Author: Admin

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan announced Tuesday that border violence between Afghanistan and Pakistan has resulted in the deaths of at least 42 civilians, with another 104 people suffering injuries.

The casualty figures cover a five-day span of hostilities that took place from February 26 through March 2, according to the UN mission’s statement issued from Kabul.

The cross-border confrontations have highlighted ongoing tensions between the neighboring countries, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of the violence during this recent escalation.

The Treasury Department announced Monday it has placed financial penalties on Rwanda’s military leadership and defense forces, alleging the African nation is providing assistance to armed rebels operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

According to Treasury officials, Rwanda’s military has been providing training, equipment and direct combat support to the March 23 Movement, commonly known as M23, which operates in eastern Congo and has been linked to widespread human rights violations and mass population displacement.

“The Rwandan Defense Force is actively supporting, training, and fighting alongside the March 23 Movement (M23), a U.S.- and United Nations-sanctioned armed group responsible for human rights abuses and a mass displacement crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” Treasury Department officials stated.

The penalties specifically target four Rwandan military leaders, including army chief of staff Vincent Nyakarundi and the nation’s top defense official.

International observers, including Congolese officials, American diplomats and United Nations investigators, have long alleged Rwanda provides backing to M23 forces, which have expanded dramatically from several hundred members in 2021 to approximately 6,500 fighters today, UN data shows.

Eastern Congo has become a battleground for more than 100 different armed factions competing for control of the region’s valuable mineral resources near the Rwandan border. M23 has emerged as the most powerful among these groups. The ongoing violence has generated what refugee agencies describe as one of the planet’s worst humanitarian emergencies, forcing more than 7 million residents from their homes.

Combat operations persist across multiple areas of eastern Congo despite diplomatic efforts, including a US-brokered agreement between Congolese and Rwandan leadership and continued talks between rebel representatives and Congo’s government. The fighting has resulted in significant casualties among both civilians and military personnel.

Rwanda’s government rejected the American sanctions as unfair and inaccurate. “The sanctions issued today by the United States — unjustly targeting only one party to the peace process — misrepresent the reality and distort the facts of the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo,” government spokesperson Yolande Makolo stated Monday.

Makolo further claimed Congo has broken peace agreements through what she described as “indiscriminate” aerial bombardments and ground military operations.

A shipping industry leader revealed that approximately 100 container vessels are among 750 ships currently stranded near the Strait of Hormuz due to escalating tensions between Iran and Western allies.

Jeremy Nixon, who leads Ocean Network Express (ONE), disclosed these figures during a maritime industry gathering in Long Beach, California on Monday. Nixon explained that this represents roughly one-tenth of all container ships operating worldwide.

“About 10% of the container ship global fleet is caught up in this,” Nixon stated at the conference.

The maritime crisis developed after insurance companies halted coverage for ships traveling through the strategic waterway connecting Iran and Oman. This crucial passage handles approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply along with substantial natural gas shipments.

Iranian military officials have escalated their threats, with a Revolutionary Guards commander announcing on state television Monday that vessels attempting passage through the strait would face destruction.

Nixon warned of significant supply chain disruptions ahead, saying “All of that cargo is going to start backing up” at major shipping terminals throughout Europe and Asia.

The shipping executive, who will step down from his CEO position on July 1, confirmed that ONE has joined competitors including industry giant MSC in suspending cargo reservations bound for Middle Eastern destinations.

Ocean Network Express operates as a joint venture between three major Japanese shipping corporations: Nippon Yusen Kaisha, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and K Line.

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — What typically brings vibrant street festivals and elaborate costume celebrations has moved underground this year, as Israeli families observed the Jewish holiday of Purim from the safety of reinforced bomb shelters while their nation remains at war with Iranian forces.

On Monday in Tel Aviv, residents dressed in glittering outfits, animal ears, swashbuckling attire, and colorful plumage gathered in a shopping center’s basement parking area that doubles as a protective shelter. They came together for the ceremonial Purim story reading, followed by live music and traditional dancing.

“It’s all about choosing happiness, choosing to be joyful, no matter what else is going on,” said Mariel Margulis, a Tel Aviv resident who had set up a tent in the parking garage and lived there for the past few days with her husband and 6-month old son. They dressed up as people having a bath, complete with bath robes, and their son, Amichai, as a rubber ducky, and created a bathtub play area for him next to their tent.

The ancient Purim narrative from the Book of Esther recounts how Haman, a royal advisor to King Ahashverosh, devised a scheme to eliminate all Jews throughout the empire. Queen Esther and her relative Mordechai ultimately prevented this genocide. These events unfolded in Shushan, located in ancient Persia—territory that encompasses present-day Iran.

“It feels biblical in proportions, what’s happening right now, and we’re doing the little bit we can, staying calm, staying joyful,” said Mariel. Nearby, Amichai slept through the loud “boos” from the crowd to drown out the name of Haman, the villain of the story, during a reading from the Book of Esther.

“It’s like the same plot of Purim with a different cast,” said Daniel Margulis, Mariel’s husband.

This cherished festival, embraced by observant and non-religious Jews alike, commenced Monday evening across most Jewish communities worldwide. In historically fortified cities like Jerusalem, the holiday begins one day later according to tradition.

During peaceful years, families in elaborate disguises fill city centers while children consume countless triangular pastries called hamantaschen. Custom dictates wearing costumes and consuming significant amounts of alcohol during the festivities.

Jerusalem typically sees performers positioned on balconies above busy streets, with neighborhood block parties continuing well into the night throughout the ancient stone walkways.

Organizers had scheduled large-scale celebrations this year following a two-year hiatus. Multiple municipalities had cancelled or reduced their Purim activities over the previous two years because of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

However, the recent military action by Israel and the United States against Iran on Saturday once again forced modifications to holiday plans.

“We came because the kids didn’t want to miss out on Purim, they were really excited to get dressed up,” said Elysa Rapoport, a Tel Aviv resident who works in investments. Her daughters dressed up as Barbie Cowgirl and Rumi from K-pop Demon Hunters.

With most traditional Purim events cancelled, the family carefully planned their route to ensure quick access to protective shelters along the way. Iranian rocket attacks have forced Israeli citizens to seek shelter repeatedly throughout both day and night hours.

“This just feels surreal,” Rapoport said, looking over the celebrations, as hundreds of people gathered and danced under the parking lot’s fluorescent lights. Nearby, people and their dogs who had moved into the shelter for the duration of the war lounged on air mattresses, scrolling through their phones.

“It’s not the most optimal conditions, we’re used to our synagogue, but we’re here together with all of the nation of Israel,” said Gabi Grinshtain, a 39-year-old environmental consultant. “These are important days, and the setting is less important.”

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — The Haitian government launched a 10-day window Monday allowing political organizations to register for participation in planned general elections, marking a significant milestone for the Caribbean nation that has been without elections for more than ten years amid ongoing deadly criminal violence.

Security forces carrying heavy weapons formed a protective perimeter around the Provisional Electoral Council’s main building as representatives from established political organizations collected required registration documents.

Among those present was Pierre Dieu-Donné Delice, a mental health professional leading a newly formed political organization called Tools for Another Haiti. Speaking with The Associated Press, Delice expressed frustration with the temporary administration that has governed since President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination at his home in July 2021.

“They love transition because there’s no control. They can do whatever they want,” Delice stated regarding Haiti’s current leadership.

The nation’s current interim leader is Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, who governs a troubled nation where criminal organizations maintain control over approximately 90% of Port-au-Prince and significant territory in central regions.

Fils-Aimé enjoys support from the United States government and previously shared authority with a temporary presidential council created in 2024, almost three years following Moïse’s death. The council concluded its mandate on February 7 as legally required, making Fils-Aimé the country’s sole executive authority.

Officials have committed to conducting general elections by late August with potential runoff voting scheduled for early December, though the feasibility remains questionable.

“The conditions are not ready yet for an election,” Delice observed, pointing to continuing criminal violence across multiple regions. “There is no way for candidates to campaign there. … If the situation stays the way it is now, it will be impossible to have an election.”

United Nations data indicates more than 5,900 deaths and over 2,700 injuries occurred throughout Haiti last year.

The criminal violence has forced a historic 1.4 million people from their homes in the nation of approximately 12 million residents.

Delice personally experienced displacement when heavily armed criminal groups attacked his family’s residence in the central coastal community of Arcahaie.

He relocated his political organization’s operations from his hometown to Port-au-Prince and now relies on watercraft or aircraft to connect with regional party supporters because criminal groups maintain control over major transportation corridors leading to and from the capital, sometimes firing on passing vehicles.

Joseph André Gracien Jean, the cabinet official overseeing electoral affairs, welcomed Monday’s launch of political party registration.

“Today, we take a big step,” he informed the AP. “People should be elected to return to a democratic order.”

He indicated the council would not delay party registration until security improves nationwide.

“It’s a long process; step by step, we are moving forward,” Gracien Jean explained. “What’s important is that the executive branch is making an effort.”

The registration window closes March 12, with officials anticipating increased activity before the deadline.

André Jonas Vladimir Paraison, who leads Haiti’s National Police, recently informed the AP that law enforcement continues developing plans for conducting elections safely.

A new criminal suppression unit is anticipated to replace the current U.N.-supported mission headed by Kenyan officers that remains both understaffed and inadequately funded in the coming months.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed confidence that the current military conflict with Iran will conclude swiftly and won’t develop into a prolonged engagement spanning multiple years, as fighting expanded across the Middle East on Tuesday.

While President Donald Trump had originally estimated the military operation would span four to five weeks, he has since advocated for a more comprehensive campaign against Iran.

Netanyahu dismissed concerns about the conflict becoming another lengthy regional war during an appearance on Fox News’ “Hannity” show Monday evening.

“I said it could be quick and decisive. It may take some time, but it’s not going to take years. It’s not an endless war,” Netanyahu stated during the television interview.

On Tuesday, the fourth day of hostilities, air defense systems intercepted incoming Iranian missiles over Tel Aviv, causing explosions that rattled buildings throughout the city.

Israeli forces struck Iran’s state television network IRIB facilities in Tehran while simultaneously targeting Hezbollah militants across multiple Lebanese towns.

Two Iranian drones hit the American embassy in Riyadh early Tuesday morning, causing minimal damage and igniting a small fire, according to Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry. Saudi forces intercepted at least eight additional drones before they could reach the capital city.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced Tuesday that its naval units had destroyed the primary command center at a U.S. airbase in Bahrain during what they called the 14th phase of “Operation Promise of the Truth 4.”

The IRGC reported launching an extensive drone and missile assault on the Sheikh Isa area facility during early morning hours, claiming 20 drones and three missiles successfully hit their designated targets.

Neither the U.S. State Department nor the White House provided immediate responses to requests for comment regarding these attacks.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Monday that “the hardest hits are yet to come from the U.S. military” as the offensive against Iran continues.

When questioned about the duration of American involvement in Iran, Rubio acknowledged uncertainty and didn’t dismiss the possibility of Trump authorizing ground troops for Middle Eastern combat operations.

“We believe the objectives we have set for this mission, the destruction of their ballistic missile capabilities, both launch capibilities and manufacturing can be achieved without ground forces,” Rubio explained to reporters.

“Right now we are not postured for ground forces. But obviously the president has those options and he is not going to rule out anything.”

The joint U.S.-Israeli aerial campaign against Iran commenced Saturday with strikes on Tehran that resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iranian and Hezbollah retaliation has expanded the conflict throughout the Gulf region, causing civilian casualties across Iran, Israel, and Lebanon.

American military officials reported striking over 1,250 Iranian targets and destroying 11 Iranian naval vessels. Six U.S. service members have died in Iran’s weekend retaliatory strikes against Kuwait.

Kuwaiti forces accidentally shot down three American F-15E fighter aircraft during an Iranian assault, U.S. Central Command confirmed. All six crew members successfully ejected and were rescued safely.

The warfare has severely disrupted global aviation and halted maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, where twenty percent of worldwide oil commerce passes along Iran’s coastline, driving petroleum prices sharply higher.

Key Gulf transportation centers, including Dubai’s international airport – typically the world’s busiest with over 1,000 daily flights – remained shuttered for the fourth consecutive day due to the conflict. Tens of thousands of travelers remain stranded in what represents aviation’s greatest challenge since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Asian airline stocks continued declining Tuesday as carriers monitored fuel cost increases and experienced booking surges from passengers avoiding Middle Eastern carriers.

International oil and gas shipping costs skyrocketed, with Middle Eastern supertanker rates reaching record levels after Tehran began targeting vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to Tuesday shipping data and industry sources.

Trump has justified the war by citing an immediate Iranian threat to the United States, though he hasn’t provided specific details and some congressional members say he’s presented no supporting evidence.

Rubio told reporters Monday that America acted preemptively after learning of ally Israel’s planned Iranian strikes and anticipating Tehran’s response would endanger U.S. installations.

“We knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn’t preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties,” Rubio explained.

In his most comprehensive public statements about the conflict, Trump said Monday he authorized the attack to disrupt Tehran’s nuclear program and rapidly expanding ballistic missile capabilities.

Satellite imagery analysis revealed what appears to be the first documented strikes on an Iranian nuclear facility since hostilities began, according to an independent policy research organization’s Monday report.

Iran has rejected accusations of pursuing nuclear weapons and characterized the U.S.-Israeli assault as unprovoked, occurring during ongoing Tehran-Washington nuclear agreement negotiations.

Trump abandoned a previous international nuclear limitation agreement with Iran in 2018, three years after its initial signing during his first presidency.

Trump’s Iranian military action represents the most significant U.S. foreign policy risk in decades and poses considerable political danger for his Republican Party in upcoming midterm elections, with only twenty-five percent of Americans supporting the Iranian attack according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos survey.

Russia, China, and Turkey have all condemned the military campaign.

The death of a young French extremist has sparked an unprecedented wave of coordinated demonstrations across Europe, revealing the growing international connections between far-right organizations and raising alarm among security officials.

Twenty-three-year-old Quentin Deranque died following a violent confrontation with left-wing activists in Lyon, France on February 14. His death has been compared by some to a “Charlie Kirk moment,” referencing last year’s shooting of the American conservative figure.

In response to Deranque’s death, extremist groups from multiple countries organized memorial events in more than two dozen European cities, including Rome, Dresden, and Zagreb. The most significant gathering occurred in Lyon one week after the incident, drawing approximately 3,000 participants who displayed Nazi salutes and chanted racist and anti-LGBTQ slurs.

Austrian far-right figure Martin Sellner, who organized a memorial in Vienna, declared in a social media video: “His death must awaken a European-wide movement.”

The Lyon demonstration attracted participants from several countries, including members of Germany’s Identitarian movement, which German intelligence agencies classify as an extremist organization with connections to the Alternative for Germany (AfD) political party. Italian neo-fascist groups CasaPound and Lealta Azione also participated, according to their social media communications.

French government officials confirmed the attendance of extremist groups from Italy, Switzerland, and Germany, though they declined to identify specific organizations.

Monitoring far-right membership remains challenging across Europe, with few governments releasing comprehensive data. Germany, which maintains strict surveillance of such groups due to its historical experience with Nazism, reported 50,520 right-wing extremists in 2024—a 50% increase from 2020 figures.

MAINSTREAM POLITICAL INFLUENCE

A 2023 French parliamentary investigation concluded that international cooperation among far-right groups primarily involved sharing ideological content rather than establishing “operational links” between organizations.

However, report author and former parliamentarian Eric Poulliat now acknowledges a significant change, stating: “It is an evolution.”

Berlin-based researcher Lorenz Blumenthaler from the Amadeu Antonio Foundation confirmed this assessment, noting: “The far right is actually quite successful in forming international bonds.” He added that Deranque’s death provided these groups with additional opportunities “to mobilise even further” through social media platforms.

Despite government warnings about far-right threats, extremist ideologies have gained acceptance in mainstream political discourse. Concepts like “remigration”—forcibly removing non-white immigrants and their descendants—have transitioned from fringe discussions into the platforms of parties such as Germany’s AfD and policies promoted by the Trump administration.

Britain’s Reform UK party has proposed mass deportations and eliminating primary pathways for immigrant citizenship. France’s National Rally advocates for “national preference” policies, seeking to revoke residency rights for unemployed immigrants and limit family reunification programs.

SECURITY RESPONSE

Lyon municipal authorities expressed concern about activists traveling from across France and Europe for the demonstration, positioning police at city entry points according to a source familiar with the mayor’s office operations.

French intelligence agencies are actively monitoring far-right mobilization following Deranque’s death, with security sources noting his transformation into a European-level symbol and expressing worry about potential revenge attacks.

During a recent interview addressing foreign influence concerns ahead of France’s upcoming presidential election, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot highlighted far-right attempts to undermine democratic institutions following the killing.

“Our responsibility is to prevent it from doing so and to do so to regain control of our public space,” Barrot stated during a franceinfo television appearance, amid French criticism of warnings from the U.S. State Department and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni about left-wing threats.

Several European nations have implemented entry restrictions against prominent far-right figures in recent years. Switzerland and Germany have barred Austria’s Sellner, while Britain denied visa-free access to Dutch influencer Eva Vlaardingerbroek.

Sellner dismissed these restrictions, telling Reuters: “These measures just create more attention and more interest in what I have to say.” Vlaardingerbroek did not respond to requests for comment.

Greek officials confirmed they are monitoring far-right reactions to Deranque’s death. Switzerland’s intelligence service stated it tracks violent right-wing extremists with known international connections. German, Italian, and British authorities declined to comment on security concerns regarding far-right groups and their cross-border activities.

COORDINATED MESSAGING

The Lyon demonstration united various far-right factions, including groups connected to major extremist political parties such as France’s National Rally and Germany’s AfD.

German media collective Filmkunstkollektiv wrote on its Telegram channel regarding the Lyon march: “As alternative filmmakers, it is our foremost duty to spread the news of the murder of the young patriot as widely as possible.”

Simon Kaupert, who founded the collective, confirmed to Reuters that his organization has collaborated with the AfD and Identitarian movement chapters across Austria, Germany, and France.

More than 30 members of Italian group Lealta Azione attended the Lyon demonstration. The organization’s activists have previously campaigned alongside and sought election with Prime Minister Meloni’s party and Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini’s far-right League party.

The official march organizer and government liaison was Aliette Espieux, an anti-abortion activist who campaigned in Lyon’s 2020 municipal elections on a combined National Rally-Christian Democratic Party ticket called “For the love of Lyon.”

The AfD, Lealta Azione, National Rally, and Espieux did not respond to requests for comment.

A German far-right activist and influencer using the online name “Arminius,” who participated in the march but refused to provide his real identity, explained the strategic importance of international cooperation: “The right only has potential if it works together.”

“Networking with other European activists is extremely important to learn from each other and work together on greater projects,” he added.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrives at the White House Tuesday for high-stakes discussions with President Donald Trump, addressing complex issues from recent U.S.-Israeli military operations in Iran to potential new trade restrictions and Merz’s recent diplomatic trip to China.

The German leader’s Washington visit coincides with Germany and France revealing plans to strengthen their nuclear deterrence partnership, signaling European nations’ efforts to adjust to shifting Atlantic alliance dynamics while facing continued Russian aggression and potential Middle East instability.

Coming directly from meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Merz aims to preserve the strong working relationship he’s built with Trump during the past year, bolstered by Germany’s leadership in boosting military spending commitments.

However, the diplomatic mission requires careful navigation given European questions about the international legal basis for the Iran operations, plus significant anxiety over Trump’s warnings of additional global trade penalties.

Merz becomes the first European head of government to visit Washington following the Iran military actions — which have shut down a critical global oil shipping route and disrupted international aviation — and after the Supreme Court’s February 20 decision declaring Trump’s emergency trade measures unlawful.

While originally planned to center on commercial relations, the talks will likely focus heavily on the U.S.-Israeli operation that resulted in the deaths of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other top Iranian officials during the weekend.

Speaking Sunday, Merz avoided condemning the American airstrikes while declining to fully support an action that Trump opponents claim lacked proper justification and international legal foundation.

“We recognize the dilemma,” he said, explaining that repeated attempts over past decades had not put Iran off trying to acquire nuclear weapons or oppressing its own people. “So we’re not going to be lecturing our partners on their military strikes against Iran.”

Jeff Rathke, who leads the American-German Institute, a Washington think tank, indicated the Trump administration holds modest expectations for the meeting, with no significant investment deals anticipated.

“It makes it inevitable that the U.S. and Israeli attacks in Iran will be more of a focal point,” which could prove risky for Merz, Rathke said. “He might be asked directly whether Germany supports the U.S. and whether Germany would provide material support to the U.S. campaign, if asked.”

Charles Lichfield, who directs economic analysis at the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center, suggested Trump likely wants to hear from Merz about his China meetings before his own planned visit there within a month.

“Merz can tell Trump about what he heard and what he saw in China, and say, ‘We need to do something together. We’ll be stronger against China together,’” he said, noting that industrial overcapacity and global imbalances were key elements of the U.S. agenda for the Group of 20 nations this year.

Merz might also use the trip to press Trump for more detail on what he plans to do next on Iran, said Julianne Smith, who served as U.S. ambassador to NATO under former President Joe Biden.

“So, if nothing else, it can be a fact-finding mission to try to determine, ‘Do you guys have a plan for the day after?’” she said.

The State Department announced Tuesday that it has directed all non-essential American government employees and their family members to evacuate from three Middle Eastern nations: Bahrain, Iraq and Jordan.

Officials said the evacuation directive was issued due to heightened security concerns stemming from escalating tensions between the United States and Iran.

The announcement comes as American officials continue to assess potential threats to U.S. personnel stationed throughout the region amid the ongoing diplomatic and military standoff with Iranian forces.

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim revealed new information Tuesday about an alleged conspiracy designed to overthrow his administration, telling lawmakers that a suspect hired a global public relations company to orchestrate attacks on government institutions.

Speaking before parliament, Ibrahim detailed how the scheme was allegedly developed in response to a major corruption probe being conducted by Malaysia’s Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) targeting the unnamed suspect.

Law enforcement officials announced last week they were examining a potential conspiracy to “sabotage national stability” using legislation designed to protect parliamentary democracy from threats.

The prime minister explained that the public relations campaign launched in August 2024 and was designed to continue through Malaysia’s next scheduled general election in early 2028. The strategy reportedly involved recruiting media organizations, financial institutions, and elected officials.

“Their strategy… was to contact all foreign media with a strategy of undermining the government’s efforts, especially the MACC’s,” Ibrahim stated during his parliamentary address, referencing materials seized by investigators.

“And then to use their power and contacts in foreign countries to shape a narrative questioning the authority of the Malaysian government and organise a movement through the Malaysian parliament. That is what worries us.”

According to Ibrahim, official documents show Bloomberg was among the media companies specifically targeted in the alleged conspiracy. Bloomberg representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding these claims.

Authorities have not disclosed the identity of either the suspected individual or the international PR company involved.

A government task force is separately examining claims made in a recent Bloomberg investigation suggesting MACC chief Azam Baki may have violated stock ownership regulations.

Baki has expressed readiness to face investigation, stating he has “nothing to hide” and confirming all his financial disclosures comply with civil service requirements.

Political leaders, including members of Ibrahim’s own governing alliance, have demanded a royal commission investigate additional Bloomberg reporting alleging widespread impropriety within the anti-corruption agency.

MACC officials have dismissed these claims as “baseless” and accused critics of attempting to damage the agency’s corporate investigations and enforcement activities.

Ibrahim indicated Tuesday that establishing a royal commission would be “premature” while the special committee expects to finish its investigation within days.

Travelers flying between Asia and Europe are facing dramatically higher ticket prices and limited availability after major Middle Eastern airports shut down due to the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran.

Dubai International Airport, which typically processes more than 1,000 daily flights and ranks as the world’s busiest international hub, has now been closed for four straight days as of Tuesday. Other major Gulf region airports have also suspended operations, creating severe capacity shortages on popular travel corridors including Australia to Europe, where Emirates and Qatar Airways typically dominate the market.

The crisis has overwhelmed travel agencies with desperate customers seeking alternatives. Australia’s Flight Centre Travel Group reports call volumes to their retail locations and emergency help lines have jumped 75% since the situation began, with staff working continuously to assist stranded passengers, according to Global Managing Director Andrew Stark.

“Australians are very resilient and are already rebooking flights to the UK/Europe via alternative routes via China, Singapore, and other Asian hubs, as well as North America via hubs such as Houston,” Stark explained.

Airlines providing direct Asia-Europe service can navigate around the restricted Middle Eastern airspace by routing northward through the Caucasus region and Afghanistan, or taking southern paths through Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. However, these longer flight paths increase both travel time and fuel consumption, pushing up operational costs just as oil prices have surged, potentially leading to permanently higher ticket prices.

“Right now the whole of the Middle East is out of bounds, which is a high price for some airlines,” stated Subhas Menon, who leads the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines. “If then Europe can only be served at a high cost, airline profitability will be undermined. At the end of the day, the price to pay is connectivity.”

Aviation analysts suggest carriers offering direct flights or connections through unaffected hubs – such as Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Turkish Airlines – could benefit in the short term as passengers abandon Gulf-based airlines.

Website searches conducted by Reuters on Tuesday revealed extremely limited near-term availability and inflated pricing for Asia-to-London flights. Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong-London route showed no economy seats available until March 11, with one-way tickets starting at HK$21,158 ($2,705.28) on that date, compared to more typical HK$5,054 pricing later in the month.

Qantas Airways has no economy-class availability on Sydney-London flights via its standard Perth and Singapore connections until March 17, when tickets cost A$3,129 ($2,220.03) one-way. For immediate travel, the airline offers expensive alternatives with unusual stopovers in cities like Los Angeles and Johannesburg.

Thailand’s Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn noted that Thai Airways is seeing completely booked Europe-bound flights as European vacationers choose direct routing instead of Middle Eastern connections. Bangkok-London searches showed sold-out conditions through late next week, with economy tickets priced at 71,190 baht ($2,265) on March 15, dropping to 27,045 baht by March 18.

Taiwan’s EVA Airways reported booking surges for European destinations as both Asian and European travelers hunt for alternative routing solutions. Chinese airline websites displayed dramatically elevated fares on China-UK routes, with economy seats virtually unavailable for immediate departure.

Typically, round-trip economy tickets from Beijing to London cost less than 10,000 yuan ($1,452.71), but Air China’s only Wednesday option is business class at 50,490 yuan one-way.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranian forces launched a drone assault on the American Embassy in Saudi Arabia’s capital early Tuesday morning, continuing a pattern of regional strikes while the United States and Israel intensified their bombing campaign against Iran in what President Donald Trump described as the beginning of an extended military operation potentially lasting over a month.

Two Iranian drones targeted the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, resulting in a “limited fire” and minimal structural damage, Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry reported, though officials declined to provide additional specifics. This incident occurred one day after Iranian forces struck the American Embassy in Kuwait.

The broadening scope of Iran’s retaliatory strikes throughout the Gulf region, combined with the intensity of American and Israeli bombardments, the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and the absence of any clear withdrawal strategy suggest a potentially extended conflict with widespread implications.

Iranian retaliation has reached numerous Middle Eastern nations previously considered secure, with recent strikes targeting two Amazon data centers in the United Arab Emirates and causing damage near another facility in Bahrain, the company confirmed Tuesday. Tehran’s forces have also attacked energy infrastructure in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, while targeting multiple vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, the critical waterway handling one-fifth of global oil trade, causing petroleum and natural gas prices to spike worldwide.

The State Department has advised American citizens to evacuate more than a dozen Middle Eastern nations due to security concerns, with many other countries issuing similar warnings, though widespread airspace closures have left numerous travelers unable to depart.

Trump indicated that military operations will likely continue for four to five weeks, though he expressed readiness “to go far longer than that.”

“The hardest hits are yet to come from the U.S. military,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared to reporters prior to briefing Congress members on the Iranian operation.

According to the Iranian Red Crescent Society, the American-Israeli campaign has resulted in at least 555 fatalities. Israeli casualties include 11 deaths from Iranian missile strikes on multiple locations within the country. Israel’s counter-strikes against Hezbollah have killed dozens in Lebanon.

“Military escalation would force more families from their homes and hit civilians hard,” warned Amy Pope, director general of the International Organization on Migration, as she urged the global community Tuesday to push for de-escalation.

“Millions are already displaced in the region,” she added.

The American military has acknowledged six service member deaths. All casualties were Army personnel from a single logistics unit stationed in Kuwait, according to a U.S. official speaking anonymously due to lack of authorization for public comment.

Casualty reports include three deaths in the United Arab Emirates, with one fatality each in Kuwait and Bahrain.

Iran’s foreign minister shared imagery Monday depicting graves he claimed belonged to over 160 girls killed in a U.S.-Israeli attack on a Minab school. “Their bodies were torn to shreds,” Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X.

In Israel, funeral services were held Monday evening at Jerusalem’s Mount of Olives for three young siblings killed in an Iranian strike.

The conflict’s confusion became evident when American forces reported that Kuwait had “mistakenly shot down” three U.S. fighter aircraft during Iran’s multi-pronged assault using planes, ballistic missiles and drones. U.S. Central Command confirmed all six pilots safely ejected.

Iranian state television reported that strikes caused two explosions at a Tehran broadcasting facility early Tuesday, though no injuries were reported.

Iran’s International Atomic Energy Agency ambassador Reza Najafi informed reporters that Sunday airstrikes hit the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility.

“Their justification that Iran wants to develop nuclear weapons is simply a big lie,” he stated.

Neither Israel nor the United States have confirmed targeting the facility, which American forces bombed during the 12-day Iran-Israel conflict in June. Israeli officials have stated their focus on “leadership and nuclear infrastructure.”

Trump outlined the military campaign’s goals as destroying Iran’s missile capabilities, eliminating its naval forces, preventing nuclear weapon acquisition, and stopping support for allied groups like Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which launched missiles at Israel Monday.

Iran maintains it has not enriched uranium since June, while asserting its right to do so and characterizing its nuclear program as peaceful.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed in a Monday evening Fox News Channel Hannity interview that Iran was constructing “new sites, new places” underground for atomic bomb production.

“We had to take the action now and we did,” Netanyahu said, providing no supporting evidence for his assertion.

Associated Press analysis of satellite imagery revealed minimal activity at two Iranian nuclear facilities before the conflict began. Experts suggested Tehran was likely evaluating damage from 2025 U.S. strikes and potentially salvaging remaining materials.

The conflict has extended into Lebanon, where Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants fired missiles at Israel Monday, though no injuries or damage were reported.

Israeli retaliation included strikes on Lebanon. The nation’s Health Ministry documented at least 52 deaths and 154 injuries from overnight attacks in Beirut suburbs and southern Lebanon.

Israeli military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin stated that Israel maintains “all options on the table,” including a possible ground invasion of Lebanon.

Early Tuesday morning brought additional Israeli airstrikes on Beirut, with officials claiming they targeted “Hezbollah command centers and weapons storage facilities.”

Hezbollah reported launching drones against an Israeli air base. Israeli military forces confirmed downing two drones.

An Iranian-affiliated militant group in Iraq has also claimed responsibility for strikes on American military installations.

Middle Eastern warfare has reached a critical juncture, with President Donald Trump indicating American forces possess “the capability to go far longer” than the originally estimated four-to-five week duration for military action against Iran.

Throughout Tehran, explosive sounds echoed across the city during overnight hours and into Tuesday morning, as American and Israeli forces have maintained their assault on Iran following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei this past Saturday.

Iranian forces and their regional partners have retaliated with strikes against Israeli territory, Gulf nations in the vicinity, and infrastructure vital to global oil and gas supplies.

The ferocity of the combat and absence of a clear withdrawal strategy have created conditions for an extended confrontation with widespread ramifications. American and Israeli officials have offered inconsistent explanations regarding the conflict’s goals and potential resolution.

During a Monday evening appearance on Fox News Channel’s “Hannity” program, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the military action, claiming Iran was constructing “new sites, new places” that would render “their ballistic missile program and their atomic bomb program immune within months,” though he offered no supporting evidence.

Associated Press examination of satellite imagery revealed minimal operations at two Iranian nuclear facilities prior to hostilities, with experts suggesting Tehran was likely evaluating damage from American June strikes and attempting to recover remaining materials.

Recent developments include:

Iran’s capital experienced continuous explosive sounds throughout nighttime hours extending into early Tuesday morning.

Local residents reported observing aircraft flying overhead during the attacks.

The specific targets of these strikes remained unclear in immediate reports.

Iranian state broadcasting aired a Revolutionary Guard statement early Tuesday, announcing missile and drone strikes against a Bahraini air installation.

Israeli military operations struck Lebanon’s capital city Tuesday morning.

Israeli defense forces stated they were attacking “Hezbollah command centers and weapons storage facilities in Beirut.”

Hezbollah responded by launching drone attacks against an Israeli airfield.

Israeli military officials reported successfully intercepting two incoming drones.

Japan has instructed its shipping companies to keep vessels away from Persian Gulf waters to protect crew safety.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced Tuesday that the Transport Ministry had contacted the Japanese Shipowners’ Association, urging maximum protection for personnel in the region.

Kihara stated that ships currently in Gulf waters should anchor in secure locations.

Monday saw Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi meeting with Iranian ambassador Peiman Seadat, reiterating Japan’s position that Iran must cease attacks on neighboring nations and other destabilizing activities.

Motegi emphasized the critical importance of maintaining security in the Strait of Hormuz for Japan’s energy needs.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi attempted to shift blame to the United States early Tuesday, characterizing American involvement as entering “a war of choice on behalf of Israel.”

Following Trump’s call for Iranians to overthrow their government, Araghchi made a similar appeal to American citizens.

“Shedding of both American and Iranian blood is thus on Israel Firsters,” Araghchi posted on X. “American people deserve better and should take back their country.”

WASHINGTON/BEIJING – Recent American military operations targeting Iran have placed Chinese President Xi Jinping in a difficult position as he prepares for a scheduled summit with President Donald Trump, marking the second time in two months that Washington has taken military action against one of China’s key allies.

Trump plans to travel to Beijing by the end of March, following the January capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro during a dangerous operation in Caracas and the ongoing U.S.-Israeli air campaign that resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday. Both nations have served as significant oil providers for China.

The upcoming meeting, which Trump’s administration says will center on trade discussions, remains uncertain in both its outcome and whether it will proceed as planned.

A week ago, Trump appeared to be heading into the Beijing talks from a position of weakness after the Supreme Court struck down several of his tariff policies. However, the tables have turned, with Xi now appearing unsteady and struggling to formulate a strong response to America’s largest military engagement since the Iraq conflict.

Although Beijing has denounced the U.S.-led operations as “unacceptable” and urged restraint, analysts note that China’s cautious reaction demonstrates both its limited capacity to affect American military decisions and the transactional character of its diplomatic relationships.

Former U.S. ambassador to Beijing Nicholas Burns, who served under President Joe Biden, wrote on X that China is “proving to be a feckless friend for its authoritarian allies.”

Xi must now navigate the uncomfortable choice between welcoming Trump on the international stage or withdrawing from the proposed March 31 to April 2 summit. Chinese officials have not yet confirmed these meeting dates.

If Xi chooses to move forward, he may be calculating that Washington will ultimately suffer if it becomes mired in a prolonged Middle Eastern conflict.

Trump has indicated the Iranian operation could continue for approximately four weeks, potentially extending nearly to his China visit.

China’s Washington embassy did not respond to inquiries about whether the Iranian situation has affected plans to receive Trump. When asked about how the Iran strikes might influence discussions with Xi, a White House representative said Trump was “taking decisive action to eliminate major national security threats,” without referencing China specifically.

CHINA FACES UNIQUE VULNERABILITIES

The U.S. military campaign presents both immediate and symbolic risks for China.

As the globe’s top purchaser of Iranian petroleum, China imported 13.4% of its total seaborne oil from Iran last year. This creates exceptional vulnerability to supply interruptions as the conflict develops, especially if the Strait of Hormuz – the planet’s most critical oil shipping lane – becomes blocked.

Although China has options to diversify its oil sources, analysts explain that losing Iranian supplies in the near term would create substantial price pressures, squeezing profit margins for the manufacturing sector that forms the backbone of China’s economy.

The American assault on Iran also demonstrates to Beijing and its partners that U.S. military forces can operate effectively not just in their immediate region, but globally.

“The strikes on Iran and the potential regime change will severely impact China’s interests,” stated Zhao Minghao, an international relations specialist at Shanghai’s Fudan University.

Zhao added: “China is assessing the deeper intentions behind U.S. actions in Venezuela and Iran, as the U.S. may increase pressure on China by controlling the international energy market.”

The White House was certainly aware of these implications when it announced Trump’s China trip dates while preparing for the Iranian attack. A source with knowledge of U.S.-China communications told Reuters that the White House continues to wait for an official invitation from Chinese leadership.

BANKING ON RESTRAINED CHINESE REACTION

Currently, the United States is wagering that its Iranian operations will not provoke any Chinese military intervention.

A U.S. official informed Reuters that there is no expectation of China providing material assistance to Iran during American operations, nor that continued U.S. Middle East involvement would encourage Beijing to act more aggressively in the short term in the Indo-Pacific region, where China has undertaken an unprecedented military expansion.

The primary American worry is that challenges in quickly restocking ammunition supplies could diminish “medium-term deterrence” against potential Chinese military moves toward Taiwan, the official explained.

Limited in its capacity to challenge America’s global military presence, China will likely step back and allow the United States to bear responsibility for any resulting Middle Eastern instability, reinforcing Beijing’s message that Washington acts recklessly and creates instability, according to analysts.

Zha Daojiong, an energy security expert at China’s Peking University, told Reuters that Chinese leadership would not feel obligated to assist Iran in the conflict and would reject the “purely rhetorical construction” in Western discourse suggesting an alliance with Iran.

“The direct parties to the conflict make their own bed and get to sleep in it,” Zha stated.

Taiwan’s government declared its backing for global initiatives aimed at bringing democratic freedoms to the Iranian people, while also expressing solidarity with the United States and Israel in their recent military actions.

The announcement came Tuesday from Taiwan’s foreign ministry, as the island nation continues to strengthen ties with democratic partners amid increasing military threats from China, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan.

Taiwan’s leadership, led by President Lai Ching-te, has frequently compared their nation’s security challenges to those facing Israel, particularly as Beijing has intensified military pressure on the island in recent years.

The relationship between Taiwan and Israel has deepened significantly since Hamas launched its attack on southern Israel in October 2023, sparking the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Taiwan has provided unwavering support to Israel throughout this period.

When questioned about Taiwan’s position on recent U.S. and Israeli military operations against Iran, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hsiao Kuang-wei emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to democratic values.

“We support the international community’s efforts to help the Iranian people pursue freedom and democracy and we hope the Iranian people can soon enjoy freedom, democracy and human rights,” Hsiao stated.

The spokesperson also criticized Iran’s recent “indiscriminate military attacks,” specifically mentioning the missile and drone strikes targeting Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and other nations in the Gulf region.

During parliamentary proceedings earlier Tuesday, Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Wu, who conducted a confidential visit to Israel in late 2023, characterized U.S. and Israeli objectives as efforts to “eliminate terrorism.”

“Of course, the U.S. and Israel are both allies of Taiwan’s,” Wu noted.

While Taiwan maintains unofficial relationships with both Israel and the United States, it lacks formal diplomatic recognition from either nation. However, Washington remains Taiwan’s primary international supporter and weapons provider.

Taiwan severed diplomatic connections with Iran in 1971 when Tehran officially recognized the People’s Republic of China.

The Israeli Defense Forces announced Monday night that they have launched another series of military attacks targeting Iran’s capital city of Tehran.

Before conducting the operations, Israeli military officials had warned Tehran civilians to evacuate certain areas of the city, with particular emphasis on neighborhoods surrounding the headquarters of IRIB, Iran’s state-run television and radio network.

The announcement marks the latest escalation in ongoing tensions between the two Middle Eastern nations.

WASHINGTON – Detainee advocates are sounding the alarm about the safety of Americans currently held or trapped in Iran as military strikes between the U.S., Israel, and Iran continue to intensify.

According to advocacy groups, Iran is currently holding at least six U.S. citizens or permanent residents in custody. These individuals are part of what experts believe could be thousands of dual U.S.-Iranian citizens and green card holders who have remained in the country despite ongoing State Department advisories against traveling there due to arrest risks.

“The regime’s history of seeking to leverage Americans for political aims is long established,” explained Ryan Fayhee, who serves on the board of the Foley Foundation advocacy organization. “I would have to imagine that any American is potentially at risk.”

The concerns have intensified following Saturday’s coordinated U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran, which resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials. Iran has responded with retaliatory strikes throughout the region, raising fears that Tehran may seek additional ways to strike back against America.

Kieran Ramsey, formerly an FBI assistant director who once led the U.S. hostage recovery unit and now works with Global Reach advocacy group, highlighted the scope of the problem. “There are hundreds, if not thousands, if not more, of dual nationals that are back there that still have familial ties despite the risks,” Ramsey stated.

The situation is complicated by Iran’s refusal to acknowledge dual citizenship, which prevents other nations from offering diplomatic protection or consular assistance to their citizens who also hold Iranian nationality.

A knowledgeable source revealed that the State Department lacks precise information about how many Americans are currently in Iran. Neither the office of the U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, the White House, the State Department, nor Iran’s U.N. mission provided immediate responses to requests for comment.

President Donald Trump has prioritized the release of Americans who are wrongfully detained or held hostage internationally. According to White House figures, more than 70 Americans have been freed since his second term began in January 2025. However, Trump has not outlined specific protection measures for those detained since Saturday’s military strikes commenced.

Just hours before the U.S.-Israeli attacks began, Secretary of State Marco Rubio made a significant announcement on Friday, designating Iran as the first state sponsor of wrongful detention under a Trump executive order from September 5.

Rubio indicated this designation could lead to restrictions on using U.S. passports for travel to and from Iran, along with other unspecified actions, unless Tehran stops taking “hostages” and frees all Americans. He did not specify the total number of detained Americans.

While detainee advocates viewed Rubio’s announcement as a warning to Iran against harming American prisoners or other U.S. citizens, they worry the message might be ignored given the disruption to Iran’s leadership structure from the strikes.

“When you have kinetic action and military strikes like this, it just ups the risk factor for these folks exponentially,” Ramsey warned.

Elizabeth Richards, research director at the Foley Foundation, confirmed that at least six dual U.S.-Iranian citizens or legal permanent residents are known to be detained in Tehran’s Evin Prison – a facility notorious for housing political prisoners and foreign nationals – or are prevented from leaving Iran. Three of these individuals have not been publicly identified.

Israeli forces bombed Evin Prison during a 12-day aerial campaign against Iran last June, resulting in at least 71 deaths according to Iranian officials.

Among those currently held at Evin is Shahab Dalili, a green card holder who was arrested in 2016 while heading to the airport after his father’s funeral. He received a 10-year sentence for allegedly collaborating with a foreign government, the Foley Foundation reports.

Fayhee represents Reza Valizadeh, a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen and journalist who was arrested in 2024 after returning to Iran to see his aging parents. He also received 10 years for “collaboration with a hostile government,” according to the Foley Foundation.

Also imprisoned at Evin is Kamran Hekmati, a 70-year-old Jewish Iranian-American who owns a jewelry business and was arrested last year, according to Ramsey, who represents Hekmati’s family.

Hekmati was found guilty of traveling to Israel under a law prohibiting such visits within the past decade, despite providing evidence that his last visit occurred 13 years before his arrest, Ramsey explained.

The elderly man, who is battling bladder cancer, also faces espionage charges for which he has not been convicted. His attorney was informed these charges stem from alleged meetings with Israeli intelligence operatives.

According to Ramsey, Iran frequently adds espionage charges as a way to signal that a detainee will only be released through a prisoner exchange with Washington.

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — When 12-year-old Lionel Saunders called his mother to report seeing a crocodile in their neighborhood creek, Stephanie Kirsop thought he was pulling her leg.

The Newcastle family lives in a temperate coastal region located 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) away from where crocodiles naturally inhabit Australia’s tropical northern areas.

Young Lionel and his companions discovered the 39-inch juvenile reptile on Saturday afternoon in the local waterway. While officials were initially doubtful about the sighting, they managed to capture the wandering crocodile by Sunday evening.

“My son took videos because he was trying to convince me it was real and I didn’t believe him. It did look like a crocodile but I was like, no it’s a log,” Kirsop explained on Tuesday.

“He rang me back a little bit later and he’s like: ‘I’m so serious mom. You have to come down here and have a look,’” she recalled. “The whole drive down there I’m thinking this is going to be a trick. They’re going to laugh at me.”

When Kirsop arrived at the scene, there was no mistaking what she saw.

“There is a little crocodile just swimming around in the creek where local kids go to fish and sometimes kids swim in there. Wow,” she said.

After contacting a wildlife rescue organization, Kirsop was told crocodiles weren’t found in their region. She provided photographic and video evidence to prove otherwise.

The case was then forwarded to the Australian Reptile Park, a facility that houses crocodiles in climate-controlled conditions.

Billy Collett, the park’s manager, initially wondered if the images might be digitally created fakes. However, police verification confirmed a genuine crocodile was indeed present in Ironbark Creek.

“I was a bit suspicious because we get a lot of phone calls. These days with AI, it’s just so crazy,” Collett explained.

Upon examination, Collett identified the animal as an Australian freshwater crocodile, scientifically known as crocodylus johnstoni. This species is smaller and poses less threat than saltwater crocodiles.

“They’re capable of inflicting a serious injury,” Collett noted regarding the smaller variety.

Collett’s rescue team successfully captured the reptile on Sunday evening, approximately 3 kilometers (2 miles) from its original location.

“I just wanted to get him out of there because he would’ve perished in winter,” Collett stated. The Southern Hemisphere is currently experiencing autumn weather.

The healthy crocodile will remain at the reptile park while officials determine its permanent placement, as crocodiles receive protection under Australian wildlife laws.

Collett believes the animal was likely an escaped or abandoned pet that had outgrown its aquarium home or become too hazardous for private ownership.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu provided reassurance Monday that current military operations against Iran will not become a drawn-out conflict spanning multiple years.

Speaking during an appearance on Fox News’ “Hannity” show, Netanyahu addressed concerns about the duration of the military campaign that commenced over the weekend with coordinated U.S.-Israeli strikes on Tehran.

“I said it could be quick and decisive. It may take some time, but it’s not going to take years. It’s not an endless war,” Netanyahu stated during the television interview.

The military action began Saturday with airstrikes targeting Iranian positions, resulting in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran has responded with retaliatory strikes against Israeli targets and launched missiles at Arab nations hosting American military installations throughout the Middle East.

President Donald Trump had initially estimated the conflict would last approximately four to five weeks, though he later suggested it might extend beyond that timeframe while defending the decision to engage in comprehensive military action against Iran.

Netanyahu dismissed comparisons to other regional conflicts that have stretched on for years, emphasizing this operation would have a more defined endpoint.

The Israeli leader expressed optimism that the military campaign could create opportunities for sustainable peace across the Middle East, potentially including normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

When questioned about prospects for lasting regional stability, Netanyahu responded affirmatively: “Yes I do.”

Recent polling data from Reuters/Ipsos indicates limited American support for the military intervention, with only one-quarter of respondents backing the strikes on Iran that have intensified Middle Eastern tensions.

The lengthy conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan have left many Americans wary of extensive military commitments overseas, contributing to skepticism about the current operation.

Netanyahu suggested the joint U.S.-Israeli military pressure could encourage Iranian citizens to challenge their government’s authority.

“Now, of course, it’s up to the people of Iran in the final count to change the government, but we are creating – America and Israel together are creating – the conditions for them to do so,” he explained.

Trump’s stated objectives for the military campaign have evolved since operations began. Initially, he called on Iranians to “take back your country” and suggested regime change as a goal.

However, in more recent statements Monday, Trump focused on preventing Iran’s nuclear weapons development – which Tehran denies pursuing – and dismantling its long-range missile capabilities, without mentioning government overthrow.

Israel is widely regarded as the sole nuclear-armed nation in the Middle East, while the United States also maintains nuclear weapons capabilities.

GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Mexican authorities conducted the burial of one of the country’s most notorious drug kingpins Monday, as Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as ‘El Mencho,’ was laid to rest in an elaborate gleaming gold coffin surrounded by massive floral arrangements and heavy military security.

A federal source verified that the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel was interred at a burial ground in Zapopan, located on the outskirts of Guadalajara, Mexico’s second most populous city. The funeral procession drew dozens of attendees, with many holding black umbrellas despite clear skies while a traditional banda ensemble performed regional Mexican music.

The source speaking about the burial site asked to remain unnamed as they lacked permission to discuss the matter publicly. Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office refused to verify where El Mencho was buried, citing safety concerns.

Enhanced security measures had been in place since Sunday at a mortuary where massive floral displays began arriving without identification. Several arrangements featured rooster imagery made from flowers, referencing Oseguera Cervantes’ nickname as the ‘Lord of the Roosters.’

Mexican military forces fatally shot Oseguera Cervantes just over a week ago during an operation to apprehend him. According to his death certificate reviewed by The Associated Press, he succumbed to numerous gunshot injuries.

His death triggered widespread violence spanning approximately 20 states. The death certificate aligns with Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla’s account of the capture mission, in which he stated that the cartel boss and two security personnel sustained severe injuries during a firefight with troops near a residence in Tapalpa, Jalisco. All three perished while being transported to medical facilities.

The official document detailed that Oseguera Cervantes sustained gunshot trauma to his torso, stomach, and lower extremities.

Following his death, his remains were transported to Mexico City for forensic examination before being released to relatives on Saturday, according to a brief Attorney General’s Office announcement.

The death certificate also indicates that Oseguera Cervantes was designated for burial, which is typical protocol in violent death cases to preserve potential forensic evidence for future investigations. The paperwork did not specify the intended burial site.

Law enforcement’s security worries about the burial location are justified. The cartel leader’s death prompted revenge attacks by the organization across multiple states. Over 70 individuals lost their lives between the initial military action and subsequent violence. Officials report that enforcement operations targeting other senior cartel members remain ongoing.

Mexican drug lord burials are traditionally shrouded in secrecy, which their followers exploit to build legendary status around these figures. Within hours of El Mencho’s death, songwriters had already composed ballads called narcocorridos commemorating his demise.

In Culiacan, located in adjacent Sinaloa state and headquarters of the similarly named cartel, a graveyard is famous for its opulent tombs and monuments housing former drug bosses including Ignacio Coronel — a former El Mencho partner — and Arturo Beltrán Leyva.

One drug leader, Nazario Moreno of the violent, religiously-themed Knights Templar cartel, gained notoriety for being reportedly killed twice — first in 2010, then actually eliminated in 2014.

Some remains vanish entirely, such as Heriberto Lazcano, the notorious Zetas leader whose corpse was taken in 2012. Others meet unusual ends, like Amado Carrillo Fuentes, the ‘Lord of the Skies,’ who perished during failed cosmetic surgery.

BEIJING — While China showcases impressive technological achievements including martial arts-performing robots and vehicles that park themselves, the nation’s economic modernization efforts are encountering significant obstacles as the property sector remains in decline, small enterprises face hardships, and young adults find employment increasingly scarce.

The contrast between President Xi Jinping’s vision of a high-technology, AI-powered future and the stark reality of decelerating economic expansion forms the setting for this week’s National People’s Congress gathering, China’s primarily ceremonial legislative body that convenes Thursday.

Approximately 3,000 representatives will travel to Beijing for the sessions, where senior officials will reveal China’s yearly economic growth objectives and legislators will approve a five-year policy roadmap extending through 2030.

“What we’ll see is the trade-off between whether it’s going to be industry and tech, or looking after domestic demand,” said Alexander Davey, an analyst at the Mercator Institute for China Studies. “These are the two priorities that are juggling for Xi Jinping right now.”

In Guangdong province’s southern region, households reduced major expenditures during February’s Lunar New Year celebration. Even traditional good-luck plants such as orchids, typically purchased as symbols of wealth and fortune, saw price reductions of up to 40% compared to the previous year.

This budget-conscious behavior has prompted small business operators to voice concerns about difficult economic conditions.

Chinese officials announced the country achieved “around 5%” economic expansion in 2025, though economists express skepticism regarding certain government statistics.

The moderately strong growth rate received support from robust industrial output as overseas sales increased, withstanding tariff increases imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump and additional trade disruptions.

“Hitting the 2025 growth target is hardly reassuring as the Chinese economy is losing growth momentum, with rising imbalances and enormous structural problems being papered over by a surge in export-driven growth,” Eswar Prasad, a professor of economics and trade policy at Cornell University, told The Associated Press in emailed comments.

China’s real estate sector downturn started multiple years ago, with fragmented recovery attempts showing only sporadic improvement. Numerous property companies failed to meet debt obligations as government officials restricted excessive lending practices. With home values declining 20% or more since 2021, market recovery remains distant.

The collapse of this major industry eliminated hundreds of thousands of positions, and with 12.7 million university graduates entering employment markets this year, over 16% of young Chinese remain jobless. Some are abandoning competitive pursuits entirely, choosing to “lie flat.”

Households whose primary wealth consists of property ownership have become hesitant about spending, undermining consumer demand and complicating long-term plans to transition the economy toward greater domestic consumption.

The congressional session may introduce new initiatives to strengthen social services and additional support measures, which economists describe as overdue and essential for sustained, stable growth.

Export dependency currently helps maintain China’s economic activity. The country generated a $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025, with overseas sales keeping manufacturing facilities operational. Despite ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions, shipments have increased to markets including Europe and Latin America, though trading partners are expressing resistance.

Under Xi’s leadership, China has emphasized developing cutting-edge technologies including artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, electric vehicles, and clean energy. Extensive government backing has enabled companies to produce more EVs, televisions, solar panels, and other goods than China and its partners require.

“To achieve those goals, the government is going to have to continue to provide subsidies and preferential support for high-tech and strategic industries,” said Leah Fahy, a China economist at Capital Economics. “(That) will, in turn, continue to fuel overcapacity.”

The International Monetary Fund recently recommended China reduce extensive state subsidies and support for industries that numerous Western nations claim provide unfair competitive advantages over international competitors. Meanwhile, social welfare and other economic sectors remain underdeveloped.

The emphasis on what the governing Communist Party calls “high quality development” will likely persist under the 2026-2030 five-year plan that lawmakers are expected to approve during the congress.

Throughout recent decades, China’s evolution into a manufacturing powerhouse was supported by explosive construction of residential buildings, commercial structures, transportation networks, harbors, and rail systems. However, technology supply chains are more limited, generating fewer employment opportunities. The economic spillover effect is considerably weaker, according to Lynn Song, chief economist for Greater China at ING Bank.

“If anything, the more successful the so-called future industries become, the more they will draw resources away from the traditional sectors that still provide the bulk of employment and livelihoods for most people,” said Henry Gao, a professor of law at Singapore Management University.

The yearly congressional gathering presents an elaborate spectacle. Thousands of representatives occupy Beijing’s Great Hall of the People. Military musicians perform while delegates representing various ethnic communities attend wearing traditional attire.

Despite the ceremony, the meeting functions largely as political theater. The congress spans just one week, with nearly unanimous final-day voting that formalizes decisions previously made by party leadership. The event demonstrates unity while confirming established policies and direction.

This leadership has increasingly focused on Xi, who has concentrated authority since assuming control in 2012. Now 72, he ranks among modern China’s most influential leaders. Some observers believe Xi may follow Mao Zedong’s example, the revolutionary founder of communist China, and govern indefinitely.

Congressional reports contain numerous references to the party’s essential function, “with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core.”

Following his rise to power, Xi intensified existing anti-corruption efforts, compelling many officials to resign for investigation and prosecution, including senior military leadership.

Prior to the congress opening, the national legislature expelled nine military officers from membership, expanding a multi-year military cleanup. Last month, Gen. Zhang Youxia, the highest-ranking military official below Xi, was removed due to suspected disciplinary infractions.

Xi’s measures may diminish China’s military preparedness in the near term, but he is also ensuring the armed forces will demonstrate greater political loyalty over time, according to a Center for Strategic and International Studies analysis.

The anti-corruption campaigns have eliminated potential political opponents, and his firm control over power significantly reduces the likelihood that other officials will contest his vision of transforming China into a technologically self-reliant leader and 21st-century global superpower.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney landed in Australia Tuesday for diplomatic talks focused on strengthening the partnership between two nations he describes as “middle powers” navigating what he calls a “rupture” in global stability.

Both countries, which maintain strong alliances with the United States, are conducting these discussions as conflicts intensify in the Middle East. The leaders plan to enhance collaboration, particularly as both nations serve as major suppliers of essential minerals.

Carney’s current diplomatic tour spans multiple destinations across the Asia-Pacific, including Japan and India, where he has already secured trade agreements and worked to repair relationships with New Delhi following a year of tensions over Sikh separatist issues.

The relationship between Canada and Australia remains strong, with both governments planning to expand partnership efforts in defense operations, maritime security, essential mineral resources, commerce, and artificial intelligence development, according to statements from Carney’s administration prior to his arrival.

During his visit, Carney will speak before Australia’s parliament and hold discussions with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Last week, Albanese characterized Canada as among Australia’s “closest friends, built on generations of trust” and advocated for stronger connections to advance mutual national objectives.

Western governments are working to establish their own reserves of critical minerals essential for semiconductor manufacturing and defense equipment production, as China—currently the world’s leading producer—restricts supply chains.

“There’s a lot Canada and Australia can do together on critical minerals as producer nations,” Australian Resources Minister Madeline King stated Monday when discussing Carney’s diplomatic visit.

During a prominent address at the World Economic Forum in Davos last month, Carney emphasized the importance of “middle powers” forming closer partnerships.

“Middle powers must act together because if we’re not at the table, we’re on the menu,” he declared.

At Wednesday’s scheduled appearance at Sydney’s Lowy Institute think tank, Carney plans to expand on these themes, discussing changes in international dynamics and the potential advantages they present for nations like Canada and Australia.

WASHINGTON – Federal officials issued an urgent evacuation order Monday, directing American citizens to leave 15 Middle Eastern nations immediately following escalating military actions between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

The State Department’s assistant secretary for consular affairs, Mora Namdar, instructed U.S. nationals to utilize any available commercial flights to exit the region “due to safety risks.”

The evacuation directive encompasses Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates and Yemen. This follows the department’s recent updates to regional travel advisories warning Americans against visiting these areas.

Earlier Monday, the U.S. Embassy in Amman, Jordan, confirmed its staff had evacuated the facility “due to a threat.”

Federal authorities have established an inter-agency emergency task force to handle the crisis and coordinate America’s response to the expanding conflict, according to a U.S. official.

The escalation began Saturday when American and Israeli forces launched coordinated attacks on Iranian targets, resulting in the deaths of numerous high-ranking officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with counter-strikes against U.S. and Israeli positions throughout the region.

President Donald Trump indicated Monday that military planners initially estimated the conflict would span four to five weeks, though he acknowledged it could extend beyond that timeframe.

The regional warfare has claimed numerous lives and triggered a surge in energy costs after Iranian leadership threatened to target vessels attempting passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Energy Secretary Chris Wright plan to unveil measures Tuesday aimed at addressing rising energy prices, according to the nation’s top diplomat, Marco Rubio.

“We anticipated this could be an issue, and Secretary Wright and Bessent will begin to roll out those steps, starting tomorrow, to mitigate, to mitigate against the impact that could have,” Rubio stated before briefing congressional leadership about the strikes.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has responded to Iranian allegations that more than 160 people were killed when a girls’ elementary school was struck during weekend military operations between the United States, Israel, and Iran.

Iranian state media claimed the deadly incident occurred at a school in Minab, a town in southern Iran, on Saturday during the opening day of coordinated U.S. and Israeli military action against Iran. The reported casualties would make it the most lethal single event in the current conflict.

When questioned by reporters Monday about the alleged school strike, Rubio emphasized that American military policy prohibits such attacks. “The United States would not deliberately target a school,” Rubio stated, adding that “The Department of War would be investigating that if that was our strike, and I would refer your question to them.”

Rubio acknowledged the severity of the allegations while noting the lack of confirmed details. “It will be very tragic, but I can’t speak to the details behind it because I just don’t have it. It will be a tragic outcome if it’s happened. I don’t have the details as to what led to it but what is clear is that the United States will not deliberately target a school,” he explained.

The Pentagon and U.S. Central Command have not provided official statements regarding the specific incident. However, Central Command informed media organizations over the weekend that it was “looking into” reports concerning “civilian harm resulting from ongoing military operations.”

The alleged attack has drawn sharp criticism from international figures and organizations. Both UNESCO, the United Nations’ cultural and educational agency, and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Malala Yousafzai have denounced the reported strike. Under international humanitarian law, intentional attacks on schools, hospitals, and other civilian infrastructure constitute war crimes.

U.N. Under-Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Rosemary DiCarlo confirmed Monday that she was aware of the Iranian reports regarding the deaths and noted that American officials have indicated they are examining the claims.

Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon, when asked about the strike that Iranian media attributed to both Israel and the United States, said he had encountered varying accounts of the incident, including reports suggesting Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was responsible for targeting the school.

Reuters has been unable to verify the reports independently.

The current air campaign by U.S. and Israeli forces against Iran commenced Saturday with strikes on Tehran and has expanded as Iran has launched retaliatory attacks.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed during the weekend operations. President Donald Trump has indicated the military campaign may continue for several weeks.