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Interior Secretary Doug Burgum conducted high-level meetings in Venezuela Wednesday, sitting down with the country’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez at the presidential palace in Caracas after his arrival earlier that day. Media captured brief footage of their encounter.

Rodriguez and Burgum were joined by Laura Dogu, the U.S. representative in Venezuela, at the Miraflores presidential complex. Earlier in the day, Burgum had separate discussions with executives from international mining firms, according to two sources, as Venezuela’s interim leadership considers updating its mineral extraction rules.

This diplomatic mission represents Washington’s broader strategy to expand American business opportunities in Venezuela, particularly targeting the energy and mining sectors, as the Trump administration seeks greater influence following January’s U.S. operation that resulted in Nicolas Maduro’s capture. This marks the second cabinet-level visit since Maduro’s removal, ending his partnerships with nations like China and Russia.

President Trump has publicly commended Rodriguez for her cooperation and described Venezuela as “our new friend and partner” during his State of the Union speech. However, Reuters reported Tuesday that the administration is simultaneously building a potential legal case against Rodriguez involving possible corruption and money laundering violations, according to four informed sources.

The Venezuela Affairs Unit, representing U.S. diplomatic interests in the country, announced on social media that Burgum’s mission centers on critical mineral supply chain discussions. Burgum also leads the U.S. Energy Dominance Council, which promotes domestic energy production.

Venezuela’s legislature is drafting revisions to the nation’s primary mining statute, including language that would permit international corporations to extract gold, diamonds and rare earth elements, according to Jorge Rodriguez, assembly president and brother of the acting president. The current mining framework dates back to 1999.

The South American nation carries substantial debt to industrial corporations and energy companies stemming from extensive government takeovers twenty years ago, with creditors including Crystallex, Gold Reserve and Rusoro Mining.

Sources confirmed that Burgum is monitoring the proposed mining legislation and conducted Wednesday morning sessions with multiple mining enterprises. Thursday’s agenda includes meetings with petroleum and natural gas companies regarding expansion and investment opportunities. Energy Secretary Chris Wright made a similar visit last month.

Venezuela has not conducted exploration work to verify its rare earth deposits, which consist of 17 specialized metals essential for manufacturing magnets that convert electrical power to mechanical motion. These rare earths fall under the critical minerals category, with China dominating global production.

A 2018 Venezuelan government assessment of mineral resources incorrectly used technical terms like “reserve” and “resource” as synonyms, creating confusion about actual quantities. A 2021 official mapping document identified deposits of antimony, copper, nickel, coltan, molybdenum, magnesium, silver, zinc, titanium, tungsten and uranium without specifying amounts.

Through bilateral agreements in recent years, Iranian firms have conducted mineral exploration within Venezuela, though these efforts did not result in actual investments.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum conducted diplomatic talks Wednesday afternoon with Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodriguez following his arrival in the South American nation earlier that day, according to brief media footage of the encounter.

The diplomatic session took place at Caracas’ Miraflores presidential palace, where both officials were joined by Laura Dogu, who serves as the U.S. representative to Venezuela.

Prior to his meeting with Rodriguez, Burgum held discussions with leadership from international mining corporations, according to two sources familiar with the matter. These conversations occur as Venezuela’s transitional administration considers potential modifications to its mining industry regulations.

A catastrophic landslide at a mining operation in the Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed the lives of more than 200 individuals, including approximately 70 children, according to officials from the country’s mines ministry.

The deadly incident occurred Tuesday at the Rubaya coltan mine located in the eastern region of the country, where torrential rainfall caused the ground to give way, the ministry announced Wednesday.

However, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the death toll. A high-ranking official with the M23 group provided Reuters with significantly different casualty figures, stating that only five or six people perished in the mining accident.

The tragedy highlights the dangerous working conditions at mining sites in the region, where coltan extraction is a major economic activity despite significant safety risks.

Nations worldwide worked frantically Wednesday to evacuate their citizens from Middle Eastern countries as expanding warfare continued to cause massive disruptions to international air travel.

France successfully landed its first evacuation aircraft in Paris early Wednesday morning, bringing home citizens who had been retrieved from Oman and Egypt. Italian authorities also completed the evacuation of students from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, marking early progress in international rescue efforts.

Despite these initial successes, aviation across the Middle East remained severely hampered. Closed airspace and flight restrictions throughout much of the Gulf region have left passengers stranded not only within the conflict zone but also in distant cities where connecting flights through major airline centers have been scrapped.

Aviation analytics company Cirium reports that over 20,000 flights out of more than 36,000 scheduled Middle East departures and arrivals have been scrapped since hostilities began through Wednesday. FlightAware data shows approximately 2,000 worldwide flight cancellations on Wednesday, an improvement from the roughly 3,150 cancellations recorded Monday.

Countries including Oman, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Jordan have become crucial staging areas for evacuation operations bringing foreign nationals to safety.

French President Emmanuel Macron estimates approximately 400,000 French citizens are currently in conflict-affected Middle Eastern regions, whether as permanent residents or temporary visitors.

French Minister for Citizens Abroad Eleonore Caroit explained that roughly 100 spots on their initial rescue flight were designated for at-risk travelers, particularly families with young children, elderly individuals and people requiring medical care.

France planned two additional Wednesday evacuations — a military transport bringing 180 citizens from Abu Dhabi and a chartered aircraft carrying 205 people from Israel.

“Our goal is to help repatriate as quickly as possible the French people who wish to return,” Caroit stated during an interview with French broadcaster TF1.

Multiple other nations launched similar rescue operations.

The U.S. State Department pledged Wednesday via social media to assist in evacuating American citizens. Earlier this week, officials advised U.S. nationals to depart more than a dozen countries using whatever commercial travel remained available.

“Any American in the Middle East who wishes to leave: call the State Department and we will get your home,” the department posted, noting that 18,000 Americans had successfully returned to the United States, with 8,500 arriving Tuesday alone.

British officials announced a charter aircraft would depart Oman late Wednesday to transport some of the thousands of U.K. citizens in Gulf nations.

The U.K. Foreign Office reported that over 130,000 British nationals in the Middle East had registered with government authorities since Saturday’s conflict outbreak, though officials noted not everyone seeks to leave. Many are located in the UAE, and the government has discouraged attempts to travel overland to Oman.

Ireland’s foreign minister confirmed Emirates airline would operate a Dubai to Dublin flight Wednesday. Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntee estimated 22,000 to 23,000 Irish citizens were in the Middle East. Irish authorities also planned to charter an aircraft for approximately 280 people from Oman in coming days.

Norway’s Foreign Ministry announced it was deploying an “emergency team” to Dubai to support Norwegian Embassy personnel assisting an estimated 1,500 registered Norwegians in the city.

Italian student Valerio Schiavoi, who was attending a United Nations diplomatic simulation in Dubai through the World Students Connection Program, described how the situation changed dramatically when news of U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iran emerged Saturday.

“As soon as we leave the room, we start to hear the sounds of military planes and so on. And the panic starts a bit,” Schiavoi told Italian news agency LaPresse. “Through the window we could see missiles passing by and alarms kept sounding, but we didn’t know what to do.”

Some commercial carriers have restored limited service, with Etihad, Emirates and Virgin Atlantic scheduled to operate UAE-to-London flights Wednesday. However, numerous travelers continued struggling to secure passage home.

British Airways announced Wednesday that flights departing Thursday through Saturday from Muscat were completely booked.

“We fully understand this is a very difficult time for our customers,” the airline stated, promising to add extra flights “if we are able to.”

Li Qian, a 44-year-old visitor from Hangzhou, China, has been trapped in Abu Dhabi with her family after airspace closures canceled their return flight. She described receiving continuous missile warnings on her phone and witnessing smoke rising from areas they had previously toured.

“It was frightening … We just want to get home as soon as possible,” she explained, expressing concern about her mother’s blood pressure medication and her child’s school attendance.

Thousands of miles away on Indonesia’s resort island of Bali, approximately 6,000 people remained stranded after flights to Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi were canceled, according to local officials. Many affected travelers were European or American tourists attempting long-distance flights via those Middle Eastern airports.

Indonesian immigration officials issued emergency residence permits and waived overstay penalties for stranded foreign visitors.

Agnes Chen Pun, a Hong Kong resident who relocated with her family to Dubai last year, described difficulties finding airline tickets to exit the region. She initially moved to a Fujairah resort, then to a desert resort near Sharjah due to concerns about potential attacks and local fires.

“We were so nervous, so anxious,” said Chen, a partner at Asia Bankers Club, a Hong Kong- and Dubai-based investment firm.

She considered booking a 13-passenger private aircraft costing $268,000 but eventually obtained commercial tickets to Singapore for approximately $2,200 per person. Despite the disruption, Chen indicated she planned to return to the UAE once conditions stabilize.

“I think the scare, the fears, will be short-term,” she said.

CARACAS, Venezuela — Interior Secretary Doug Burgum conducted meetings in Venezuela this week with the country’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez, marking another indication of the Trump administration’s strategy to gain influence over the South American nation’s abundant natural resources.

The secretary, who heads President Donald Trump’s National Energy Dominance Council, planned to engage with both American and Venezuelan business representatives during his visit to “work for a legitimate mining sector and safe critical mineral supply chains,” the U.S. diplomatic mission in Venezuela stated on X.

The diplomatic mission described Burgum’s two-day trip as “another vital and historic step” supporting the administration’s gradual approach to transforming Venezuela.

This marks the second high-level U.S. official visit to Caracas for meetings with Rodríguez, who assumed leadership after U.S. forces captured former President Nicolás Maduro two months prior. Energy Secretary Chris Wright previously traveled there in February, concentrating on the nation’s petroleum resources.

America’s chief diplomat in Venezuela, Laura Dogu, accompanied Burgum during his presidential palace meeting with Rodríguez.

Last month, the Trump administration revealed plans to establish a critical minerals trading partnership with allied nations, aimed at countering China’s dominance over essential materials used in products ranging from military aircraft to mobile devices.

Beyond its petroleum wealth, Venezuela possesses significant deposits of gold, copper, diamonds and additional valuable minerals, though the poorly supervised mining industry frequently operates under dangerous conditions.

Prior to his detention, Maduro and his supporters argued that American antagonism stemmed from desire to control Venezuela’s abundant oil and mineral wealth.

President Donald Trump dismissed any possibility of diplomatic talks with Iran during remarks to journalists on Air Force One Saturday, suggesting the ongoing military campaign might continue until Tehran’s government and armed forces are completely eliminated.

Trump indicated the air strikes could render negotiations unnecessary if Iran’s potential leaders are eliminated and its military capabilities destroyed.

“At some point, I don’t think there will be anybody left maybe to say ‘We surrender,’” Trump stated.

The president’s comments came as the U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran moved into its second week, with Israel and Iran exchanging multiple strikes on Saturday.

In an unusual move, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an apology to regional nations for Iran’s attacks on American facilities within their borders, attempting to reduce tensions throughout the Gulf region. However, his statement sparked backlash from hardline factions within Iran.

“I personally apologize to neighboring countries that were affected by Iran’s actions,” Pezeshkian declared, while asking these nations to avoid participating in U.S.-Israeli operations against Iran.

The Iranian leader called Trump’s demands for unconditional surrender from the Islamic Republic “a dream,” but announced that Iran’s interim leadership council had decided to halt strikes against neighboring countries unless attacks on Iran launched from their soil.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded during a broadcast address, promising safety for any Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members who surrender their weapons.

Ali Larijani, who serves as Iran’s secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, denied any internal disagreements among Iranian officials regarding war strategy during a state television appearance.

Early Sunday morning in Oslo, an explosion struck the U.S. embassy, resulting in minor property damage but no casualties, according to Norwegian authorities. Witnesses reported seeing smoke from the embassy area, though the cause and responsible parties remain unclear.

The State Department has not yet commented on the Oslo incident.

Saudi Arabia has warned Tehran that continued Iranian strikes against the kingdom and its energy infrastructure could prompt similar retaliation, sources familiar with the communications told Reuters.

Saudi defense officials announced they successfully intercepted a drone assault targeting Riyadh’s diplomatic district early Sunday, with no reported injuries.

Pezeshkian’s apologetic remarks created domestic political controversy, forcing his office to reaffirm Iran’s commitment to strong military responses against attacks from regional U.S. bases.

The president later repeated his statement on social media platforms but omitted the apology that had angered hardline elements, including the influential Revolutionary Guards.

Judiciary chief Mohseni-Ejei, a hardline member of the three-person council temporarily exercising supreme leader authority, stated that some regional countries’ territories were being used for attacks against Iran and retaliatory strikes would persist.

Following Pezeshkian’s announcement, Revolutionary Guards claimed their drones hit a U.S. air combat facility near Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, though Reuters could not confirm this report independently.

Kuwait’s military reported Saturday that drone attacks targeted fuel storage facilities at Kuwait International Airport.

Iranian news outlets, citing Oil Ministry sources, said fuel depots in three locations including Karaj, west of Tehran, were struck.

Iranian state media also reported Revolutionary Guards targeted U.S. forces at a Bahrain base, with explosions heard in Doha.

Iran has responded to the U.S.-Israeli campaign by striking both Israel and Gulf Arab nations hosting American military installations. Israel has launched additional attacks in Lebanon following border fire from the Iran-allied Hezbollah militia.

As the conflict expands, Israel warned Lebanon it would pay “a very heavy price” unless it controls Iran-allied Hezbollah fighters, while conducting airstrikes against the group’s strongholds and executing a deadly airborne operation in eastern Lebanon.

Saturday morning revealed additional buildings in Hezbollah-controlled southern Beirut suburbs reduced to smoking debris piles, dust, and twisted metal, Reuters footage showed.

Lebanon’s health ministry reported the death toll from Israeli attacks since Monday reached approximately 300, after at least four people died when an Israeli strike hit an apartment in the Ramada hotel building in central Beirut. This marked the first strike in the capital’s center since Israel-Hezbollah fighting resumed last week.

Iran’s U.N. ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani stated that U.S.-Israeli attacks have killed at least 1,332 Iranian civilians and injured thousands more. State media reported massive explosions in Tehran areas, while Israel confirmed strikes on Iranian missile facilities and command centers.

Iranian attacks have resulted in 10 Israeli deaths and at least six U.S. service member fatalities. The remains of the American service members arrived Saturday at a Delaware Air Force base.

Iran’s strategy of widespread disruption has increased conflict costs by driving up energy prices and damaging global business and supply chains.

Kuwait’s national oil company began reducing production Saturday, joining earlier output cuts from Iraq and Qatar.

The conflict has disrupted global markets, pushing oil prices to multi-year peaks with the Strait of Hormuz essentially closed.

Iranian media reported Saturday that hardline religious leaders are calling for quick selection of a new supreme leader, with meetings potentially beginning Sunday.

SYDNEY, March 8 – The Australian government announced Sunday it is evaluating appeals for assistance from nations targeted by Iranian forces as the Middle East crisis continues to expand, while emphasizing it will not engage in any military actions within Iran.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong explained in broadcast comments that multiple non-participating countries have faced Iranian attacks. “You would anticipate as a consequence that we have been asked for assistance, and we will work through that carefully,” Wong stated.

The nation, which maintains strong ties with the United States, has previously declared it will not send military personnel to the Middle East should the situation escalate further.

When questioned about Australia’s potential role in defending nations against Iranian drone and missile strikes, Wong confirmed this was “correct.”

“We will work through that in accordance with the position that I have outlined, which is we are not participating in offensive action against Iran and we have made clear we will not participate in any ground troop deployment,” Wong explained.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed Friday that three Australian military personnel were aboard a U.S. submarine when it destroyed an Iranian vessel using a torpedo in the Indian Ocean, though he emphasized they played no role in the assault.

The Middle East situation has intensified recently, with American and Israeli aircraft conducting strikes throughout Iran, while Iranian forces have bombarded numerous Gulf region cities, including locations in the UAE and Qatar.

Australia is currently coordinating with aviation companies to assist thousands of Australian citizens trapped in the Middle East region.

PARIS (AP) — A unique fashion presentation unfolded Wednesday at Paris Fashion Week when ten horses — half black, half white — took center stage before any models appeared on the runway.

This dramatic opening revealed everything about British-American designer Stella McCartney’s values and vision for her Winter 2026 collection.

McCartney transformed a riding facility in the Bois de Boulogne into her runway, timing the event with the Lunar New Year of the Horse to deliver a powerful but unspoken message: the fashion industry can honor animals instead of exploiting them.

Her commitment remained absolute — zero leather, zero fur, zero feathers, zero exceptions.

Equestrian performer Jean-François Pignon directed the horses through carefully planned movements around the oval space while fashion models circulated along the edges.

McCartney noted that some attendees became emotional during practice sessions.

The atmosphere carried that special intensity that only occurs when live animals share space with people.

Her clothing lineup told the story of her personal journey through fashion.

Opening pieces included full-length artificial fur coats so realistic they required a second look — representing the type of material breakthroughs McCartney has pursued for more than twenty years, utilizing everything from laboratory-cultivated yeast to repurposed denim.

According to the fashion house, sustainable materials comprised 93% of the entire collection.

The personal narrative continued from there.

Thick fisherman-style ribbed sweaters and handmade crocheted accessories paid tribute to her youth spent on Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre with her parents, Paul and Linda McCartney.

Brightly colored stirrup pants and silky dresses with bow details brought back memories of her teenage apprenticeships at fashion houses Lacroix and Yves Saint Laurent — influential Paris experiences that she credits with determining her career path as a designer.

The collection’s centerpiece showcased McCartney’s signature strengths: gentle tailoring with structured shoulders, business wear that allows movement, and lustrous evening wear that catches light without being flashy.

Sequined gowns made without plastic featured bustle details and pleated accents.

Every design demonstrated her consistent blend of masculine and feminine elements, combining precision with playfulness.

The show concluded with a model wearing a tank top that read “My Dad Is A Rockstar.” Seated in the front row, Paul McCartney — Beatles legend, enduring rock icon, and devoted father — showed his appreciation with applause.

“It was beautiful,” he commented following the presentation.

“He’s my dad, he would say that,” Stella responded with humor.

Celebrity guests crowding around to offer congratulations included Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King, and Hannah Waddingham.

LVMH executive Antoine Arnault brought his spouse, Natalia Vodianova — their attendance was particularly significant since McCartney recently repurchased the luxury conglomerate’s minority ownership in her company this past January.

Despite the brand’s 25-year history, it hasn’t generated profits since 2017, yet McCartney opted for complete control over outside investment.

“I forget that I’m one of the few women designing for women,” McCartney observed casually, also mentioning she’ll receive France’s highest civilian recognition, the Légion d’honneur, on Thursday.

“I want to feel like I’m actually really embracing women through these collections, and I don’t want the planet to suffer because of it.”

China’s yearly parliamentary session kicks off Thursday in Beijing, where government officials are set to reveal plans for industrial modernization, reducing the technology divide with America, and reinforcing commitments to boost domestic consumer spending.

Premier Li Qiang’s upcoming report is anticipated to set an economic growth objective for 2026 ranging from 4.5% to 5%, representing a modest reduction from last year’s 5% achievement. This adjustment provides additional space for more substantial efforts to address industrial overproduction issues.

While any production limitations would be crucial for reducing deflationary pricing conflicts across numerous industrial areas, Beijing is not anticipated to abandon its dedication to advanced manufacturing investments as competition with Washington grows more intense.

The nation’s 15th five-year strategic plan, covering 2026-2030 and being released simultaneously, is projected to prioritize advancing high-technology sectors. Boosting domestic consumer demand is also expected to receive elevated importance, though potentially more in rhetoric than reality.

Economic experts point out that pursuing this double objective creates policy contradictions.

Should Beijing allocate additional resources toward manufacturers, fewer funds would remain available for consumers, unless the country increases borrowing when total debt already equals three times the nation’s yearly economic production.

Researchers from the Mercator Institute for China Studies characterize consumer promises as “hollow,” noting that leadership views extensive industry support as best serving national priorities during this period of major power rivalry.

“Precariously balanced as it is, China’s economic policy will continue to systematically favour companies over households,” MERICS analysts wrote in a note.

“Beijing will persist in slow-rolling measures to expand social welfare, while using generous subsidies and tax incentives to drive industrial growth and upgrading.”

Regarding economic stimulus measures, most experts predict the budget shortfall will remain steady at 4.0% of total economic output, while allowances for additional special debt issuance will likely increase moderately.

Citi projects a 1.6 trillion yuan allocation in special treasury bonds for the central government in 2026, rising from 1.3 trillion yuan last year, and 4.9 trillion yuan for regional governments compared to 4.4 trillion yuan in 2025.

Larry Hu, Macquarie’s chief China economist, anticipates fiscal tools will be modified adaptively based on economic performance in upcoming months.

“If exports remain strong, they may tolerate weak domestic consumption. Conversely, if exports falter, they will step up domestic stimulus to defend the GDP target,” said Hu.

Former central bank advisor Liu Shinjin cautioned at a January financial conference that China’s unprecedented $1.2 trillion trade surplus last year – a crucial element in achieving the 2025 economic growth goal – demonstrates both increasing manufacturing competitiveness and insufficient domestic consumption.

He emphasized China must transition from its traditional dependence on investment and exports toward a framework primarily powered by innovation and consumption, noting that while manufacturing capabilities could be enhanced further, this doesn’t mean its economic share shouldn’t decline.

“China’s current insufficient consumption is deeply tied to a series of institutional and structural factors, making it unrealistic to fully resolve these issues in the short term,” Liu said.

“However, leaving them unaddressed is not an option either.”

Numerous economists have long advocated for tax system modifications that benefit households over businesses and capital, or reducing state-owned enterprise influence to free resources for private sector investment in services, where local demand exceeds that of consumer goods manufacturing.

However, such reforms would also weaken the fundamental structures that have enabled China to become an export leader and achieve supply chain advantages over competitors.

The response to a significant ruling by China’s highest court last year that prohibited avoiding social insurance payments – theoretically promoting long-term fund transfers from companies to workers through the welfare system – demonstrates the challenges of implementing reforms.

Many companies, facing pressure from weak domestic demand, tariffs, substantial debts, and pricing conflicts caused by industrial overproduction, have responded to the decision primarily by minimizing their own payments, sometimes even reducing employee wages.

The inconsistent enforcement of this ruling has left many economists doubtful about China’s commitment to economic rebalancing.

“This highlights a core tension in Beijing’s structural reforms,” said Alicia Garcia-Herrero, chief Asia-Pacific economist at Natixis.

As parliament begins its session, “expect rhetoric on social security improvements and consumption support, but don’t anticipate radical new enforcement mechanisms” that could burden businesses and risk destabilizing employment, she said.

OSLO, Norway – Norwegian authorities are investigating a powerful explosion that occurred in the vicinity of the United States embassy in the country’s capital during the early morning hours of Sunday, March 8th.

Officials with the Oslo police department confirmed the incident but stated that the source of the explosion and any potential perpetrators remain unknown at this time.

“The police are in a dialogue with the embassy and there are no reports of any injured persons,” authorities said in an official statement.

Law enforcement officials indicated they are working closely with embassy personnel as the investigation continues.

BEIRUT, March 8 – Lebanese health officials report that an Israeli airstrike on an apartment within a Ramada hotel building in downtown Beirut resulted in four fatalities and ten injuries, marking the initial attack on the capital’s center since Israel-Hezbollah fighting escalated again last week.

The Ministry of Health confirmed the casualties from the bombing in Beirut’s Raouche neighborhood through an official statement.

The targeted hotel had been providing shelter to Lebanese families who fled their homes due to ongoing conflict in southern Lebanon and the capital’s southern districts. Witnesses observed residents evacuating the building afterward, concerned about potential additional airstrikes.

Additional information about the incident remained limited, and Israeli officials had not issued any public response at the time.

Lebanon became involved in the expanding conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran this past Monday when Hezbollah, the Iranian-supported militant organization, launched rocket and drone attacks against Israeli territory. Israel retaliated with extensive bombing campaigns targeting locations throughout southern and eastern Lebanon, as well as areas surrounding Beirut.

On Wednesday, America’s top diplomat Marco Rubio held discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, focusing on Middle Eastern security concerns and Iran’s role in regional instability, according to the State Department.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott released a statement detailing the diplomatic exchange. “The Secretary expressed gratitude to the Foreign Minister for Saudi Arabia’s response to the attack on U.S. Embassy Riyadh,” Pigott stated.

The conversation also covered broader regional security issues. “They also discussed the continued threats the Iranian regime poses to regional stability, as well as other developments in the region,” Pigott added in his statement.

QUITO – Ecuador’s foreign ministry announced Wednesday that it has ordered Cuban Ambassador Basilio Gutierrez and his entire diplomatic team to leave the country, designating them as unwelcome persons under international law.

The ministry gave the Cuban officials 48 hours to depart Ecuador, though government officials have not revealed the reasons behind President Daniel Noboa’s administration making this diplomatic move. The decision was made under Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, according to the announcement.

Officials have not clarified whether this action represents a complete severing of diplomatic ties between Ecuador and Cuba’s government in Havana.

Security forces from Ecuador’s police and military were observed maintaining a presence around the Cuban embassy building in Quito following the announcement, witnesses reported.

When contacted for a response, a spokesperson at the Cuban embassy declined to provide any statement regarding the expulsion order.

A military officer within Iran’s security apparatus has declared that the current government’s downfall is unavoidable, according to a new report from The Media Line.

The officer stated that personnel from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the Basij militia, and other security units currently patrolling the streets have grown weary and are losing hope.

This assessment comes after a series of American and Israeli attacks targeted IRGC command facilities over the past week, along with the death of a key Islamic Republic leader who had served as a crucial connection between the IRGC and Iran’s political and financial networks.

These developments suggest that the IRGC, which wields significant influence over Iran’s economy in addition to its military role, could be nearing a breaking point.

A Tehran-based expert with knowledge of IRGC operations explained to The Media Line that the organization’s ability to retaliate has weakened significantly in recent days. Despite making repeated threats about deploying sophisticated missile systems and taking other indirect actions, the IRGC has failed to deliver substantial damage to American and Israeli military installations.

More critically, according to the expert, the IRGC seems to be gradually losing control over domestic affairs and struggling to handle wartime circumstances effectively.

JERUSALEM — A Palestinian man was fatally shot by an Israeli reservist in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, marking the third Palestinian death in the region within a week as tensions continue to escalate throughout the territory.

The victim, identified as 28-year-old Amir Muhammad Shanaran, was killed while his brother Khaled sustained critical injuries when the reservist opened fire in the southern Hebron Hills area, Israeli human rights organization Btselem reported.

This latest fatality follows Monday’s deadly incident in the northern West Bank village of Qaryout, where Israeli settlers fatally shot two Palestinian brothers. That attack also left three additional people wounded by gunfire.

Israeli military officials confirmed they responded to reports of a violent confrontation between settlers and Palestinians on Saturday. Following a preliminary investigation, military sources stated that a reservist discharged his weapon, wounding two Palestinians, with one succumbing to his injuries. The incident remains under military investigation.

Critics, including Palestinian officials and human rights organizations, maintain that Israeli authorities consistently fail to pursue legal action against settlers or ensure accountability for acts of violence.

Saturday’s shooting occurred in Masafer Yatta, an area consisting of multiple Bedouin communities that gained international attention through the Academy Award-winning documentary “No Other Land.” The film documents residents’ efforts to prevent Israeli military demolition of their villages while highlighting settler violence against Palestinian communities.

The Palestinian Authority’s foreign ministry issued a statement Saturday condemning Israel for “exploiting the atmosphere of war” and taking advantage of reduced international focus on West Bank issues to escalate intimidation tactics, violence, and forced displacement of residents.

President Donald Trump declared Saturday that the United States doesn’t require British military assistance to prevail in its conflict with Iran, despite Britain’s consideration of deploying aircraft carriers to the Middle East region.

The president’s remarks on Truth Social represent the most recent friction between the traditional allies, as Trump has consistently criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for what he views as damaging their nations’ long-standing partnership.

Trump’s frustration stems from Britain’s initial refusal to allow American forces to utilize British military installations for strikes against Iran.

“The United Kingdom, our once Great Ally, maybe the Greatest of them all, is finally giving serious thought to sending two aircraft carriers to the Middle East,” Trump wrote on his social media platform.

“That’s OK, Prime Minister Starmer, we don’t need them any longer — But we will remember. We don’t need people that join Wars after we’ve already won!” the president added.

Trump’s statement followed Saturday’s announcement from Britain’s Ministry of Defence regarding preparations for potentially deploying the Prince of Wales aircraft carrier, though British officials emphasized that no final deployment decision has been made.

Prime Minister Starmer has stood by his initial decision to deny American access to British bases, explaining that he required assurance that any military operations would be both legally justified and properly planned.

Starmer subsequently authorized U.S. forces to use British facilities for what he characterized as defensive operations targeting Iranian missile storage facilities and launch sites.

The diplomatic rift has deepened this year, with Starmer condemning Trump’s interest in purchasing Greenland and calling the president’s assertions about European forces avoiding combat roles in Afghanistan “frankly appalling.”

In his Truth Social message, Trump indicated he would not forget Britain’s hesitation to provide immediate support during the Iran crisis.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Saturday that he conducted a conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, focusing on Middle Eastern developments and the Iranian situation, while renewing his nation’s proposal to assist with Iranian drone threats.

During the discussion, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s unique expertise, stating on Telegram: “Ukraine has been fighting against (Iranian-designed) ‘Shaheds’ for years, and everyone acknowledges that no other country in the world has such experience.”

The Ukrainian leader added: “We are ready to help and expect that our people will also receive the necessary support.”

This latest diplomatic outreach follows Zelensky’s earlier conversations this week with government officials from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Ukraine has endured consistent strikes from Shahed drones throughout its ongoing four-year conflict with Russia, giving the country extensive knowledge of these weapons systems. Zelensky has previously indicated that Ukraine would assist the United States by supplying technical experts to help combat these drone attacks.

Several Gulf nations experienced explosions and property damage Saturday evening when Iran launched a barrage of missiles and drones across the region, intensifying conflicts connected to the wider war involving Israel and the United States.

Residents in Bahrain heard multiple powerful explosions throughout the capital city of Manama and surrounding areas. Officials confirmed the Iranian assault ignited a blaze and damaged residential structures and neighboring buildings. Bahrain’s Interior Ministry released a statement saying, “Civil defense is taking steps to control the fire.”

News crews across the Gulf region documented blasts in various locations. CNN personnel stationed in Qatar reported hearing multiple loud explosions, while correspondents in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, witnessed no fewer than three separate detonations.

According to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense, an Iranian ballistic missile targeted Prince Sultan Air Base but landed in an unpopulated zone.

The UAE’s National Security Council announced that protective systems had been deployed against approaching dangers. Through a post on X, the council stated, “Air defense systems are currently responding to a missile threat,” while advising citizens to “remain in a safe location.”

UAE defense officials confirmed their nation faced assault from Iranian-launched drones and missiles.

For the first time since hostilities began, United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed spoke publicly about the crisis, declaring that “the United Arab Emirates is in good condition, the military has performed a praiseworthy role.” He continued: “We are in a time of war and I pledge to fulfill our duty to defend our country and our people. I promise everyone that the United Arab Emirates will emerge stronger.”

A high-ranking UAE official stated Iran’s assault on nearby Gulf nations “create a huge trust gap that will persist for decades ahead.” The official noted that “any new arrangement reached in negotiations with Iran will no longer be limited to the nuclear issue — missiles are now at the center stage.”

These declarations from the UAE and fellow Gulf nations followed Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, releasing an earlier statement expressing remorse for the Gulf State attacks and vowing to end them.

“I should apologize to the neighboring countries that were attacked by Iran, on my own behalf,” Pezeshkian stated, attributing the attacks to insufficient oversight of military operations.

“From now on, they should not attack neighboring countries or fire missiles at them unless we are attacked by those countries. I think we should solve this through diplomacy.”

Iranian officials have maintained their Gulf state operations targeted American military installations and US-connected infrastructure as payback for last week’s US-Israeli military campaign against Iran.

Despite strong verbal backing from Beijing and Moscow, Middle East experts believe Iran should not expect military assistance from China or Russia in its ongoing conflict with Israel and the United States.

Both nations have expressed solidarity with Tehran since hostilities began Saturday, with China condemning the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and issuing multiple statements of friendship. Russia’s Foreign Ministry has declared that halting American and Israeli aggression represents the only path to regional stability.

However, academic specialists suggest this support remains purely rhetorical.

Hebrew University’s Dr. Simon Wolfgang Fuchs characterized the response by saying, “I think we could describe what Russia and China offered as sort of their ‘thoughts and prayers.’ Russia offered its condolences. China was maybe a bit more forceful in condemning the killing of Khamenei.”

Bar-Ilan University’s Prof. Yoram Evron from the Department of Asian Studies believes China is evaluating battlefield conditions and refuses to “tying itself to a sinking ship” or a “collapsing regime.” He noted that “This is not part of China’s DNA.”

Evron emphasized that while China and Iran maintain a longstanding partnership, they lack true alliance bonds. Consequently, China appears unwilling to sacrifice its interests supporting a government acting “illogically” and “engaged in self-destruction.”

Historical precedent supports this assessment. During the summer’s 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel-US forces, Beijing maintained distance, offering general opposition to military action against Iran but little else. Even potential UN Security Council resolutions would face American vetoes, Evron observed.

“In principle, China has not gotten involved in military conflicts in the Middle East,” Evron stated. “It hasn’t done so so far, and it is probably not going to start doing it right now. Also, China, despite its support of the Iranian regime, has so far avoided any direct conflict with the US over Iran. Any time that the US was determined to block Iran, China didn’t put its interests in danger to help Iran.”

Beijing is also monitoring the conflict for intelligence purposes, studying military technologies and considering developments for its own forces while avoiding exposure of its capabilities through direct involvement.

Diplomatic factors further complicate matters. President Donald Trump’s scheduled March 31 visit to China, announced by the White House, makes Beijing reluctant to jeopardize the trip as both nations work to extend their fragile trade agreement.

China also stayed quiet during earlier Iranian protests this year, likely downplaying domestic coverage to prevent encouraging similar unrest at home, Fuchs noted.

Evron predicted Beijing would likely establish diplomatic ties with whatever government eventually replaces Iran’s current leadership.

“No regime can live without China as an oil customer,” Evron stated.

While China imports approximately 12% of its oil from Iran, according to Fuchs, this represents roughly 87% of Iran’s crude exports, creating an asymmetric dependency favoring China.

Despite international sanctions, China has continued Iranian oil purchases, providing crucial regime support. Beijing may have also offered diplomatic backing and possibly supplied dual-use technologies, materials, and potentially military products smuggled into Iran, Evron noted.

However, he cautioned against accepting all reports at face value.

“I assume that many of the news reports about Chinese assistance were largely Iranian leakage, which I’m not sure were very accurate,” he explained. “Iran might have used China to give the impression that it is not totally isolated, but I don’t know to what extent China actually provided it with any military-related materials.”

Energy markets also influence the Russia-Iran relationship. Moscow could potentially benefit from current hostilities if Iranian export disruptions drive buyers toward Russian oil.

The US Treasury issued a 30-day waiver Thursday permitting India to purchase Russian oil currently stranded at sea “to enable oil to keep flowing into the global market,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced via social media.

Russia has gained from Iranian military technology, particularly drones extensively used in the Ukraine war, explained Bar-Ilan University political science lecturer Dr. Ze’ev Khanin. He told The Media Line that this relationship lacks complete reciprocity, as Iran has not received promised advanced fighter aircraft or air defense systems from Russia.

“Russia and Iran officially declared themselves as strategic partners about a year ago and signed an accord around diplomatic, economic, humanitarian, and security affairs,” Khanin said.

Under this cooperation framework, Russia has provided Iran with some air defense systems, military aircraft, and tanks, while receiving unmanned vehicles and drones for Ukraine operations. Nevertheless, Khanin emphasized partnership limitations.

“This doesn’t mean either country will fight for the other,” he stated.

Recent events validate this assessment. When Israel-US-Iran tensions escalated earlier this year, Russia avoided military intervention and likely will continue this approach, Khanin said.

“They might exchange some sort of intelligence information, but not more than that,” Khanin explained.

The conflict extends beyond the three primary actors, involving multiple regional players, particularly Gulf states where Russia maintains significant strategic and economic interests. Moscow has worked to preserve relationships across the region, including with Gulf nations and Israel.

These interests mandate Russian caution. If Gulf states increase cooperation with Western powers during the conflict, Russia risks losing regional influence.

Russia also depends on Iran for sanctions circumvention. According to Khanin, Iran has developed extensive networks of companies and intermediaries in Dubai, Turkey, and Southeast Asia over decades. These networks help Iran bypass international sanctions while enabling Russia to acquire goods unavailable through official channels.

“If Iran at the moment loses this network, that will be a very bad piece of news also for Russia,” Khanin said.

While China and Russia may maintain political solidarity with Iran, experts conclude they are unlikely to provide battlefield support.

President Donald Trump declared through a Truth Social message that Iranian leadership faces additional targeting, stating “Today Iran will be hit very hard!” This announcement came despite Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s earlier apology to regional neighbors regarding Tehran’s military strikes. Gulf nations continue reporting successful interceptions of ballistic missiles and unmanned aircraft originating from Iranian territory.

Trump Rules Out Kurdish Military Involvement

During discussions with journalists on Air Force One, the President confirmed his decision to exclude Kurdish forces from military operations against Iran.

According to Trump, Kurdish fighters in the area have expressed willingness to help overthrow Iran’s government, but their participation would add unnecessary complexity to the situation.

“The war is complicated enough without having– getting the Kurds involved,” Trump stated.

Saudi Forces Down Drone Near Capital

Saudi Arabia’s Defense Ministry announced late Saturday that military forces successfully intercepted and eliminated an unmanned aircraft east of Riyadh, the kingdom’s capital city.

Iranian Official Denies Leadership Split

Senior Iranian security figure Ali Larijani addressed the nation through state-controlled media, declaring unity among the country’s leaders. “Our leaders are united on this issue and have no disagreements with one another. We have no divisions among ourselves in fighting Israel and the United States,” Larijani proclaimed.

His statement followed President Pezeshkian’s public apology for strikes against “neighboring countries,” though other Iranian authorities indicated no changes to military strategy would occur.

The Islamic Republic continues operating without a supreme leader in place.

Progress Reported on Supreme Leader Selection

Larijani revealed that Iran’s three-person interim leadership council has asked for “arrangements be made to convene the Assembly of Experts to choose the next supreme leader of the country.” No timeline was provided for this process.

Iranian Personnel Evacuated from Lebanon

Family members of Iranian diplomatic staff departed Saturday alongside educators and students from an Iranian educational institution, plus additional Iranian residents of Lebanon, according to Iran’s foreign ministry statement.

The ministry explained the evacuation occurred “due to the current security situation in Lebanon as a result of the brutal attacks launched by the Zionist entity against the country, and out of concern for the safety and security of our citizens residing in Lebanon.”

Consular assistance will continue for Iranians who remain in the country.

Earlier this week, Israeli military forces warned “representatives of the Iranian terrorist regime still in Lebanon to leave immediately before they are targeted.” On Friday, an Israeli military strike occurred close to Iran’s embassy in Beirut.

Iraq’s Leader Condemns Embassy Attack

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani characterized Saturday’s assault on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad as a “terrorist act” executed by “rogue groups” and ordered military and security forces to track down those responsible.

Iraqi security sources reported earlier that a projectile struck the helicopter landing area within the U.S. Embassy compound in Baghdad. No injuries were documented. Embassy representatives declined comment, and the U.S. State Department has not responded to media inquiries.

Baghdad’s heavily secured Green Zone, home to government facilities and foreign missions, has experienced previous attacks, but this marked the first reported direct hit since Israel and the U.S. began striking Tehran one week ago, sparking broader Middle Eastern warfare.

Iranian forces and affiliated Iraqi militia groups have conducted numerous strikes against U.S. military installations and other American facilities in Iraq since hostilities began. They have also targeted bases belonging to Iranian Kurdish opposition organizations operating in northern Iraq.

Turkish Foreign Minister Reports U.S. Denial of Kurdish Plan

Hakan Fidan revealed his conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who dismissed reports of plans for Iranian Kurdish forces stationed in northern Iraq to launch attacks against Iran as “not their intention.”

During an Istanbul press conference, Fidan said Rubio made these remarks during a recent telephone discussion. The Turkish minister instead accused Israel of employing Kurdish organizations as “a proxy” throughout the region.

Fidan warned that approaches “aim to create ethnic rivalry or an ethnic conflict in Iran would be something we oppose because it would be the most dangerous scenario,” noting Turkey has engaged Kurdish leadership to prevent such a “historic mistake.”

He declined to discuss Turkey’s mediation efforts between Iran and the U.S., saying only that Turkey has participated in “intense diplomatic traffic” to develop a “formula to end this war.”

Tehran Oil Facility Ablaze After Strike

Enormous flames illuminated Tehran’s skyline Saturday evening following Iranian state media reports that an oil storage complex was hit in the most recent wave of attacks. Associated Press footage captured the glowing horizon, then towering flames and thick smoke clouds.

This represents one of the first instances where a civilian industrial site has been targeted during the conflict. Israel’s military has not immediately identified specific targets from the latest strike, though they confirmed Israel conducted another round of attacks in Tehran. Iranian state media responded by threatening to strike oil refineries in Haifa, northern Israel.