Category: World News

Ukrainian authorities confirmed Wednesday that Russian drone strikes hit electrical infrastructure in the southern Odesa region, marking the latest in a sustained campaign targeting the country’s power grid.

Odesa Region Governor Oleh Kiper reported via Telegram that emergency responders remained on scene following the attack on the power facility. No casualties were documented from the Odesa strike, Kiper stated.

Major private utility company DTEK confirmed that one of its electrical substations sustained damage in the assault. Repair teams are standing by until safety clearance allows work to begin. According to DTEK, the region has faced Russian bombardment “almost round the clock.”

Ukraine’s electrical grid has endured months of systematic attacks. The strategic Black Sea port city of Odesa, crucial for Ukrainian export operations, along with surrounding areas, has repeatedly been in Moscow’s crosshairs throughout the four-year war.

In the southeastern Zaporizhzhia region, Governor Ivan Fedorov confirmed that nighttime Russian glide bomb strikes claimed the life of one man in a village near the regional capital of Zaporizhzhia. The attack also left two women wounded.

Neighboring Dnipropetrovsk region saw nearly 40 separate Russian drone and artillery strikes targeting multiple communities throughout Wednesday, according to Governor Oleksandr Ganzha. At least three civilians sustained injuries in those attacks.

Additional drone strike casualties were documented in Sloviansk near the eastern front lines in Donetsk region, as well as in southern Kherson Region and northern Sumy Region along the Russian border, local officials reported.

ATHENS – Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis delivered sharp criticism Wednesday regarding Iran’s proposal to charge vessels for safe passage through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, calling such measures completely unacceptable and a threat to maritime freedom worldwide.

The ongoing conflict has jeopardized Gulf shipping operations and created significant disruptions to international commerce through the crucial waterway, which typically handles approximately 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas transportation.

Greece operates one of the world’s most extensive commercial shipping fleets measured by cargo capacity.

As ceasefire negotiations continue involving the United States and Israel, Tehran has floated the idea of implementing passage fees for ships traveling safely through the strategic chokepoint it controls. President Donald Trump suggested Wednesday that America and Iran might jointly manage such toll collection, though White House officials emphasized their focus remains on fully reopening the waterway without restrictions.

Mitsotakis emphasized that unrestricted maritime passage through the strait has long been established and must remain so.

“I don’t think that the international community would be ready to accept Iran setting up a toll booth for every ship that crosses the strait,” Mitsotakis told CNN. “That seems to me to be completely unacceptable.”

The conservative leader suggested that new international agreements governing the strait might become necessary.

“But this agreement cannot, I repeat, cannot include a sort of a fee that ships will have to pay every time they cross the strait. This was not the case before the war started and it cannot be the case after the war finishes,” he said.

“We would be setting a very, very dangerous precedent, if that were to happen, for the freedom of navigation.”

President Donald Trump declared a temporary halt to military operations against Iran on Tuesday, announcing a two-week pause in what had been weeks of rising tensions between the two nations. However, the actual terms of this agreement remain heavily disputed, with Washington and Tehran presenting vastly different interpretations of what was negotiated.

The announcement came after Trump stated he decided to call off planned military strikes with less than two hours remaining before an 8 p.m. deadline. This decision followed discussions with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, with the suspension contingent upon Iran fully reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz shipping corridor.

Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump explained his decision: “Based on conversations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir … and subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend the bombing … for a period of two weeks.” He characterized the arrangement as a “double sided CEASEFIRE.”

Trump indicated that American military forces had already accomplished their mission goals and suggested that a 10-point Iranian proposal could form the foundation for more comprehensive negotiations. Pakistan has extended invitations to both countries to continue diplomatic talks, with CNN reporting that meetings are anticipated in Islamabad. The White House is dispatching special envoy Steve Witkoff and chief adviser Jared Kushner to Pakistan’s capital for additional negotiations, with Vice President JD Vance also expected to participate.

Iran acknowledged the ceasefire but portrayed it as a strategic victory for Tehran. According to a statement from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council reported by Iranian state media and obtained by CNN, Washington had essentially accepted key elements of Iran’s proposal, including relief from sanctions, acknowledgment of Iran’s nuclear enrichment activities, and collaborative management of Strait of Hormuz shipping operations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that secure passage would be coordinated through Iran’s military forces and that hostilities would cease if attacks on Iranian territory stopped.

Trump strongly disputed Iran’s version of events, labeling the reported statement as a “FRAUD” and criticizing CNN for spreading what he called misleading information. The White House portrayed the ceasefire as an American success, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasizing military achievements. Leavitt also dismissed Iranian assertions that ships would face toll charges for using the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the US is working to guarantee unrestricted passage. Despite Iranian threats to limit or block shipping traffic, she emphasized that American military forces are taking action to maintain the waterway’s accessibility.

In subsequent interviews, Trump told AFP the result represented a “total and complete victory” and assured that Iran’s uranium stockpile would be “perfectly taken care of.” He also informed ABC News that the US might assist in managing strait shipping through a “joint venture” arrangement with Iran.

Initial indicators of improvement remained minimal. Data from MarineTraffic revealed that only two ships had successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz by Wednesday afternoon, while hundreds of vessels remained stranded, including more than 400 oil tankers. Reports from Tasnim indicated that Iran was preparing to implement transit charges during the ceasefire period.

Meanwhile, military actions persisted in other regions. Kuwait reported that Iranian drone attacks inflicted substantial damage to petroleum facilities, electrical infrastructure, and water systems, while the United Arab Emirates announced it had intercepted incoming missiles and drones. The Financial Times also reported that a major Saudi oil pipeline was targeted by drone strikes.

According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, the ceasefire agreement does not apply to Lebanon, contradicting earlier suggestions from Pakistan. Israel announced it would stop attacking Iran directly but would maintain military operations against Hezbollah. Trump described the Lebanese conflict to PBS NewsHour as a “separate skirmish.”

Israeli military forces conducted significant strikes in Beirut, including a targeted operation against a Hezbollah commander, with Lebanon’s health ministry documenting substantial casualties. Israel’s foreign ministry justified these actions, claiming the Lebanese government had failed to take action against Hezbollah.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued warnings of retaliation if attacks on Lebanon continued, heightening concerns about broader regional conflict. In a statement broadcast by IRIB, the IRGC condemned Israel for conducting a “brutal massacre” in Beirut just hours after the ceasefire announcement and declared that if “aggressions” against “dear Lebanon” do not stop, it will “act upon our duty” and deliver a “regret-inducing response” to what it termed “evil aggressors in the region.”

At the Pentagon, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that any forbidden nuclear materials in Iran would be eliminated under the agreement, while Gen. Dan Caine confirmed that US forces remain prepared to restart combat operations if commanded, highlighting the uncertain nature of the ceasefire’s longevity.

TEHRAN, Iran — While conflict continues, residents of Iran’s capital city carry on with their normal activities in coffee shops, public spaces, and businesses throughout Tehran. Citizens gather with friends at local coffee establishments, engage in board games at parks, take their pets for walks, browse through marketplaces, and visit barbershops that remain operational.

The scenes captured in this photographic collection were assembled by Associated Press photography staff.

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — As part of negotiations to halt hostilities with the United States and Israel, Iran has put forward a demand to establish toll collection rights in the Strait of Hormuz before allowing the crucial oil shipping route to reopen.

However, imposing fees on vessels passing through this waterway would break a fundamental principle that has governed international maritime commerce for centuries: the freedom of peaceful navigation. This long-standing concept was formally written into the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which became binding in 1994.

Reopening this critical passage would relieve global economic pressures that have driven energy and fertilizer costs dramatically upward since hostilities commenced on February 28. However, accepting Iran’s toll collection demands would solidify the Islamic Republic’s authority over a waterway that carries 20% of global oil shipments — while financially benefiting the very military forces the conflict was launched against.

President Donald Trump has prioritized getting the strait reopened. However, the White House announced Wednesday that he rejects the toll proposal, and experts indicate Gulf oil-producing nations share this opposition.

Experts report they have observed no increase in shipping traffic through the waterway since ceasefire announcements, contrary to White House assertions.

Following the initiation of military action by the U.S. and Israel, Iran quickly used its strategic position by shutting down the strait through vessel attacks and attack threats, creating conditions too dangerous for safe passage. This blockade immediately created supply shortages in Asian nations heavily reliant on regional energy, drove up fuel costs in America and Europe, and posed risks to worldwide economic expansion.

Iran subsequently implemented a vessel screening process that shipping experts nicknamed the “tollbooth.”

Vessels received instructions to avoid the strait’s center in Iranian and Omani territorial waters, instead taking longer routes around Iran’s Larak Island. After providing comprehensive details about crew members and cargo to representatives of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, certain ships received passage approval — with at least two vessels reportedly making payments equivalent to $2 million in Chinese currency.

Iran’s comprehensive 10-point peace proposal contains language permitting Iran and Oman to impose charges on ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a regional official who requested anonymity to discuss negotiations they personally participated in. This official indicated Iran would direct collected funds toward reconstruction efforts.

However, the Law of the Sea Treaty’s Article 17 ensures “innocent passage” rights for vessels that pose no threat to coastal nations. Therefore, permitting Iran and Oman to begin charging for strait passage would establish a concerning precedent, according to legal experts.

Maritime navigation freedom across global waters has remained a core right for centuries, based on “the idea that the sea doesn’t belong to anyone,” explained Philippe Delebecque, a professor and maritime law specialist at Paris’ Sorbonne University.

“Freedom of navigation has always been recognized, including specifically in straits,” he stated. The worry is that if the Strait of Hormuz could face closure, similar restrictions might follow at the Strait of Gibraltar between the Mediterranean and Atlantic, or the Strait of Malacca near Indonesia.

He described such a situation as “the end of an international society.”

Although 172 nations have approved the U.N. convention, both Iran and the United States remain among those that have not ratified it.

“Not having ratified the convention doesn’t give (Iran) total freedom of action in the Strait of Hormuz,” stated Julien Raynaut, who leads the French Association of Maritime Law, a professional organization. “It remains subject to international law and notably this customary right of passage.”

An Iranian toll system could prompt China to determine it could limit movement in the Taiwan Strait, Raynaut noted.

Oman and Iran may encounter diplomatic pressure to follow the convention, said Constantinos Yiallourides, a senior research fellow at the British Institute of International and Comparative Law.

Free passage “is in the interest of everyone,” he stated. “We all want to get the best products at the best prices.”

Some economists argue that from a purely financial perspective, the global economy would hardly notice additional expenses from Strait of Hormuz tolling.

As an example, a $2 million fee on a large tanker transporting 2 million barrels of oil equals a $1-per-barrel cost increase for that shipment’s oil.

“The burden does not fall on global consumers, but overwhelmingly on the Gulf states that supply the oil that transits the strait,” reported the Bruegel think tank in Brussels. It noted the world economy would immediately gain from strait reopening — returning 20% of global oil to markets and driving prices down.

Additionally, by reducing oil prices, it would remove a multibillion-dollar geopolitical advantage for Russia, whose oil has become more sought after despite sanctions.

International oil prices have risen from approximately $72 per barrel before the conflict to as much as $118 on March 31. On Monday, Brent crude, the global standard, was trading at $94.55, dropping significantly following ceasefire news.

Saudi Arabia, the largest Gulf producer, praised the ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran but urged keeping the Strait of Hormuz accessible “without any restrictions.”

Gulf nations have been forced to halt approximately 12 million barrels daily of crude production because no practical alternative exists around the strait for most of their oil. The two pipelines that circumvent it lack sufficient capacity to compensate for all lost oil, and constructing new pipelines would require years.

Considering the negative aspects of the toll proposal, Gulf states would only accept it if all alternative options appeared significantly worse, Bruegel stated.

A primary Western concern is that toll revenue would likely benefit the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which oversees Iran’s ballistic missile development, suppresses domestic political opposition, and appears on terrorist organization lists maintained by the U.S. and European Union.

WASHINGTON — Digital warfare specialists are cautioning that Iran-affiliated cyber criminals intend to maintain their online assault campaigns against American and Israeli infrastructure, despite recent ceasefire agreements between the involved nations.

A prominent hacking organization called Handala announced following the truce that it would briefly halt its operations targeting the United States while maintaining strikes against Israel. The group pledged to restart its American campaigns at an opportune moment, highlighting how online warfare has become deeply embedded in modern military conflicts. The fragile two-week ceasefire already shows signs of deterioration as all parties claim triumph in the conflict.

Handala operates as a pro-Palestinian, pro-Iranian collective that functions independently from Tehran’s direct control. The organization has taken responsibility for disrupting operations at American medical device manufacturer Stryker and breaching FBI Director Kash Patel’s private email system, alongside numerous other digital intrusions. This group represents just one faction among multiple proxy hacking organizations aligned with Iranian interests.

“We did not begin this war, but we will be the ones to finish it,” Handala wrote on its X account. “And let it be clear: The cyber war did not begin with the military conflict, and it will not end with any military ceasefire.”

Federal authorities issued alerts Tuesday regarding Iran-supporting hackers who have infiltrated internet-connected systems that automate and manage technology across critical industrial infrastructure. These systems, called programmable logic controllers, operate within ports, electrical facilities, and water treatment plants — prime objectives for foreign cyber criminals seeking to disrupt American daily operations.

A collaborative warning from the FBI, National Security Agency, and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency encouraged organizations utilizing this technology to verify their protective measures remain current. CISA has not yet responded to Wednesday inquiries regarding how the ceasefire might affect cybersecurity protocols.

Digital security professionals emphasize that organizations should treat these warnings seriously, regardless of any temporary peace agreements between warring parties.

Markus Mueller, who serves as a cybersecurity executive at Nozomi Networks, expects cyberattacks against American institutions to escalate rather than diminish following the ceasefire. He explains that any pause in active hostilities would enable hackers to redirect their focus from regional conflict participants toward infiltrating U.S. organizations that supported the war effort, including data centers, technology firms, and military contractors.

Mueller also forecasts that certain Iran or Russia-based groups might attempt to bypass the truce by executing a major cyberattack against an American target designed to capture public attention.

“With a ceasefire, we will likely see an expansion of cyber activity both in scale and scope,” Mueller said. “These groups will likely try to execute a high-profile attack such as what we saw with Stryker.”

To date, attacks linked to pro-Iranian hackers have generated significant activity but minimal actual damage, serving primarily to energize Iran’s supporters while highlighting ongoing security weaknesses despite military superiority.

Handala accepted responsibility last month for infiltrating Stryker, a Michigan-based major medical equipment supplier. The group claimed this breach served as payback for military strikes that resulted in Iranian student deaths.

Federal authorities responded by confiscating four internet domains the organization used for communications. Handala subsequently released several dated photographs of Patel after claiming successful penetration of the FBI director’s personal email account.

Additional pro-Iranian cyber groups have been connected to attempts at installing malicious software on Israeli mobile devices, compromising surveillance cameras throughout Middle Eastern nations to enhance Iran’s missile accuracy, and attacking data facilities and industrial infrastructure across Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait.

DUBAI – Following almost six weeks of military conflict, Iran has positioned itself with strengthened control over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, even as President Donald Trump declares the recent ceasefire a victory for American forces.

Middle East experts warn that despite taking significant damage, Iran has emerged from the confrontation with enhanced influence over the narrow waterway that handles approximately 20% of global oil and gas shipments.

“This war will be remembered as Trump’s grave strategic miscalculation. One whose consequences reshaped the region in unintended ways,” Middle East scholar Fawaz Gerges told Reuters.

The conflict’s aftermath has created ripple effects throughout the global economy and destabilized neighboring Gulf nations that depend on regional stability for their economic well-being.

Previously, Iran monitored the strait and occasionally harassed commercial vessels but avoided claiming direct authority over the passage. Now, Tehran operates as the primary controller of the shipping lane, determining which vessels may pass and under what conditions. Iranian officials are seeking to impose fees on ships for safe transit.

Iran has also shown remarkable endurance throughout the sustained military campaign while maintaining its ability to escalate tensions further. The nation continues projecting power across multiple regional battlegrounds and critical maritime passages, extending its influence through Lebanon and Iraq via Hezbollah and Shiite militant groups, and reaching into the Red Sea’s Bab el-Mandeb strait through its Houthi allies.

Despite widespread infrastructure damage from American and Israeli bombing campaigns and a devastated economy, Iran’s governing structure remains intact and in firm control.

“What did the U.S.–Israeli war actually achieve?” questioned Gerges. “Regime change in Tehran? No. The surrender of the Islamic Republic? No. Containment of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium? No. An end to Tehran’s support for its regional allies? No.”

Regional analysts and Gulf government officials who spoke with Reuters indicate that Iran has weathered the military strikes while maintaining – and in some areas expanding – its fundamental sources of power.

The current situation reveals a more hardened Iranian establishment maintaining control over Hormuz, possessing unaccounted nuclear materials, continuing missile and drone manufacturing, and sustaining support for regional proxy forces.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed Trump’s victory claims Wednesday, stating that Washington achieved a decisive military triumph and effectively eliminated Iran’s missile capabilities. The State Department and White House have not yet responded to requests for additional comment.

A two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States, Israel, and Iran is now in effect, with American and Iranian representatives scheduled to begin settlement discussions Friday.

Gulf officials caution that while the ceasefire may temporarily stop hostilities, its long-term success depends on resolving the underlying regional security and energy concerns.

Any agreement that fails to comprehensively address these issues risks solidifying Iranian advantages rather than limiting them, according to these officials.

Ebtesam Al-Ketbi, who leads the Emirates Policy Center, characterized the truce as an unstable temporary halt that could institutionalize new forms of regional instability without broader agreements.

“This ceasefire is not a solution; it is a test of intentions,” Ketbi told Reuters. “If it does not evolve into a broader agreement redefining the rules of engagement – in Hormuz and across proxy theatres – it will amount to little more than a tactical pause before a more dangerous and complex escalation.”

“If Trump reaches a deal with Iran without addressing core issues – ballistic missiles, drones, proxies, nuclear concerns, and the rules governing Hormuz – then the conflict is effectively left unresolved and the region exposed,” Ketbi added.

Iran has presented Washington with demands including sanctions removal, acknowledgment of uranium enrichment rights, war damage compensation, and maintained authority over the strait – highlighting the significant gaps between the negotiating positions.

Trump has acknowledged receiving Iran’s proposal and described it as “a workable basis to negotiate.”

Saudi analyst Ali Shihabi emphasized that for Gulf nations dependent on Hormuz for oil exports, the waterway represents an absolute priority. “Any outcome that leaves the waterway effectively in Iranian hands would be a defeat for President Trump,” he said, noting potential consequences including elevated energy costs that could impact midterm elections.

However, Shihabi suggested the conflict may create opportunities for Tehran to secure a negotiated agreement that could include sanctions relief.

From the Gulf states’ perspective, the situation presents serious concerns. Regional distrust of Iran has intensified following Tehran’s attacks on energy infrastructure and commercial centers throughout the area. The transformation of Hormuz into an explicit tool of pressure and intimidation represents an even more troubling development, according to analysts.

The economic implications are equally significant. Iran’s intention to charge transit fees for vessels using Hormuz shipping lanes as part of any permanent agreement would impact far beyond the Gulf region, affecting global energy markets and the economic foundations of nations along the opposite coastline.

“If Iran can extract millions per ship, the implications are enormous – not just for the Gulf, but for the global economy,” Ketbi explained. “In that sense, the outcome is not just a regional setback, but a systemic shift with worldwide consequences.”

Experts warn this development would represent a fundamental transformation in regional dynamics – shifting from a strait governed by international standards to one controlled by a hostile nation strengthened, rather than weakened, by warfare.

The ceasefire, facilitated by Pakistan, concluded a conflict initiated February 28 by Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who stated their goals included reducing Iran’s regional influence, dismantling its nuclear program, and creating conditions for Iranians to overthrow their government.

Both sides have claimed success. Trump labeled the ceasefire a “total and complete victory,” asserting American forces accomplished their mission, while Iran’s Supreme National Security Council maintained that Trump accepted their terms.

Yet the conflict has not eliminated Iran’s stockpile of weapons-grade enriched uranium or its capacity to attack neighboring countries with missiles and drones. The leadership, which previously faced massive domestic protests, survived the superpower assault without signs of governmental collapse.

A Gulf source indicated that rebuilding trust with Tehran would require strict, written guarantees – rather than informal promises – addressing non-interference, navigation freedom, maritime corridor security including Hormuz, and Gulf states’ national security needs.

These conditions were communicated to Pakistani mediators for inclusion in a comprehensive settlement, according to the Gulf source.

An Israeli official reported that senior Trump administration officials assured Israel they would maintain previous demands, including Iran’s nuclear material removal, enrichment cessation, and ballistic missile elimination.

Pakistan’s prime minister announced that Iranian and American delegations are expected to convene in Islamabad Friday for the first official peace negotiations since the conflict began.

Armed militants on motorcycles carried out deadly raids on two Nigerian villages, resulting in at least 20 fatalities, according to local community members who spoke out Wednesday.

The violent incidents took place during the pre-dawn hours of Tuesday morning in the communities of Bagna and Erena, both situated within Niger state’s Shiroro region. This area sits approximately 155 miles from Nigeria’s capital city of Abuja, requiring about four hours of travel by road.

“They came on motorbikes and began shooting. It was a surprise attack, because it was in the early hours of the morning,” said Jibrin Isah, who lives in Erena.

While community members report at least 20 fatalities with additional people unaccounted for, local law enforcement officials provided significantly lower casualty figures. Police authorities confirmed only three deaths from the incident.

“Unfortunately, two vigilante members and a driver from the joint security team lost their lives during the attack, while some others were injured,” Niger state police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun said in a statement.

According to village residents, the armed group maintained their assault for several hours, breaking into homes and forcing community members to escape to surrounding areas for protection.

“Those killed in the attacks were above 20,” Muhammad Tukur, a resident of Erena, told The Associated Press.

The violence reflects ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria, Africa’s most populated nation, which continues to confront widespread instability. The northern regions have been particularly affected by a decade-long militant uprising and various armed organizations that conduct kidnapping operations for financial gain.

Conflicts over territory and livestock grazing rights between predominantly Muslim Fulani cattle herders and primarily Christian agricultural communities regularly result in fatal confrontations. Criminal organizations also maintain active operations throughout these areas.

According to United Nations reports, the northeastern insurgency has resulted in significant casualties and forced population displacement across the region.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced Wednesday his support for completely shutting down internet gambling platforms throughout the South American country, where the industry generates over $4 billion annually and represents one of the world’s largest betting markets.

The 80-year-old president, seeking reelection this October, described online gambling as creating “a massive tragedy” for countless Brazilian families struggling with mounting household debt.

“If it is up to me, we close them,” Lula stated during his interview with ICL Noticias website. “I am deeply worried about the indebtedness of the Brazilian people. If these platforms cause harm, why don’t we end them? We are discussing this very seriously.”

Lula acknowledged that implementing such a prohibition would need legislative approval, noting that many lawmakers maintain connections with gambling companies.

Internet sports wagering gained legal status in Brazil during 2018 under legislation signed by former President Michel Temer. Lula’s progressive government established industry regulations in 2025 following the previous year’s blocking of multiple betting platforms.

Officials now want to increase tax rates on these companies beyond the existing 12% levy on their earnings.

Industry representatives have supported creating regulations for a more trustworthy marketplace, but warn that raising taxes could prevent domestic companies from establishing operations in Brazil while international sites continue accessing Brazilian customers without licensing fees or other obligations.

Data released in March by a Brazilian trade and services organization revealed that more than 80% of the nation’s households carry some form of debt, marking the highest percentage since 2010. Economic experts have linked portions of this debt increase to the country’s expanding online betting sector.

Numerous Brazilian faith communities and social advocacy organizations have consistently denounced gambling companies for their influence, particularly since other forms of gambling remain illegal throughout Brazil. These betting firms serve as sponsors for nearly all major soccer teams competing in the country’s top two professional leagues.

Current and former soccer stars, including Vinícius Júnior, Ronaldo Nazário and Roberto Rivellino, serve as promotional ambassadors for both domestic and international betting brands.

WARSAW, Poland (AP) — Environmental advocates are voicing concerns about the declining effectiveness of Poland’s major air quality improvement program, warning that the slowdown threatens both public health and national energy independence amid ongoing global conflicts like the Iran war that disrupt fuel markets.

Poland ranks among Europe’s most heavily polluted nations, prompting the government to introduce the comprehensive “Clean Air” initiative in 2018 following repeated violations of European Union air quality regulations. This program provides financial assistance to homeowners and businesses seeking to replace coal-burning heating systems, enhance building insulation, and reduce energy usage. The initiative targets coal-based residential heating — the primary contributor to the country’s air pollution — by encouraging transitions to gas, wood pellet, or electric heating alternatives.

Environmental organizations are now expressing alarm that the program’s effectiveness is diminishing, which not only hampers smog reduction efforts but also maintains Poland’s reliance on unstable energy imports during a period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

According to Krzysztof Bolesta, Secretary of State at Poland’s Ministry of Climate and Environment, approximately one million households across the nation of nearly 38 million residents have participated in the “Clean Air” program since its launch. However, 2.5 million coal-powered heating units still require modernization.

Andrzej Guła from the advocacy group Polish Smog Alert highlighted the program’s achievements, noting that Krakow experienced a dramatic reduction from 150 annual heavy smog days to just 30. “It’s still 30 days too much, but there is progress,” Gula stated.

The program reached its zenith in 2024 when more than 250,000 funding applications were submitted, though participation has declined sharply since then.

Government officials implemented program modifications at the end of 2024 to prevent fund misuse and temporarily suspended application approvals. Environmental groups contend that this abrupt program suspension damaged public confidence.

During a Warsaw press conference on March 31, Polish Smog Alert representatives presented data showing application numbers had fallen to one-fifth of peak levels in 2025, with the decline persisting into 2026.

The environmental advocates expressed concerns that Poland’s advancement in air quality improvement and domestic energy reduction has stagnated.

Bolesta defended the reforms as necessary measures to ensure appropriate project funding and prevent public money waste.

“Poland has a unique situation in the European Union, as only Poland has such a high share of coal in individual heating,” Bolesta explained, emphasizing the government’s dedication to air quality enhancement. “However, I have no illusions: this will be very difficult and we will continue to lag behind other countries in the EU.”

Piotr Siergiej, another Polish Smog Alert representative, argued that the energy crisis resulting from the Iran conflict should prompt urgent government action to repair the program.

Siergiej contended that reducing energy consumption strengthens Poland’s energy security by decreasing reliance on imported gas, coal, and wood pellets — an environmentally friendlier solid fuel made from compressed wood waste.

“This program can become an epochal chance to energetically transform our buildings and homes, to make us more independent from those energy crises which we are facing now and whose future we can’t predict,” he said.

BRASILIA — The Amazon region’s most recognized Indigenous leader, Raoni Metuktire, announced Wednesday his continued endorsement of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for the upcoming October election, even while opposing government-backed infrastructure initiatives that he and other Indigenous communities find troubling.

Metuktire’s declaration of loyalty follows his prominent appearance alongside Brazil’s leftist leader in January 2023, when he accompanied Lula as he entered the presidential palace to begin his third non-consecutive presidency.

Speaking to reporters Wednesday at the Free Land encampment — Brazil’s most significant Indigenous gathering — Raoni expressed his continued appreciation for the president’s efforts. “I like his work and am thinking about meeting him so we can address demarcation of Indigenous territories,” he stated. The demonstration has assembled approximately 7,000 Indigenous individuals representing 200 different groups, who have established camp in Brasilia for one week to advocate for their concerns.

Indigenous representatives are working to influence Lula, who has championed Indigenous rights and environmental protection throughout Latin America’s biggest country, while simultaneously advancing infrastructure developments that seem to contradict these principles.

Among these controversial initiatives is the Ferrograo railway development, designed to carry agricultural products like corn and soybeans across approximately 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) through Amazon rainforest territory. Indigenous communities have maintained long-standing opposition to this project.

Brazilian officials anticipate advancing the railway construction after the Supreme Court determines whether modifying national park boundaries for construction is legal and after congressional oversight committees give their approval.

Court proceedings were scheduled to continue Wednesday, prompting Indigenous protesters from the encampment, including Raoni, to demonstrate at the courthouse during afternoon hours.

Regarding the railway project, the Indigenous leader warned it could result in “great harm.”

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum revealed Wednesday her administration’s intention to explore domestic unconventional natural gas reserves as a strategy to decrease the nation’s dependence on imported energy during a period of global market instability caused by Middle Eastern conflicts.

Despite her background as a scientist and climate specialist, Sheinbaum deliberately steered clear of mentioning hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” — the high-pressure liquid drilling technique used to extract oil and gas from deep rock formations. She instead described the proposal as pursuing “sustainable” extraction methods while promising to minimize environmental damage wherever possible.

Environmental scientists and energy professionals continue to debate whether “sustainable fracking” can actually be achieved. Sheinbaum explained that a technical panel will conduct a two-month study examining less damaging approaches, including the use of non-drinking water and fewer chemical compounds. The committee will also evaluate the financial implications of these protective measures.

“All the gas we import comes from a type of extraction that has environmental impacts” and is “100 meters from the Mexican border,” she stated, referring to Texas fracking operations.

Mexico holds the distinction of being the largest single purchaser of American natural gas globally.

Though she acknowledged that natural gas import agreements with the United States remain solid and diplomatic ties continue strong, Sheinbaum contended that boosting energy independence represents a prudent requirement. “Is more gas needed? Yes. Can all gas be replaced? Hardly,” she stated.

After taking office in October 2024, Sheinbaum has committed to expanding clean energy sources while simultaneously supporting the government-controlled Petróleos Mexicanos oil company. She justified this approach Wednesday by maintaining that fossil fuels continue to play a crucial role in Mexico’s energy portfolio.

Sheinbaum emphasized that the goal involves decreasing foreign energy dependence during unstable periods and preventing scenarios similar to Europe’s experience with Russian gas shortages during the Ukraine conflict or current disruptions from Middle Eastern warfare.

This controversial Wednesday announcement occurs as multiple infrastructure developments advance to boost American gas imports. These projects seek to meet Mexico’s growing domestic power requirements while establishing the nation as a distribution center for gas exports to Asian and European customers.

WASHINGTON — A fragile two-week halt to hostilities between the United States and Iran has created breathing room for potential peace negotiations that could commence as early as Friday. However, the temporary truce has revealed deep disagreements between the two nations over fundamental aspects of any lasting agreement.

Key disputes center around Iran’s military oversight of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the future of Tehran’s uranium enrichment activities.

Questions also remain about whether the cessation of hostilities applies to Israeli military operations in Lebanon, and whether Iran will seek substantial financial concessions, sanctions relief, and American military withdrawal from the Middle East as conditions for sustained peace.

The conflicting interpretations from Washington and Tehran highlight the complexity of reaching any permanent resolution.

President Donald Trump declared Tuesday evening on his social media platform that the truce required Iran to ensure the “COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz,” the critical Persian Gulf passage that handles one-fifth of global oil shipments during normal times.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Wednesday at a Pentagon briefing that the waterway had reopened. However, Iran declared hours afterward that it was shutting the strait again due to Israeli strikes in Lebanon.

Tehran maintains that even if shipping resumes, it will only occur under Iranian military supervision. This arrangement allows Iran to claim continued control over the strategic waterway, preserving significant geopolitical and economic influence while potentially collecting substantial fees from vessels, generating billions in new income.

Iran’s peace proposal includes Washington’s “acceptance of enrichment” for its nuclear activities. This directly conflicts with Trump’s stated goal of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons capabilities.

Trump presented an alternative view Wednesday, posting that any peace deal would involve the United States working with Iran to “dig up” enriched uranium. The administration claims this material was buried following joint American-Israeli strikes in June.

However, Trump’s statement differed from Hegseth’s remarks. The Pentagon chief indicated Tehran would either “give it to us voluntarily” or face consequences similar to last summer’s strikes, when American and Israeli forces targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Iran also insists that ending Israeli attacks in Lebanon, which have intensified recently, must be included in broader peace discussions.

This position aligns with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s announcement on X, where the key mediator stated the ceasefire would extend to Lebanon.

Trump contradicted this interpretation, telling PBS NewsHour Wednesday that the truce would not cover Lebanon.

This matches the position of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, which stated that the two-week suspension of Iranian strikes excludes the conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

When Iran initially presented a 10-point peace proposal Monday, Trump characterized it as a “very significant step” but also “not good enough.”

However, approximately 90 minutes before his Tuesday night deadline to launch extensive American attacks on Iran’s infrastructure and power systems, Trump announced the two-week pause and described Iran’s offer as a “workable basis on which to negotiate.”

“Almost all of the various points of past contention have been agreed to between the United States and Iran,” Trump explained his decision to postpone threatened massive strikes on civilian targets.

The specific agreements remain unclear, with the White House declining to explain what developments between Monday and Tuesday evening prompted Trump’s changed stance toward the Iranian proposal.

Adding to the confusion, Iran has issued multiple versions of its 10-point framework for negotiations, with variations often appearing to depend on whether documents were prepared in English or Farsi.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council claims “the United States has, in principle, committed to” several key demands that appear incompatible with longstanding American policies.

These alleged commitments include guaranteeing lasting peace without future attacks, maintaining Iranian control over the strait, accepting uranium enrichment activities, and removing all American economic sanctions. The council says this would encompass restrictions on international business with Iran and relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

The council also claims American agreement to ending international monitoring of Iran’s nuclear program, providing war damage compensation, extending the ceasefire to Lebanon, and withdrawing all American combat forces from the region.

The final demand would represent a dramatic shift, considering the United States has operated military bases throughout the Persian Gulf for decades since the 1991 Gulf War with Iraq. Complete sanctions removal also appears unlikely for American acceptance.

When asked how such proposals could be considered viable, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated only that “negotiations will continue.”

“The truth is that President Trump and our powerful military got Iran to agree to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and negotiations will continue,” Leavitt said in a statement.

Trump dismissed many of these points as “a FRAUD,” posting that the peace plan attributed to the council and covered by Iranian state media was a “false Statement was linked to a Fake News site (from Nigeria).”

Instead, the United States has presented its own 15-point peace framework. American officials have only confirmed general outlines.

“There is only one group of meaningful ‘POINTS’ that are acceptable to the United States, and we will be discussing them behind closed doors during these Negotiations,” Trump posted Wednesday.

Italian government officials called in Israel’s ambassador Wednesday following a shooting incident involving Italian peacekeepers serving with United Nations forces in Lebanon.

The incident occurred when Israeli military personnel fired warning shots at an Italian convoy operating as part of the UN peacekeeping mission known as UNIFIL, which monitors the volatile border region between Israel and Lebanon.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani told Italy’s parliament that “Israeli warning shots have damaged one of our vehicles; fortunately, no one was injured.” He later announced on social media that he had directed officials to summon the Israeli ambassador for an explanation.

Tajani emphasized that Israeli forces had “no authority to touch” Italian troops deployed in the region.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni issued a strong condemnation of the incident, stating “It is completely unacceptable that personnel operating under the U.N. flag should be put at risk by irresponsible actions such as today’s, which are in clear violation of U.N. Resolution 1701.”

According to Italy’s defense ministry, the logistics convoy was traveling from Shama to Beirut Wednesday morning when Israeli military forces opened fire with warning shots approximately two kilometers into their journey. The convoy immediately halted operations and returned to their base.

Meloni also called for an immediate end to Israeli military operations in Lebanon, which she said have caused excessive casualties and displaced numerous civilians. While acknowledging Hezbollah’s role in the conflict, she demanded that “Israel’s continued attacks in Lebanon which have already resulted in too many deaths and an unacceptable number of displaced people, must cease immediately.”

The shooting took place during what Israeli officials described as their most intensive strikes against Lebanon since fighting with Hezbollah militants escalated last month. Israeli authorities stated that a recent ceasefire agreement suspending hostilities with Iran does not extend to operations in Lebanon.

The UNIFIL peacekeeping operation currently includes approximately 7,500 personnel from various nations, with Italy serving as one of the largest contributors by deploying more than 750 soldiers to the mission.

Two French citizens who spent more than three years imprisoned in Iran have finally made it back to their homeland following intensive diplomatic negotiations between Paris and Tehran.

Cécile Kohler, 41, and Jacques Paris, 72, touched down in France on Wednesday after departing Iran by vehicle on Tuesday, just as news broke of a potential ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending regional hostilities that began February 28th. French officials are calling their freedom a significant diplomatic victory.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who has worked to keep France separate from Middle Eastern conflicts, greeted the pair at the presidential Elysee Palace upon their arrival.

The two were initially taken into custody on espionage allegations and were freed from their Iranian jail cells in November. But they remained stuck at French diplomatic facilities in Tehran because Iranian officials refused to grant them permission to exit the country. Macron announced they finally received authorization to begin their journey home on Tuesday.

“We understand how fortunate we are to have ‘barely made it out,’ because the situation could have been far more dire,” Kohler shared with media on Wednesday. “The past two days have been exhausting since we traveled by automobile and then aircraft. We haven’t gotten any sleep in 48 hours,” she explained.

The former prisoners made a nine-hour drive from Iran into neighboring Azerbaijan before boarding a flight to Paris, according to French officials. France’s Tehran ambassador Pierre Cochard escorted them throughout their entire journey home.

The president’s office described their release as the result of “sustained diplomatic work,” though discussions intensified recently due to pressure from the Iran conflict, which created urgency around the situation.

Macron stated last week that America couldn’t criticize allies for insufficient support after choosing to begin the Iran conflict without consulting partners. “This military action does not belong to us,” he informed reporters while visiting South Korea.

The French president became the first Western leader to have a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on March 8th after fighting began. The two leaders have since spoken by phone two additional times, on March 15th and March 24th.

French leadership also expressed gratitude to Oman for helping broker the release of Kohler and Paris.

Omani officials “enabled us, during the crucial final phase, to communicate key messages within Iran’s government structure,” French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot explained during an appearance on France 2 television.

“This past Sunday evening, which was Easter Sunday, I got a phone call from Iran’s foreign minister confirming their government had made the decision,” he stated.

Barrot indicated that specific details about the Iranian negotiations would stay “private.”

But Iran’s official news agency IRNA reported on Tuesday that Iran had struck a deal with France to free both French nationals in return for Iranian citizen Mahdieh Esfandiari.

Macron’s administration rejected claims of any prisoner exchange arrangement.

Tehran has been advocating since last year for Esfandiari’s release after she was found guilty in France of promoting terrorism based on statements she made regarding the Hamas-orchestrated October 7, 2023 attacks against Israel.

Esfandiari received a one-year prison term in February plus a three-year suspended sentence and a lifetime ban from entering France. She has challenged the verdict.

She had been living under house arrest, a restriction that was removed Tuesday afternoon, just after news emerged that the two French citizens had departed Iran, her attorney Nabil Boudi confirmed to The Associated Press.

Kohler and Paris expressed appreciation on Wednesday to everyone who assisted in their escape from Iran.

Speaking with reporters, they described Iran’s Evin prison, which houses numerous political prisoners and opposition figures, as “hell.”

“We endured daily terror,” Kohler stated.

Paris mentioned they felt “continuously threatened” during their imprisonment.

“We were forbidden from reading or writing. Each time we exited our cell, they covered our eyes,” he recalled.

“One objective was probably to destroy our spirits,” Paris continued. “They failed to break us. We will tell our story, we will speak publicly, and we will embrace life once more.”

The pair had been on vacation in Iran when authorities arrested them in May 2022.

RIO DE JANEIRO — Emergency crews rushed to contain a blaze that erupted Wednesday morning at the velodrome within Rio de Janeiro’s Olympic Park, with approximately 80 firefighters and 20 emergency vehicles responding to the scene, according to local authorities.

Officials from Rio state’s military fire department confirmed the flames were brought under control and remained mostly limited to the building’s fabric roofing material. No casualties have been documented, and the structure’s interior spaces — which house the Olympic Museum — escaped damage.

Investigators are working to determine what sparked this most recent fire, though the velodrome has experienced similar rooftop incidents before. The facility suffered two comparable fires back in 2017, with both blazes traced back to paper sky lanterns that had fallen onto the roof.

The velodrome gained international attention when it hosted track cycling competitions during Rio’s 2016 Summer Olympic Games. Today, the facility functions as the main training headquarters for Brazil’s national cycling and weightlifting squads.

TORONTO — Another Conservative member of Canada’s Parliament has switched allegiance to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party, bringing his government tantalizingly close to securing a parliamentary majority.

Marilyn Gladu, who represents an Ontario district, cited concerns about President Donald Trump’s economic and territorial threats against Canada as the driving force behind her party switch. Trump has floated the idea of incorporating Canada as America’s 51st state while imposing harsh tariffs on key Canadian industries.

“The past year has been like no other Canada has ever faced,” Gladu said in a statement Wednesday. “I’ve heard from constituents that you want serious leadership and a real plan to build a stronger and more independent Canadian economy.”

Gladu becomes the fifth parliamentarian to join Carney’s ranks and the fourth former Conservative to make the switch.

“She is going to be a great member of our team,” Carney said outside his office. “This all comes at a time when the country as a whole is uniting.”

The party switch moves the Liberals to 171 seats in the House of Commons, just one short of the 172 needed for majority control that would allow them to pass legislation without requiring opposition support.

Carney has scheduled special elections in three districts for Monday that could deliver the majority he seeks if his party captures just one of the seats.

The prime minister announced March 8 that voting will take place April 13 in two Toronto-area constituencies — Scarborough Southwest and University-Rosedale — both considered likely Liberal victories, plus the Montreal-area district of Terrebonne, where the outcome remains uncertain.

The three other Conservative parliamentarians who recently joined the Liberals are Chris d’Entremont, Michael Ma and Matt Jeneroux.

Jeneroux has pointed to Carney’s World Economic Forum address in Davos as influential in his decision. During that speech, Carney criticized economic bullying by powerful nations against smaller countries, earning widespread acclaim and overshadowing Trump at the international gathering.

Since replacing Justin Trudeau as prime minister in 2025 and winning national elections, Carney has steered the Liberals toward the political center.

The latest defection represents another setback for Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, who suffered defeat in last year’s national election and even lost his own parliamentary seat before later returning to the House of Commons.

Although Poilievre survived a party leadership review earlier this year, he continues to struggle with maintaining unity among his caucus members.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned Wednesday that significant challenges lie ahead in efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, despite the recent U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement. The Prime Minister made these comments while visiting the Gulf region for discussions with area leaders.

During his trip, which had been scheduled prior to the ceasefire announcement, Starmer addressed military personnel at a Saudi Arabian base about the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

“We now … have a ceasefire, but there’s a lot of work to do, as you will appreciate, a lot of work to make sure that that ceasefire becomes permanent and brings about the peace that we all want to see,” Starmer told the assembled troops.

“But also a lot of work to do in relation to the Strait of Hormuz, which has an impact everywhere across the world,” he added.

The British leader has faced sharp criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump for not backing American and Israeli military actions against Iran. In response, Starmer has organized international conferences focused on coordinating allied efforts to restore access to the vital shipping corridor that serves as a lifeline for global energy markets.

“It’s our job to make sure that the Strait is open, that we’re able to get the energy that the world needs out and stabilise the prices back in the United Kingdom,” Starmer explained to journalists.

Meanwhile, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper held discussions Tuesday with her American counterpart, Marco Rubio, regarding diplomatic strategies to secure the waterway’s reopening. Their conversation included details about a UK-organized summit last week that brought together more than 40 nations to address the shipping crisis.

QUITO, April 8 – Ecuador’s foreign ministry has withdrawn its ambassador from Colombia for diplomatic consultations following a public disagreement over a imprisoned former government official, marking another escalation in tensions between the two South American nations.

The diplomatic action came after Colombian President Gustavo Petro posted on social media Monday, describing former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas as a political prisoner and urging Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa to either free him or transfer him to Colombia, pointing to Glas’s Colombian citizenship.

President Noboa fired back on social media, stating that labeling Glas a political prisoner represents an assault on Ecuador’s sovereignty and breaks international non-interference rules.

“There’s a corrupt official in jail who must answer to Ecuador,” he said.

Glas held the vice presidency under Rafael Correa between 2013 and 2017 before being found guilty on multiple charges including criminal association in the Odebrecht scandal, accepting bribes related to campaign funding from 2012 to 2016, and misappropriating public resources following Ecuador’s 2016 earthquake disaster.

“We are taking steps to express, to reiterate, Ecuador’s strong protest to Colombia regarding the terms used by President Petro and the interference in decisions made by different branches of the Ecuadorean state,” Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld told a local radio.

The neighboring countries have experienced repeated clashes in recent months, with Ecuador’s conservative president Noboa maintaining close ties to Washington while Colombia operates under leftist leader Petro, who has previously criticized former President Trump. Their disagreements over border protection and anti-drug strategies have already sparked a trade dispute, with both nations imposing tariffs on each other’s goods.

Lebanese health ministry officials reported Wednesday that Israeli military operations throughout the country resulted in 89 deaths and left 700 people injured.

A ministry representative confirmed to news agencies that the casualties included “89 martyrs and wounded 700 people” from the day’s attacks.

The official also disclosed that a dozen healthcare workers were among those killed during operations in Lebanon’s southern region.

OTTAWA – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney moved closer to securing a parliamentary majority Wednesday when a Conservative Party member switched allegiances to join his Liberal government.

Marilyn Gladu, a veteran Conservative legislator, announced her decision to join the centrist Liberals, bringing Carney’s party to 171 seats in the 343-member House of Commons – just one vote shy of majority control.

The timing proves crucial for Carney’s government, which has been operating as a minority administration since winning power in April 2025. Without a majority, the Liberals must rely on opposition party support to advance major legislation.

Carney has argued that majority control is essential for effectively responding to trade policies implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump. The prime minister praised Gladu’s decision, stating it would strengthen the government during a period of international instability.

The Liberal Party appears positioned to reach majority status through upcoming special elections scheduled for April 13, which will fill two vacant parliamentary seats.

Gladu represents the fourth Conservative member to join the Liberals since November, part of a broader trend that has also seen a New Democratic Party legislator make the same switch last month.

Achieving majority status would allow Carney to govern until October 2029, as Canadian federal elections must occur at least once every four years. Despite polling data showing the Liberals holding substantial leads over competing parties, Carney has stated he has no intention of calling early elections.

The latest party switch intensifies pressure on Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, who retained his leadership position following a January review after losing the 2025 election despite holding significant polling advantages. Conservative Party officials were not immediately available to respond to requests for comment.

MOSCOW – The Russian government accused European Union political forces Wednesday of working against Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s re-election campaign and assisting his political challengers.

Moscow’s claims emerged one day after U.S. Vice President JD Vance visited Budapest and called EU involvement in Hungary’s April 12 election “disgraceful.” Current polling data indicates Orban’s 16-year hold on power may be coming to an end.

“Many forces in Europe, many forces in Brussels, would not like Orban to win the elections again,” said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov during a press briefing. His comments addressed questions about a leaked conversation transcript between Orban and Russian President Vladimir Putin that Bloomberg published.

“This is well-known, it’s obvious to the naked eye, and, of course, they’re playing into the hands of those forces that politically oppose Orban and believe that publishing such materials could harm him,” Peskov explained to journalists.

The Kremlin spokesman offered no proof of EU officials’ involvement in the document leak. A European Commission representative responded by stating: “Elections are the sole choice of the citizens.”

President Donald Trump has publicly backed Orban’s campaign for another term, with Vance reinforcing that support during his Tuesday visit to Budapest. The Hungarian leader, known for his nationalist positions, has continued friendly relations with Putin throughout the Ukraine conflict, even as the EU works to isolate Russia through multiple rounds of economic penalties.

Hungary continues depending heavily on Russian energy supplies for oil and natural gas. Orban has prevented implementation of a European Union loan package for Ukraine that was approved in December, citing disagreements with Kyiv regarding a war-damaged oil pipeline.

The Bloomberg-published transcript revealed Orban telling Putin he was at his service and referencing a Hungarian tale about a mouse assisting a lion.

Peskov declined to dispute the authenticity of those statements, instead characterizing them as evidence of Orban’s practical approach to governance.

“He is indeed a very effective politician… one who is specifically defending the interests of his own country,” Peskov stated.

Emergency responders mobilized a massive firefighting effort early Wednesday morning to combat a blaze at the Olympic Velodrome in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s state military fire department announced on social media platform X.

The department dispatched approximately 60 firefighters along with 20 fire trucks to tackle the flames after receiving the emergency call at 4:17 a.m. local time. Officials confirmed that no injuries occurred during the incident.

Constructed for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, the facility operates under city government management and has earned recognition as Brazil’s premier track cycling training facility. The venue currently functions as the primary training headquarters for both the Brazilian national weightlifting and cycling squads.

This marks the third fire incident at the structure, following two separate blazes that damaged the roof in 2017, though those earlier fires resulted in only minimal structural harm.

Beyond its athletic facilities, the venue also accommodates the Olympic Museum, which showcases interactive displays and historic memorabilia from the Games, including authentic Olympic torches and medal collections.

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that the United States plans to collaborate closely with Iran and engage in discussions about removing tariffs and sanctions, following the establishment of a two-week ceasefire agreement.

The president’s optimistic statements about Iran across three social media posts Wednesday represented a striking shift from his aggressive rhetoric just one day prior. On Tuesday, Trump had threatened to destroy Iran’s entire “civilization,” but by Wednesday he was proclaiming “A big day for World Peace!”

According to Trump’s social media statements, Iranian officials have accepted many elements of a 15-point proposal presented by the United States, though he provided no additional specifics about the agreement.

“We are, and will be, talking Tariff and Sanctions relief with Iran,” Trump stated.

While Trump’s positive remarks brought relief to Iranian citizens and global financial markets celebrating the ceasefire, fundamental disputes between Washington and Tehran persist, with both nations maintaining conflicting requirements for any lasting peace agreement.

The president agreed to the two-week pause in hostilities less than two hours before his ultimatum deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz shipping corridor or face destruction of its infrastructure and energy facilities.

Trump indicated Wednesday that America “will be helping the traffic buildup” in the strategic waterway. Experts estimate clearing the backlog of over 1,000 commercial vessels stranded in the Gulf region will likely require more than the two-week ceasefire period.

The president also warned that any nation providing weapons to Iran would immediately face 50% tariffs on exports to America, though he did not explain his legal authority for imposing such measures. The Supreme Court invalidated his previous tariff authority in February, and alternative options carry significant restrictions and implementation challenges.

China and Russia have previously assisted Iran’s military development to counter American and Israeli influence, providing missile systems, air defense technology, and other equipment designed to strengthen Iran’s deterrent capabilities. However, this support appeared limited during recent U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran.

Both Beijing and Moscow have denied recent weapons deliveries, although accusations against Russia continue. American imports of Russian products have declined dramatically since the 2022 Ukraine invasion and subsequent sanctions.

Trump praised Iran’s new leadership Wednesday after U.S. and Israeli strikes eliminated several senior officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been succeeded by his son, Mojtaba Khamenei.

“The United States will work closely with Iran, which we have determined has gone through what will be a very productive Regime Change!” Trump posted on Truth Social.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that face-to-face negotiations remain possible, though no final arrangements have been determined.

Vice President JD Vance, currently visiting Budapest, Hungary, said he has been working to advance diplomatic progress and described Trump as “impatient” for results.

Vance explained that the president instructed his negotiating team to engage in “good faith” discussions if Iran reciprocates. “But that’s a big if, and ultimately, it’s up to the Iranians how they negotiate. I hope they make the right decision.”

Trump, whose original justification for military action focused on preventing Iranian nuclear weapons development, also declared in his posts that there will be “no enrichment of Uranium, and the United States will, working with Iran, dig up and remove all of the deeply buried (B-2 Bombers) Nuclear ‘Dust.’”

“Nothing has been touched from the date of attack,” he added.

The military campaign conducted by America and Israel has not yet eliminated Iran’s stockpile of weapons-grade enriched uranium or disabled its capacity to strike neighboring countries with missiles and drones. Iran’s religious leadership, which survived mass protests months earlier, has endured the six-week military campaign without facing significant domestic opposition.

Nevertheless, Trump sees potential opportunities in Iran’s reconstruction efforts, promising America will be “hangin’ around” to help create a “Golden Age of the Middle East.”

“There will be lots of positive action!” Trump posted shortly after midnight Wednesday in Washington. “Big money will be made.”

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva announced Wednesday his administration plans to introduce legislation to Congress within days that would shorten the standard work week.

The upcoming bill represents a major campaign commitment Lula made during his successful October presidential run, designed to decrease work hours while keeping pay at current levels.

The president made the announcement from Sao Paulo on Wednesday, confirming the proposal would reach lawmakers before the week ends.

OIAPOQUE, Brazil — A distant Brazilian city in the northern Amapa state is witnessing dramatic changes as expectations of an oil-fueled economic expansion take hold. Thousands of job seekers have relocated to Oiapoque following Petrobras’ launch of exploratory operations off the Amazon rainforest coast, with many destroying forest areas to construct temporary shelters while hoping for future employment in oil production.

Key developments from this situation include:

The local economy in Oiapoque traditionally relies on fishing activities, unauthorized gold extraction, and commerce with visitors from nearby French Guiana. Residents report that sudden, uncontrolled population expansion is overwhelming the community’s limited infrastructure systems.

City councilman Tiago Vieira Araújo reports that seven brand-new residential areas have appeared, with some built on land that was untouched rainforest just twelve months earlier. Local residents frequently voice concerns about packed schools and the community’s sole medical facility running at maximum capacity.

Indigenous council representative Renata Lod explained that “Petrobras arrived in the city with strong political backing, promising progress as if we would go to sleep one way and wake up like Dubai.” She described the actual outcome as completely chaotic population expansion and encroachment on Indigenous territories.

Job seekers such as Reginaldo Nunes Fonseca were motivated by the prospect of new opportunities. He relocated from Maranhao, a northeastern state, after watching a January television news segment about Petrobras receiving authorization for exploratory operations.

Conservation organizations caution that petroleum accidents could destroy fishing grounds and marsh ecosystems, while Indigenous community leaders worry the development might threaten their territories and traditional lifestyle.

Government prosecutors have requested that Brazil’s environmental oversight agency cancel or halt the environmental permit, claiming Petrobras’ impact assessments are inadequate and that the corporation is hiding the complete scope of environmental consequences. No decision has been announced.

Petrobras stated it performed spill simulations to obtain licensing approval and has been using floating monitoring equipment to track ocean currents since beginning exploration activities in October.

This past January, Petrobras disclosed a drilling-fluid release that temporarily stopped operations. IBAMA, the environmental oversight agency, imposed a 2.5 million real ($470,500) penalty on the company.

During Brazil’s hosting of the yearly United Nations climate conference, COP30, last year, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Brazilian negotiators worked to promote an international strategy for eliminating fossil fuel dependence, which primarily causes global warming.

Yet the situation in communities like Oiapoque demonstrates a wider challenge facing much of the developing world. Various nations, Brazil included, have pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide, which result from burning oil and contribute to climate change. Simultaneously, many citizens hope that fossil fuel revenues will boost their local economies.

Extending oil extraction into the Amazon territory, even through offshore projects like this one, also questions Lula’s electoral promise to safeguard the rainforest.

WASHINGTON – A senior United Nations diplomatic representative has touched down in Iran this week during a wider Middle Eastern diplomatic mission focused on achieving a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement, according to UN officials who announced the visit Wednesday.

Jean Arnault, serving as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s personal representative, will gather Iranian viewpoints on potential paths forward while reinforcing Guterres’s dedication to supporting peaceful conflict resolution, according to a UN spokesperson’s statement.

The UN spokesperson noted that Arnault has urged all regional leaders to “choose the path of peaceful resolution and the protection of civilians.”

The experienced UN diplomat, who received his appointment as Guterres’s special representative for the conflict just last month, departed for the Middle East region on Monday. However, United Nations officials have not released details about all destinations planned for his diplomatic tour.

A comprehensive new study from the International Monetary Fund reveals that armed conflicts inflict severe and long-lasting economic damage on nations where battles occur, with economic production falling approximately 7% over five years and financial wounds persisting for more than ten years.

The research, published Wednesday, analyzed active conflicts worldwide – which have reached their highest levels since World War Two ended – and examined how dramatic increases in defense spending affect national economies. The analysis will be part of the IMF’s complete World Economic Outlook report scheduled for release next Tuesday.

The study reviewed wartime economic data dating back to 1946 and military expenditure information from 164 nations, though it does not cover recent Middle East conflicts or the two-week ceasefire announced Tuesday by President Donald Trump.

According to the most recent available data from 2024, more than 35 nations experienced armed conflict within their borders, affecting approximately 45% of the global population living in conflict-affected countries.

“Beyond their devastating human toll, wars impose large and lasting economic costs, and pose difficult macroeconomic trade-offs, especially for those countries where the fighting is taking place,” the IMF stated in an accompanying blog post.

The research found that nations fighting wars on foreign soil can avoid physical destruction at home and minimize major economic losses, though neighboring countries and important trade partners still experience significant economic shocks.

“Output losses from conflicts persist even after a decade and typically exceed those associated with financial crises or severe natural disasters,” according to the IMF analysis.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva told Reuters Monday that the organization plans to reduce its global growth projections and increase inflation forecasts due to the Iran war. World Bank President Ajay Banga echoed these concerns Tuesday, stating the conflict would cause slower growth and higher inflation regardless of how quickly it concludes.

The study found that warfare contributes to sustained currency devaluation, depletion of financial reserves, and rising inflation as growing external imbalances worsen economic stress.

Rising global tensions and more frequent conflicts have triggered substantial increases in military spending, with approximately half of all countries boosting their defense budgets over the past five years. Additional increases are expected as NATO members work toward spending 5% of their GDP on weapons by 2035.

The IMF discovered that arms sales from the world’s largest weapons manufacturers – predominantly U.S.-based companies – have doubled in real terms over the past twenty years.

Researchers identified that major defense spending increases have become more common, particularly in emerging-market and developing nations. These spending surges typically last about 2.5 years and see military expenditures jump by roughly 2.7% of GDP.

Approximately two-thirds of these military buildups were funded through increased government deficits, which could stimulate economic activity in the medium term but also drive up inflation and create future challenges. The IMF emphasized that such buildups require careful coordination with monetary policy.

Government budget deficits typically worsen by about 2.6 percentage points of GDP, while public debt increases by approximately 7 percentage points within three years of beginning a military buildup.

About one-quarter of these buildups were funded by shifting spending priorities, often resulting in sharp cuts to government social programs, explained IMF economist Andresa Lagerborg in a recorded discussion about the research.

The study also found that economic benefits were smaller when weapons were purchased from foreign suppliers. The IMF suggested that focusing on public investment in equipment and infrastructure would expand market size, support economies of scale, and strengthen industrial capacity while reducing dependence on overseas suppliers.

IMF economist Hippolyte Balima, a key author of the research, noted that the data demonstrates peace remains fragile, with about 40% of countries returning to conflict within five years.

Balima emphasized that early steps to stabilize economies, restructure debt, secure international support, and implement domestic reforms are essential for establishing strong recoveries.

BEIRUT — Lebanese health officials report dozens killed and hundreds injured after Israeli military forces launched extensive airstrikes across central Beirut Wednesday afternoon, targeting crowded business districts and residential neighborhoods without advance notice. The bombardment came just hours following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between the United States, Israel and Iran.

Israeli officials maintain the truce arrangement excludes their ongoing conflict with the Iran-supported militant organization Hezbollah operating in Lebanon, though Pakistani mediators assert the agreement covers all hostilities.

According to Israeli military officials, the operation represented their most extensive coordinated assault during the current conflict, with forces targeting over 100 Hezbollah positions across Beirut, southern Lebanon and the eastern Bekaa valley within a 10-minute timeframe.

Dark plumes of smoke rose above multiple sections of the Mediterranean coastal capital. The sound of explosions cut through the noise of traffic during what had been a busy afternoon under clear skies. Emergency vehicles rushed toward burning sites as apartment complexes sustained damage and rescue workers examined destroyed cars.

Multiple airstrikes targeted crowded business districts, creating widespread fear among people in the streets. Lebanon’s National News Agency documented attacks across at least five separate neighborhoods throughout central and coastal sections of Beirut.

In an Associated Press interview, Lebanon’s Minister of Social Affairs Haneed Sayed criticized Israel’s extensive bombing campaign, describing it as a “very dangerous turning point.”

“These hits are now at the heart of Beirut … Half of the sheltered (internally displaced persons) are in Beirut in this area,” she explained, noting she had recently driven through the affected zones.

Sayed indicated Lebanon’s government stands prepared to begin discussions with Israel aimed at ending the violence, reiterating an offer previously extended by the president. Israeli officials have not provided a response.

“There are calls and efforts being made as we speak,” Sayed stated.

In a public statement, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam criticized Israel for intensifying attacks precisely when Lebanese leaders were attempting to negotiate a peaceful resolution, condemning strikes on civilian locations showing “utter disregard for the principles of international law and international humanitarian law — principles it has, in any case, never respected.”

Israeli military representatives claimed they focused on missile launching sites, command headquarters and intelligence facilities while charging Hezbollah with using civilians as protective cover.

“The State of Lebanon and its civilians must refuse Hezbollah’s entrenchment in civilian areas and its weapons build-up capabilities,” military officials declared.

Local residents and municipal leaders disputed claims that targeted buildings served military purposes.

“Look at these crimes,” stated Mohammed Balouza, a Beirut municipal council member, speaking from a strike location in the central Corniche al Mazraa district, an area mixing commercial and residential properties. An apartment complex behind a well-known shop selling nuts and dried fruit had been damaged. “This is a residential area. There is nothing (military) here.”

Israeli forces had infrequently targeted central Beirut areas since the current Israel-Hezbollah conflict began March 2, typically focusing strikes on southern and eastern Lebanon along with Beirut’s southern suburbs.

Prior to the latest wave of attacks, a Hezbollah representative informed the AP that the organization was allowing mediators time to negotiate a Lebanese ceasefire, but “we have not announced our adherence to the ceasefire since the Israelis are not adhering to it.” The official requested anonymity due to lack of authorization for public statements.

The Hezbollah representative indicated the group would reject returning to pre-March 2 conditions, when Israel conducted almost daily Lebanese strikes despite a nominal ceasefire remaining from the previous major Israel-Hezbollah war that concluded in November 2024.

“We will not accept for the Israelis to continue behaving as they did before this war with regards to attacks,” he explained. “We do not want this phase to continue.”

Hezbollah had launched cross-border missiles days following U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, igniting a regional conflict. Israel responded with extensive Lebanese bombardment and ground invasion operations.

Israeli military leadership announced Wednesday they would continue to “utilize every operational opportunity” for Hezbollah strikes. Lt Gen. Eyal Zamir stated the goal involves protecting Israel’s northern residents, who have experienced heavy fire.

Israeli bombing campaigns have resulted in over 1,530 Lebanese deaths, including more than 100 women and 130 children. Israeli military officials report killing hundreds of Hezbollah fighters. More than one million Lebanese people have been displaced.

Early Wednesday, following the Iran ceasefire announcement, many displaced individuals sleeping in street tents throughout Beirut and the coastal city of Sidon began gathering belongings to prepare for home returns.

This occurred before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged continued military operations in Lebanon.

At an extensive displacement facility along Beirut’s waterfront, families confused by contradictory statements expressed bewilderment and hopelessness.

“We can’t take this anymore, sleeping in a tent, not showering, the uncertainty,” said Fadi Zaydan, 35. He and his parents had prepared to return to the southern city of Nabatieh before Netanyahu’s remarks halted their plans.

“But we’ll be targeted if we go home,” Zaydan explained. His family chose to temporarily remain in Sidon, somewhat closer to their home.

ISTANBUL — Nine individuals are now in custody following a deadly assault on law enforcement officers stationed outside the Israeli Consulate building in Istanbul, according to Turkey’s official news service reporting Wednesday.

The violent incident unfolded Tuesday in Istanbul’s commercial center, resulting in one attacker’s death while two accomplices suffered injuries during the exchange of gunfire with police. Two law enforcement officers received minor wounds in the confrontation, authorities confirmed.

The diplomatic facility was unoccupied during the assault, as Israel had previously evacuated its diplomatic personnel from Turkey due to security threats and worsening diplomatic ties following the outbreak of conflict in Gaza.

Interior Minister Mustafa Ciftci revealed that one attacker was connected to an organization that he described as one that “exploits religion,” though he declined to identify the specific group. Turkey has previously experienced fatal attacks orchestrated by the Islamic State organization.

The Anadolu Agency stated that law enforcement conducted raids across Istanbul and the provinces of Konya and Kocaeli, apprehending nine suspects. These individuals are undergoing interrogation alongside the two injured attackers, though additional information was not disclosed.

According to Cifti, the perpetrators had journeyed from Izmit in Kocaeli province using a rental vehicle. The two wounded suspects are siblings, named as Onur C. and Enes C., with the former having previous drug-related convictions.

On Tuesday, Israel’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement denouncing the assault while commending Turkish officials for stopping additional bloodshed.

OIAPOQUE, Brazil — Reginaldo Nunes Fonseca sheltered from heavy rainfall on his friend’s wooden porch, cigarette in hand, gazing across what locals call Nova Conquista — New Conquest — where untouched Amazon rainforest existed just twelve months earlier.

The downpour prevented Fonseca from constructing his home or finding day labor in the settlement, but weather wasn’t his biggest obstacle. Along with thousands of newcomers flooding into Oiapoque, a remote city in Brazil’s northern Amapa state, Fonseca waits for an economic transformation that remains uncertain.

This migration wave began after Petrobras, Brazil’s government-owned petroleum company, obtained environmental approval in 2023 for ocean drilling along the Equatorial Margin near the Amazon River’s mouth, approximately 180 kilometers offshore from Amapa.

“I figured this was positive news — the community would expand and create numerous employment possibilities,” Fonseca explained, recalling how a January television news segment about the licensing prompted his relocation from northeastern Maranhao state. “I began contacting my friends and declared: ‘I’m heading there since I’m jobless here with nothing to do.’”

Amapa ranks among Brazil’s most impoverished and underdeveloped regions. Oiapoque’s local economy depends on commercial fishing, unauthorized gold extraction, and tourists from adjacent French Guiana who visit daily spending euros, which maintain stronger value than Brazil’s currency. Though potential business opportunities inspire optimism, uncontrolled population expansion strains a community already lacking basic services.

This petroleum-driven enthusiasm illustrates a complex challenge facing developing nations: balancing greenhouse gas reduction goals with dependence on fossil fuel revenues for economic advancement.

The situation also questions President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s environmental protection promises. Forest preservation became central to his administration, and Brazil hosted the 2023 United Nations climate conference COP30.

“We refuse to contaminate even one millimeter of water, yet nobody can prevent us from elevating Amapa from poverty if petroleum exists here,” Lula declared during his Amapa visit last year.

On March 10, roughly 2 miles from Fonseca’s residence, Petrobras conducted a public meeting with local officials, business leaders and community representatives to outline operational plans.

Corporate officials reported that exploratory drilling commenced in October with an expected five-month duration. Should substantial oil deposits be discovered and extraction considered, additional government approvals would be necessary — a potentially lengthy process requiring months or years.

Environmental organizations and Indigenous groups have filed lawsuits against Brazil’s government and Petrobras seeking exploration suspension, claiming inadequate consultation with traditional communities, underestimated contamination risks, and insufficient climate impact evaluation. Federal prosecutors requested IBAMA cancel or pause the environmental permit, arguing Petrobras conducted incomplete studies while concealing environmental damage scope. Courts have not yet ruled.

Meeting attendees learned Oiapoque primarily functions as a helicopter staging area for offshore personnel due to its proximity to drilling sites. Administrative oversight operates from Belem, a major city in neighboring Para state.

Despite uncertainties surrounding future extraction and Oiapoque’s minimal operational involvement, speculation has dramatically altered the community.

Census records show 27,482 residents in 2022, though recent population counts remain unavailable, making current numbers unclear.

“Over the previous 18 months, Oiapoque experienced substantial demographic increases,” stated Tiago Vieira Araújo, a city councilman who expressed concerns during the gathering. “Seven new neighborhoods have emerged, accompanied by social challenges.”

Oiapoque’s urban infrastructure remains inadequate. Under 2% of homes connect to proper sewage systems, while only 0.2% sit on paved roads, according to Brazil’s Geography and Statistics Institute.

Conditions worsen in newer settlements — termed “invasions” locally. Residents clear public forestland, establishing unofficial lots and constructing temporary shelters. Fresh tree stumps, wooden markers and crude dwellings emerge from muddy terrain, containing only essentials: cooking areas, sleeping spaces and basic restrooms.

“We understand forest clearing is inappropriate. Everyone recognizes this wrongdoing,” Fonseca acknowledged. “However, available land is scarce.”

Yuri Alesi, a 34-year-old attorney advocating for settlement land rights and former councilman, seeks the vice mayor position in April’s special election. He envisions Oiapoque becoming an “Amazonian Dubai” powered by petroleum revenues.

“Dubai sits within desert terrain, an improbable growth location,” he observed. “Oil industry development fueled its expansion.”

Brazil’s offshore Equatorial Margin, stretching from Suriname’s border to the nation’s northeast, potentially contains significant petroleum and natural gas reserves. Initial estimates suggest up to 10 billion barrels worth approximately 3.8 trillion reais ($719.7 billion). Alesi calculated royalties could generate roughly 100 million reais ($19 million) monthly for Oiapoque, matching the city’s annual economic output according to Brazil’s statistics bureau.

The Amazon forest plays a crucial role regulating global climate by storing carbon dioxide, yet faces constant pressure from agricultural deforestation, cattle operations and mining activities. Amapa experiences less intensive pressure, maintaining approximately 82% forest coverage according to MapBiomas, a land-use monitoring nonprofit.

Geographic isolation — surrounded by waterways and lacking road connections to mainland Brazil — has protected the state from southern Amazon deforestation patterns.

While some cite Dubai as Oiapoque’s development model, nearby petroleum-dependent cities offer cautionary examples.

Petrobras has conducted oil and gas exploration in Coari, another Amazon state, since the 1980s. Despite decades of activity, the city remains among Brazil’s poorest, with roughly 72% of residents experiencing extreme poverty according to recent research by Agenda Publica, a public policy nonprofit.

Other Amapa communities experienced boom-and-bust cycles linked to mining operations. Pedra Branca, located 280 miles from Oiapoque, flourished between 2007 and 2014 during iron ore expansion.

Pedra Branca’s prosperity attracted Selma Soares, 46, who relocated from Maranhao to Amapa in 2008 and established a grocery business.

A 2013 port collapse operated by Anglo American mining company killed six workers and disrupted iron ore production. India’s Zamin Ferrous later assumed mine control before suspending operations.

“Customers who shopped with us for years could barely afford food,” Soares recalled.

Recently, she heard increasing reports about Oiapoque’s growth. After visiting last year, she moved with her husband and son. The family now operates a small supermarket on the town’s outskirts. Soares noted many others have followed similar paths.

“People anticipate drilling commencement,” she explained. “They expect everything will get better.”

At the river boundary separating Oiapoque from French Guiana, a busy port bustles with boats connecting Brazil, its neighbor and surrounding communities. Green-and-yellow stickers declare: “Oil yes! Development yes!” — messaging promoted by local politicians.

Just 20 minutes away by boat, Indigenous Galibi Kali’na community members remain skeptical. Some recognize economic potential, but leaders oppose exploration, warning about environmental dangers and cultural threats.

“Petrobras arrived with powerful political support, promising advancement as though we would sleep one way and awaken like Dubai,” said Renata Lod, a representative on Oiapoque’s Indigenous council. “Instead, we’ve witnessed completely chaotic population growth and invasions of Indigenous territories.”

Lod detailed common complaints among Oiapoque residents, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, including overcrowded educational facilities and the city’s sole hospital operating beyond capacity.

Concerns about potential petroleum spills also persist.

“Most Indigenous lands consist of flooded wetlands. How would you clean wetlands? Once oil reaches rivers, removal becomes impossible,” Lod warned.

Petroleum contamination could rapidly spread pollutants to nearby coastlines and waterways, threatening ecosystems and communities dependent on fishing and mangrove resources. Petrobras stated it performed spill modeling to secure environmental permits and has deployed floating monitoring devices to track ocean currents since October exploration began.

In January, Petrobras reported a drilling-fluid leak that temporarily suspended operations. IBAMA, the environmental regulatory agency, imposed a 2.5 million reais ($470,500) fine.

During the community gathering, Petrobras representatives attempted to address concerns while defending operational safety. They highlighted everyday products, from textiles to air conditioning systems, emphasizing oil’s economic significance.

“Residents view Petrobras as an economic solution,” observed Araújo, the city councilman. “However, even remedies produce side effects. We’re already experiencing negative consequences before seeing any benefits.”

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A temporary truce that began Wednesday has sparked optimism about ending the conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States, though significant challenges persist.

Achieving a lasting agreement will be crucial to stopping a conflict that has disrupted the Middle East and worldwide energy markets. However, substantial disagreements exist between President Donald Trump and Iran’s current leadership, while Israel maintains its own strategic objectives.

Trump has indicated there has been “regime change” in Iran following U.S. and Israeli operations that eliminated 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the conflict’s opening day, along with numerous other senior officials and military commanders.

However, Khamenei’s successor is his son Mojtaba, who maintains close ties with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and is viewed as even more antagonistic toward America. Reports suggest he sustained injuries in the attack that killed his father and has remained out of public view since hostilities began.

The governing structure supporting Iran’s Shiite theocracy continues to function. While many Iranians express frustration with their leadership, no popular revolt has emerged since authorities suppressed widespread demonstrations in January, prior to the war’s outbreak.

Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium remains within the country, likely buried beneath enrichment facilities bombed by U.S. forces during a 12-day conflict last June. Iran has suspended enrichment activities since then but continues asserting its right to peaceful nuclear development while denying weapons ambitions.

Trump announced Wednesday that America would collaborate with Iran to “dig up and remove” the uranium, though Iranian officials have not verified this arrangement.

Both Trump and Israel have demanded Iran completely abandon its nuclear capabilities. Iran dismissed this demand in its 10-point peace framework.

Since fighting commenced February 28, Iran has deployed more than 5,000 drones, over 2,100 ballistic missiles and over 50 cruise missiles, based on data from the Washington-based Jewish Institute for National Security of America, which maintains strong connections to Israeli defense forces.

Prior to the conflict, JINSA assessed Iran’s missile inventory at 8,000 to 10,000 ballistic missiles of varying capabilities. No official estimate exists for Iran’s drone stockpile.

American and Israeli forces claim to have destroyed or buried numerous Iranian missile platforms. Israel reports significantly degrading Iran’s missile production and launch capabilities while acknowledging the threat persists, as Iran maintained its attacks throughout the conflict.

U.S. Central Command reported destroying more than 150 vessels, essentially eliminating Iran’s naval fleet. Numerous Iranian aircraft, helicopters and other equipment were destroyed, alongside military bases and weapons manufacturing facilities.

These losses did not prevent Iran from effectively blocking the Strait of Hormuz, the passage for approximately one-fifth of global oil trade, and establishing what amounts to a toll system for vessels seeking passage.

Israel severely damaged Iran’s allied militant organizations throughout the region during conflicts triggered by Hamas’ October 7, 2023, assault from Gaza.

Lebanon’s Hezbollah, the most powerful such organization, continues fighting Israel in battles that Israeli officials say will persist despite the ceasefire. Yemen’s Houthi rebels, targeted by Israeli and American airstrikes recently, launched only limited attacks against Israel during the war and avoided targeting Red Sea commerce. Hamas retains control over approximately half of Gaza and has not disarmed under a U.S.-mediated ceasefire.

Israel demands Iran cease supporting these groups, which Tehran has rejected and omitted from its peace proposal.

Previously, vessels moved freely through the Strait of Hormuz within Iranian and Omani territorial waters. Since the conflict began, Iran allegedly charges up to $2 million per ship for passage rights.

Iran and Oman are developing a proposal to share waterway fees, with Tehran insisting on maintaining military authority there, potentially creating a new revenue stream despite international sanctions.

Trump states America will be “hangin’ around” to guarantee shipping access. The U.S. and other nations will likely challenge this new arrangement, creating potential future tensions.

Persian Gulf Arab states cannot be pleased with the war’s outcome.

Iranian strikes caused extensive damage to petroleum facilities, airports and other infrastructure, undermining their carefully built reputation as secure business and tourism destinations. Qatar, among the world’s leading natural gas exporters, estimates years will be needed to restore production levels.

Gulf nations’ suspicion of Iran has reached new depths while their confidence in American protection has been undermined. U.S. military installations across the region sustained direct hits, though no signs indicate American withdrawal as Iran has requested.

Israel faced repeated Iranian attacks but its sophisticated air defense systems and extensive shelter networks provided substantial protection.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims Israel dealt serious damage to Iran, but America and Israel failed to eliminate its nuclear or missile capabilities. His anticipated popular uprising to overthrow the Islamic Republic has not occurred.

Israel reports receiving American assurances that Iran’s nuclear and missile programs will be addressed through negotiations. However, many Israelis may feel disappointed by another inconclusive conflict, which could impact Netanyahu’s prospects in upcoming elections.

A temporary two-week ceasefire between the United States, Iran, and Israel has been brokered through Pakistani diplomatic efforts, with American and Iranian representatives scheduled to meet Friday for discussions about a permanent peace agreement.

Despite the agreement to hold talks, significant differences exist between Iran’s 10-point negotiation framework and the 15-point plan previously presented by Washington. President Trump described Iran’s proposal as providing “a workable basis” for discussions, though major disagreements remain unresolved.

Iran’s negotiation points include demands for uranium enrichment capabilities, which the United States has previously rejected. Additionally, Iran’s framework does not address its missile programs, which both America and Israel insist must be significantly reduced.

Pakistani Mediation Efforts

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the ceasefire agreement on social media platform X, stating both nations committed to an immediate halt to hostilities across all regions, including Lebanon where Israeli military operations had been conducted.

Sharif’s announcement did not reference either nation’s negotiation proposals and made no specific mention of any Israeli agreements. A Pakistani regional official indicated Iran might achieve many of its objectives, particularly regarding reconstruction assistance, compensation payments, and sanctions removal, but uranium enrichment approval remains unlikely.

American Position and Previous Proposals

President Trump announced on Truth Social that U.S. military operations against Iran would be suspended for two weeks, contingent upon Iran ensuring “the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz.”

Trump stated the parties were “very far along with a definitive Agreement concerning Longterm PEACE with Iran, and PEACE in the Middle East.” While acknowledging Iran’s 10-point framework offered “a workable basis” for negotiations, he did not detail specific points and claimed resolution of previously contentious issues.

Israeli sources revealed Trump’s earlier 15-point proposal, transmitted to Iran through Pakistani channels, demanded elimination of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles, cessation of enrichment activities, restrictions on ballistic missile development, and termination of funding for regional proxy groups.

Iranian Demands and Conditions

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced Iran’s agreement to suspend what it characterized as “defensive operations” contingent upon cessation of attacks against Iran, based on American requests for negotiations using Washington’s 15-point framework and Trump’s acceptance of Iran’s 10-point plan as a negotiation foundation.

Araqchi stated safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be permitted for two weeks “via coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces and with due consideration of technical limitations.”

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council declared Washington had accepted Iran’s 10-point framework and “the United States has, in principle, committed to”: non-aggression policies; continued Iranian authority over the Strait of Hormuz; acceptance of enrichment activities; elimination of all primary and secondary sanctions; termination of all United Nations Security Council and International Atomic Energy Agency Board of Governors resolutions; withdrawal of American combat forces from the region; and cessation of military actions on all fronts, including against Islamic resistance forces in Lebanon.

Prior to the ceasefire agreement, a senior Iranian official had indicated Iran would impose transit fees for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which is recognized as an international waterway.

Israeli Response

Israel confirmed its participation in the ceasefire with Iran but specified the agreement does not include suspension of military operations in Lebanon.

An Israeli official stated the United States coordinated the temporary ceasefire with Israel beforehand, noting Iran had agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz without commitments to permanent war termination, compensation payments, sanctions relief, or other concessions.

The official also indicated the Trump administration informed Israel that during the two-week negotiation period with Iran, the United States would demand removal of nuclear materials, cessation of enrichment activities, elimination of ballistic missile threats, and resolution of additional issues.

ANKARA – Turkey’s spy agency served as a crucial diplomatic intermediary in negotiations that resulted in a two-week halt to hostilities between the United States and Iran, according to reports from Turkish news outlets citing security officials.

The temporary truce, which Washington accepted late Tuesday evening, was officially facilitated through Pakistani mediation efforts. The broader conflict has extended throughout the Middle Eastern region and caused significant disruptions to worldwide energy markets.

According to Turkey’s state broadcaster TRT, the country’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT) maintained unique positioning as one of the limited entities capable of sustaining direct communications with both Western nations and neighboring Iran, including contact with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The intelligence service worked to preserve diplomatic communication pathways, avoid potential miscommunications, transmit messages focused on reducing tensions, offered suggestions to prevent additional escalation, and collaborated with various international intelligence agencies, the report indicated.

MIT officials could not be reached immediately to provide commentary on these claims.

Although Pakistan spearheaded the mediation process, Iranian officials have acknowledged Turkey’s involvement after the country initially attempted to facilitate direct negotiations between the U.S. and Iran before hostilities commenced in late February. A diplomatic source stationed in Turkey confirmed separately that Ankara provided assistance during recent negotiation periods.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, leading a nation that serves as both a NATO partner to the United States and shares a geographical boundary with Iran, expressed approval for the ceasefire agreement on Wednesday. He urged complete adherence to the truce terms and cautioned against any provocative actions or attempts at undermining the agreement.

Two French citizens arrived back in Paris Wednesday morning after being released from more than three years of detention in Iran, with President Emmanuel Macron greeting them at the presidential palace and describing their freedom as “the end of a terrible ordeal.”

Cecile Kohler, 41, and Jacques Paris, 72, had been staying at France’s embassy in Tehran since November following their imprisonment since 2022 at Iran’s infamous Evin prison. Iranian authorities had charged them with espionage, allegations that French officials consistently rejected as baseless.

Their unexpected departure from Iran occurred Tuesday as France has been working to maintain distance from Middle Eastern conflicts. The duo touched down in the French capital Wednesday morning.

Following their reunion in the Elysee palace gardens, Macron posted on social media: “We are delighted to welcome back Cecile Kohler and Jacques Paris to France after three and a half years of hardship in Iran. It is a huge relief for all of us.”

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have imprisoned numerous foreign and dual citizens in recent years, typically on charges related to espionage. Human rights organizations and Western nations claim Tehran uses foreign prisoners as leverage in negotiations, an accusation Iran rejects.

Speaking to French defense and security personnel earlier Wednesday, Macron expressed gratitude to Omani officials for their assistance in facilitating the release.

During a brief media appearance after their presidential meeting, both individuals appeared weary but optimistic as they shared details of their imprisonment.

“We were under constant threat. We had no right to read, no right to write. As soon as we left our cell, we were blindfolded,” Paris told reporters. “Obviously, one of the objectives was undoubtedly to break us. For us, it is a new beginning. We are not broken. We will speak up and we will enjoy life.”

OSLO – The Norwegian Nobel Committee issued a sharp rebuke Wednesday against Moscow’s efforts to brand Memorial, the Russian human rights organization that won the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize, as an extremist group.

Committee officials revealed they have been informed that Russia’s Justice Ministry has petitioned the nation’s Supreme Court seeking this controversial classification. “If the claim is upheld, all activities of Memorial will be criminalised,” the Nobel organization stated in their official response.

When Reuters reached out to the Russian embassy in Oslo for a response, officials had not provided any immediate comment via email.

Memorial was honored with the prestigious peace award alongside Ukrainian Center for Civil Liberties and Belarusian human rights advocate Ales Bialiatski. Many observers viewed the joint recognition as the Nobel Committee’s way of denouncing Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine that began in 2022.

Italian officials announced Wednesday they will refuse to deploy naval vessels for patrol duties in the Strait of Hormuz region following a ceasefire between America and Iran, unless the United Nations provides authorization for such operations.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, who also serves as infrastructure minister in Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s conservative administration, addressed reporters about the matter.

“It is not on the agenda. We have already said that we will not send ships unless there is a United Nations initiative,” Salvini stated.

The ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has created a significant energy crisis affecting the worldwide economy. Tehran’s decision to block the Strait of Hormuz to most maritime traffic has trapped substantial amounts of oil and gas in the Gulf region, creating particularly severe impacts for European nations including Italy.

The energy supply disruption has prompted some officials, including members of Salvini’s far-right League party, to suggest Europe should consider reestablishing energy trade relationships with Russia, which were terminated following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Salvini later reversed course on that suggestion, acknowledging such arrangements would be impossible while the Ukrainian conflict continues.

“I hope that a time will soon come when it will be possible to speak about reconstruction and cooperation, including partnerships and energy, once the conflict with Russia has ended,” he addressed the Foreign Press Association in Italy.

Similar to other NATO member nations hesitant to support President Donald Trump’s military strikes against Iran, Italy recently refused to grant landing rights for American military aircraft at the Sigonella air base in Sicily while en route to Middle Eastern operations.

When asked about potential tensions between Washington and European capitals that could result in American military withdrawal from Europe, Salvini downplayed such concerns.

“I don’t believe there is any imminent issue regarding NATO troop withdrawals from Europe,” he commented.

Israeli forces conducted their most extensive military operations against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon since the ongoing conflict commenced, according to military officials who spoke Wednesday.

The strikes focused on dismantling the militant organization’s infrastructure positioned throughout populated civilian neighborhoods across Lebanon, marking a significant escalation in the current war between the two sides.

Russian state internet company VK announced Wednesday that it’s drawing inspiration from Chinese tech giant Tencent’s messaging platforms to improve its domestic Max app, which has struggled to gain user adoption.

Vladimir Kiriyenko, who leads VK, revealed that his company is studying both WeChat and Douyin (TikTok’s Chinese counterpart) to enhance Max’s capabilities and attract more users away from the currently dominant Telegram platform.

Moscow has been actively encouraging citizens to switch from Telegram to Max, but faces significant pushback from users who find Max’s features inadequate compared to its competitor.

Over time, Telegram has evolved beyond simple messaging into a comprehensive platform offering business tools, revenue opportunities for content creators, and cryptocurrency features – despite facing periodic government pressure.

Russian leadership views this “platform economy” approach, where online services connect businesses with customers through e-commerce and banking partnerships, as essential for stimulating the nation’s sluggish economic expansion.

According to Kiriyenko, Max plans to follow WeChat’s strategy by opening its platform to external chatbot developers, enabling new business applications. He noted that half a million companies have already signed up for Max services.

“The Asian model, WeChat is often cited as an example, became successful thanks to its open system,” Kiriyenko stated during a Moscow conference, emphasizing that collaborative partnerships drive success.

Recent developments show Tencent introducing ClawBot technology in March, which connects WeChat with OpenClaw artificial intelligence software capable of handling file transfers and email tasks automatically.

Kiriyenko, son of former prime minister Sergei Kiriyenko who currently holds a senior Kremlin administrative position, assumed his VK leadership role in 2021.

He explained that his team is also examining how Douyin successfully built e-commerce operations around short-form video content.

“As people consume content, they also follow creators who promote specific products and services in areas like beauty, health, and fashion. So now I’m working on developing it into a more collaborative format,” he explained.

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — A Syrian asylum seeker facing charges of crimes against humanity rejected multiple allegations of torture and sexual violence as his trial commenced Wednesday at a Dutch court.

The 58-year-old defendant, known only as Rafiq al Q. under Dutch privacy laws, declared his innocence and dismissed claims that he supported former Syrian President Bashar Assad. Government prosecutors told The Hague District Court that the man served with the pro-Assad National Defence Force, functioning as the group’s primary interrogator throughout Syria’s ongoing conflict.

The accused man challenged the credibility of nine victims, witnesses, and Dutch law enforcement officials in his case. Speaking through a translator, he stated: “All of them are conspiring against me.”

When questioned by the court, he maintained that his employment was as a government worker in Salamiyah, a central Syrian city, and rejected any connection to torture activities.

In an unusual courtroom moment, the defendant tried to present evidence by displaying a document to the judge. His defense attorney, André Seebregts, acknowledged uncertainty about the nature of this evidence, prompting his client to respond: “I don’t tell my lawyer everything.”

This prosecution operates under universal jurisdiction principles, enabling countries to pursue legal action against individuals for international crimes like war crimes, regardless of where those offenses occurred.

The man requested asylum status in the Netherlands during 2021 and was residing in Druten, a small eastern Dutch community, before his 2023 arrest.

Dutch courts have handled multiple Syrian war crimes cases related to the nation’s conflict. A 2024 conviction involved a former senior militia member found guilty of unlawful imprisonment and torture involvement. Additionally, another Syrian received a 2021 war crimes conviction for participating in a prisoner’s summary execution.

Syria’s upheaval began with non-violent demonstrations opposing Assad’s administration in March 2011, eventually escalating into an extended civil war spanning nearly 14 years following the government’s harsh response to demonstrators.

Last year, rebel forces under current interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s Hayat Tahrir al-Sham organization advanced to Damascus and overthrew Assad’s government. Al-Sharaa, previously affiliated with al-Qaida’s Syrian operations, has since strengthened ties with Western nations and made history as the first Syrian leader to visit Washington since the country’s 1946 independence.

The Netherlands and Canada have jointly filed a separate action against Syria at the United Nations’ highest court, alleging Damascus conducted an extended torture campaign against its citizens. The International Court of Justice directed the Syrian government in 2023 to “take all measures within its powers” to halt torture practices.

Court proceedings will extend for two additional weeks, with a final ruling scheduled for June 9th.

ANKARA – Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan expressed his approval Wednesday for a ceasefire announcement regarding the Iran conflict, calling for complete adherence to the agreement while cautioning against provocative actions or sabotage attempts.

The Turkish leader expressed optimism that the truce would remain in effect, allowing the region to achieve stability following months of turmoil and unrest that began in late February. Erdogan emphasized that Turkey remains committed to backing initiatives aimed at establishing long-term peace in the area.

Vice President JD Vance revealed Wednesday that President Donald Trump is pushing hard for diplomatic breakthroughs to resolve the ongoing Iran conflict, describing the commander-in-chief as eager to see results.

During remarks at an event in Budapest while visiting Hungary, Vance characterized the current situation between the two nations as a “fragile truce” and emphasized that any lasting agreement hinges on Iran’s commitment to honest negotiations.

“The President of the United States has told me, and he’s told the entire negotiating team, secretary of state, the special envoy Steve Witkoff, he said, go and work in good faith to come to an agreement,” Vance explained to the audience.

The vice president went on to detail Trump’s urgency regarding the diplomatic efforts, stating: “He’s impatient. He’s impatient to make progress. He has told us to negotiate in good faith, and I think if they negotiate in good faith, we will be able to find a deal. But that’s a big if, and ultimately, it’s up to the Iranians how they negotiate. I hope they make the right decision.”

Vance noted that while certain elements within Iran’s government appear willing to engage constructively in peace talks, other factions remain resistant to the diplomatic process.

The comments come as the United States and Iran have entered into a two-week cessation of hostilities, facilitated through Pakistani mediation efforts. This temporary pause aims to halt a six-week conflict that has resulted in thousands of casualties, expanded throughout the Middle East region, and created severe disruptions to global energy markets.

President Trump revealed the ceasefire arrangement Tuesday evening, announcing the agreement just two hours before his ultimatum deadline requiring Iran to reopen the blocked Strait of Hormuz or risk devastating military consequences against what he termed their “whole civilisation.”

LIMA, April 8 – Citizens of Peru will cast ballots on April 12 to select their next president and congressional representatives, concluding a period marked by significant political instability, impeachment proceedings, and corruption investigations that have resulted in eight different presidents holding office since 2018.

An unprecedented number of candidates are vying for the presidency in the initial voting round. Should no candidate secure the required 50% majority for an outright victory, the top two vote-getters will proceed to a runoff election set for June 7. Polling data suggests a second round is probable, with approximately five of the 35 presidential candidates having realistic opportunities to secure one of the final two positions.

The following represents an overview of the primary candidates:

KEIKO FUJIMORI

The 50-year-old conservative politician is pursuing the presidency for the fourth time, having advanced to runoff elections in each of her three prior attempts — a track record that demonstrates both her persistence and her divisive influence on Peru’s political landscape.

The former congressional representative heads the conservative People’s Force party and serves as the oldest child of the late ex-President Alberto Fujimori, who governed from 1990 to 2000 before imprisonment for human rights violations.

Her party maintains significant influence in Congress, serving as the foundation of a right-wing coalition and providing her with benefits in a divided political environment. Polling consistently ranks her among the top candidates.

She previously confronted allegations regarding unlawful campaign funding, though Peru’s constitutional court rejected the charges last year due to procedural issues.

Having received her education in the United States, Fujimori has established herself as pro-American, promoting foreign investment through improved institutional frameworks and presenting herself as a more dependable ally for Washington compared to opponents she characterizes as having closer ties to Beijing.

Her campaign emphasizes law-and-order themes, reflecting the military-focused security approaches linked to her father’s 1990s administration.

RAFAEL LOPEZ ALIAGA, ‘PORKY’

The 65-year-old ultraconservative entrepreneur from the Popular Renewal party and former Lima mayor ranks among the most recognizable candidates, although recent polling indicates declining support. Previously employed as a Citibank corporate banker, he accumulated wealth through hotel and railway ventures and has spent considerable time developing a hardline political image.

Known by the nickname “Porky” referencing the animated character Porky Pig, Lopez Aliaga actively opposes abortion rights, same-sex marriage, and what he terms “gender ideology.” A past member of the Catholic organization Opus Dei, he remains unmarried and has stated he has maintained celibacy since age 19.

His business interests include connections to Peru’s mining industry, with his railway investments benefiting from mineral transportation including copper from the Las Bambas copper mine, which operates under Chinese ownership.

CARLOS ALVAREZ

At 62, Alvarez has achieved recognition throughout Peru as a popular entertainer who has criticized the political establishment and seeks to capitalize on voter dissatisfaction with current leadership. Representing the center-right Country for All party with a populist, anti-crime agenda, he has drawn comparisons between himself and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, highlighting his own movement from entertainment into politics. Recent surveys indicate growing voter support.

His policy proposals include supporting death penalty implementation for specific offenses and expanded military involvement in addressing rising security concerns. Regarding international relations, Alvarez has expressed approval for U.S. President Donald Trump’s increased attention to Latin America while recognizing the economic significance of Chinese investment in Peru.

Opponents have raised questions about the comprehensiveness of his policy proposals and the capabilities of his advisory team should he achieve governmental position.

ALFONSO LOPEZ CHAU

The 75-year-old economist and academic represents the left-of-center Now Nation party. A former central bank board participant, he has partnered with a Marxist running mate who has advocated for changes to Peru’s market-based economic structure.

Lopez Chau has suggested establishing a sovereign wealth fund for infrastructure project financing, though specific details remain unclear, and has supported demands for constitutional revision. He faces investigation by Peru’s prosecutor’s office regarding alleged embezzlement during his service as National University of Engineering president from 2021 to 2025. He disputes these allegations.

JORGE NIETO

The 74-year-old former defense and culture minister under ex-president Pedro Pablo Kuczynski represents a centrist candidate with limited polling support who has presented himself as a unifying leader with institutional background.

He stepped down in opposition when Kuczynski granted clemency to Alberto Fujimori.

As founder of the centrist Party of Good Government, Nieto has advocated for civil rights reforms including same-sex marriage recognition and loosening restrictive abortion regulations. He has provided minimal commentary on foreign policy matters.

CESAR ACUNA

The 71-year-old leader of the right-wing Alliance for Progress party built his career in education through university campus development. The two-time presidential candidate has encountered numerous corruption allegations during his political tenure, which encompasses roles as congressman, governor of the gold-mining region of La Libertad, and mayor of its capital city, Trujillo. He has consistently rejected wrongdoing accusations and maintains no criminal convictions.

He has committed to prioritizing education reform and reducing government expenditures by decreasing the number of government ministries from 18 to 10.

ROBERTO SANCHEZ

A congressional representative campaigning for the left-leaning Together for Peru party, Sanchez has gained notice as a potential surprise factor in the fragmented competition. He advocates for constitutional revision to create a “plurinational” state providing enhanced representation for Indigenous communities, addressing longstanding complaints from regions feeling excluded from national governance.

Sanchez’s campaign closely connects to his ministerial service under former leftist president Pedro Castillo, who faces imprisonment on rebellion and conspiracy charges following his unsuccessful attempt to dissolve Congress in December 2022. From prison, Castillo has publicly supported Sanchez as his chosen successor.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte arrived at the White House Wednesday for talks with President Donald Trump as ongoing conflict with Iran creates unprecedented strain within the military alliance.

The meeting comes after Trump has harshly criticized European NATO members for failing to adequately back the U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran. The president has even suggested pulling America out of the 32-nation defense pact entirely. Trump announced Tuesday that bombing operations would temporarily halt following agreement on a two-week ceasefire.

European nations remain reluctant to participate in missions aimed at clearing mines from shipping lanes or other efforts to restore navigation through the Strait of Hormuz while fighting continues, diplomatic sources indicate. Iran has pledged to block the crucial waterway with mines until hostilities cease.

Rutte, nicknamed a “Trump whisperer” by European colleagues, has maintained positive relations with the president despite mounting tensions. The NATO chief previously described Trump as a “daddy” managing disputes between Israel and Iran, with diplomats characterizing Rutte’s strategy as respectful yet productive.

“This is a dangerous point for the transatlantic alliance,” warned Oana Lungescu, former NATO spokesperson now with the Royal United Services Institute think tank.

During their discussions, Rutte plans to emphasize shared goals of reopening normal shipping routes after the conflict drove energy costs higher worldwide, according to diplomatic sources. He will likely try to discourage Trump from publicly attacking the alliance while highlighting European efforts to boost military spending.

A NATO representative said Rutte would focus on expanding defense industry partnerships and addressing both the Iran and Ukraine situations.

However, NATO’s potential involvement in Middle Eastern operations remains uncertain, given the alliance’s traditional focus on defending North America and Europe. European leaders have not authorized Rutte to commit forces to Strait of Hormuz operations during his White House visit.

“I expect he will keep up the dialogue on Ukraine and burden-shifting within NATO,” said a senior European diplomat, noting Rutte has suggested alliance members “should lean into opening Hormuz” following any ceasefire.

Trump’s Oval Office sessions with international leaders often become public displays where both compliments and complaints are aired before news cameras. The White House hasn’t announced whether media will have access to the Trump-Rutte meeting.

NATO was established in 1949 as protection against Soviet threats and has served as the foundation of Western security for decades. Recently, Trump has repeatedly labeled NATO a “paper tiger” that fails to help when needed. When asked about leaving NATO, Trump responded: “Wouldn’t you if you were me?”

The president’s Middle East focus has also raised concerns about diverting American weapons from Ukraine, which European NATO members consider a top priority. Trump’s Ukraine criticism, Russian outreach, and threats regarding Greenland have further worried European allies.

“He has been disappointed by NATO and other allies’ unwillingness to be helpful throughout Operation Epic Fury, even though his effort to destroy the threat posed by Iran is to their benefit,” stated White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly. “As he said, the United States will remember.”

ISLAMABAD – Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has agreed to take part in diplomatic discussions with the United States scheduled to occur in Pakistan’s capital, according to an announcement from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office on Wednesday.

The upcoming negotiations in Islamabad are designed to address and potentially resolve ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, the statement indicated.

The confirmation of Iran’s participation marks a significant diplomatic development in efforts to facilitate dialogue between the two nations that have experienced strained relations.

MOSCOW – Russian leadership expressed approval Wednesday for the recently announced two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, while suggesting this development could pave the way for renewed diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov addressed reporters, stating: “We received the news of a truce with satisfaction. We welcome the decision not to proceed further down the path of armed escalation.”

When questioned about whether the Iran ceasefire might open doors for fresh Ukraine negotiations, Peskov responded: “We hope that, in the foreseeable future, (the U.S.) will have more time and greater opportunity to meet in a trilateral format,” referencing discussions between Russia, Ukraine and the United States.

Moscow had indicated earlier that diplomatic efforts regarding Ukraine were put on hold following the emergence of conflict involving Iran.

The peace negotiations initially launched last year in Istanbul, with three-party discussions including American participation taking place early this year in Abu Dhabi and Geneva.

However, diplomatic advancement has remained limited, primarily due to territorial disagreements. Moscow insists that Ukraine relinquish control of the remaining portions of the Donbas region, while Kyiv maintains its refusal to cede territory that Russian military forces have been unable to secure during more than four years of warfare.

BANGKOK – Thailand’s Foreign Minister announced Wednesday that three sailors have died following last month’s assault on a Thai-registered ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow revealed the fatalities during a Wednesday press briefing, confirming the deaths of crew members aboard the vessel that came under attack in the critical waterway.

According to Thai officials, Oman’s naval forces successfully rescued 20 crew members following the incident, which resulted in a blast at the ship’s rear section and ignited flames in the engine compartment.

Phuangketkeow announced plans to visit Oman during the middle of April to request help in working with Iranian authorities to ensure safe transit for nine additional Thai vessels currently trapped in the Strait of Hormuz.

Officials noted that one Thai petroleum tanker successfully navigated through the strategic passage in recent weeks without being forced to make any payments to avoid the maritime blockade.

MUMBAI, India (AP) — Mumbai’s historic Sassoon Dock, constructed in 1875, has served multiple roles throughout its nearly 150-year history: a commercial gateway linking India to the Persian Gulf, a vibrant marketplace for textiles and spices, and even a trading post for opium during colonial times.

In recent decades, the waterfront facility has transformed into a vital center for Mumbai’s fishing industry.

However, the once-bustling harbor now displays an unusual quiet.

Fishing vessels cluster together in the morning sunlight, their vibrant flags dancing in the breeze against Mumbai’s towering urban landscape.

Under typical circumstances, the dock pulses with activity. Workers haul nets from boats while diesel motors roar to life. Ice gets transported across the pier as vendors call out their prices above the commotion.

Now, that familiar energy has given way to mounting anxiety.

Shekhar Chogle, a boat owner whose face bears the weathered bronze of countless days on the water, has kept his fishing vessel docked since hostilities erupted in the Middle East. His earnings have plummeted while operating expenses continue, and skyrocketing diesel costs have made fishing ventures financially devastating.

A withered marigold garland drapes over the harbor’s fuel pump, symbolizing the current situation. A dock worker recently returned empty-handed from a nearby gas station, his wooden cart carrying six unfilled containers. Wholesale diesel rates have climbed beyond $1.20 per liter ($4.54 per U.S. gallon), creating hardships for cooperative groups that typically help fishermen access discounted fuel, ice, and equipment.

Throughout India and the broader Asian region, fishing crews confront the same devastating dilemma. They must choose between remaining on land or venturing out knowing they’ll lose money, placing both individual livelihoods and entire seaside communities in jeopardy.

News that Iran, the United States, and Israel have reportedly agreed to a two-week ceasefire provides some hope. However, energy experts caution that fuel supply chains will need considerable time to return to normal operations.

Time is becoming scarce for Chogle. “Our income has dropped significantly since we have not been able to take our boat out to sea,” he said.

Despite soaring fuel expenses, a handful of boats continue their fishing operations. Morning markets maintain some activity, though the daily catch has diminished considerably.

Women wearing bright saris negotiate prices over the limited seafood available. One mother, carrying her infant while examining the fish, carefully considers each purchase against her family’s budget.

“If diesel prices don’t come down soon, I don’t know how we’ll survive,” Chogle said.

VATICAN CITY – The head of the Catholic Church expressed his strong approval Wednesday regarding news of a temporary halt to fighting in the Iran conflict.

Pope Leo stated he received word of the two-week ceasefire with “great satisfaction,” according to Vatican officials.

The pontiff’s comments come just one day after he sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s recent statements targeting Iranian civilians. On Tuesday, Pope Leo called Trump’s threats against the Iranian population “unacceptable.”

In recent weeks, the Vatican leader has become increasingly vocal in his opposition to the ongoing military conflict, positioning himself as a prominent voice calling for peace in the region.

SEOUL – The South Korean government announced Wednesday it will work urgently to secure safe passage for dozens of its commercial vessels currently stuck in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, following a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

Officials from the presidential office stated the administration will make every effort to get South Korean ships moving through the waterway as quickly as possible, taking advantage of the two-week truce between Washington and Tehran.

The government plans to work closely with shipping companies while stepping up diplomatic communications with relevant nations to clear the way for vessel transit, according to reports from Seoul.

South Korea’s maritime ministry released a statement Wednesday confirming that officials met with domestic shipping firms to discuss strategies for moving their ships through the strait safely.

Despite the ceasefire opportunity, maritime authorities are maintaining their current travel advisory warning ships to stay away from the strait area due to ongoing security concerns in the region. However, the ministry pledged complete assistance for the 26 South Korean-flagged ships currently stranded in the waterway.

A government official in Seoul confirmed to Reuters that the country intends to evacuate all vessels during the temporary two-week ceasefire window.

BEIJING – Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is scheduled to make a two-day diplomatic trip to North Korea beginning Tuesday, marking Beijing’s latest attempt to rebuild relationships with Pyongyang that have deteriorated since the coronavirus pandemic began and North Korea increased support for Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.

The upcoming diplomatic mission represents Wang’s first publicly announced journey to North Korea in his current role since late 2019, when both nations’ highest-ranking officials exchanged reciprocal visits.

During a routine media briefing, Chinese ministry spokesperson Mao Ning expressed her country’s desire to “strengthen strategic communication with North Korea and enhance exchanges and cooperation.”

Mao characterized Wang’s scheduled diplomatic mission as “an important move to advance bilateral ties.”

Chinese officials have been working to bring Pyongyang back under their influence following years of frozen diplomatic exchanges during the pandemic, while North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has simultaneously strengthened connections with Moscow by providing military personnel and armaments to support Russia’s conflict in Ukraine.

Transportation links between the two nations have recently been restored, with passenger rail service between Beijing and Pyongyang resuming in March after a six-year suspension that began when the pandemic started in 2020. Additionally, China’s national airline Air China has reestablished flight routes connecting both capital cities.

Last September, Kim Jong Un made the journey to Beijing aboard his armored railway car to participate alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and other world leaders in a large-scale military demonstration in the Chinese capital, where Kim held discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Following that September gathering, China’s second-highest ranking official, Premier Li Qiang, made his own diplomatic journey to Pyongyang in October.

“Preserving, consolidating, and developing China-DPRK relations has always been an unwavering strategic policy of the party and government of China,” Mao stated during Wednesday’s briefing.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced Wednesday that his country will prohibit children younger than 15 from using social media platforms, with the restriction taking effect on January 1, 2027. The decision stems from mounting concerns over youth mental health issues, including increased anxiety and sleep disorders linked to excessive screen time.

Speaking directly to young people in a video message, Mitsotakis explained that prolonged screen exposure prevents children’s minds from getting adequate rest while subjecting them to harmful pressures from constant social comparisons and online feedback.

The prime minister revealed that conversations with numerous parents highlighted troubling patterns: their children experience poor sleep quality, heightened anxiety levels, and excessive phone usage throughout the day.

Public support for such measures appears strong, with a February survey conducted by ALCO indicating approximately 80% of respondents favor implementing the ban. Greek officials have previously taken steps to address youth screen time by prohibiting mobile devices in educational settings and establishing parental oversight systems to monitor teenage internet usage.

“Greece will be among the first countries to take such an initiative,” Mitsotakis stated. “I am certain, however, that it will not be the last. Our goal is to push the European Union in this direction as well.”

The Greek initiative follows a growing international trend, with Slovenia, Britain, Austria, and Spain all developing comparable restrictions. Australia led the way last year by becoming the first nation worldwide to implement social media access blocks for children under 16.

PARIS – French President Emmanuel Macron announced Wednesday that roughly 15 nations are collaborating to restore shipping operations through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that typically handles one-fifth of global oil transport.

Speaking during a defense meeting with his advisers and cabinet members, Macron detailed the international coordination effort. “About 15 countries are currently mobilised and are participating in the planning, under France’s leadership, to enable the implementation of this strictly defensive mission in coordination with Iran to facilitate the resumption of traffic,” he stated.

The multinational initiative comes after the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran. While Macron expressed support for the truce, he raised concerns about Lebanon’s status in the arrangement.

“Our wish in this context is to be assured that the ceasefire fully includes Lebanon,” Macron emphasized, highlighting France’s ongoing diplomatic ties with Lebanon, which was once under French control.

The French president stressed that the mission would be purely defensive in nature and would work in partnership with Iranian authorities to ensure safe passage through the strategic strait.

Gunmen launched a deadly assault on two villages in Nigeria’s Niger state, leaving at least 20 people dead and taking an unknown number of hostages, according to police officials and local residents who spoke out Tuesday evening.

The coordinated strikes targeted the communities of Bagna and Erena in Niger’s Shiroro district, an area where criminal gangs and Islamic extremist groups frequently conduct operations. State police spokesman Wasiu Abiodun confirmed that attackers stormed both settlements on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of two local security guards and a driver when authorities attempted to respond to the crisis.

However, community members painted a far more devastating picture of the violence. Residents reported that the death toll reached at least 20 individuals, with the assailants also setting fire to residential buildings during their multi-hour occupation of the area. The attackers reportedly overpowered local security forces who tried to intervene.

Many survivors escaped to the neighboring communities of Gwada Zumba and Galadima Kogo as the violence unfolded, according to witness accounts. The incident represents another chapter in the ongoing security crisis that has become Nigeria’s most pressing challenge.

President Bola Tinubu has been advocating for legislation that would permit Nigeria’s 36 individual states to create their own police departments as a strategy to combat the escalating violence throughout the nation.

BEIJING, April 8 – Chinese diplomatic officials announced Wednesday that representatives from Afghanistan and Pakistan have committed to seeking a comprehensive resolution to their ongoing dispute during mediated discussions held in the Chinese city of Urumqi.

During a routine press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning revealed that both nations made commitments during the China-hosted meetings to avoid any actions that might worsen tensions or create additional complications in their relationship.

The diplomatic efforts address a conflict that erupted between the neighboring countries in October of last year. Mao indicated that China plans to maintain its role as an intermediary, continuing discussions with both Afghanistan and Pakistan while offering a neutral venue for future diplomatic exchanges.

BEIJING – Pedro Sanchez, Spain’s Prime Minister, will embark on his fourth journey to China within a four-year period this month, as the nation continues strengthening economic partnerships with the global economic powerhouse.

According to a Chinese foreign ministry representative who spoke Wednesday, Sanchez’s visit is scheduled for April 11 through April 15. During his stay, he will conduct meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and the country’s leading legislative official Zhao Leji.

This marks Sanchez’s return to China following his previous visits in April 2025, September 2024, and March 2023.

The diplomatic relationship between the two nations was further highlighted when King Felipe conducted a state visit to China this past November – marking the first time a Spanish royal had visited the country in nearly two decades. This visit demonstrated the strong bilateral relationship despite growing skepticism toward Beijing from European Union partners and the United States.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming discussions. “China is willing to work with Spain to take Prime Minister Sanchez’s visit to China as an opportunity to further deepen strategic mutual trust, intensify exchanges and cooperation, strengthen multilateral coordination, and push bilateral relations to new heights,” Ning stated.

President Trump has announced an immediate ceasefire agreement with Iran that will last for two weeks, marking a significant development in ongoing tensions between the nations.

Under the terms of this agreement, which goes into effect right away, Trump stated that both the United States and Israel will halt their bombing operations against Iran for the duration of the ceasefire. However, this suspension is contingent upon Iran fulfilling its part of the deal.

Iran has committed to ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open for safe passage throughout the ceasefire period. The strategic waterway is a crucial shipping route for global oil transport.

Images from Tehran showed Iranians gathering at Enqelab Square following news of the ceasefire announcement, reflecting the significant impact this development has had on the region.

COTONOU, April 8 – Benin’s Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni appears set to transition from economic policy architect to the nation’s top office this Sunday, as he enters the presidential race as the clear frontrunner amid ongoing security challenges from extremist groups in the country’s northern regions.

The 49-year-old former corporate executive has dedicated the last ten years to executing the financial policies of current President Patrice Talon, who cannot seek reelection due to constitutional restrictions on presidential terms.

Wadagni’s political platform highlights accomplishments including a threefold increase in the national budget and achieving the West African cotton producer’s strongest economic expansion in over twenty years.

The current administration has concentrated authority within the executive branch while effectively marginalizing opposition political forces, creating a clear pathway for Wadagni’s electoral success.

Following his nomination as the governing party’s standard-bearer last September, Wadagni has dismissed suggestions of any significant departure from his mentor’s policies, describing their bond to French publication “Jeune Afrique” last month as “almost like a father-and-son relationship”.

His policy proposals include establishing new economic development centers nationwide to spread industrial and tourism investment more evenly, plus expanding healthcare availability, while emphasizing the value of governmental continuity.

During a March rally, Wadagni reminded supporters that under Talon “I had the honor of managing one of your most precious assets: your money.”

Should he win the presidency, “I will do the job with the same seriousness and dedication,” he pledged.

DECEMBER MILITARY UPRISING THREATENED ELECTION

The democratic process nearly derailed completely.

Before sunrise on December 7, rebellious military personnel launched a failed overthrow attempt, briefly controlling the national broadcast facility and advancing close enough to Talon that he personally observed the fighting.

Nigerian forces conducted aerial bombardments while the West African organization ECOWAS sent troops from its rapid response unit to preserve Talon’s government. Approximately 100 suspected conspirators remain imprisoned pending prosecution.

The military rebels claimed their actions stemmed partly from official “neglect” of troops fighting in northern territories.

Among coastal West African nations, Benin has suffered the most severe impact from extremist organizations that have expanded significantly throughout the central Sahel region.

Militants associated with al Qaeda and Islamic State have dramatically escalated attacks along the border areas connecting Niger, Benin and Nigeria, transforming isolated transportation routes into active battlegrounds.

The al Qaeda affiliate Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin eliminated 54 Benin military personnel in a single assault one year ago, followed by another attack last month that killed 15 additional soldiers.

“Benin, historically, has never faced a situation like this, with serious threats, with these regular losses in the army,” observed Gilles Yabi, who established the West African research organization WATHI.

Wadagni has conducted multiple campaign events in rural areas, including stops in Parakou and Tanguieta, attempting to show that authorities maintain control throughout the nation’s territory.

He has additionally promised to establish local police units in northern frontier communities to provide protection against militant attacks.

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION MEETS LOCAL HERITAGE

Born June 20, 1976, in Lokossa in Benin’s southern region, Wadagni pursued studies in management, finance and auditing at France’s Grenoble School of Management before joining Deloitte, where he advanced to partnership level. He has also completed executive education at Harvard University.

His campaign team, working to address questions about his connection to Benin following extensive time overseas, has stressed his “deep roots” in the nation and his “ordinary Beninese childhood”.

Throughout Talon’s presidency, opposition political movements have faced systematic weakening, making Wadagni’s electoral triumph virtually certain.

He confronts only one rival candidate: Paul Hounkpe representing the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin party, who argues that ordinary citizens have not gained from Talon’s impressive economic statistics and high-profile tourism developments.

The primary opposition organization, The Democrats, could not secure sufficient legislative endorsements for a presidential candidate and therefore does not appear on the ballot. The party also won no parliamentary seats during January’s legislative contests.

Talon’s allies argue that enhanced presidential authority enables more effective national development, while opponents condemn the reduction in political competition.

Should security problems continue, opposition groups may face even greater restrictions, according to Nina Wilen, who directs the Africa Programme at Belgium’s Egmont Royal Institute for International Relations.

“There is a risk that the government will be increasingly cracking down on any opposition to make sure they maintain that grip on power,” she warned.

“Where there is a jihadist expansion, the rulers want to have complete control.”

For the past month, Hussein Saleh has returned daily to a devastated piece of ground in southern Lebanon, searching through debris for any remnants of the eight family members he lost to an Israeli airstrike.

The 34-year-old man carefully combs through what remains of his former home in Tyre, hoping to discover small treasures that once belonged to his wife, daughter, and other loved ones who perished in the March 6 attack.

“Every day or two I come here, I check on things, I look around to find memories, to find a phone, to find anything that can soothe my heart and make things lighter,” Saleh explained.

The site offers few remnants of the vibrant household that once existed there: broken stones from his destroyed residence, metal fragments from the Israeli weapon, and a damaged book that had belonged to one of his daughter’s cousins.

“I feel the world is so hard, so cruel,” Saleh expressed, becoming emotional while speaking with reporters.

He recalled a modest dwelling that had been filled with activity, where his 5-year-old daughter Sarrah would play with her older cousins and help care for two young goats owned by his wife’s aunt.

However, on March 6, while Saleh was purchasing groceries, an Israeli missile hit his residence, killing his wife, daughter, sister-in-law and her spouse, their two children, and two of his wife’s aunts.

“I heard two strikes and my heart sunk. My heart … my heart felt they were gone,” he recalled.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and the Lebanese armed organization Hezbollah has claimed more than 1,500 lives in Israeli military operations throughout Lebanon since March 2.

Lebanese health officials report that 130 children and 101 women are among those who have died.

A two-week ceasefire arrangement between the United States and Iran was declared Wednesday. Sources close to the Iran-supported Hezbollah confirmed to Reuters that the group had halted its attacks following the agreement. Israeli operations have persisted, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating Lebanon was excluded from the truce.

Saleh described how the bombing that claimed his family’s lives dismembered their bodies, separating his daughter’s head from her body. He was forced to bury mixed body parts together because the remains were too damaged and disfigured to identify properly.

“The strike that happened here was full of hate. It wasn’t something normal. Why they targeted them, I don’t know,” he told reporters.

He emphasized that his family members were all non-combatants and no military materials were present in his home.

Israeli military officials have not yet responded to Reuters’ inquiries about the attack, including questions about the intended target.

Since March 2, Israel has issued evacuation notices for extensive areas of Lebanon, affecting approximately 15% of the nation, including Tyre. International legal authorities note that evacuation directives should relate to immediate attacks, and following strikes must still prevent civilian casualties.

Saleh mentioned that Sarrah had been receiving physical rehabilitation to regain her ability to walk after a medical condition caused partial paralysis.

“We hoped that in two months she would be able to walk again and play like the other kids … I don’t know how to describe this loss,” he said.

Currently, he finds it impossible to spend time alone because the isolation becomes unbearable.

“The loss, being apart from them, is so hard. My whole life has changed,” he concluded.

A temporary truce has been established in the Middle Eastern conflict as Iran, Israel, and the United States have agreed to a two-week cessation of hostilities. The agreement brings a pause to the warfare that has spread throughout the region and caused significant disruption to worldwide energy markets.

President Donald Trump has withdrawn his previous aggressive statements threatening to obliterate Iranian “civilization” as part of the ceasefire arrangement.

The Associated Press has compiled a collection of photographs documenting this developing story through their photo editors.

Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is preparing to unveil restrictions on Wednesday that would prohibit children younger than 15 from using social media platforms, government sources revealed.

The announcement comes as part of a growing international movement to protect minors online. Australia recently made headlines as the pioneer nation to implement such restrictions, blocking social media access for anyone under 16 years old.

Following Australia’s lead, multiple European countries including Slovenia, Britain, Austria, and Spain have indicated they are developing their own versions of youth social media restrictions.

WASHINGTON — In a stunning reversal within 24 hours, President Donald Trump shifted from warning Iran of complete destruction to accepting what he called a viable proposal that resulted in a 14-day ceasefire agreement, which he believes will help conclude the conflict that has lasted nearly six weeks.

This remarkable change in approach occurred while intermediaries, particularly Pakistan, worked intensively to prevent further escalation of hostilities. Sources who spoke anonymously revealed that China, Iran’s largest trade partner and America’s primary economic rival, also worked behind the scenes to establish a path toward ending hostilities.

“The reason for doing so is that we have already met and exceeded all Military objectives, and are very far along with a definitive Agreement concerning Longterm PEACE with Iran, and PEACE in the Middle East,” Trump stated on social media when announcing the temporary halt to fighting, approximately 90 minutes before his ultimatum for Tehran to reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz or witness the destruction of its power facilities and essential infrastructure.

The president plans to meet with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the White House on Wednesday, where discussions are expected to focus heavily on the developing ceasefire and plans to reopen the strategic waterway.

Before the deadline arrived, Democratic legislators condemned Trump’s threat to eliminate an entire nation as “a moral failure,” while Pope Leo XIV cautioned that attacks on civilian infrastructure would breach international law, describing the president’s statements as “truly unacceptable.”

However, Trump may have ultimately stepped back due to a fundamental reality: further escalation risked entangling the United States in the type of prolonged conflict that had troubled previous administrations and which he had promised voters he would avoid if returned to office.

While Trump celebrated American and Israeli military achievements over the past six weeks, he seemed to operate under the assumption that bombing campaigns could force Iran to surrender.

Beginning with Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death in the war’s initial attacks, he appeared to underestimate the Iranian leadership’s willingness to engage in an extended, costly conflict.

Throughout its 47-year history, the Islamic Republic has consistently demonstrated its readiness to maintain resistance, even when such actions appeared contrary to its own interests from an American perspective.

The religious leadership detained American hostages for 444 days from late 1979 to early 1981, damaging the nation’s global reputation. The clerical authorities permitted the devastating Iran-Iraq conflict to continue for years, resulting in hundreds of thousands of casualties. They supported Hamas following the October 7 attack that triggered a war with Israel, ultimately weakening both the Iran-supported organization in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, while creating circumstances that led to the downfall of Tehran-allied Bashar Assad’s authoritarian government in Syria.

Despite being weakened and outmatched militarily, Iran’s leadership projected confidence in their ability to entangle the world’s dominant military power in an expensive, prolonged engagement, even if they couldn’t defeat the formidable U.S. forces.

Military experts generally concurred that American forces could rapidly seize control of the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow Persian Gulf passage between Iran and Oman that handles approximately 20% of global daily oil transport. However, maintaining security over this waterway would demand a dangerous, resource-heavy operation potentially requiring years of American involvement.

Ben Connable, who leads the nonprofit Battle Research Group, explained that securing the strait would necessitate U.S. military control over roughly 600 kilometers (373 miles) of Iranian land, stretching from Kish Island westward to Bandar Abbas eastward, to prevent Iran from launching missiles at vessels navigating the strait. Connable estimated this mission would likely need three U.S. infantry divisions, approximately 30,000 to 45,000 soldiers.

“This would be an indefinite operation — so, you know, think: be ready to do this for 20 years,” explained Connable, a former Marine Corps intelligence officer. “We didn’t think we were going to be in Afghanistan for 20 years. We didn’t think we’re going to have to be in Vietnam as long as we were, or Iraq.”

The temporary ceasefire arrangement includes permitting both Iran and Oman to collect transit fees from vessels passing through Hormuz, according to a regional official. This source indicated Iran would direct its collected funds toward reconstruction efforts. The intended use of Oman’s portion remained unclear.

The strait lies within the territorial boundaries of both Oman and Iran. Previously, the global community treated this passage as international waters requiring no toll payments.

Following the ceasefire announcement, Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., argued that Trump was essentially granting Tehran authority over the strait and providing “a history-changing win for Iran.”

“The level of incompetence is both stunning and heartbreaking,” Murphy stated.

The ceasefire declaration followed Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s appeal for Trump to postpone his deadline by two weeks to allow diplomatic efforts to progress, while simultaneously requesting Iran to open the strait for the same period.

Two weeks has emerged as Trump’s preferred timeframe for delaying major decisions. Last summer, the White House announced he would decide on launching initial bombing operations against Iran within two weeks, though the president ultimately ordered airstrikes claiming to have “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities before that period ended.

Trump has also frequently employed two-week deadlines during negotiations to end Russia’s conflict with Ukraine and, dating back to his first presidency, for resolving major policy challenges like healthcare reform, though these timeframes often produced minimal results.

Throughout the initial 15 months of his second presidency, Trump has consistently made extreme demands before moderating his position.

The president retreated from many of the comprehensive “Liberation Day” tariffs initially announced in April 2025 after they triggered financial market chaos. The most dramatic example occurred during a January World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, where Trump demanded U.S. control over Greenland “including right, title and ownership” before reversing course and abandoning his threat to impose extensive European tariffs to advance his position.

His justification for backing down involved claiming agreement with NATO leadership on a “framework of a future deal” regarding Arctic security, despite the U.S. already possessing substantial military access to Greenland, which belongs to Denmark’s kingdom.

The White House celebrated Tuesday evening, with staff attributing the ceasefire conditions to U.S. military strength and Trump’s strategic maneuvering.

“The success of our military created maximum leverage, allowing President Trump and the team to engage in tough negotiations that have now created an opening for a diplomatic solution and long-term peace,” declared White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. She continued, “Never underestimate President Trump’s ability to successfully advance America’s interests and broker peace.”

A temporary two-week halt to hostilities has been agreed upon by Iran, the United States, and Israel, with Tehran announcing it will enter negotiations with Washington starting Friday in Islamabad.

President Trump initially described Iran’s 10-point proposal as “workable,” but subsequently denounced the plan as fraudulent, though he provided no additional details about his concerns.

Hours before the ceasefire agreement, Trump escalated his warnings to Iran, threatening catastrophic military action. “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again,” he cautioned, if Iran refused to reach an agreement that included reopening the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office released a statement Wednesday morning expressing support for Trump’s choice to halt strikes against Iran for the two-week period. However, the office clarified that this pause does not extend to the ongoing conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, where casualties have exceeded 1,500 people.

International leaders have responded positively to the development. Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated Wednesday that the temporary ceasefire “augurs well for the restoration of peace and stability, not only to the region but also the rest of the world.”

Indonesia similarly praised the agreement as a diplomatic opportunity for reducing tensions. Yvonne Mewengkang, spokesperson for Indonesia’s Foreign Affairs ministry, commented: “The Indonesian government will always support any constructive diplomatic efforts, including those that have the potential to lead to a more permanent resolution, with the protection of civilians as our primary focus.”

South Korea’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement commending mediation work by nations including Pakistan and urged rapid restoration of Middle Eastern peace and stability. The ministry expressed expectations for the “prompt and safe” return of unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz for all vessels, including South Korean ships.

On social media, Trump characterized the ceasefire as a “big day for World Peace” and announced that America “will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz.”

“There will be lots of positive action!” Trump wrote in his post.

“Big money will be made. Iran can start the reconstruction process. We’ll be loading up with supplies of all kinds, and just ‘hangin’ around’ in order to make sure that everything goes well. I feel confident that it will.”

Trump’s message on his Truth Social platform reflects Washington’s ongoing concerns about Iran’s control over the narrow Persian Gulf passage, through which one-fifth of global oil and natural gas shipments travel during peacetime.

Despite the ceasefire announcement, Bahrain activated its missile warning systems Wednesday morning. The Interior Ministry of Bahrain confirmed the alert.

The exact timing for when the ceasefire would take effect remained unclear immediately following the announcement.

Following the deal’s announcement, Iran has continued launching missiles targeting Gulf Arab nations and Israel.

JAKARTA, Indonesia — A 45-year-old Scottish man accused of running an international criminal organization has been sent from Indonesia to Spain to face serious drug and money laundering charges, according to Indonesian officials.

Steven Lyons departed Indonesia for Amsterdam on Wednesday morning before continuing his journey to Spain, confirmed Husnan Handano, a representative from Bali’s immigration department. His transfer had been postponed several times while authorities completed their investigation.

Law enforcement agencies describe Lyons as a high-ranking member of a global crime network. He was taken into custody on March 28 when he landed at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport after flying in from Singapore. Indonesian immigration systems detected him based on an Interpol Red Notice requested by Spanish authorities.

Spanish and British law enforcement have been seeking Lyons, who is suspected of heading the Lyons criminal organization. He has been on Spain’s most wanted list for approximately two years following a homicide that occurred there in 2024.

According to Bali Police Chief Daniel Adityajaya, Lyons’ capture resulted from collaborative efforts between Indonesian, Spanish, and Scottish law enforcement agencies.

Indonesian police claim Lyons orchestrated a cross-border criminal enterprise based in Scotland that managed drug smuggling operations between Spain and the United Kingdom. Investigators also believe his organization cleaned illegal proceeds through fake businesses established throughout Europe and the Middle East, spanning Spain, Scotland, England, Dubai, Qatar, Bahrain, and Turkey.

Before Lyons’ detention in Bali, coordinated raids by Scottish and Spanish police connected to this investigation led to numerous arrests. Additional suspects were apprehended in Turkey, the Netherlands, and the United Arab Emirates.

Bugie Kurniawan, director of Bali’s immigration office, revealed that Lyons came to Bali with two other individuals who remain on the island, though Lyons claimed he traveled by himself. Spanish Interpol has identified these companions as members of the same criminal group, but they are not subject to arrest warrants or Interpol Red Notices.

Bali Police spokesperson Ari Sandy declined to provide details about the ongoing investigation.

Reports from Scottish news outlets indicate that Lyons escaped a 2006 shooting incident in Glasgow that claimed his cousin’s life, subsequently relocating to Spain and eventually establishing residence in Dubai. In the previous year, his brother and an accomplice were fatally shot in what officials characterized as a suspected organized crime attack at a coastal bar in Fuengirola, located in southern Spain.

A preliminary two-week ceasefire between Iran, the United States and Israel was announced Wednesday, marking a pause in the Middle Eastern conflict that has disrupted global energy markets and prompted President Donald Trump to withdraw his earlier threats to eliminate Iranian “civilization.”

However, confusion arose immediately regarding conflicting proposals to end hostilities, as Iran maintained its position that it would retain control over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz while continuing uranium enrichment operations.

Trump initially described Iran’s 10-point proposal as “workable” for ending the conflict he initiated with Israel on February 28. Later, however, he denounced the plan as fraudulent without providing details. The president has stated that completely dismantling Iran’s nuclear capabilities was a primary objective of the war.

While Israel supported the U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clarified early Wednesday that the deal excludes ongoing combat with Hezbollah forces in Lebanon. This statement conflicted with remarks from Pakistan, a crucial mediator, which announced that peace negotiations would commence as early as Friday in Islamabad. Pakistan also declared the ceasefire effective immediately, though Iran subsequently launched attacks on Gulf Arab nations and Israel.

Following the ceasefire announcement, pro-government protesters in Iran’s capital chanted: “Death to America, death to Israel, death to compromisers!” while burning American and Israeli flags. The demonstrations reflected continued anger from hardline factions who had been preparing for what many expected would be catastrophic warfare with the United States.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that strait passage would be permitted under Iranian military oversight. It remained unclear whether this indicated Iran would fully ease its grip on the crucial waterway.

According to a regional official speaking anonymously about negotiations they participated in directly, the proposal permits both Iran and Oman to collect transit fees from ships passing through the strait. The official noted Iran would allocate collected funds toward reconstruction efforts.

Beyond strait control, Iran’s conditions for ending the conflict include removing U.S. military forces from the region, eliminating sanctions, and releasing frozen Iranian assets.

Throughout the war, Trump has consistently postponed deadlines moments before their expiration.

Continuing this pattern Tuesday, Trump announced in a social media statement that he reached his decision “based on conversations” with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and General Asim Munir, Pakistan’s influential army commander. Sharif had posted on X hours earlier, encouraging Trump to extend his deadline for diplomatic progress while requesting Iran open the strait for two weeks.

An anonymous source familiar with the situation revealed Israeli concerns about the agreement, noting that Israel hoped to accomplish more objectives.

Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile remains secured at enrichment facilities. This program had been among the primary justifications cited by Israel and the U.S. for launching military action.

“A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again,” Trump posted online Tuesday morning regarding potential consequences without an agreement. However, he appeared to leave room for alternatives, stating “maybe something revolutionarily wonderful can happen.”

Trump’s sweeping threat appeared to disregard potential civilian casualties, prompting Congressional Democrats, United Nations officials, and military law experts to declare such strikes would breach international law.

Iran’s U.N. representative, Amir-Saeid Iravani, characterized the threats as “constitute incitement to war crimes and potentially genocide,” warning that Iran would “take immediate and proportionate reciprocal measures” if Trump executed devastating attacks.

U.S. and Israeli forces have repeatedly struck Iran, targeting military assets, leadership, and nuclear facilities. Iran has retaliated with attacks on Israel and neighboring Gulf Arab states, creating regional instability and significant economic and political disruption.

Prior to the deadline, airstrikes damaged two bridges and a railway station, while U.S. forces targeted military infrastructure on Kharg Island, a center for Iranian oil operations.

Although Iran lacks the advanced weaponry and air superiority of U.S. and Israeli forces, its control over the strait has destabilized the global economy and increased pressure on Trump to find a resolution.

Despite the ceasefire announcement, missile warnings persisted in the United Arab Emirates, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait early Wednesday. Officials reported a gas processing plant in Abu Dhabi caught fire following Iranian missile strikes.

An Israeli military official, speaking anonymously per military protocol, confirmed Israel continued attacking Iran. Iran likewise maintained its assault on Israel.

U.S. military forces have suspended all offensive actions against Iran while maintaining defensive operations, according to an official who spoke anonymously about classified military activities.

Earlier Tuesday, Israeli forces reported attacking an Iranian petrochemical facility in Shiraz, marking the second consecutive day of such strikes. The military subsequently announced hitting bridges used by Iranian forces for weapons and equipment transport.

Over 1,900 people have died in Iran during the conflict, though the government has not released updated casualty figures for several days.

In Lebanon, where Israel battles Iran-supported Hezbollah militants, more than 1,500 people have been killed and 1 million displaced. Eleven Israeli soldiers have lost their lives.

In Gulf Arab nations and the occupied West Bank, over two dozen people have died, while 23 deaths have been reported in Israel, and 13 U.S. service members have been killed.

A highly decorated Australian soldier who received his country’s highest military honors will remain in custody after choosing not to seek bail on war crimes charges stemming from his service in Afghanistan.

Ben Roberts-Smith, recipient of both the Victoria Cross and Medal of Gallantry, appeared before a Sydney court Wednesday where he faces serious allegations related to the deaths of Afghan civilians. The 47-year-old veteran becomes just the second Australian Afghanistan war veteran to face war crimes prosecution.

The charges stem from a comprehensive military investigation completed in 2020 that uncovered evidence suggesting elite Australian Special Air Service and commando units illegally killed 39 Afghan prisoners, farmers and other civilians. During Australia’s 20-year involvement in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2021, approximately 40,000 military personnel served there, with 41 losing their lives.

Roberts-Smith faces accusations connected to five Afghan deaths that occurred during 2009 and 2012 while he served as an elite SAS corporal. Authorities claim he either directly shot the victims or commanded subordinates to carry out the killings.

Initially announced as five war crime murder charges on Tuesday, the formal court filing Wednesday specified two counts of war crime murder and three counts of assisting or encouraging war crime murder. Each charge potentially carries a life imprisonment sentence.

Under Australian law, war crime murder involves the deliberate killing during armed conflict of individuals not actively participating in combat, including civilians, prisoners of war, or wounded soldiers.

Roberts-Smith spent Tuesday night in custody after his arrest at Sydney Airport that morning. He did not make a court appearance either physically or through video connection Wednesday.

His legal team declined to enter plea agreements or request bail release. Court proceedings have been postponed until June 4.

These criminal charges follow a civil court ruling that found comparable accusations against Roberts-Smith credible. In a defamation lawsuit he initiated after 2018 newspaper reports accused him of various war crimes, a federal judge in 2023 dismissed Roberts-Smith’s claims and determined he likely unlawfully killed four noncombatants during 2009 and 2012.

However, while the civil court determined war crimes allegations were substantially proven based on probability balance, criminal court conviction requires proof beyond reasonable doubt, a significantly higher legal standard.

Roberts-Smith joins former SAS soldier Oliver Schulz as the second Australian Afghanistan veteran facing war crimes prosecution. Schulz has entered a not guilty plea to war crime murder charges for allegedly shooting Afghan civilian Dad Mohammad three times in the head in an Uruzgan province wheat field during 2012.

Legal representatives indicate Schulz’s trial likely won’t commence before 2027.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed support for a Middle East ceasefire agreement on Wednesday while sharply condemning the threatening language used by President Donald Trump during the crisis.

The two-week truce between the United States, Israel and Iran was announced with less than two hours remaining before Trump’s ultimatum for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face devastating strikes against civilian targets.

Trump’s social media announcement marked a dramatic shift from his position earlier that day, when he delivered a stark warning that “a whole civilization will die tonight” unless his demands were satisfied.

Speaking to Sky News, Albanese praised the ceasefire agreement but voiced serious concerns about the American president’s threatening statements.

“I don’t think it’s appropriate to use language such as that from the President of the United States, and I think it will cause some concern,” he said.

Though Australia initially backed U.S. military action against Iran when the conflict began, Albanese has grown increasingly uncomfortable with the escalating tensions in recent weeks.

The Australian leader recently called for Trump to provide clearer war objectives while urging all nations involved to reduce hostilities.

Trump responded to Australia’s shifting stance this week by publicly criticizing the country’s level of support.

“Australia didn’t help us,” he stated during a press conference, specifically naming Australia alongside Japan and South Korea as nations that failed to provide adequate assistance.

Taiwan’s primary opposition party leader made a historic appeal for peace during her visit to China this week, calling for reconciliation between the two sides at a ceremony loaded with political significance.

Cheng Li-wun, who heads Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT) party, traveled to the eastern Chinese city of Nanjing on Wednesday to pay respects at the mausoleum of Sun Yat-sen, the political figure both sides claim as their founding father.

During the wreath-laying ceremony, which was broadcast live on Taiwanese television, Cheng invoked Sun’s legacy while making her case for cross-strait cooperation.

“The core values of Sun Yat-sen’s ideal that ‘all under heaven are equal’ have always been equality, inclusiveness, and unity,” Cheng stated. “We should work together to promote reconciliation and unity across the (Taiwan) Strait and create regional prosperity and peace.”

The timing of Cheng’s visit is particularly notable, occurring as Chinese military activities around Taiwan have intensified and Taiwan’s opposition-controlled legislature has blocked a proposed $40 billion defense spending increase.

Sun Yat-sen holds unique status in the complex relationship between Taiwan and mainland China. After overthrowing China’s final imperial dynasty in 1912, he established the Republic of China before his death from cancer in 1925. Today, Taiwan officially honors him as the Republic of China’s founder, while Communist Party leaders in Beijing also celebrate him as a national hero, with Mao Zedong once calling him a “great revolutionary forerunner.”

Nanjing itself carries deep historical meaning, having served as the capital of the KMT-led Republic of China government before it retreated to Taiwan in 1949 following defeat in the civil war against Mao’s communist forces.

During her remarks, Cheng acknowledged both Taiwan’s democratic transformation and China’s economic progress since the civil war ended.

“Likewise, on the mainland, we have also seen and witnessed progress and development that exceeded everyone’s expectations and imagination,” she said, while also referencing the “white terror” period of martial law that Taiwan endured for 38 years until 1987.

The visit drew tight security measures and some public interest from Chinese citizens. Yang Zihang, a 19-year-old student who came to observe Cheng’s motorcade, told reporters: “I think this is very important for peaceful exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.”

However, the diplomatic outreach faces significant obstacles. Beijing refuses direct communication with Taiwan’s current president, Lai Ching-te, labeling him a “separatist.” Lai maintains that only Taiwan’s citizens should determine their island’s future. Neither government officially recognizes the other’s legitimacy.

Taiwan’s ruling administration has urged Cheng to use any meetings with Chinese officials, potentially including President Xi Jinping, to demand an end to military intimidation and respect for Taiwanese self-determination.

Taiwan’s National Security Bureau Director-General Tsai Ming-yen addressed the situation during a parliamentary session in Taipei, explaining China’s strategic approach to the island.

“China uses military intimidation and harassment to create an atmosphere of rising military danger and instability across the Taiwan Strait,” Tsai explained. “This is intended to make Taiwan’s society and public feel the psychological pressure and anxiety of a possible conflict.”

He added that these tactics aim to “divide Taiwanese society internally, boosting the visibility of pro-China positions” while also working to “obstruct efforts to push forward U.S. arms procurement deals.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced his approval for President Donald Trump’s choice to temporarily halt military strikes against Iran for a fourteen-day period, according to reports from Israeli news outlets on Wednesday.

While expressing Israel’s backing for the two-week suspension of attacks, Netanyahu made clear that Lebanon would not be covered under this ceasefire arrangement, Israeli media sources indicated.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced Tuesday night that his administration plans to present emergency economic legislation and new tax measures to Congress aimed at addressing budget imbalances for 2026.

During a televised speech, Petro warned lawmakers that he would bypass legislative approval and implement the measures through executive action if Congress refuses to support his economic agenda.

“If necessary, we will declare a new economic emergency in Colombia because what we must save is the standard of living, which is now much higher than at any time in history,” Petro stated during his address to the nation.

The Colombian leader also directed his interior minister to introduce new tax legislation to Congress designed to address the budget deficit projected for 2026, though he did not reveal specific revenue targets or collection amounts expected from the proposed measures.

A highly decorated Australian military veteran will stay locked up after his attorneys declined to pursue bail following his arrest on serious war crimes allegations.

Authorities took Ben Roberts-Smith, age 47, into custody Tuesday on five war crimes charges related to the deaths of five Afghan civilians during the period from 2009 to 2012. The charges each carry potential life imprisonment.

Officials denied him bail and transported him to Sydney’s Silverwater Correctional Complex, where he spent Tuesday night.

Roberts-Smith was absent from Wednesday morning’s bail proceeding, conducted via video conference, according to local news outlets.

Attorney Jordan Portokalli informed the court his client would not request release from detention, instead asking for a face-to-face hearing scheduled for later that day.

Judge Lucas Swan set the next court date for June 4, ensuring Roberts-Smith will stay incarcerated until then unless his legal representatives can arrange an earlier proceeding.

The former Special Air Services Regiment member earned recognition as a national war hero through his service across six deployments to Afghanistan spanning 2006 through 2012.

Military officials bestowed numerous prestigious honors upon him, including the Victoria Cross, which represents the top military award for armed forces personnel from Britain and Commonwealth nations.

Federal police investigators plan to argue during trial that the alleged victims were not engaged in combat when killed and were being held as unarmed detainees under Australian military control at the time of their deaths.

Authorities will also contend that Roberts-Smith either personally shot the victims or directed subordinates to kill them while he was present.

These criminal charges stem from a collaborative probe between federal police and the Office of the Special Investigator, an agency established to investigate alleged criminal behavior by Australian defense personnel, which launched in 2021.

Roberts-Smith has continuously rejected claims of misconduct during his military tenure, many of which Nine Entertainment publications first revealed through reporting that began in 2018.

He mounted an unsuccessful legal challenge against these accusations in what became Australia’s costliest defamation case, with a court ultimately determining he likely participated in killing four Afghan civilians.

Vietnam’s newly elected President To Lam is expected to travel to China next week for meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, according to three sources familiar with the arrangements.

The planned visit, scheduled for April 14-17, would mark Lam’s first international trip since winning the presidency on Tuesday. This election gave him unprecedented dual authority over both party and state operations for the next five years, mirroring China’s leadership structure under Xi Jinping.

Sources spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of high-level diplomatic planning in Vietnam. The trip could face delays due to scheduling complications, they noted.

Both nations are grappling with energy security challenges and increased tariff pressures from the United States, making this diplomatic engagement particularly significant for strengthening bilateral relations.

Chinese foreign ministry officials stated they had no information available regarding the potential visit. Vietnam’s foreign ministry has not responded to requests for comment.

The meeting agenda is expected to focus on technology partnerships and energy cooperation. Despite ongoing territorial disagreements in the South China Sea, the two communist countries have deepened collaboration across multiple sectors, including railway connections, border economic zones, and Vietnam’s 5G telecommunications infrastructure using Chinese technology.

New agreements covering telecommunications and other strategic sectors may emerge from the discussions, though officials suggest any deals might not receive public announcement.

Security partnerships have gained prominence in recent bilateral talks, particularly regarding Chinese surveillance technology imports. This emphasis reflects the increased influence of law enforcement agencies under Lam, who previously served as Vietnam’s public security minister.

Energy security discussions are anticipated as Vietnam relies heavily on Chinese imports for oil products, jet fuel, and fertilizers. Beijing has limited these exports due to supply shortages stemming from regional conflicts.

During March meetings between the countries’ foreign ministers, Vietnam emphasized the need for energy cooperation while developing fuel rationing contingency plans.

Lam previously visited China in August 2024 immediately after assuming party leadership, marking his first overseas trip in that role. A planned meeting with Xi following Lam’s confirmation as general secretary in January was postponed for undisclosed reasons.

SEOUL, South Korea — Military officials in South Korea confirmed that North Korea conducted another missile test Wednesday, marking the second projectile launch in consecutive days from the isolated nation’s eastern shoreline.

According to South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, no additional information was immediately available regarding the distance traveled by the latest missile or the specific type of weapon system used in the test.

South Korean forces had previously identified an unidentified projectile launch near Pyongyang on Tuesday. Officials stated that intelligence agencies from both South Korea and the United States were conducting analysis of Tuesday’s weapons test.

The recent launches follow North Korea’s announcement earlier this week that leader Kim Jong Un had personally witnessed testing of an improved solid-fuel engine for military weapons, describing it as an important advancement for the nation’s strategic defense capabilities.

Weapons systems utilizing solid propellants offer greater mobility and concealment advantages compared to liquid-fuel alternatives, which require fueling procedures prior to launch and have limited operational windows. This latest solid-fuel engine evaluation, the first conducted in seven months, aligns with Kim’s declared objectives of developing more maneuverable and difficult-to-detect missiles capable of targeting the United States and allied nations.

Intelligence officials briefed South Korean legislators Monday that the engine testing likely supports efforts to construct more powerful missiles designed to carry multiple nuclear warheads, according to lawmakers present at the classified briefing.

North Korea has accelerated its nuclear weapons development program following the breakdown of diplomatic negotiations between Kim and former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2019. During a Workers’ Party congress held in February, Kim indicated openness to renewed dialogue with Trump while demanding that Washington abandon requirements for North Korean nuclear disarmament as a prerequisite for future negotiations.

North Korea conducted two separate missile launches this week while simultaneously rejecting South Korea’s attempts at diplomatic reconciliation, according to military officials in Seoul.

South Korean forces detected an unknown projectile launched Wednesday toward waters off North Korea’s eastern coastline, following another suspected missile test identified the previous day.

Tuesday’s launch originated from the Pyongyang region and involved what South Korean military officials believe was a ballistic missile, according to statements from the Joint Chiefs of Staff. American and South Korean analysts are currently examining data from both incidents.

Military sources told South Korea’s Yonhap news agency that Tuesday’s projectile traveled eastward before experiencing technical difficulties during its initial flight phase and vanishing from radar. South Korean defense officials suspect the missile may have malfunctioned shortly after launch.

South Korea generally reports ballistic missile tests immediately since they breach United Nations Security Council restrictions, while exercising more discretion regarding conventional weapons or cruise missile activities. North Korea maintains these UN sanctions violate its constitutional right to national defense.

The missile activities coincided with harsh rhetoric from North Korean leadership that crushed Seoul’s optimism about warming bilateral relations.

Jang Kum Chol, a high-ranking foreign ministry official in Pyongyang, declared that South Korea was deluding itself if it believed North Korea would stop treating it as an adversary.

“The identity of the ROK, the enemy state most hostile to the DPRK, can never change with any words or conduct,” Jang stated through North Korea’s official KCNA news service late Tuesday, referencing the formal abbreviations for both nations.

These remarks followed Monday’s statement from North Korea describing South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s apology regarding drone intrusions earlier this year as “very fortunate and wise.”

Officials in Seoul initially interpreted that comment as an unusual gesture of goodwill from the nuclear-capable North, given the decades of animosity between the countries. The two nations technically remain in a state of war since their 1950-1953 conflict concluded with an armistice rather than a peace treaty.

However, Jang clarified that the statement from Kim Yo Jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, was intended as a warning to Seoul rather than an indication of friendly intentions toward reconciliation.

WASHINGTON – An American journalist who was taken hostage by an Iranian-backed militant organization in Iraq has been freed, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s announcement on Tuesday.

Shelly Kittleson, a U.S. reporter, was abducted by Kataib Hezbollah, an armed faction with ties to Iran, in an area near Baghdad. Rubio confirmed her release following the recent kidnapping incident.

Financial markets experienced significant movement on Tuesday following President Donald Trump’s announcement of a temporary two-week ceasefire agreement with Iran, made just under two hours before his ultimatum deadline requiring Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face extensive strikes on civilian infrastructure.

The ceasefire news triggered a sharp decline in oil prices while government bonds gained strength and stock markets climbed, as investors viewed the development as potentially opening doors to sustained peace and the restoration of oil and gas shipments from the Gulf region.

Financial experts and market analysts shared their perspectives on the development:

Andrew Lilley, who serves as Chief Rates Strategist at Barrenjoey in Sydney, expressed concerns about market recovery. “We still have a long way to get back to where we were before this began. The worry now is the markets are unsure of the extent to which the oil price is going to get back to $75,” Lilley stated.

He continued, “This little precipice where actually oil is flowing, no one has a shortage, but it stays at an equilibrium price of $90, that is actually where you remove the tail risk that central banks are cutting. It’s kind of the scenario that results in permanently high yields because we’re going to have damaged infrastructure and a sticky high oil price for months to come, which means that we are going to get higher inflation.”

George Boubouras, Head of Research at K2 Asset Management in Melbourne, emphasized the importance of energy supply restoration. “Restocking energy supplies is the key over the next week as the conflict can reignite very quickly. This decreases the probability of a recession particularly if more oil, gas, fertiliser can flow in the next week or so. Markets are always pragmatic and not complacent as they are looking through the conflict and valuations remain compelling on a one-year view,” Boubouras commented.

Martin Whetton, Head of Financial Markets Strategy at Westpac in Sydney, remained skeptical about lasting market changes. “This is what happens all the time. Does it mean people are going to take new risks? No, it doesn’t,” Whetton noted. “It would have to actually be a lasting peace (to change things). People aren’t actually taking risk. This is algos doing stuff.”

Brian Jacobsen, Chief Economist at Annex Wealth Management in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, offered a cautiously optimistic view. “President Trump said he agreed to a two-week ceasefire. That’s enough to keep hopes alive that not only will an entire civilization NOT be destroyed, but we could see oil start flowing through the Strait of Hormuz,” Jacobsen said.

He added, “Is it just kicking the can down the road, moving the goal posts, TACO Tuesday, or whatever metaphor we’d like, to only to have tempers flare and bombs drop again? Who knows? But it’s good enough for now to elicit a positive response from the markets.”

DAKAR, Senegal — A humanitarian worker who spent almost two years imprisoned in Central African Republic has been released, according to his family members who spoke with The Associated Press on Tuesday.

Joseph Figueira Martin’s brother confirmed the news, stating that “the rumor is real and he should land in Lisbon in a couple of hours.”

Martin, who holds citizenship in both Belgium and Portugal, worked as a consultant for FHI 360, an American humanitarian organization. Central African Republic’s prosecutor’s office said he was taken into custody in May 2024 on charges including espionage, communicating with rebel forces to organize a government overthrow, and threatening state security.

Authorities apprehended him in Zemio, a southeastern community that has experienced more than ten years of violence between ethnic armed groups and anti-government insurgents.

Martin was incarcerated at a military facility and had previously refused food to protest his imprisonment conditions.

Government officials have not yet verified his release or provided updates regarding his legal proceedings.

Although foreign humanitarian workers are seldom arrested in Central African Republic, the nation is increasing oversight of relief organizations working in regions where government forces battle armed factions. After Martin’s detention, officials cautioned international NGO personnel against engaging in activities that might compromise state security or risk facing legal action.

The Central African Republic has experienced ongoing warfare since 2013, when rebel forces dominated by Muslims captured control and ousted former president François Bozizé. Christian militia groups retaliated with violence. Although a 2019 peace agreement reduced hostilities, six out of 14 armed organizations that initially agreed to the deal eventually withdrew their support.

The Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary organization, maintains operations in Central African Republic to counter armed rebel movements and support President Faustin-Archange Touadera, who has governed the country since 2016.

In a dramatic shift from his previous stance, President Trump has declared a 14-day suspension of military action against Iran, with the condition that Iranian forces must reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement comes after the President had posted threatening language on social media, stating that “a whole civilization will die tonight.”

The temporary halt in hostilities represents a significant change in tone from the administration’s earlier aggressive posturing toward the Middle Eastern nation. The ceasefire’s continuation will depend entirely on Iran’s compliance with demands to allow passage through the strategically important waterway.

Financial markets experienced dramatic shifts Wednesday following President Donald Trump’s announcement of a temporary halt to military operations in the Middle East, raising hopes for sustained peace and the potential restart of energy exports from the Gulf region.

Trump announced his decision to halt bombing campaigns and military strikes against Iran for a two-week period, stating that negotiations for a comprehensive peace deal are currently underway.

The market response was immediate and substantial. American crude oil prices dropped approximately 9% to reach $103 per barrel, while S&P 500 futures climbed 1.6%. The dollar weakened against multiple currencies.

Asian stock market futures indicated widespread gains ahead of trading sessions, as these markets have faced significant pressure from ongoing conflicts and rising energy costs. Ten-year U.S. Treasury futures jumped roughly 15 ticks in response to the news.

Currency markets also reflected the shift toward reduced risk, with the Australian dollar climbing more than 0.8% to surpass 70 U.S. cents, while the euro gained 0.4% to reach $1.1647. Digital currencies also posted increases during the session.

German intelligence officials issued a cybersecurity alert Tuesday regarding attacks by Russian state-sponsored hackers who have been exploiting internet routers to conduct espionage operations against government and military facilities.

The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution announced that the hacker collective APT28 had successfully breached vulnerable TP-Link routers as part of a broader surveillance campaign targeting critical infrastructure and defense networks.

This cybersecurity warning was coordinated with multiple intelligence partners, including Germany’s foreign intelligence service BND and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States.

Western intelligence agencies have identified APT28, which also operates under the alias “Fancy Bear,” as being controlled by Russia’s military intelligence organization, the GRU.

According to German officials, the hacking operation affected thousands of routers across the globe, with approximately 30 compromised devices identified within Germany’s borders.

Security experts confirmed successful breaches in multiple instances, leading network operators to remove and replace the affected router equipment.

German intelligence noted that APT28 has previously launched cyberattacks against the country’s parliamentary systems, the Social Democratic Party, and aviation control agencies.

WASHINGTON — Legal experts are raising concerns about potential violations of international law following President Donald Trump’s recent inflammatory threats against Iranian infrastructure, including promises to destroy the nation’s power grid and transportation systems.

During Monday’s press briefing, Trump outlined plans to target every bridge and electrical facility in Iran, statements that military law specialists warn could amount to war crimes. The legality of such strikes would depend on whether these facilities serve military purposes, if the response matches Iran’s actions proportionally, and whether efforts were made to protect civilian populations.

Critics argue Trump’s warnings fail to consider the impact on non-combatants, with Congressional Democrats, United Nations representatives, and legal academics contending such attacks would breach international standards.

While the president’s actual policies sometimes differ from his bold public declarations, his warnings about infrastructure targets have been clear and consistent since Sunday, as he established a Tuesday evening deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

When asked Monday about potential war crime allegations, Trump stated he’s “not at all” worried about such concerns while continuing his destructive threats. He declared that every power facility will be “burning, exploding and never to be used again.”

On Tuesday morning, Trump posted on Truth Social: “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will.”

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously stated last month that the administration would enforce “no stupid rules of engagement, no nation building quagmire, no democracy building exercise, no politically correct wars. We fight to win and we don’t waste time or lives.”

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres’ spokesperson cautioned Monday that targeting such infrastructure violates international regulations.

“Even if specific civilian infrastructure were to qualify as a military objective,” Stephane Dujarric explained, an assault would remain forbidden if it creates “excessive incidental civilian harm.”

Southwestern Law School professor Rachel VanLandingham, a former Air Force judge advocate general, noted that civilian deaths would likely result from power outages affecting hospitals and water facilities. “What Trump is saying is, ‘We don’t care about precision, we don’t care about impact on civilians, we’re just going to take out all of Iranian power generating capacity,’” the former lieutenant colonel explained.

Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical Persian Gulf passage handling 20% of global oil shipments, has virtually stopped, causing oil prices to spike and creating stock market turbulence.

According to Marieke de Hoon, who teaches international criminal law at the University of Amsterdam, the U.N. Charter only allows nations to use military force with Security Council approval or for self-defense purposes.

As the conflict enters its second month, Trump has intensified his infrastructure bombing threats, targeting Kharg Island’s oil operations and water desalination facilities.

In a March 30 Truth Social message, Trump warned America would destroy “all of their Electric Generating Plants, Oil Wells and Kharg Island (and possibly all desalinization plants!), which we have purposefully not yet ‘touched.’”

On Easter Sunday, Trump used profanity-filled posts to threaten Iran with “Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one,” warning “you’ll be living in Hell” without strait reopening.

“This strikes me as clearly a threat of unlawful action,” said Michael Schmitt, professor emeritus at the U.S. Naval War College and international law instructor at Britain’s University of Reading.

Schmitt explained that power facilities can be legitimate targets under warfare laws if they supply military installations alongside civilian areas. However, attacks must avoid “disproportionate harm to the civilian population, and you’ve done everything to minimize that harm.”

While harm excludes mere inconvenience or fear, Schmitt noted it encompasses severe psychological trauma, physical injuries, or illness.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced Tuesday that his nation’s military experts are providing guidance on operations in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, while Asian countries have expressed interest in Ukraine’s naval defense capabilities.

Following conflicts involving Iran, Ukraine deployed hundreds of military specialists to the Middle East to share their proven methods for intercepting Iranian-made drones, the same type Russia deployed during the initial phase of its invasion.

“Ukrainian military personnel are taking part in consultations on the further operation of the Strait of Hormuz. Safe navigation is a global value; we know this from our experience defending the Black Sea,” Zelenskiy stated during his nightly address to the nation.

During the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has successfully prevented Russia from completely cutting off its Black Sea access, which remains vital for both economic and military purposes.

Despite lacking a substantial naval force, Ukraine has used creative solutions like unmanned sea vessels to push Russia’s Black Sea fleet away from its headquarters in Russian-controlled Crimea.

The Ukrainian president noted that international interest in his country’s defense innovations—which are often more sophisticated and significantly less expensive than conventional armaments—has expanded beyond European borders.

“Our diplomats have received a corresponding request from Asian countries, and I have instructed them to work through all this promptly,” Zelenskiy stated.

The president did not identify which specific nations have made these requests.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called on President Donald Trump Wednesday to grant a two-week extension on his ultimatum demanding Iran cease its oil blockade in the Gulf region.

In a social media post on X, Sharif made his appeal for additional time to pursue diplomatic solutions. “To allow diplomacy to run its course, I earnestly request President Trump to extend the deadline for two weeks. Pakistan, in all sincerity, requests the Iranian brothers to open Strait of Hormuz for a corresponding period of two weeks as a goodwill gesture,” Sharif wrote.

The Pakistani leader’s intervention comes as Trump’s ultimatum approaches its deadline of 8 p.m. Eastern Time Wednesday night, which corresponds to 3:30 a.m. Thursday in Tehran. The President has threatened to target Iranian infrastructure, including bridges and power facilities, if the oil blockade continues.

Sharif also called for a broader two-week ceasefire among “all warring parties” to create space for negotiations aimed at “conclusive termination of war.”

The Prime Minister expressed optimism about ongoing peace efforts, describing diplomatic initiatives as “progressing steadily, strongly and powerfully with the potential to lead to substantive results in near future.”

The White House has not yet provided a response to the Pakistani leader’s request.

According to sources familiar with the situation, negotiations between Washington and Tehran faced setbacks following Iran’s strikes on Saudi industrial targets this week.

Pakistan has emerged as the primary intermediary facilitating communication between the United States and Iran, though no breakthrough agreement has materialized thus far.

TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Asghar Hashemi requires kidney dialysis three times weekly at a medical facility in Tehran’s northern district. The 56-year-old transit worker worries his survival could be at risk if electrical infrastructure gets targeted, as President Donald Trump has warned in recent escalating statements.

Citizens across Tehran hurried on Tuesday to purchase bottled water and power up electronic devices including phones, flashlights and backup batteries while time counted down toward Trump’s newest ultimatum demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face strikes against electrical facilities and transportation infrastructure. Even with these threats endangering his medical care, Hashemi said his situation mirrors that of fellow Iranians enduring more than five weeks of conflict.

“I am worried, but I am more worried about my fellow citizens,” Hashemi said, lying on his bed at Tajrish Martyrs Hospital for the treatment. “Whatever happens, we will stand until the end.”

While Trump emphasized his 8 p.m. Washington deadline was non-negotiable, Iranian reactions varied from terror to acceptance to defiance like Hashemi’s.

“I will be ready to pick up a gun and start a fight against the enemy,” he said.

The Associated Press has been granted permission by the Iranian government to send an additional team into the country for a brief reporting trip. AP already operates in Iran. The visiting team must be accompanied by a media assistant from a government-affiliated company. AP retains full editorial control of its content.

Tehran and surrounding regions have experienced nearly continuous air bombardments from American and Israeli forces starting February 28. Electrical supply became Iranians’ primary anxiety as Trump’s deadline approached.

“When there is no electricity, there will be no water, no hygiene, nothing,” said Mahan Qayoumi, 23, who works at an artisan shop, where he said business would stop under a power outage. He brought emergency lights to his apartment to prepare, noting that “all aspects of life” would be affected.

A young designer in central Tehran, speaking on condition of anonymity for her safety, said her parents left at the beginning of the war, but she stayed behind to take care of her cat, Maya. Now, because of Trump’s threats, she said she plans to drive north — which has largely been spared heavy strikes — with Maya and join her family.

“If there is no electricity, there is no water,” she told AP on the messaging app Telegram, noting Tehran’s low water pressure and electric water pumps. “You can’t cook, either.”

The avenues of expansive Tehran, watched over by snow-covered peaks, have experienced reduced vehicle movement in recent weeks as many inhabitants departed for more secure locations. Educational institutions and numerous government offices continue closure.

Despite some residents’ urgent preparations and food stockpiling, activity at a major covered marketplace in northern Tehran appeared relatively routine Tuesday. Commerce continued normally, bakeries produced fresh loaves, and traditional Iranian confections like gaz and sohan were being made.

“We are living our normal lives,” said Said Motazavi, 58, who owns a home appliances shop. Motazavi said Iranians have a lot of experience preparing for and living with conflict, referring to the 1980-88 Iraq-Iran war and the 12-day war with Israel last year.

At Tajrish Martyrs Hospital, the director told AP that a generator can keep much of the medical facility functioning if needed. He said the hospital has enough fuel to power it, as well as ample medicine and supplies for six months.

“I do not see any problem,” Dr. Masoud Moslemifard said, adding that the hospital has been prioritizing operations for those wounded in the war and postponing nonurgent surgeries.

Security presence increased noticeably throughout Tehran’s streets Tuesday, featuring inspection points across multiple areas of the capital. Military vehicles equipped with mounted heavy weaponry were positioned at key traffic junctions.

Iran’s internet access remains severely restricted, limiting information flow while anxiety mounted over Trump’s warnings.

A 26-year-old Pilates instructor told AP on condition of anonymity for her safety via Telegram that she’s been unable to prepare for possible attacks. She called this week the “worst atmosphere” since the war began.

“Honestly, we’ve kind of lost it at this point,” she said, describing how she’s not left home for the last few days and she and her family refuse to leave Tehran. “Whatever is going to happen, let it happen. We are dying bit by bit.”

One resident told AP that if the U.S. follows through on its threat, the people of Iran — not the government — will be the victims.

“By attacking infrastructure, the Islamic Republic will not be destroyed, only we will be destroyed,” the woman, a teacher in her 20s, told AP via a message on Telegram, on condition of anonymity for her safety.

She fears the attacks will spread chaos. “If we don’t have the internet, and if we don’t have electricity, water, and gas, we’re really going back to the Stone Age, as Trump said.”

ISTANBUL (AP) — Turkey’s legislature began deliberating Tuesday on proposed legislation that would ban minors under 15 from using social media platforms, joining a growing number of nations implementing measures to shield young people from online dangers.

The proposed legislation would mandate that social media companies implement age-verification technology, create parental oversight features, and quickly address content flagged as dangerous. The duration of parliamentary discussions on the measure remains uncertain.

Officials in Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s administration describe the legislation as an effort to reduce digital threats to children’s well-being and personal information security.

“Protecting our children from all kinds of risks, threats and harmful content is our top priority,” Mahinur Ozdemir Goktas, Turkey’s minister for family and social services, said earlier this year.

Opposition lawmakers from the Republican People’s Party or CHP have voiced objections to the plan, arguing that youth protection should come “not with bans but with rights-based policies.”

The proposed regulations would require digital services including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and similar platforms to prevent minors under 15 from creating accounts while establishing parental oversight features to monitor children’s online activity.

Gaming companies operating online would also need to designate Turkish representatives to guarantee compliance with the new rules. Violations could result in reduced internet speeds and monetary sanctions from Turkey’s telecommunications regulatory agency.

Turkey’s leadership has previously limited online platform access as these services have become channels for political opposition. Internet communications faced widespread limitations during protests last year supporting Istanbul’s imprisoned opposition mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu.

Australia pioneered social media age restrictions for those under 16 beginning in December, leading platforms to close approximately 4.7 million accounts belonging to minors.

Indonesia launched similar regulations last month, prohibiting digital platform access for children under 16 to prevent exposure to adult content, online harassment, digital fraud and compulsive usage.

Additional nations including Spain, France and the United Kingdom are implementing or evaluating comparable restrictions on youth social media access due to mounting concerns about harm from unmoderated online content.

ROME (AP) — Pope Leo XIV delivered sharp criticism Tuesday regarding President Donald Trump’s threatening remarks toward Iranian civilization, describing the statements as “completely unacceptable” while emphasizing that targeting civilian infrastructure breaks international law.

Speaking from his residence at Castel Gandolfo outside Rome, the pontiff made some of his most forceful statements to date regarding the escalating conflict, calling on Americans and others to pressure their elected officials to pursue peaceful resolutions instead of military action.

“Today as we all know there was this threat against all the people of Iran. This is truly unacceptable,” the Pope stated during his departure from the papal retreat.

His remarks addressed Trump’s warning that a “whole civilization will die tonight” should Iran fail to comply with his most recent ultimatum concerning a deal that would include reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Leo referenced his previous Easter message promoting peace and rejecting military conflict “especially a war which many people have said is an unjust war, which is continuing to escalate, and which is not resolving anything.”

The Pope called upon citizens worldwide to reach out to their government officials and legislative representatives, emphasizing that striking civilian infrastructure violates “international law” and represents a “sign of the hatred, the division, the destruction human beings are capable of, and we all want to work for peace.”

A British political party led by Nigel Farage has unveiled a controversial immigration proposal that would block visa applications from nations seeking compensation for historical slavery, sparking fierce criticism from Caribbean officials.

Reform UK announced Tuesday that it would refuse visa requests from countries pursuing reparations for transatlantic slavery, including former British colonies like Ghana and Jamaica. Despite having just eight members of parliament, the anti-immigration party currently leads in polling ahead of Britain’s next election scheduled by 2029.

Zia Yusuf, who oversees Reform’s domestic policy, defended the proposal by calling reparations demands offensive. He argued these requests “ignore the fact that Britain made huge sacrifices to be the first major power to outlaw slavery and enforce this prohibition,” describing the calls as “insulting.”

The announcement drew sharp condemnation from Hilary Beckles, who leads the Caribbean Community’s reparations commission. At a press conference, Beckles characterized the proposal as evidence that the “legacy of toxic racism… is still so intense that Black people are deemed undeserving” of compensation.

“Punishing the victims again is in fact consistent with those people at the time of emancipation who did not wish… to see the African people freed,” Beckles stated, urging the party to reconsider what he called a “tragic” position.

Multiple international groups have pressed for reparations in recent years, including the Caribbean Community, the African Union, and various Latin American nations. These organizations seek not just financial compensation but also formal apologies and the return of cultural artifacts taken during colonial periods.

However, resistance to reparations discussions has grown among Western leadership. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed preference to “look forward” instead of engaging in “endless discussions about reparations on the past.”

The debate gained additional prominence last month when the United Nations passed a Ghana-sponsored resolution labeling transatlantic slavery the “gravest crime against humanity” and supporting reparations efforts. Britain and other former colonial powers chose not to support the measure.

Reform UK did not respond to requests for additional comment on their proposal.

BAGHDAD – An Iranian-backed militia organization announced Tuesday that it plans to free American journalist Shelly Kittleson, who was kidnapped in Baghdad, but is demanding her immediate departure from Iraq.

The Iran-aligned group Kataib Hezbollah took Kittleson captive in Baghdad during the final days of March.

According to Middle East publication Al-Monitor, Kittleson works as an independent American correspondent operating from Rome who has reported on multiple conflicts throughout the region and has written pieces for their publication.

On Tuesday, a social media platform with ties to Kataib Hezbollah distributed a video that allegedly shows Kittleson.

Reuters was unable to confirm independently whether the video is genuine, though if authentic, it would mark the first footage of Kittleson made public since her abduction.

The footage shows a woman who says she is Kittleson positioned in front of a simple backdrop, addressing the camera in English. Reuters could not confirm the location or timing of the recording.

According to a government source familiar with the matter who spoke to Reuters, her pending release comes after increased pressure from Iraq’s government and prominent Shiite religious figures who urged the militia to free her.

This follows a similar incident in March 2023 when Kataib Hezbollah militants abducted Elizabeth Tsurkov, a graduate student from Princeton University with Israeli-Russian citizenship, during an academic research visit to Iraq. She was freed in 2025.

YAHSHOUSH, Lebanon — The sound of church bells mixed with gunfire rang through the mountainous valley Tuesday as hundreds of mourners attended funeral services for a Lebanese Christian political leader and his wife, both victims of an Israeli airstrike this past weekend.

The deaths have intensified political divisions within Lebanon, a nation already fractured by the escalating conflict between Israel and the Iranian-supported Hezbollah militia — part of the broader regional conflict spreading across the Middle East.

Pierre Mouawad, his spouse, and a family visitor died Sunday when an Israeli strike hit an apartment unit located above their residence in Ain Saadeh, a town situated east of Beirut. Israeli military officials stated they were attempting to eliminate a Hezbollah fighter, though details surrounding the attack remain murky.

Mouawad served with the regional chapter of the Lebanese Forces, a Christian political organization widely recognized as Hezbollah’s most vocal political adversary. The party has spent years demanding the militant group’s disarmament and recently accused Hezbollah of pulling Lebanon into another conflict by launching rockets toward Israel in support of Iran, their primary ally and financial backer.

The Lebanese Forces maintains four cabinet positions in Lebanon’s government and controls the largest parliamentary bloc.

Lebanon’s Health Ministry reports that 1,530 individuals have died in Israeli attacks since the Israel-Hezbollah conflict reignited last month in the small Mediterranean nation. Over one million residents have fled their homes, primarily from southern Lebanon and Beirut’s southern neighborhoods, areas where Hezbollah maintains strong support and control.

As fighting continues and Israeli troops enter Lebanese territory, hostility has increased in Christian, Sunni, and Druze communities toward displaced Shiite residents, who represent Hezbollah’s primary support base.

Host community residents worry that Hezbollah fighters might be concealed among the Shiite civilians who have relocated to their neighborhoods.

The caskets containing Mouawad and his wife, covered with the white Lebanese Forces banner, were carried into St. Simon Church on a mountainside in Yahshoush, located north of Beirut.

Church bells, gunshots, and political music from speakers created a cacophony as government officials, local residents, and party supporters gathered in large numbers for the memorial service.

“They died because Hezbollah dragged us into a war,” declared Lebanese Forces parliamentarian Pierre Bou Assi, describing the conflict as “an Iranian decision with Hezbollah’s implementation.”

“Nobody among all the Lebanese asked them to start this war,” he stated.

While Lebanon’s military announced it is examining the incident, and the government banned Hezbollah’s armed operations and Iranian Revolutionary Guard presence in Lebanon last month, the Ain Saadeh attack has worsened existing tensions.

Many Lebanese citizens who believed they would avoid the war’s impact due to their lack of Hezbollah connections have been shocked as Israeli strikes have hit Hezbollah operatives and Iranian Guard members renting apartments or hotel rooms in their communities.

The property owner of the apartment above the Mouawads, the local mayor, and Lebanese military investigators all confirmed the unit was vacant.

However, the victims’ family members and Mouawad’s political party insist someone — the strike’s intended target — was residing in that apartment, endangering nearby residents.

“If that person had died, it would have been better for us,” said Raymond Mouawad, Pierre’s brother. “Instead, my brother died while he escaped.”

PANAMA CITY — A deadly fuel truck explosion Monday afternoon has forced officials to shut down a crucial bridge spanning the Panama Canal while investigators work to determine what caused the blast and engineers examine potential structural damage.

The incident occurred around 4 p.m. at the base of Panama’s Bridge of the Americas, creating a towering fireball that rose nearly to the bridge’s peak. Security cameras recorded the dramatic explosion on the vital span that links the nation’s capital to the airport and western residential areas. While multiple vehicles were crossing during the blast, their occupants escaped injury.

One fuel truck employee perished in the explosion, while two firefighters sustained injuries while battling the resulting blaze, according to officials.

“We have no confirmation of any other people injured,” stated Víctor Raúl Álvarez, who heads Panama’s Fire Department. He noted that investigators are just beginning their work and have not yet identified what triggered the explosion.

The intense fire has raised concerns about potential damage to the aging bridge, which serves as a critical transportation link between Panama City and the country’s western regions.

On Tuesday, Panama’s Public Works Ministry shared video footage on social media platforms showing engineers examining the site for structural compromises. President José Raúl Mulino posted on X that the bridge closure would “cause disruption” and expressed hope for a swift “return to normal.”

“The Bridge of the Americas is a structure that is over 60 years old. Due to the effects of the fire, if the metal structure was subjected to excessively high temperatures, it may have sustained damage,” explained Edwin Lewis, a ministry engineer.

Expert teams are currently analyzing both concrete and steel elements of the bridge. Authorities have declared the span will stay closed until safety can be guaranteed.

BANJA LUKA, Bosnia-Herzegovina — The president’s eldest son delivered harsh criticism of the European Union during a Tuesday visit to Bosnia, claiming the bloc’s progressive policies are driving away investors and forecasting a significant rift between eastern and western member nations.

Donald Trump Jr. told attendees at a business forum that top figures in banking, finance, technology and artificial intelligence view Europe as troubled but fixable. “The biggest players, the biggest names in banking and finance, in tech and AI across the board” believe that “Europe is a disaster,” but “the disaster that they feel also needs to be fixed,” he stated.

“The only way it gets fixed, though, in my opinion is if they (Europe) get out of of their own way,” Trump Jr. remarked during the business discussion in the northwestern Bosnian city, according to footage from state broadcaster RTRS.

The visit took place in Banja Luka, the primary city of Republika Srpska, the Serbian-controlled portion of Bosnia whose officials strongly support both President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

U.S. Embassy officials in Sarajevo, Bosnia’s capital city, confirmed to The Associated Press via email that Trump Jr. was visiting “in a private capacity.” However, local observers interpreted the trip as an endorsement of Serb separatist political figures.

The visit occurred simultaneously with Vice President JD Vance’s journey to Hungary, where he campaigned for nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of a closely-watched election this weekend.

Milorad Dodik, a Bosnian Serb leader and former Republika Srpska president who maintains ties with Orbán, wrote on X that both visits “signal an important shift of the U.S. administration under the leadership of President Trump and the care for this part of Europe regarding the position of Christians.”

Speaking in Banja Luka, Trump Jr. praised eastern European nations for maintaining “a work ethic that has (withstood) some of the ‘woke’ nonsense that has really been a parasitic thing in the mind in Western Europe.”

“I see that creating major fractures in the European Union between those few countries in eastern Europe that actually still believe in common sense, and Western Europe that’s clearly missing in the political discourse these days,” he added.

Dodik has consistently advocated for the Serbian half of Bosnia to separate from areas governed by Bosniaks, who are predominantly Muslim, and Croats. This Serbian push for independence and potential merger with Serbia was considered the primary trigger of the 1992-95 ethnic conflict that claimed over 100,000 lives before concluding with a U.S.-mediated peace deal.

The Biden administration sanctioned Dodik and related individuals and entities in 2022 due to separatist activities that raised concerns about renewed conflict. These sanctions were removed by the Trump administration last year.

The current administration has maintained longstanding criticism of the EU, particularly regarding trade disputes and EU oversight of technology companies. This criticism of traditional European partners has grown stronger during the Iran war.

Bosnia holds candidate status for EU membership, and the 27-member union describes itself as Bosnia’s largest trading partner, investor and source of financial assistance.

HAVANA — Hundreds of women took to the streets of Cuba’s capital Tuesday, staging a demonstration against U.S. energy restrictions and other sanctions implemented during Donald Trump’s presidency that they say are choking the island nation.

The Federation of Cuban Women, a large government-affiliated organization with strong Communist Party connections, coordinated the protest to pay tribute to Vilma Espín, who founded the group, fought as a guerrilla, and was married to Raúl Castro.

Demonstrators assembled at a park dedicated to a 19th-century independence hero, displaying Cuban flags, carrying banners reading “Down with the Blockade” and holding photographs of Fidel Castro and Espín.

Leading the protest were Deputy Prime Minister Inés María Chapman, Deputy Foreign Minister Josefina Vidal, and Mariela Castro, who is Espín’s daughter and former President Raúl Castro’s child.

“This policy of abuse has to stop,” Vidal told The Associated Press. “The Cuban people don’t deserve this. It’s the most comprehensive, all-encompassing, and longest-running system of coercive measures ever imposed against an entire country.”

Vidal, who played a crucial role in the historic Cuba-U.S. diplomatic warming in 2014 during Barack Obama’s presidency, continued: “It subjects us to collective punishment, recognized as such under international law, and we couldn’t fail to be here.”

Early this January, U.S. forces targeted Venezuela and detained its former leader, cutting off vital oil deliveries to Cuba. Trump later in the month warned of tariffs against any nation providing oil to the Caribbean island.

Nevertheless, Trump expressed no objection when a Russian vessel loaded with 730,000 barrels of crude reached Cuba recently, representing the island’s first oil delivery in three months. Russia has announced plans to dispatch another tanker.

The island generates just 40% of its required fuel, and this shortage has crippled the nation, impacting healthcare, mass transit, manufacturing, and worsening an economic downturn that has persisted for five years.

“I am here fighting for the people of Cuba,” said Leydys de la Cruz, a 57-year-old seamstress who joined Tuesday’s rally. “I would ask Trump to leave us in peace. The situation is very bad because of the blockade he’s imposed on us.”

Georgina Reyes, a 36-year-old IT technician, also pleaded with Trump: “I would tell him that we don’t hurt anyone. … Please don’t hurt us.”

Trump has pushed for government overthrow in Cuba and threatened military action while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio — whose parents emigrated from Cuba — has called for freeing political detainees and implementing free-market changes.

Both American and Cuban officials have acknowledged ongoing discussions, though details about their scope remain uncertain.

A humanitarian mission organized by Vatican officials was compelled to retreat Tuesday when artillery fire erupted near a Christian community in southern Lebanon that has been cut off from essential supplies.

The relief convoy, coordinated through the Vatican’s Lebanese embassy, was attempting to reach the town of Debel with desperately needed provisions when nearby combat forced the mission to abort, according to Father Fadi Falfil, a local priest.

Christian communities across southern Lebanon have remained in their homes throughout the intensifying conflict between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters, hoping their neutrality might protect them from the violence engulfing neighboring areas.

However, ongoing military operations and aerial bombardments in surrounding regions have made transportation extremely hazardous, creating severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies.

“We don’t have basic medication like insulin – we don’t even have drinking water,” Father Falfil stated in an interview.

The priest explained that the relief mission was initially scheduled for Easter Sunday but had to be postponed due to intense artillery activity in the region.

“We were waiting all day, and they were at pains all day to try to get this aid to us. It was five minutes away and it had to turn back,” Falfil described.

According to the priest’s briefing, Israeli military operations targeting Hezbollah fighters in the vicinity prevented the delivery from proceeding, with no alternative date currently established for another attempt.

Neither Israeli military officials, Hezbollah representatives, nor Vatican embassy personnel in Lebanon provided immediate responses to media inquiries.

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, designated as UNIFIL, was providing security escort for Tuesday’s humanitarian convoy.

“The mission had to be cut short due to shelling in the area. We did have some very minor injuries among peacekeepers due to the impacts nearby,” explained UNIFIL spokesperson Kandice Ardiel.

Lebanese television network MTV reported the aid shipment contained three trucks loaded with essential items including bread and fresh vegetables.

“No matter what happens, we’re going to stay. We stay because of our faith and our history here – it isn’t a choice, it’s a message,” Father Falfil declared.

BANJA LUKA, Bosnia and Herzegovina – The eldest son of President Donald Trump made a controversial visit to Bosnia’s Serb Republic on Tuesday, where he delivered sharp criticism of the European Union during a private gathering with regional leaders.

During his stop in Banja Luka, the de facto capital of the Serb Republic, Donald Trump Jr. described the European Union as “a little bit of a mess” while speaking to a closed panel of political figures and business leaders. He was invited by Igor Dodik, son of the region’s former separatist leader Milorad Dodik.

Trump Jr., who serves as executive vice president of the Trump Organization alongside his brother Eric, shared feedback he claimed to have received from international business contacts. “But it’s a disaster they feel also needs to be fixed because of the impact that it does have on the values and Western civilization,” he stated, referring to concerns about Europe’s current state.

The timing of the visit aligned with Vice President JD Vance’s appearance in Budapest, where he accused the EU of interfering in Hungarian electoral processes.

The Serb Republic represents one half of Bosnia’s dual autonomous structure, established through the U.S.-brokered Dayton peace agreement in 1995. This accord ended a devastating three-year conflict that claimed approximately 100,000 lives and forced around 2 million people from their homes.

Milorad Dodik, who previously led the region, lost his political position last August following a court ruling that prohibited him from holding office. He had faced U.S. sanctions for violations of the Dayton peace framework but has emerged as a vocal supporter of Trump administration policies.

“The arrival of Vance in Hungary and Donald Trump Jr. in Banja Luka is a signal of an important shift in the U.S. administration under President Trump, showing concern for this part of Europe,” Dodik wrote on social media platform X.

The Treasury Department removed sanctions against Dodik and his associates in October without providing public justification for the decision. Serbian officials indicate they have been working behind the scenes to strengthen ties with Washington while preserving their relationship with Russia.

The panel discussion was restricted to government-friendly media organizations, though footage was subsequently aired on regional television networks.

LISBON, April 7 – Portuguese officials have granted permission for 76 American military aircraft to land at the Lajes air facility in the Azores, along with 25 flights over Portuguese airspace during the current U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran, according to government statements made Monday.

The approvals come with strict stipulations that American forces avoid striking civilian targets, Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel disclosed during testimony before parliament. Rangel confirmed that Washington has honored these requirements as part of what he described as “loyal cooperation” between the NATO partners, though he noted that Portuguese authorities have denied some landing requests.

Multiple European nations including Spain, France, Italy, Austria and Switzerland have either limited or completely blocked American military aircraft from using their airspace and facilities during the Iranian conflict.

The restrictions come as President Donald Trump has set a Tuesday 8 p.m. Washington time deadline – which translates to 3:30 a.m. Wednesday in Tehran – for Iran to lift its Gulf oil blockade or face American strikes against Iranian bridges and power facilities.

“We are against any attack on civilian infrastructure, and we made that a condition for the use of the Lajes air base,” Rangel explained to lawmakers. He said Lisbon provides base access for military responses to attacks on America, but only when the retaliation is “necessary and proportional” and avoids civilian casualties.

“The Portuguese government has always made a point of handling this transparently. We say when we authorise it and when there are transits of U.S. aircraft, other (European) governments do as they see fit,” the Foreign Minister stated, emphasizing Portugal’s preference for diplomatic solutions to the Iranian crisis.

The Lajes facility serves as a crucial strategic location housing the U.S. Air Force’s 65th Air Base Wing, which supports American, NATO and allied military operations throughout the region.

Ukrainian military personnel have established operations in western Libya through a secret agreement backed by Western nations, and launched a drone strike against a Russian gas tanker from Libyan territory last month, two Libyan officials revealed Tuesday.

The Russian vessel Arctic Metagaz, loaded with 61,000 tons of liquefied natural gas, sustained severe damage from what authorities believe was a sea drone assault near Malta’s waters in early March. The ship has since been drifting off Libya’s coast. Rescue teams evacuated all 30 crew members to another ship bound for Benghazi, according to Libya’s Maritime Authority.

The targeted vessel belongs to Russia’s unofficial shadow fleet that transports oil despite international sanctions imposed over Moscow’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which began more than four years ago. Recent temporary U.S. sanctions relief aims to address supply shortages during the Iran conflict.

Moscow has attributed the assault to Ukrainian sea drones. Ukraine maintains that oil export profits are financing Russia’s military campaign.

The Ukrainian personnel, primarily drone specialists, are based mainly at a Misrata air facility along the coast, while also maintaining presence at military installations in Tripoli and the coastal community of Zawiya, the officials informed The Associated Press. Both requested anonymity when discussing sensitive information.

According to one official, Ukrainian operatives launched the March 3 drone assault from a Tripoli military installation.

Libya’s Maritime Authority reported at the time that the vessel suffered “sudden explosions, followed by a massive fire” approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) from Sirte. The maritime agency incorrectly initially announced the tanker had been destroyed.

Following the strike, the Arctic Metagaz stayed afloat and ocean currents pushed it toward Libya’s shoreline, the World Wide Fund for Nature reported. Recently, Libyan officials tried towing the vessel to safer waters off their western coastline. These attempts were unsuccessful due to severe weather and powerful winds that left the tanker drifting without control.

Russian and Ukrainian representatives have not immediately responded to these allegations. Tripoli’s government also did not provide immediate comment.

Ukraine has emerged as a center for rapid military technological advancement, particularly in unmanned aircraft systems, while defending against Russia’s larger military force.

Ukraine’s Sea Baby naval drones have successfully targeted Russian vessels throughout the Black Sea. These effective operations forced Russia to modify its tactics, reducing Black Sea attack opportunities and pushing Ukrainian specialists to plan more ambitious strikes.

The officials explained that Ukrainian forces were progressively positioned in western Libya over recent months through what one described as a “covert deal” between Kyiv and the struggling administration of Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah in Tripoli.

Western nations, including the United States, supported this arrangement. U.S. African affairs adviser Massad Boulos has created a proposal to resolve Libya’s prolonged conflict while maintaining Dbeibah as prime minister, the officials stated.

Boulos’ plan also involves naming Saddam Hifter, son of influential eastern military leader Khalifa Hifter, to lead the presidential council. Saddam Hifter serves as chief of staff for the self-proclaimed Libyan National Army controlling eastern and southern Libya, including significant oil reserves.

For over ten years, the nation has remained divided between a U.N.-recognized Tripoli government under Dbeibah and a competing eastern administration supporting Russia-aligned Hifter. Various armed factions and international governments have backed each side.

Dbeibah’s governmental authority ended when Libya couldn’t conduct its planned presidential election in December 2021. He has since resisted attempts to form a new government and guide the petroleum-rich country toward elections, cautioning that his removal could spark warfare.

Jalel Harchaoui, a Libya expert with the Royal United Services Institute, indicated that Ukrainian forces in western Libya represent NATO’s continuing efforts to prevent the region from falling under “Russia’s reach.”

“It is entirely plausible that, with the knowledge and blessing of NATO powers — chiefly the United States but also the United Kingdom and Turkey — several small groups of Ukrainian operatives now maintain a presence in the greater Tripoli area,” he stated.

Libya has experienced turmoil since a NATO-supported rebellion overthrew and killed longtime ruler Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. The oil-wealthy country has become a battleground for ongoing competition between Russia and Western powers. With borders touching six nations, Libya has created challenges for Europe by serving as a migration route for people attempting to reach European territories.

Two French citizens who spent more than three years imprisoned in Iran have been released and are traveling back to France, according to French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement Tuesday.

Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris were permitted to depart Iran after being confined to French diplomatic facilities since their prison release in November. “Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris are free and on route toward French territory, after three and a half years of detention in Iran,” Macron wrote on social media platform X.

The breakthrough came after extensive diplomatic efforts by France to secure their departure from Iranian territory. Macron acknowledged Oman’s assistance in mediating the release, stating “It’s a relief for us all and obviously for their families.”

According to Iran’s official news agency IRNA, Tehran agreed to release the French pair in exchange for Iranian citizen Mahdieh Esfandiari. Iranian officials had been demanding Esfandiari’s release since last year following her conviction in France for promoting terrorism through statements she made regarding the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks against Israel.

The prisoner exchange highlights Iran’s strategic approach to international relations during ongoing regional conflicts. Macron has maintained France’s distance from the broader Middle East tensions, stating his nation was not consulted about U.S.-Israeli military operations.

Iranian authorities had freed Kohler and Paris from prison in November but prevented their departure from the country. The two had been detained since May 2022 on espionage allegations that French officials consistently rejected as baseless.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed he spoke with both released citizens, who “expressed their emotion and their joy at soon being reunited with their country and their loved ones.” He praised France’s embassy staff in Tehran for keeping them secure “under very difficult conditions.”

France has long criticized Iran for what it calls a “hostage policy,” using foreign nationals as diplomatic leverage. Tehran denies these accusations from Western governments.

In September, Iranian officials indicated the two nations were close to finalizing a prisoner exchange involving Esfandiari. France subsequently withdrew its case against Iran at the International Court of Justice, where it had accused Tehran of violating consular protection rights.

A French court convicted Esfandiari in February on terrorism incitement charges, sentencing her to one year in prison plus a three-year suspended sentence and permanent ban from French territory.

O’SMACH, Cambodia (AP) — Thai military officials provided journalists with an unprecedented look inside what may be the largest online fraud operation ever discovered, a massive complex spanning 197 acres along the Thailand-Cambodia border.

The facility, known as the O’Smach Resort, covers an area equivalent to 150 football fields and housed an estimated 10,000 people engaged in elaborate online scamming operations targeting victims across the globe.

Thai forces seized control of the compound in December amid border tensions with Cambodia, with military officials stating they captured the area after Cambodian forces used it to launch cross-border attacks.

The sprawling operation represents the growing scale of online fraud networks that have expanded rapidly across Southeast Asia following the pandemic. United Nations human rights officials estimate approximately 300,000 workers are involved in similar scamming enterprises throughout the region.

The complex belonged to Cambodian politician Ly Yong Phat, who currently faces U.S. sanctions for human rights violations connected to this same facility. Construction materials and cranes scattered throughout the grounds suggest ongoing expansion plans.

Inside a four-story office building, evidence of the sophisticated American-targeted schemes remained scattered across desks. Investigators found detailed instruction manuals written in Chinese, along with American SIM cards and leftover snacks from the previous occupants.

Among the materials discovered was an elaborate 24-page character profile for a fictional woman named Mila, created to deceive targets interested in gold options trading. The fabricated backstory included tragic personal details about losing her husband to leukemia, childhood bullying experiences, and a manufactured history of living in South Africa with relatives.

The compound featured 157 buildings total, with 29 structures dedicated to housing the fraudulent operations and their administrative offices. The remaining buildings included large dormitory facilities and upscale living quarters featuring apartments and three-story residential villas.

To serve the predominantly Chinese workforce, the facility included multiple restaurants offering regional cuisines from Hunan, Shaxian, and Sichuan provinces, complete with traditional dishes like hot and sour rice noodles.

Recent FBI statistics reveal Americans suffered losses approaching $21 billion from various scam operations during 2025 alone, highlighting the financial impact of these international fraud networks.

Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sornchaidee, who guided the media tour, emphasized the global nature of the challenge facing law enforcement agencies.

“Every country of the world has to join together to solve this problem, (we) cannot do it alone with Cambodia and Thailand,” Sornchaidee stated.

Despite commitments from both Thailand and Cambodia to address these criminal enterprises, officials acknowledge the international scope of the problem requires coordinated global response efforts.

Residents living along Israel’s northern border are taking a stand, refusing to abandon their homes despite facing renewed rocket attacks from Hezbollah forces across the Lebanese frontier.

Fifty-nine-year-old Orna Weinberg was among those who evacuated from her home in Manara after a Hezbollah rocket damaged her property in October 2023. She spent two years away from her close-knit community, which sits mere meters from Lebanon’s border.

Weinberg characterized those years of displacement as “pretty tough,” marked by devastating personal losses. Several elderly community members, including her mother-in-law and uncle, passed away while living away from home.

“The day we had electricity, and we could put a mattress in, we got back, and we started fixing the house from inside out,” Weinberg explained about returning to her damaged home.

Despite current rocket fire targeting northern Israel as military forces engage Hezbollah in broader regional conflict, Weinberg and fellow residents of the small kibbutz are determined to remain, having only returned last October.

“We will never, ever leave this place again,” Weinberg declared.

The kibbutz of Manara was founded in 1943 by Jewish immigrants during the British Mandatory Palestine period, five years before Israel’s establishment as a state.

From Manara’s perimeter, Lebanese villages are easily visible, highlighting the community’s exposure to cross-border attacks. The sound of Israeli artillery responding into Lebanon regularly reverberates across the area.

People living in Manara and neighboring northern Israeli settlements, which house hundreds of thousands of residents, typically have mere seconds to reach protective shelters when rockets launch from Lebanon, unlike those in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem who have several minutes. Occasionally, alerts arrive only after projectiles have already hit their targets.

Construction work on Weinberg’s residence has stopped due to safety concerns. Other damaged homes in the kibbutz await demolition after sustaining damage from Hezbollah rockets during more than a year of combat that paralleled the Gaza conflict. The Israel-Hezbollah hostilities decreased following a ceasefire agreement in 2024.

At Hagoshrim, another kibbutz located approximately two kilometers from the Lebanese border, residents have similarly committed to staying despite deadly rocket threats. A community member was killed by Hezbollah fire in 2024.

Hagoshrim resident Dror Gavish acknowledges the terror posed by the Lebanese militant organization. Two Israelis have died in Hezbollah strikes since the group began launching rockets in support of Iran on March 2 this year.

Nevertheless, forty-two-year-old Gavish said he, his spouse, and their three children chose to remain rather than evacuate. “We are here and we’re not going to go anywhere.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration has maintained that no northern residents will face forced evacuation as combat continues.

This approach contrasts sharply with conditions across the border, where Israeli forces have commanded hundreds of thousands of Lebanese civilians to flee their communities as bombing campaigns destroy villages, with Israel claiming Hezbollah uses these areas for launching attacks. Israel’s renewed military campaign in Lebanon has displaced over 1.2 million people.

Following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 assault on southern Israel, Manara’s population evacuated, fearing Hezbollah might execute a similar attack. Tens of thousands of northern Israeli residents received government support to stay in temporary housing throughout the country, with many still not returned.

Currently, Netanyahu’s government has not provided funding for residents to stay in hotels elsewhere until hostilities end. Instead, officials have promised to capture Lebanese territory to prevent Hezbollah from threatening northern Israeli communities with short-range weapons.

Weinberg expresses criticism toward Netanyahu’s government. Like numerous Israelis, she believes an investigation must examine the failures leading to the October 7 attack, which resulted in nearly 1,200 deaths, including two of her family members. Another relative was kidnapped to Gaza and subsequently killed, she reported.

Netanyahu has denied personal accountability for the failures and has resisted an independent investigation, instead supporting an inquiry where the government would select half the panel members.

“I don’t think the government are our saviours, and I don’t expect them to be,” Weinberg stated. She believes Israel’s leadership should pursue peaceful relations with neighboring countries rather than engaging in warfare.

Gavish from Hagoshrim said that while he, like many Israelis, views Iran as a significant threat, he lacks confidence in Netanyahu’s government to act in the nation’s best interests.

He anticipates upcoming elections will produce new leadership focused on diplomatic solutions, including peace agreements with Lebanon.

“I really believe things here can be much better for us,” he said.