Want to track other GR news in related areas? Don't miss this week's updates in Defence and Social Issues. Also consider subscribing to our Foreign Affairs - Ottawa edition covering critical GR news north of the border.

Dates: 2026-03-01 to 2026-03-07

📋 In This Week's Newsletter

• 🏛️ This Week's Congressional Calendar
• 🇺🇸 Federal Government News
• 📜 Legislative Updates
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week

This Week's Congressional Calendar

• Senate HELP Committee to Examine Foreign Influence in Higher Education: The Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee will hold hearings on March 12 to review transparency and trust concerns related to foreign influence in higher education, in Dirksen Senate Office Building, room 430.

Federal Government News

Operation Epic Fury: U.S. Military Campaign Against Iranian Regime

President Trump initiated Operation Epic Fury, a military campaign aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear capabilities, missile infrastructure, and influence networks. The operation follows failed diplomatic attempts and is backed by allied partners. International figures and lawmakers have cited Iran’s record of terrorism and nuclear ambitions as rationale for the campaign. The response has included statements of support from leaders in Israel, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and bipartisan calls in Congress. The campaign is viewed as a significant action affecting regional security and the global threat landscape.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

U.S. Treasury Announces Sanctions Against Rwanda Defence Force and DRC-Related Individuals

The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s OFAC designated the Rwanda Defence Force and four leaders under Executive Order 13413 for actions threatening peace and stability in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These designations block all property and interests in property under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibit U.S. persons from engaging in transactions with listed parties. The sanctions cite involvement in supporting the M23 group and undermining stability in the DRC. Additional details are published on OFAC’s SDN List.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Sanctions Announced Regarding International Criminal Court Activities

The State Department imposed sanctions under Executive Order 14203 on individuals and entities associated with the International Criminal Court for investigations and prosecutions that occurred without host country consent. Sanctioned individuals span multiple countries, including Canada, Italy, France, Slovenia, Benin, Uganda, and others. Entities include Al Haq, Al Mezan Center for Human Rights, and Palestinian Centre for Human Rights. These measures block property and interests in property within U.S. jurisdiction; further information is available via the OFAC website.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Executive Order Issued to Combat Cybercrime and Fraud Targeting Americans

On March 6, President Trump issued an Executive Order targeting cybercrime, fraud, and predatory schemes against American citizens. It mandates federal agencies to formulate an action plan within 120 days to dismantle transnational criminal organizations engaged in cyber-enabled crimes. The order creates an operational cell within the National Coordination Center for coordination and information sharing. It instructs the Attorney General to prioritize cyber-fraud prosecutions and proposes a Victim Restoration Program using seized funds. International engagement, including sanctions and visa restrictions on permissive nations, is specified.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

Advisory Committees for Trade Policy and Environment: Charter Renewal and Nomination Requests

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative issued notices for charter renewal and nomination requests for the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations (ACTPN) and the Trade and Environment Policy Advisory Committee (TEPAC). ACTPN will serve a four-year term with up to 45 members from labor, industry, agriculture, and other sectors, offering policy guidance on trade issues. TEPAC continues for two years with up to 35 members, advising the USTR on trade policies affecting environmental outcomes. Nomination processes, eligibility, and membership criteria are detailed within each notice.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov, www.federalregister.gov

Legislative Updates

Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2025 Advances in Senate

Bill 755, titled the Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2025, passed the House and is now placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders, Calendar No. 348. The bill aims to address matters tied to energy policy and critical mineral supply.

Sources: www.congress.gov

GEO Act Ordered to be Reported by Unanimous Consent

Bill 301, titled the GEO Act, moved through the House energy policy area and has been ordered to be reported by unanimous consent. The legislative action focuses on geo-related energy developments, indicating further committee and chamber review.

Sources: www.congress.gov

What We're Reading This Week

• Opinion | Iran and a New Middle East Alliance: Article discusses shifting alliances and responses to Iran in the Middle East.
• Opinion | The Bibi-Made-Trump-Do-It Canard: Commentary addresses assertions surrounding Israel's influence on U.S. decision-making toward Iran.
• Why China Is Doing So Little to Help a Friend Under Fire: Analysis covers China's muted response to Iranian conflict escalation.
• Opinion | Why Britain Is a Bad Ally to the U.S.: Editorial questions Britain's effectiveness as a U.S. ally amid recent events.
• Defense Without U.S. Help Is a Live Topic for Canada, Japan and Australia: Canada, Japan, and Australia face debates on defense strategies in light of U.S. policies.
• How to help civilians impacted by the Middle East conflict: Report covers initiatives and organizations working to assist Middle East civilians.

.