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Spanish leadership delivered sharp condemnation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and wider Middle East hostilities on Thursday, solidifying Madrid’s position as a vocal opponent of U.S. and Israeli military actions even as Washington threatens retaliation against uncooperative NATO partners.

The Spanish government’s resistance to the Iranian conflict has deepened tensions with Washington, with members of President Donald Trump’s MAGA coalition increasingly calling for punishment against Madrid.

Speaking before parliament, Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares characterized the conflict as an assault on civilization itself, mirroring harsh words from Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez regarding Trump’s decision to target the Islamic Republic.

“We’re facing the greatest assault on the civilisation built upon the humanist ideals of reason, peace, understanding and universal law over the abuse of power, brute force and arbitrariness,” Albares stated.

“The prophets of war and violence seek to return to the values and practices of history’s darkest moments,” he continued, claiming Israel had broken international law and violated a newly negotiated two-week ceasefire following extensive airstrikes throughout Lebanon that resulted in over 250 deaths on Wednesday.

Sanchez, who has positioned himself as a prominent war opponent, has prohibited Spanish airspace access to any aircraft participating in what he calls a dangerous and unlawful confrontation.

Wednesday evening saw Sanchez renew his appeal for the European Union to abandon its association agreement with Israel, demanding an end to “impunity for (Israel’s) criminal actions”.

Through a social media post on X, Sanchez declared Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s “contempt for life and international law is intolerable”.

Wednesday also witnessed Spain and Italy both calling in Israeli diplomatic representatives to object to separate incidents involving UN peacekeepers in Lebanon. Madrid reported that Israeli forces had wrongfully detained a Spanish UNIFIL participant.

Spanish-American relations suffered damage last year when Madrid refused Trump’s requirement that NATO members increase defense expenditures to 5% of gross domestic product. This position prompted Trump to threaten complete trade cessation.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham stated in March that America should withdraw from two jointly managed air bases in southern Spain and relocate “to a country that will allow us to use them”.

Earlier this week, Albares noted that Trump’s public consideration of alliance withdrawal was encouraging European nations to explore alternative security frameworks.

Within Spain, the government’s stance enjoys broad popularity, with polling data showing overwhelming public rejection of the war. Recent surveys indicate Sanchez’s Socialist Party has increased voter backing while far-right Vox, which supported the U.S. and Israel, has experienced declining support.

Though Sanchez has praised the Pakistani-mediated ceasefire, he also stated Spain would “not applaud those who set the world on fire just because they turn up with a bucket,” referencing the U.S. administration.

Albares announced Thursday morning that Spain would reopen its Tehran embassy in pursuit of regional peace.

However, his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar, denounced the decision as “an eternal disgrace,” claiming Spain was collaborating with what he described as Iran’s terror regime.

MOSCOW – Masked security personnel conducted a search of the Moscow headquarters of Novaya Gazeta, one of Russia’s most prominent independent newspapers, the publication reported Thursday.

The newspaper announced via Telegram that it was unaware of the specific reasons behind the operation and that their legal representatives were being denied access to the premises.

According to statements from law enforcement sources cited by state news agency RIA, the search operation was connected to a probe involving the unauthorized handling of personal information. Russia has significantly strengthened its media censorship regulations and intensified its campaign against independent journalism organizations following the start of its military operation in Ukraine in 2022.

In another significant development Thursday, Russia’s Supreme Court declared Memorial, the country’s most prominent human rights organization, an extremist group. This ruling creates legal grounds for criminal charges against anyone who provides support, funding, or distributes the organization’s content.

Novaya Gazeta stands as one of Russia’s most recognized investigative journalism organizations. The publication’s editor-in-chief, Dmitry Muratov, shared the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize and honored six journalists from his newspaper who were killed while pursuing their reporting duties.

In 2023, Russian authorities labeled Muratov a “foreign agent,” a classification the government uses for individuals and organizations it considers to be engaging in activities against Russian interests with international backing.

The criminal corruption case against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will move forward again this Sunday, according to a court spokesperson who made the announcement Thursday. The resumption comes just hours after Israel ended its emergency declaration that was put in place during hostilities with Iran.

Tensions escalated when Iran launched ballistic missile and drone strikes against Israel following joint Israeli and U.S. airstrikes on Iranian targets on February 28. The allied forces cited goals of limiting Iran’s regional influence, halting its nuclear program, and supporting regime change efforts.

Israel’s emergency status, which shuttered educational institutions and businesses, was removed Wednesday night after no incoming Iranian projectiles were detected since 3 a.m. local time following a ceasefire agreement. However, Israel’s extensive military operations in Lebanon targeting Iran-supported Hezbollah forces have put the fragile truce at risk.

“With the lifting of the state of emergency and the return of the judicial system to work, hearings will resume as usual,” court officials announced, noting that sessions will occur from Sunday through Wednesday each week.

Netanyahu holds the distinction of being Israel’s first serving prime minister to face criminal charges. He maintains his innocence against accusations of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust filed in 2019 following extensive investigations. The trial started in 2020 and carries potential prison sentences, though it has faced numerous postponements due to Netanyahu’s governmental responsibilities, with no conclusion timeline established.

Former President Trump has supported Netanyahu’s appeals to Israeli President Isaac Herzog for a presidential pardon, arguing that mandatory court appearances interfere with his ability to perform his duties effectively.

Herzog’s administration stated that the justice ministry’s pardons office will collect input to present to the president’s legal counsel, who will develop a recommendation following established procedures. Presidential pardons typically are not granted while trials are ongoing.

The criminal allegations against Netanyahu, combined with Hamas’s October 2023 attacks on Israel, have weakened his political position. Israel faces elections in October where Netanyahu’s coalition government, considered the most conservative in the nation’s history, appears likely to face defeat.

EQUIHEN BEACH, France — Tragedy struck the northern French coastline Thursday as four migrants—two men and two women—lost their lives while attempting to board an inflatable vessel for the dangerous journey across the English Channel to Britain.

Regional prefect François-Xavier Lauch of the Pas-de-Calais area confirmed that rescue teams pulled 38 survivors from the waters, with one person requiring emergency medical treatment. Lauch provided the update while search and rescue efforts were still underway at Equihen Beach Thursday morning.

According to Lauch, the victims were swept away by treacherous ocean currents while trying to board what officials call a “taxi-boat”—small motorized inflatable vessels that smugglers use to collect passengers along France’s northern coastline.

The deadly incident occurred on a vast sandy shoreline bordered by sand dunes and woodland where migrants often hide for days, waiting for boats and favorable weather conditions. Despite police patrols on beach buggies and surveillance from old World War II bunker positions, authorities cannot monitor every departure along the extensive coastline.

Recent days have seen a dramatic increase in crossing attempts and fatalities. French maritime officials reported Wednesday that 102 individuals were saved in two separate rescue missions while attempting channel crossings. Just last week, two people perished in a comparable incident off the coast near Calais.

The “taxi boat” method differs from traditional crossings where migrants carry their own inflatable boats into the water. Instead, these vessels depart nearly empty from hidden coastal locations and collect passengers at predetermined beach meeting points.

An Associated Press journalist witnessed such operations Wednesday at Malo-les-Bains, close to Dunkirk.

Migrants enter the ocean waters, with adults carrying children in their arms or on their backs, then climb aboard the waiting inflatable boats positioned offshore. After loading passengers, the vessels begin their cross-channel voyage, sometimes collecting additional people during the journey.

Weather conditions, tidal patterns, and police presence often force migrants to wade deep into the water—sometimes up to their chests—to reach the boats, significantly increasing dangers of losing balance, getting caught in currents, or venturing too far from shore.

Migrant advocacy organizations have repeatedly cautioned that intensified French police efforts to stop boat departures from beaches, including using knives to slash and destroy inflatable boats, are pushing smugglers toward “taxi boat” operations that create greater drowning risks, injuries, and rescue situations.

LONDON (AP) — Forces from Britain and Norway conducted an extended surveillance mission targeting Russian submarines believed to be engaged in suspicious activities near critical undersea infrastructure in the North Atlantic, according to Thursday announcements from U.K. military officials.

British Defense Secretary John Healey revealed that naval vessels, aircraft, and hundreds of military personnel tracked one Russian attack submarine and two intelligence-gathering submarines operating close to underwater cables and pipelines located north of British territory. The Russian fleet ultimately departed the area following the surveillance effort that extended beyond four weeks.

“We see your activity over our cables and our pipelines and you should know that any attempt to damage them will not be tolerated and will have serious consequences,” Healey stated as his warning to Russian forces.

Norwegian defense ministry, foreign ministry, and military representatives had not yet provided responses to media inquiries about the operation.

U.K. leaders have worked to maintain focus on Russian activities despite global attention shifting toward Middle Eastern conflicts. Officials have highlighted connections between various international disputes, noting that Russia has provided drone components and additional support to Iran.

During a press briefing, Healey emphasized that “Putin would want us to be distracted by the Middle East,” while asserting that Russia remains the primary security challenge facing Britain and allied nations.

“We will not take our eyes off Putin,” he declared.

Earlier this year in March, British authorities announced readiness to intercept vessels believed to operate within Russia’s unofficial fleet of ships transporting oil in defiance of international penalties imposed due to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. This marked an escalation from Britain’s previous role of simply assisting French and American forces in monitoring suspicious vessels.

“We are ready to take action” against these ships, Healey confirmed.

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines launched a significant coast guard facility Thursday on a South China Sea island, establishing what officials called a “steadfast sentinel of our sovereignty” in waters contested by China.

Beijing has not yet responded to the Philippines’ establishment of its coast guard district headquarters on Thitu Island, an area controlled by Filipino military and residents for many years but also claimed by Chinese authorities.

Vessels from China’s coast guard and affiliated agencies regularly monitor the waters surrounding the island, which Vietnam and Taiwan also claim. Previous encounters between Chinese and Filipino forces in nearby waters have been tense but relatively minor.

Beijing asserts control over nearly the entire waterway, a crucial shipping corridor, despite a 2016 international arbitration decision that rejected its broad territorial claims under the 1982 U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea. China refused to participate in the arbitration process, dismissed the ruling, and continues to ignore it.

Philippine Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, Senator Erwin Tulfo, and coast guard leader Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan traveled to Thitu for the dedication ceremony, timed to align with the nation’s Day of Valor observance.

“This is a permanent step for us to show that our coast guard is ready to defend our interest in the waters, our fishermen, their livelihood and, most importantly, our sovereignty,” Lopez stated.

A plaque inside the new coast guard facility described it as “established as the vanguard and steadfast sentinel of our sovereignty, sovereign rights and maritime jurisdiction.”

The new command will operate under a commodore with supporting staff, patrol vessels, and aircraft for law enforcement, surveillance, environmental protection, and rescue operations. Additional smaller coast guard stations will be constructed on other Philippine-controlled formations, according to officials.

The teardrop-shaped Thitu Island, encircled by white sand beaches, is known as Pag-asa — meaning hope in Tagalog — by approximately 400 Filipino residents. It represents one of nine islands, islets, and atolls under Philippine control since the 1970s.

Over ten years ago, China began converting seven contested reefs into military installations in the Spratly Islands. These included Subi Reef, now a major base featuring a military runway located roughly 24 kilometers (15 miles) southeast of Thitu.

“Everyday, our villagers see Chinese coast guard and militia ships all around the island,” stated MP Albayda, who serves as the island municipality’s vice mayor. “This new coast guard district command is a big morale booster for them.”

The Philippines considers the area its most distant offshore community, part of its western Palawan province. Decades ago, it incentivized fishing families to move there with benefits like free rice to strengthen its territorial claims.

The 37-hectare (91-acre) island now features internet and cellular service, improved electricity and water systems, a newly paved airstrip, a dock, elementary school, gymnasium, and storm shelter. Despite these improvements, Thitu remains a modest frontier community compared to China’s developed Subi installation.

LONDON – British Defense Minister John Healey disclosed Thursday that the United Kingdom sent military personnel to monitor and discourage Russian submarine activity near critical underwater infrastructure during a month-long presence in UK territorial waters earlier this year.

According to Healey, British forces worked alongside allies, including Norway, to observe and prevent harmful actions by the Russian naval vessels. The defense minister stated he was publicly revealing the military operation to ensure Russian President Vladimir Putin understood their submarines had been discovered.

The defense minister confirmed the Russian submarines have since departed British waters, moving northward, with no evidence of harm to underwater infrastructure systems.

“To President Putin, I say ‘We see you. We see your activity over our cables and our pipelines, and you should know that any attempt to damage them will not be tolerated and will have serious consequences’,” Healey declared.

“Our armed forces left them in no doubt that they were being monitored, that their movements were not covert, as President Putin planned, and that their attempted secret operation had been exposed,” he added.

The British defense minister identified the Russian naval operation as involving one Akula class attack submarine along with two specialized vessels operated by Moscow’s Main Directorate for Deep Sea Research (GUGI).

Russia’s Supreme Court on Thursday officially classified the internationally recognized human rights organization Memorial as an extremist group during a private court session, according to reports from the state-run news agency TASS.

This classification represents another step in Russia’s extensive campaign to silence opposition voices and restrict civil liberties that has been ongoing for several years. The court’s decision creates a legal framework that allows Russian officials to pursue criminal charges against individuals who provide support to the Nobel Peace Prize-winning organization or distribute its publications.

Before the court’s decision was made public, Memorial expressed certainty about the anticipated outcome of the proceedings.

“The case against Memorial is yet another attempt to intimidate all dissent in the country and force civil society into silence,” the organization stated in an official release.

MOSCOW, April 9 – Ukraine received the remains of 1,000 of its fallen soldiers from Russia in a prisoner exchange that saw 41 Russian bodies returned in the opposite direction, according to Russian parliament member Shamsail Saraliyev as reported by RBC news.

Such transfers of deceased military personnel between the warring nations have taken place on multiple occasions throughout the ongoing conflict.

Viktor Orban’s decade-and-a-half stronghold on Hungarian politics faces its most serious threat this Sunday, as polling data suggests the longtime leader could be ousted in what many consider a pivotal moment for Hungary’s position within Europe.

The current prime minister, who has maintained power since 2010 and holds the distinction of being the EU’s most tenured leader, has constructed what he terms an “illiberal democracy” by restricting press freedoms and limiting democratic institutions. His approach has garnered support from far-right European factions and former President Trump’s political movement.

Yet three years of economic decline, rising inflation, and allegations that government-connected business figures have enriched themselves have sparked widespread voter frustration. Additional controversy has emerged from media accounts suggesting the administration has worked closely with Russian officials.

Peter Magyar, a former insider within Orban’s circle, has effectively channeled public dissatisfaction through his center-right Tisza party, which currently holds commanding leads in most surveys.

Political experts warn that several factors create electoral uncertainty, including uncommitted voters, redistricted boundaries that benefit Orban’s Fidesz party, and substantial overseas Hungarian populations who typically support the incumbent government. They note outcomes could range from a Tisza supermajority capable of constitutional amendments to continued Fidesz control.

The election carries enormous implications for Hungary’s 9.6 million citizens and the broader European continent.

“This is one of the most momentous elections in Europe and for Europe in many years,” said Gregoire Roos, director of the Europe, Russia and Eurasia Programmes at Chatham House.

“In Moscow, Hungary has been seen as a precious trouble-making interlocutor within the EU — maintaining energy ties… and adopting, by far, the toughest tone vis-a-vis Ukraine than any other EU country. In the United States, Hungary has drawn attention as a laboratory of sovereigntist politics.”

The Trump administration demonstrated its backing for Orban through a visit this week by Vice President JD Vance, who criticized what he termed “disgraceful” EU meddling in the electoral process. A European Commission representative responded that voting decisions belong “the sole choice of the citizens.”

Russian officials quickly echoed similar sentiments. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated Wednesday that “many forces in Europe, many forces in Brussels, would not like Orban to win the elections again.”

Hungary has opposed EU sanctions against Moscow and continues depending heavily on Russian energy supplies. The 62-year-old Orban recently prevented an EU loan package to Ukraine that was approved in December, citing disagreements with Kyiv over a war-damaged petroleum pipeline, marking another clash with Brussels leadership.

Magyar, age 45, has committed to fighting government corruption, securing billions in withheld EU funding, implementing wealth taxes, and overhauling Hungary’s deteriorating medical system.

Speaking with Reuters, he characterized the election as determining whether Hungary will solidify its European identity and economic recovery, or continue moving toward authoritarianism.

“Just a few days and we will see a change of regime,” Magyar declared at a Wednesday campaign event in Baja, vowing to heal political rifts among Hungarians.

“This is a very last chance… to prevent our country being a Russian puppet state… Let’s not allow Fidesz… to lead Hungary out of the EU.”

Orban maintains he seeks EU reform from within rather than departure from the alliance. He has characterized this contest as a fundamental decision between “war or peace,” claiming his political rivals would involve Hungary in the ongoing Ukrainian conflict. Tisza representatives reject this characterization.

“This election is about Hungary’s future. The choice is clear: dependence and decline — or sovereignty, strength, and peace,” Orban stated Tuesday.

The far-right Our Homeland party aims to secure sufficient votes to become a potential “kingmaker,” which might enable Orban to retain power through coalition arrangements.

Should Tisza prevail, reversing the legal and structural modifications Orban enacted with constitutional authority would present significant challenges for any new administration operating with only a simple majority in the 199-member parliament, according to Mario Bikarski, Senior Europe Analyst at Verisk Maplecroft.

This scenario could create “an environment of persistent legislative blockade and policy uncertainty,” he explained.

Financial markets, however, are concentrating on potential benefits from a Tisza victory.

“An end to the Orban regime would provide a major boost to the Hungarian economy,” noted Berenberg chief economist Holger Schmieding.

“It would remove a key obstacle to closer European cooperation… and pave the way for tougher sanctions against Russia.”

While driving home from work Tuesday evening with her two young children, Zainab Haider found herself consumed with worry about President Donald Trump’s deadline for Iran to accept American demands. The question weighing on her mind was whether her family members still living in Iran would survive or face destruction.

Haider experienced a flood of intense feelings – from worry and terror to isolation – as she watched others continue their daily routines despite the potential catastrophe looming. In the end, Trump chose not to follow through on his warning that “a whole civilization will die tonight,” instead reaching a two-week ceasefire agreement in the conflict.

This represented yet another jarring shift for Haider and the hundreds of thousands of Iranian residents in America who find themselves in a perpetual state of worry about Iran’s destiny and the wellbeing of loved ones who remain in their homeland.

Many find that the recent heated rhetoric surrounding the conflict has dominated their thinking, making it difficult to complete work tasks or concentrate on other matters. While some are demonstrating against the war, others keep their views about their native country private, nervously observing developments and wondering about what lies ahead.

On Wednesday, Haider joined protesters in Austin, Texas, demanding an end to the conflict. Similar demonstrations took place in New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles and additional cities.

Beyond voicing opposition to the war, Haider believes that organizing will generate “the kind of pressure that makes it harder for Trump to swing back to this aggressive posturing.”

“It’s a huge country,” she said of Iran. “Trump is not going to ever be able to defeat it or wipe it out, but it is possible to do damage. It is possible to do something that affects millions of people, millions of lives.”

Haider, who works as a municipal planner and organizes with the Austin for Palestine Coalition, described Trump’s ultimatum as terrifying.

She opposes regime change, believing this should be decided by Iranian citizens rather than the United States. Despite arriving in America from Pakistan with her parents during childhood, she felt compelled to speak out. She still recalls the local bakeries and juice stands she would visit with her mother and their neighbors.

Iranian-American Sheila Amir explained that Trump’s social media messages caused her alarm on several fronts.

Her primary worry centered on her Iranian family members. She has been unable to verify their safety over the past week due to an internet shutdown affecting the entire country.

However, the North Carolina writer also expressed concern that war escalation could endanger her American relatives serving in the military. Their obligation, she noted, is to “serve and protect the United States of America,” not to harm Iranian people.

Even individuals who support American actions targeting the Iranian government directly are having difficulty accepting the recent threats against civilians.

Roya Rastegar has engaged in numerous challenging family discussions about the conflict in recent weeks. Both Rastegar and her spouse are Iranian-American. Rastegar revealed that Iranian government forces have killed family members over the decades since the Islamic Republic gained control, while most of her wife’s relatives continue living in the country.

Rastegar, who works as a filmmaker and co-established a pro-democracy organization called the Iranian Diaspora Collective, said the constant policy reversals have complicated explaining the situation to their children.

“It’s very hard to hold on to the idea that we do not know what’s going to happen,” she said.

According to Rastegar, the war has created an impossible ethical dilemma. She worries deeply that increased attacks on Iran could inflict greater harm on civilians. However, she also thinks that reducing war tensions without eliminating the Islamic Republic will create the biggest danger for Iranians living in the country, who would continue experiencing brutal and fatal oppression.

“It’s really nauseating to just think about my people as being stuck between a regime that’s still killing them and an administration — the U.S. — that is issuing these kinds of threats,” Rastegar said.

United Nations officials announced Thursday that more than one million Sudanese refugees could lose critical humanitarian assistance including food and water supplies due to a massive funding shortage exceeding $400 million.

Chad currently hosts approximately 1.3 million Sudanese refugees, with the majority having fled their homeland following the outbreak of fighting between Sudan’s military forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in April 2023. Many of these displaced individuals escaped mass violence and severe food shortages in the Darfur region.

According to a joint announcement from the World Food Programme and the UN refugee agency, both organizations lack sufficient resources to assist all refugees and anticipate additional service reductions in upcoming months without securing the necessary $428 million in funding.

“With less than half the resources we require, we cannot deliver sufficient food to the people who need it most,” stated Sarah Gordon-Gibson, WFP Chad Country Director. “This will force them into devastating coping strategies and put lives at risk.”

While the UN statement did not identify specific donors reducing contributions, the refugee agency has previously indicated that decreased American foreign aid represents a significant factor in current funding gaps. However, both Sudan and Chad remain among 17 nations scheduled to receive $2 billion in US assistance by 2026.

Additional Western donor countries have similarly reduced foreign aid allocations as they redirect resources toward defense spending.

Current conditions reveal the severity of the crisis, with UNHCR able to provide assistance to only 40% of Chad’s refugee population, leaving many without adequate housing while educational facilities struggle with more than 100 students per instructor. In Chad’s northeastern Ennedi Est province, refugees receive less than half the recommended daily water minimum.

The Norwegian Refugee Council highlighted extreme hunger conditions in Chad, referencing survey data indicating that 70% of refugee families reduced their meal frequency during the previous month.

The State Department has broadened its travel advisory for Nigeria and granted permission for non-essential U.S. embassy workers and their family members to depart from Abuja, the nation’s capital, as security conditions continue to deteriorate throughout the West African country.

Travel warnings issued by the United States frequently influence how investors, international organizations, and airline companies evaluate risks in various countries. The decision to permit embassy staff departures reflects escalating worries in Washington as kidnappings, criminal activity, and assaults on law enforcement continue, especially in Nigeria’s northern regions.

In a Wednesday evening update to its travel guidance, the State Department maintained Nigeria’s Level 3 status, which advises Americans to reconsider travel plans. However, officials added five more states to the ‘Do Not Travel’ designation: Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba. This expansion means 23 of Nigeria’s 36 states now carry the highest travel warning level.

American officials emphasized dangers from Islamic extremist groups operating in northeastern regions, criminal organizations in the northwest, and continued violence affecting parts of southern and southeastern Nigeria, including areas where oil production occurs.

Washington issued a warning last month about a potential terrorist threat targeting American facilities and associated educational institutions within Nigeria.

The United States conducts reviews of its travel advisories multiple times annually and has maintained Nigeria at either Level 3 or Level 4 status for most of the previous ten years due to ongoing security challenges.

American military forces currently operate several MQ-9 unmanned aircraft in Nigeria along with approximately 200 personnel who provide training and intelligence assistance to Nigerian forces combating Islamic militant groups across northern territories.

MOSCOW – Russian officials justified their country’s naval operations on Thursday following reports that a military vessel accompanied sanctioned oil tankers near British waters, with Moscow characterizing Western actions as maritime piracy.

According to Britain’s Telegraph newspaper, the Russian naval vessel Admiral Grigorovich provided escort services for two oil tankers under UK sanctions – the Russian-registered Universal and the Cameroon-registered Enigma – as they traveled through the English Channel.

When questioned about these reports, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov defended Russia’s actions, claiming Moscow has witnessed numerous instances of what he termed piracy on the high seas and would take steps to safeguard Russian maritime operations.

“Over the past few months, we have witnessed repeated incidents of piracy in international waters. These incidents of piracy have, among other things, harmed the economic interests of the Russian Federation,” Peskov stated during a press briefing.

“The Russian Federation considers itself entitled to, and will certainly take, measures to protect its interests.”

The tensions stem from recent British actions, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced last month that he had given military forces permission to intercept and seize Russian vessels operating in UK territorial waters. Starmer’s government claims these ships are part of a fleet helping Russia continue oil exports despite international sanctions imposed by Western nations.

President Trump has delivered a stark ultimatum to Iran, threatening to restart military operations if the nation rejects his proposed peace agreement conditions.

The President outlined specific demands for any potential peace settlement, stating that Iran must halt all nuclear enrichment activities and guarantee that the Strait of Hormuz waterway stays accessible to international shipping traffic.

These developments come as mixed signals emerge regarding the actual terms of the current ceasefire arrangement between the two nations.

The strategic Strait of Hormuz serves as a critical shipping lane for global oil transportation, making its status a key concern for international commerce and energy markets.

Trump’s latest statements add uncertainty to the fragile diplomatic situation as both sides navigate the complex negotiations surrounding a potential long-term peace framework.

DORDRECHT, Netherlands — Authorities in the Netherlands are conducting a social media outreach initiative to locate and provide assistance to teenage girls and young women across multiple countries, including the United States, who fell victim to an international online blackmail scheme involving explicit photographs.

The investigation began after receiving information from U.S. Homeland Security Investigations and has identified over 50 female victims between ages 13 and 20 spanning six nations: the United States, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, Montenegro, and Canada.

The accused is 22-year-old Damian A., whose full name is withheld according to Dutch privacy laws. He was taken into custody in early 2023 and began facing trial Wednesday in Dordrecht. Court officials expect a decision within weeks, and both prosecution and defense attorneys confirm he has admitted guilt.

“We are very worried because what these girls have had to endure is so extreme and so intense, and we know that there are more girls but we don’t know who they are,” Rotterdam Police Sexual Crimes Team member Milou van der Kolk told The Associated Press. She explained that evidence recovered from the defendant’s electronic devices suggests additional unidentified victims exist.

Operating under the online identity “Turpien,” the suspect allegedly forced victims to inscribe “Owned by Turpien” on their bodies or display signs while performing progressively humiliating acts. Authorities also allege he distributed images of his victims to third parties.

Van der Kolk noted that the Dutch initiative also serves to inform victims that their alleged abuser is now incarcerated and unable to cause further harm.

“This case highlights the importance of strong international cooperation, such as between U.S. and Dutch authorities, which is essential for protecting children online and effectively investigating and prosecuting offenders across borders,” Homeland Security Investigations attache in The Hague Eben Roberts stated in an email to AP.

“HSI is committed to solidify these partnerships to bring these child predators to face justice,” Roberts added.

Roberts explained that the Netherlands campaign, which provides contact information and resources for victims seeking assistance, coordinates with a U.S. initiative called Know2Protect that addresses online child exploitation.

Prosecutors revealed in a statement that psychological evaluation of the defendant determined he suffers from “an autism spectrum disorder and a sexual sadism disorder.” They are requesting a nine-year prison sentence plus mandatory psychiatric treatment. Charges include online assault and online rape, extortion, and creating, possessing and distributing child pornography.

Law enforcement officials allege the abuse began when the suspect deceived victims into sharing explicit photographs by posing as a female peer. He subsequently threatened to distribute the images unless they provided additional material.

The situation illustrates an expanding digital danger facing young people.

“Sextortion is an increasingly significant societal problem,” prosecutors stated, highlighting that 2025 witnessed a 46% surge in online sex crimes compared to the prior year, totaling more than 3,000 incidents in the Netherlands.

Kenya’s government is challenging findings from a United Nations investigation that confirmed sexual abuse allegations against personnel in a UN-supported anti-gang operation in Haiti, which consists primarily of Kenyan police officers.

The UN released a report on February 16 stating that its Human Rights Office had confirmed four separate allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse from the previous year involving members of the international force.

Kenya’s Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi responded this week in correspondence to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, stating that Kenya’s own inquiry board had examined the accusations and determined them to be “found to be unsubstantiated.”

“Investigations conducted were impartial and shared with all relevant stakeholders, including U.N. human rights offices,” Mudavadi stated in his letter.

UN representatives in Kenya have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the dispute.

The international force, numbering approximately 1,000 personnel with Kenya providing the majority, began operations in June 2024 to fight gang organizations that have taken control of most of Haiti’s capital city.

This controversy echoes past problems with the previous UN peacekeeping mission called MINUSTAH, which operated in Haiti from 2004 through 2017. That mission faced numerous accusations of sexual abuse and exploitation, including cases involving children, though only a small number of peacekeepers faced prosecution in their home nations.

ROME, April 9 – Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni addressed parliament Thursday, calling on European Union leadership to contemplate temporarily halting budget deficit restrictions should conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran intensify.

During her parliamentary address, Meloni also indicated her administration stands prepared to implement measures aimed at preventing energy price manipulation, potentially including additional windfall taxes targeting energy sector companies.

“We believe that discussing a possible temporary suspension of the Stability and Growth Pact should not be taboo. Not a waiver for individual Member States, but a general measure,” Meloni stated during her speech.

The Prime Minister’s statements arrive as Italy prepares to reduce its economic growth projections for 2026 and subsequent years later this month. These revised estimates will complicate Italy’s efforts to reduce its deficit below the European Union’s mandated 3% of GDP threshold within the current timeframe.

Between 2020 and 2023, European Union officials implemented what they termed a ‘general escape clause’ that suspended standard budget requirements, enabling member nations to address the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic impact, which resulted in widespread lockdowns, economic decline, and border closures across Europe.

However, this emergency provision can only be utilized during significant economic downturns affecting the eurozone or the entire European Union – conditions that major economic forecasters do not currently anticipate.

Italy maintains the option to invoke a national emergency clause that would permit deviation from EU-agreed budget targets during extraordinary circumstances beyond the country’s control. However, the government has dismissed this possibility while Rome remains subject to the excessive deficit procedure.

“Italy remains ready to take every possible measure to prevent potential speculative behaviour (on energy prices), including, if necessary, further action regarding the profits of energy companies,” Meloni added during her address.

Both Meloni and her predecessor Mario Draghi have previously implemented windfall taxes targeting the energy industry, resulting in legal challenges from affected corporations.

Two major terrorist organizations operating in West Africa have engaged in combat for the first time within Niger’s borders, representing a dangerous expansion of their ongoing conflict, according to security analysts.

The Islamic State in the Sahel Province (ISSP) and the al Qaeda-affiliated Jama’at Nusrat al‑Islam wal‑Muslimin (JNIM) have been battling each other since 2019, but their confrontations had previously been limited to Mali and Burkina Faso. Last week marked the first instance of their rivalry extending into Niger.

According to data from Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED), a organization that tracks global conflicts, these two groups have engaged in hundreds of battles over the past five years, leading to more than 2,100 fatalities.

In a Monday statement, ISSP claimed responsibility for attacking a JNIM stronghold in Niger’s western Tillaberi region on April 2. The group reported eliminating 35 enemy fighters and capturing weapons along with motorcycles, stating the assault was retaliation for a JNIM attack on a local village in the same area.

Human Rights Watch has previously documented ISSP’s involvement in deadly civilian attacks throughout the Tillaberi region. JNIM has not responded to the recent incident and remains unavailable for comment.

Heni Nsaibia, who serves as ACLED’s senior West Africa analyst, described ISSP’s claims as having “quite high credibility” due to the organization’s track record of providing photographic proof of eliminated rivals and captured equipment.

The expansion of inter-group violence demonstrates the minimal government authority present across much of the Sahel region, Nsaibia explained.

“This competition will likely continue to fuel recruitment, expansion, and violence, making the jihadist insurgency increasingly difficult to contain,” he said.

JNIM released its own video statement describing an April 5 operation in Nigeria’s Kebbi state, where the group claimed to have eliminated one rival fighter and captured another. The statement referred to their targets using the Arabic term “khawarij,” meaning separatists, which JNIM commonly applies to ISSP members but could indicate other groups as well.

Beverly Ochieng, a senior analyst with Control Risks consulting firm, noted that inadequate security coordination between Nigeria and Niger has created opportunities for JNIM to establish operational bases and strategic positions in southern Niger and northwestern Nigeria.

This expansion is “leading to clashes with the more well-established IS branches and affiliates,” she explained.

BUCHAREST, April 9 (Reuters) – Romania’s centrist leader Nicusor Dan selected seven new chief prosecutors and their deputies on Wednesday evening, moving forward with the appointments despite strong objections from advocacy groups and the nation’s highest judicial oversight authority. The decision has intensified worries about Romania’s weakening efforts to combat corruption.

Transparency International has consistently placed Romania among the European Union’s most corruption-plagued nations.

The European Union maintained special oversight of Romania’s judicial system following the country’s 2007 EU membership, but anti-corruption investigations have decelerated since this monitoring ended in 2023. Recent high-profile acquittals by the courts have heightened fears that the nation’s anti-corruption drive is losing steam.

Dan selected Cristina Chiriac for the role of prosecutor general, named Viorel Cerbu to head the DNA anti-corruption prosecution office, and chose Codrin Miron to lead DIICOT, the anti-organized crime prosecution unit, along with four deputy positions.

Chiriac’s selection as Prosecutor General drew the heaviest criticism, with advocacy organizations and investigative reporters alleging she concealed evidence regarding sexual abuse committed by a bishop who was subsequently found guilty. Chiriac has rejected these claims.

“The expectation I now have from the prosecuting units … is to speed up activity to meet Romanians’ expectations, because Romanians see corruption, both high-level and in their daily interaction with state authorities,” Dan stated to members of the press.

Romanian legal procedures require the president to select chief judges and prosecutors from candidates recommended by the justice minister, with review by the CSM judicial regulator, although CSM approval is not required by law.

Justice Minister Radu Marinescu, who belongs to the leftist Social Democrats – the dominant party in the coalition government – maintained his support for these candidates even after the CSM repeatedly declined to endorse them.

“The appointments … are a big mistake,” former justice minister Stelian Ion wrote on his Facebook page. “To so easily ignore CSM’s … negative opinion does not bode well.”

Dan has stood by his selections, explaining that he reached his conclusions following extensive conversations with prosecutors.

“(The appointments) are the right choice for the time we live in,” stated Dan, who secured his first five-year presidential term nearly a year ago. “If for some reason I am wrong, I will be penalised in four years.”

NAYPYITAW, Myanmar (AP) — Thursday marked the parliamentary confirmation of Myanmar’s new cabinet, which is overwhelmingly composed of ex-military generals and officials who served in the previous army-controlled administration under Min Aung Hlaing.

The cabinet formation comes after disputed elections held in December and January, yet shows minimal indication of a shift back to civilian control five years following the 2021 military coup that Hlaing orchestrated.

Friday’s ceremony will see Min Aung Hlaing take the presidential oath of office alongside two deputy presidents and the newly confirmed cabinet officials.

Aung Lin Dwe, the parliament’s speaker, announced that lawmakers unanimously endorsed all 30 ministerial appointments without any opposition.

The official roster reveals that 24 appointees are either active or retired military personnel, or legislators affiliated with the military-supported Union Solidarity and Development Party. Among these ministers, 18 previously held cabinet positions in the former military administration, while four additional appointees served as military and governmental officials during that same period.

Multiple cabinet members face international sanctions from foreign nations that have accused them of backing and participating in military rule or committing human rights violations.

Lawmakers additionally confirmed the reappointment of the constitutional tribunal’s chairman, the nation’s top prosecutor, and Supreme Court justices.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations joined other international entities in refusing to acknowledge Myanmar’s recent elections, citing the exclusion of most opposition factions and severe limitations on political dissent. Combat zones affected by Myanmar’s continuing civil conflict prevented voting in certain regions.

BEIJING, April 9 – Chinese foreign ministry officials expressed optimism that involved nations will “grasp this chance at peace and bring the region back to stability as soon as possible” following the announcement of a US-Iran ceasefire agreement that ended weeks of Middle Eastern conflict.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters during a daily briefing that China has kept open lines of communication with all involved parties and “actively sought to promote reconciliation and prevent further fighting.”

The two-week truce between the United States and Iran was announced Tuesday evening, bringing a temporary halt to hostilities that had disrupted international markets and created widespread geopolitical tensions.

Chinese officials urged the involved nations to take advantage of this peaceful moment to “resolve differences through dialogue and consultation and work towards to early restoration of peace and stability in the Gulf and the Middle East region,” according to Mao’s statement.

President Donald Trump announced plans to keep American military forces positioned in the Middle East until a permanent peace agreement with Iran can be established, while also issuing warnings about potential escalation should Iran violate ceasefire terms. Global oil markets continued to show volatility amid ongoing concerns about supply chains and potential restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz.

The Israeli Defense Forces announced Thursday that they successfully targeted and killed a high-ranking Hezbollah operative who was closely connected to the organization’s leadership.

According to Israeli military officials, Ali Yusuf Harshi was eliminated during an overnight operation in the Beirut region. Harshi held dual roles within the Iran-supported Lebanese militant organization, serving both as the personal secretary to Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem and as Qassem’s nephew.

“The IDF struck in the Beirut area and eliminated Ali Yusuf Harshi, the personal secretary and nephew of Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem,” military officials stated.

The operation represents another targeted action by Israeli forces against Hezbollah leadership figures in Lebanon.

CALAIS, France – A tragic incident in the English Channel has left four people dead after a vessel transporting migrants bound for Britain capsized on Thursday, according to French officials.

Authorities in Calais confirmed the deadly accident in an official statement, noting that the circumstances surrounding the incident continue to be evaluated. “A taxi-boat sinking occurred today. The situation is still being assessed and remains subject to change,” officials stated.

The term “taxi-boats” has become common terminology among authorities to describe a new trafficking method that has emerged over the past year. Criminal organizations now use motorized dinghies to travel along the coastlines of northern France and Belgium, collecting migrants at various points along the shoreline.

Migration data from the University of Oxford’s Migration Observatory reveals that approximately 2,200 people have successfully made the dangerous crossing through the Channel – one of the globe’s most congested shipping corridors – to reach Britain during the initial two months of 2026. The previous year saw roughly 41,500 individuals complete the treacherous journey.

SHANGHAI – Chinese broadcasting authorities announced Thursday they have successfully eliminated all misleading medical advertisements from national television networks by the end of March.

The National Radio and Television Administration launched a comprehensive crackdown last August targeting deceptive healthcare advertising practices, including inflated benefits and fraudulent promotional content, according to an official statement posted online.

Regulators indicated they plan to maintain ongoing oversight to prevent future violations.

FUJIYOSHIDA, Japan (AP) — It all began with one stunning photograph.

A breathtaking image showing Japan’s iconic snow-covered Mount Fuji rising behind a crimson pagoda and delicate cherry blossoms quickly spread across social media platforms, capturing the essence of Japanese spring.

Before long, visitors seeking their own version of this picture flooded the quiet mountain town. Problems quickly followed: endless traffic backups, scattered trash, rude tourists knocking on residents’ doors asking to use bathrooms, and visitors using front yards as restrooms.

The situation became so overwhelming that Fujiyoshida officials decided in February to call off this year’s cherry blossom celebration — an event originally created ten years ago to attract visitors.

Residents now describe the situation as “tourism pollution,” highlighting a growing challenge across Japan: While government leaders seek tourism revenue to help the struggling economy, local communities lack preparation for managing waves of international visitors.

“This area is primarily an ordinary residential neighborhood, where balancing (tourism) with the safety of people’s living environment has become difficult,” Masatoshi Hada, manager of the Fujiyoshida Economics and Environment Department, told The Associated Press. “We decided not to promote a festival that would invite more visitors.”

Despite canceling the festival, international tourists still flooded the area during early April when cherry blossoms peaked. Narrow roads leading to popular Arakurayama Sengen Park became packed with visitors waiting in line to capture the famous scenic views.

Daily foreign visitor numbers have topped 10,000 in recent years, which has “threatened residents’ daily lives,” according to a February city statement.

Similar overcrowding issues plague other Japanese destinations including Kyoto and Kamakura. Kyoto residents report tourists with oversized luggage jamming public buses.

This “tourism pollution” coincides with Japan welcoming growing numbers of foreign workers as the nation’s population shrinks and ages. These changes have sparked xenophobia, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s nationalist administration proposing stricter foreign visitor regulations.

While promising to tackle overtourism problems, the government aims to increase current tourist numbers from 40 million to 60 million annual visitors by 2030.

Starting April 1, coinciding with cherry blossom season, Fujiyoshida deployed additional security personnel and banned tour buses and private vehicles from the scenic area, forcing visitors to walk to the park.

During a recent visit, security officer Hiroaki Nagayama directed pedestrians away from congested zones. He reminded tourists to dispose of cigarettes properly and assisted lost visitors.

“I’m struggling. I cannot communicate with them in Japanese. Some people buy food at stalls and leave litter behind,” Nagayama says. “I think what’s happening here is a typical example of overtourism.”

Sitting outside his home nearby, 93-year-old resident Hitoshi Mori describes having numerous visitors as “good but annoying.”

“It’s too crowded outside so I can only get groceries once a week and stock up on food,” he says.

Visitors appear thrilled with the magnificent scenery, despite numerous signs demanding better behavior. Many endure hours-long waits to reach prime viewing locations.

“It’s pretty (well) organized. When they let you come in, you have like five minutes to take as many pictures as you can, and it was amazing,” said Lisa Goerdert from Paris.

Melbourne, Australia visitor Vicky Tran, traveling with family and friends, explained they couldn’t reach the pagoda viewpoint with Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms due to crowds. Nevertheless, she appreciated the scenery and neighborhood atmosphere.

The tourist surge has created tensions between residents wanting tranquility and those launching businesses by converting yards into paid parking or opening new stores and food stands.

A nearby shopping district that previously featured numerous closed family businesses has experienced renewed activity after another viral social media image showed Mount Fuji towering over the street.

Crowds of tourists gather in the roadway photographing Mount Fuji, frequently blocking traffic while frustrated drivers honk their horns.

The visitor influx represents a dramatic shift “for people like us who are used to a quiet suburban lifestyle,” says Masami Nakamura, who operates a long-established school uniform store with her spouse. “I only hope the tourists respect our rules and manners.”

Even those benefiting from increased business find the crowds challenging.

“I once almost hit a tourist who jumped into the street without looking,” said Kyoko Funakubo, a 60-year-old employee at a local hotel and a part-time vendor selling Fuji-themed souvenirs. “This place used to be almost abandoned, with many shuttered shops. But now, with many stores reopened or new shops that have opened, I feel good seeing this area come alive again.”

BUDAPEST, Hungary — President Donald Trump’s military actions against Iran have created unexpected friction with European conservative leaders who were once considered strong allies of his America First movement.

While Vice President JD Vance made a high-profile campaign appearance this week supporting Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, such displays of solidarity have become increasingly rare among Europe’s right-wing political figures.

Several prominent conservative leaders across Europe have voiced opposition to Trump’s Iran strategy. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blocked American forces from using a Sicilian air base for Iranian operations. Marine Le Pen, who leads France’s National Rally, characterized Trump’s military objectives as “erratic.” Meanwhile, Germany’s Alternative for Germany party leadership has demanded the withdrawal of U.S. military forces from German soil.

Despite a temporary ceasefire with Iran, Trump’s endorsement of Orbán might not benefit the Hungarian strongman, who confronts a challenging election this weekend. Orbán has long served as a model for global conservatives and American right-wing figures who admire his immigration restrictions and governmental restructuring that keeps his Fidesz party in control.

Charles Kupchan, who teaches international relations at Georgetown University and works as a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, believes Orbán’s historical relationship with Trump might shield him from some European anti-Trump sentiment, though this protection isn’t certain.

“Getting a blessing from Donald Trump is now a mixed blessing,” Kupchan stated.

The Iranian conflict backlash follows widespread European anger over Trump’s earlier threats against NATO member Denmark, demanding the country surrender Greenland to American control.

Trump connected both controversies on Wednesday, criticizing NATO’s lack of support during recent military operations.

“NATO WASN’T THERE WHEN WE NEEDED THEM, AND THEY WON’T BE THERE IF WE NEED THEM AGAIN,” Trump posted on social media. “REMEMBER GREENLAND, THAT BIG, POORLY RUN, PIECE OF ICE!!!”

Daniel Baer, who served as an ambassador and State Department official during Barack Obama’s presidency, believes this latest European tension demonstrates the limitations of Trump’s efforts to build a global nationalist movement.

“Building some sort of international coalition around national chauvinism is very difficult,” explained Baer, currently affiliated with the Carnegie Endowment for Peace. “It’s clear the majority of people in these countries, if not anti-American, have turned anti-Trump.”

Orbán has distinguished himself by refusing to join the growing European opposition to Trump.

During a recent interview with British conservative outlet GB News, Orbán suggested uncertainty about Trump’s Iran strategy, questioning “whether (Trump) has started a war or a peace.”

“It hasn’t (been) decided yet, historians will make a decision on that,” Orbán explained. “I think we need some time to understand whether we are moving to the peace by these strikes, or just the opposite. It’s too early to say.”

Orbán’s reluctance to criticize Trump extends beyond ideological alignment. The Hungarian leader has spent years convincing voters that his personal relationships with Trump and other world figures like Russian President Vladimir Putin make him uniquely qualified to advance Hungary’s global interests.

He has consistently highlighted Trump’s endorsements to his supporters and built his reelection campaign around promises that his Trump administration partnership guarantees national security and economic growth.

Orbán welcomed Vance’s visit enthusiastically this week. The vice president condemned European Union critics of Orbán for what he termed “foreign interference” in Hungarian elections while actively campaigning for the prime minister.

During a Wednesday appearance at a prestigious Hungarian university that receives significant government funding and operates under the prime minister’s political director, Vance addressed what he called a “fragile truce” in the Iran conflict.

Vance commended the institution for being “an institution that tries to build up the foundations of Western civilization.” The Trump administration has pursued similar influence over American elite universities, mirroring Orbán’s Hungarian educational policies.

Some experts question Orbán’s approach, pointing to declining American approval ratings even within Hungary.

“Vance’s visit could have the opposite effect on Orbán’s popularity than the one intended,” observed Mario Bikarsku, who analyzes European politics for risk intelligence firm Verisk Maplecroft.

Kupchan argues that most European far-right movements have developed independent political strength without American support and may lack motivation to support Trump’s policies.

“Trump’s effort to create a transnational movement of far-right populists may affect the margins, but the main reason you’re seeing Reform U.K. and AfD and National Rally and other far-right parties prosper has little to do with Trump and more to do with national factors,” he explained.

This reflects a worldwide trend against incumbent governments. While this has generally helped opposition far-right parties across Europe, it threatens Orbán’s position after 16 years in power.

“We’re living in an age,” Kupchan concluded, “where being an incumbent sucks.”

PARIS, April 9 – France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot declared Thursday that any ceasefire arrangement between Iran and the United States should encompass military operations in Lebanon, while also criticizing what he called “massive” Israeli military strikes from the day before.

Speaking during a radio interview with France Inter, Barrot outlined his expectations that Iran will need to make significant compromises during upcoming peace negotiations scheduled to begin in Pakistan.

“Iran must give up to have nuclear weapons and means to obtain them, must give up using its missiles and drones to threaten countries in the region and give up supporting groups like Hezbollah, Hamas and Houthis who destabilize the region,” Barrot stated during the broadcast.

The French diplomat also insisted that Iran must allow unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz as part of any comprehensive agreement.

Russian security forces have taken into custody a former freelance correspondent for Radio Free Europe on Thursday, charging him with treason, according to state media reports from Moscow.

The Federal Security Service announced the arrest occurred in Chita, accusing the unidentified individual of betraying his country by working with Ukraine’s intelligence agency, the SBU. Ukrainian officials have not responded to the allegations.

According to the FSB’s statement reported by TASS, the detained journalist allegedly transmitted sensitive information to Ukrainian intelligence operatives using the encrypted Telegram messaging platform.

LONDON, April 9 – Britain’s Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned Israeli military strikes against Lebanon on Thursday, describing the attacks as “deeply damaging” and warning they could threaten the stability of a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.

Speaking to Times Radio, Cooper emphasized the need to expand peace efforts to include Lebanon. “We want to see Lebanon included in the ceasefire,” Cooper stated. “We want it extended to cover Lebanon, because otherwise that will destabilise the whole region.”

Cooper specifically criticized Israeli actions from the previous day, saying “That escalation that we saw from Israel yesterday was deeply damaging, and we want to see an end to hostilities.”

The United Kingdom has come under intense scrutiny from President Donald Trump for what he sees as insufficient British support for America’s military campaign against Iran. Despite this pressure, Britain is collaborating with allied nations to help protect Gulf partners and explore options for reopening the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

When questioned about tensions with the United States, Cooper indicated that Britain could maintain its strong relationship with Washington while pursuing its own regional strategy. However, she expressed concern about Trump’s aggressive language, particularly his threats against Iranian civilization.

“I think that the rhetoric that we’ve seen used has been completely wrong,” Cooper told Sky News. “That sort of escalatory rhetoric can have escalatory consequences.”

Intelligence researchers have identified Iranian-backed organizations utilizing artificial intelligence technology to produce sophisticated digital propaganda targeting American audiences and President Trump during recent military conflicts involving the United States and Israel.

Security experts believe these digital campaigns originate from Tehran-connected entities as part of Iran’s broader strategy to maximize impact despite limited conventional resources. This approach mirrors Iran’s tactics of threatening shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz to pressure global economic stability. While Wednesday’s ceasefire announcement offered hope for reduced tensions, numerous underlying conflicts remain unaddressed.

“This is a propaganda war for them,” said Neil Lavie-Driver, an artificial intelligence researcher at the University of Cambridge, speaking about Iran’s strategy. “Their goal is to sow enough discontent with the conflict as to eventually force the West to cave in, so it is massively important to them.”

Digital memes as warfare tools aren’t unprecedented, though AI-generated imagery represents a recent evolution. Similar artificial intelligence content flooded Ukrainian social media following Russia’s 2022 invasion. The term “AI slop” gained widespread usage last year describing the flood of imperfect digital images circulated online during Israel-Iran hostilities aimed at undermining the country’s nuclear capabilities.

Since the current conflict began February 28th with coordinated U.S.-Israel military actions, these digital campaigns have featured sophisticated animated content mocking American leadership.

The propaganda demonstrates fluency in both English language and American cultural references while mastering internet trolling techniques. Distributed across multiple social media platforms, these materials have generated millions of views, though their actual influence remains unclear.

Content has depicted President Trump as aged, disconnected, and globally isolated. References include speculation about bruising visible on Trump’s right hand that sparked health concerns, divisions within Trump’s MAGA coalition, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s contentious confirmation proceedings.

“They’re using popular culture against the No. 1 pop culture country, the United States,” explained Nancy Snow, a propaganda scholar who has authored over a dozen books on the subject.

Among the Iranian-linked content circulating online are animations mimicking “Lego” movie aesthetics. One features an Iranian military leader rapping, “You thought you ran the globe, sitting on your throne. Now we turning every base into a bed of stone,” while Trump falls into a target constructed from “Epstein files,” referencing government investigation records of the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The production quality and internet infrastructure required suggest government connections, according to Mahsa Alimardani, director of WITNESS, a human rights organization focused on AI video evidence.

“If you’re able to have the bandwidth needed to generate content like that and upload it, you are officially or unofficially cooperating with the regime,” she explained, noting Iran’s severe internet restrictions implemented during nationwide protest crackdowns earlier this year.

Iranian state media has republished several memes, including content from Akhbar Enfejari (meaning Explosive News), the account responsible for the “Lego”-style videos.

Akhbar Enfejari identifies as Iranians creating and distributing content from within Iran to challenge Western media dominance spanning decades.

“They’ve long dominated the media landscape and, through that power, imposed narratives on many nations,” the organization told The Associated Press via Telegram messaging. “But this time, something feels different. This time, we’ve disrupted the game. This time, we’re doing it better.”

Following the ceasefire announcement, Akhbar Enfejari posted: “IRAN WON! The way to crush imperialism has been shown to the world. Trump Surrendered.”

Beyond meme campaigns from pro-Iranian groups, official Iranian government social media accounts have also targeted the United States, including Wednesday’s post from Iran’s South African Embassy stating, “Say hello to the new world superpower,” accompanied by an Iranian flag image. Both nations claimed victory following ceasefire agreements.

Intelligence analysts attribute this sophisticated understanding of American politics and culture to Iran’s long-established propaganda infrastructure: decades of government programs designed to promote anti-American and anti-Israeli narratives.

“This meme war comes from institutions that are very aware what the American public is aware of and pop cultural references that can appeal to them,” Alimardani noted.

Experts indicate the United States and Israel aren’t conducting similar campaigns, and Iran’s internet restrictions would make reaching ordinary Iranian citizens extremely challenging.

Early in the conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released an AI-generated video appearing to show him speaking Farsi, urging Iranians to overthrow their government. The White House maintains steady meme production, but targets American audiences using clips from domestic television shows and sporting events.

The government-operated Voice of America, which historically broadcast news to countries lacking free press traditions for decades, continues Farsi-language programming, though operating with minimal staff since Trump ordered its closure.

“This world order is really changing overnight and the U.S. is not going to end up necessarily as the state that everybody listens to,” Snow observed.

Citizens of the West African nation of Benin cast ballots Sunday in a presidential election as departing President Patrice Talon concludes his ten-year tenure, leaving behind a complex record of economic advancement alongside rising Islamic extremist threats and increased restrictions on political dissent.

Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, 49, represents the ruling coalition and is viewed as Talon’s chosen heir. His sole challenger is opposition candidate Paul Hounkpè.

The opposition suffered a significant setback in January’s parliamentary elections, failing to reach the required 20% threshold for legislative seats. This left Talon’s two allied parties controlling all 109 National Assembly positions, strengthening their position ahead of Sunday’s presidential contest.

Opposition leader Renaud Agbodjo of The Democrats party was prevented from running after being unable to gather enough parliamentary endorsements—a requirement that critics argue was deliberately designed to exclude challengers.

With major opposition figures excluded from the race, Wadagni enjoys frontrunner status, largely due to his solid economic credentials and backing from influential leaders across traditionally competing factions, according to political analyst Fiacre Vidjingninou from the Lagos-based Béhanzin Institute.

“Ten years at the Finance Ministry have given him something rare in African politics: a quantified record — verifiable and difficult to dismantle in a serious debate,” Vidjingninou said.

The initial voting round takes place April 12. A candidate must capture at least 50% of votes for an outright win, otherwise the top two contenders will face each other in a May 10 runoff.

Close to 8 million citizens are registered to participate in the election.

Wadagni’s campaign emphasizes the nation’s economic achievements during his finance ministry leadership. The International Monetary Fund reports Benin’s economy expanded 7% in the previous year, positioning it among West Africa’s most consistent economic performers.

Throughout Talon’s presidency, the country maintained strong economic growth for almost ten years, fueled by agricultural production, commerce, and significant port development in the commercial center of Cotonou. This expansion transformed Benin into a crucial transportation hub for landlocked neighboring countries, while infrastructure development accelerated nationwide.

Despite these achievements, economic benefits have not been distributed evenly, with widespread poverty persisting in rural communities and the impoverished northern regions.

Although Benin has traditionally ranked among Africa’s most stable democratic nations, opposition politicians and human rights advocates have criticized Talon for weaponizing the judicial system against political rivals following his 2016 inauguration and subsequent electoral law modifications.

Constitutional changes approved in November lengthened presidential terms from five to seven years, created a partially presidentially-appointed senate, and imposed additional barriers preventing opposition parties from gaining parliamentary representation.

International human rights organizations Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have condemned Talon’s systematic suppression of dissent, documenting unlawful detentions, severe limitations on public gatherings, and increasing pressure on independent news organizations.

Recent years witnessed protests against increasing living costs, which government and security officials aggressively suppressed.

This past December, military officers launched an unsuccessful attempt to overthrow Talon’s administration, representing the most recent in a wave of military coup attempts across the African continent. These coups typically follow similar patterns involving contested elections, constitutional disruption, security breakdowns, and youth frustration.

The coup plotters specifically cited deteriorating security conditions in northern Benin as a primary grievance.

For several years, the country has experienced cross-border violence in its northern territory from conflicts in neighboring Burkina Faso and Niger, where governments battle the al-Qaeda-linked extremist organization Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, known as JNIM.

The three-nation border region has remained a center of extremist activity, a situation worsened by limited security coordination with Niger and Burkina Faso, both currently governed by military leadership.

Islamic militants killed 54 soldiers in an attack on military installations last year.

Vidjingninou observed that while the failed coup attempt has damaged the outgoing administration’s stability reputation, the unstable environment might actually benefit the ruling party’s candidate.

“In a context perceived as unstable, cautious voters tend to choose continuity and familiarity over the risk of the unknown,” he said.

Cotonou civil servant Roch Gbenou identified two primary concerns ahead of Sunday’s election: fair wealth distribution and restoration of democratic liberties, which “appear to have been substantially restricted” recently.

However, Gbenou expressed pessimism about the election, stating it “will ultimately only serve to legitimize a choice already made,” questioning the process’s credibility.

Retired police officer Mathias Salanon praised Talon’s performance and expressed hope that the incoming president would stabilize both economic and political conditions.

“In more than 50 years of my life I have not seen such a fierce will to develop the country as during President Patrice Talon’s 10 years,” he said.

For Cotonou resident Sofiath Akadiri, healthcare access, education, and employment opportunities represent the most critical campaign priorities.

“We also need social justice and the restoration of democratic norms,” she said.

Dozens of Russians gathered outside a government building in Moscow during a bright spring weekend, closely monitored by law enforcement as they submitted formal grievances about escalating digital restrictions.

Citizens were filing complaints regarding the government’s expanding internet controls, which have included regular cellular internet blackouts, blocked messaging applications, and restricted access to thousands of websites and online services.

The demonstration represented another indication of mounting frustration and anger over digital limitations that have disrupted Russian citizens’ everyday routines, damaged commercial operations, and attracted criticism from government allies.

Understanding that unsanctioned protests face severe punishment, advocacy groups have attempted to organize approved demonstrations, posted notices on public boards, and pursued legal action. Business executives have appealed to officials to reverse these policies.

Armenia’s leader even delivered an indirect criticism of Russia during a broadcast meeting with President Vladimir Putin on April 1. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan observed that in Armenia, “our social media, for example, is 100% free. There are no restrictions whatsoever.”

Putin responded with a stern expression and slightly elevated eyebrows as he stared at Pashinyan.

The restrictions serve not only to regulate Russians’ online access but have also created chaos in digital services, complicating ride-hailing, delivery orders, electronic payments, and personal communication.

Opposition politician and Kremlin opponent Boris Nadezhdin expressed the sentiment of many frustrated Russians during an Associated Press interview: “This infuriates a huge number of people.”

Russia has pursued complete governmental internet control for years, potentially isolating it from global networks by blocking countless websites, messaging platforms, and social media services that decline to comply with official demands.

Citizens have adapted to bypassing these limitations through virtual private networks, or VPNs, despite government efforts to block these tools as well.

However, restrictions intensified dramatically last year with comprehensive cellular internet shutdowns — and occasionally broadband interruptions — leaving only select websites and applications on government-approved “white lists.”

Authorities justified these extreme actions as necessary to prevent Ukrainian drones from using Russian cellular networks for navigation during Kyiv’s counterattacks in Moscow’s 4-year-old full-scale invasion.

Yet the shutdowns affected distant regions never targeted by Ukrainian drones, with residents and businesses condemning the measures as harmful.

The Kremlin has targeted the nation’s two leading messaging applications — WhatsApp and Telegram — while promoting a government-supported “national” application called MAX, widely regarded as a monitoring device.

Initially, voice and video communications on WhatsApp and Telegram were restricted. Subsequently, text messaging became virtually impossible without VPN access.

Last week, Digital and Communications Minister Maksut Shadayev announced his ministry received instructions to further reduce VPN usage. Unverified media reports indicated his ministry suggested numerous additional anti-VPN measures. The ministry did not respond to AP’s comment request.

Attorney Sarkis Darbinyan, co-founder of the RKS Global digital rights organization, explained to AP that authorities aim to force internet users into a “digital ghetto” of Russian, government-monitored applications and platforms.

“The internet is no longer this universal digital good,” he stated.

Recently, increasing numbers of Russian business leaders have expressed concerns about comprehensive restrictions and encouraged authorities toward more moderate policies.

Alexander Shokhin, president of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, informed Putin at a recent organizational forum that cellular internet shutdowns “made life difficult for both businesses and citizens.”

“Given the high level of mobile technology penetration in our lives, we hope that a systemic, balanced solution will be found,” stated Shokhin, a former 1990s government minister and United Russia party member since the 2000s.

Putin appeared onstage with Shokhin and spoke directly after him but avoided addressing the concern.

Similar appeals came from executives of two of Russia’s four cellular providers during a telecommunications conference last week. Beeline’s Sergei Anokhin and Megafon’s Khachatur Pombukhchan suggested that instead of cellular internet shutdowns, operators could identify suspicious users and restrict them individually, according to Russian news agency Interfax.

“This would make life significantly easier for people, for clients,” Pombukhchan stated.

Notable IT entrepreneur Natalya Kasperskaya criticized Roskomnadzor, attributing a recent banking and service outage to its intensified VPN blocking efforts.

“There’s no technical way to block VPNs without disrupting the entire internet,” she posted on Telegram. “So, comrades, take screenshots of interesting websites, withdraw as much cash as possible, and get ready to listen to radio reports about foreign enemies who have blocked our once-beloved RuNet,” — referencing the Russian internet.

Roskomnadzor denied responsibility, and Kasperskaya later issued an apology in another post, but she advocated for communication between authorities and the IT industry, emphasizing that “technical decisions sometimes cause downright shock and a desire to at least get an explanation.”

Activists from Moscow to Far East Vladivostok have attempted organizing anti-internet restriction rallies since late February.

Recognizing that unauthorized protests face harsh suppression and government opponents routinely face imprisonment, they proceeded carefully and requested authorization for gatherings according to strict demonstration regulations. Most applications were denied, and some activists faced arrest on various accusations.

However, citizens managed small demonstrations in several cities. Elsewhere, activists posted flyers and banners on walls and public boards condemning the restrictions.

Opposition politician Nadezhdin, his supporters, and other activist organizations have requested permission for rallies in dozens of cities on April 12, when Russia celebrates Cosmonautics Day, commemorating Yuri Gagarin’s 1961 flight as the first human in space.

“We’re filing for authorization (and saying) we’re marking Cosmonautics Day,” Nadezhdin says with a knowing smile. “Our slogans will be (about the fact that) cosmonautics is impossible without science, technology and progress, and progress, science and technology development is impossible without connectivity, without communication, without the internet.”

Nadezhdin says he remains committed to increasing pressure on authorities despite the crackdown. Public frustration over restrictions is “enormous,” and citizens are prepared to participate in authorized and secure protests, he added.

Moscow-based opposition politician Yulia Galyamina shared his perspective in a video recorded last weekend near the presidential administration, where she and others submitted formal complaints, describing the discontent as “truly widespread.”

“The more there is public outcry over the blocking of the internet, Telegram in particular, and depriving us of the possibility to communicate with each other, interact, express our political position, the bigger the effect will be,” she stated.

LIMA, Peru — Peru’s voters head to the polls Sunday facing an unprecedented choice among 35 presidential candidates, including a former government official, an entertainer, and the daughter of a deceased former president, as the South American nation seeks its ninth leader in just one decade.

The historic election unfolds against a backdrop of escalating violent crime and corruption scandals that have left citizens deeply frustrated with their political system. Voters express little confidence in the candidates’ honesty or readiness to lead the country. The crime crisis has prompted many hopefuls to offer dramatic solutions, from constructing massive prison facilities to limiting inmates’ meals and bringing back capital punishment for severe offenses.

Construction worker Juan Gómez, 53, expressed the despair many feel while carrying groceries to feed his family of five children. “You can’t trust anyone anymore, nothing’s going to change,” he said. “(Criminals) come on motorcycles, put a gun to your head… you look around and there’s no police officer. What are you going to do? You just let them rob you.”

Over 27 million Peruvians between ages 18 and 70 are required to participate in the mandatory voting process, with approximately 1.2 million expected to vote from overseas, primarily from the United States and Argentina.

Given the fractured political landscape and enormous candidate field, no contender is expected to secure the necessary 50% majority for an outright victory, making a June runoff election almost certain.

The crime epidemic dominates public concerns and has sparked regular demonstrations across the country. Government statistics show homicides have doubled while extortion incidents have multiplied by five during the current decade.

Retiree Raúl Zevallos, 63, described the daily fear residents experience. “You get on the bus, and you have to sit far from the driver; you don’t know if you’ll make it home alive,” he explained. “Criminals drive by on motorcycles, shoot, kill the driver, and you could die, too.”

The violence claimed the lives of more than 200 public transportation operators in Peru during 2025. A government survey conducted by the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics revealed that 84% of urban residents fear becoming crime victims within the next year.

Among the 35 contenders is conservative politician Keiko Fujimori, a former legislative member and daughter of the late President Alberto Fujimori, making her fourth bid for the presidency.

Fujimori campaigns on tough anti-crime measures while simultaneously supporting legislation that legal experts argue hampers criminal prosecutions. Her political party has backed laws in recent years that eliminated pre-trial detention in specific situations and increased requirements for confiscating criminal proceeds.

Her proposed reforms include anonymous judges for criminal proceedings and requiring prisoners to work for their meals if she wins the presidency.

Another major candidate is Rafael López Aliaga, a conservative politician who previously served as Lima’s mayor. His platform includes establishing correctional facilities in Peru’s Amazon territory, permitting judges to hide their identities, and deporting foreign nationals residing illegally in the country.

Comedian-turned-politician Carlos Álvarez seeks voter support by pledging to bring together leaders from El Salvador, Denmark, and Singapore to share their security expertise with Peru.

This election also marks Peru’s return to a two-chamber legislative system for the first time in over three decades, following recent constitutional changes that will place significant authority in the new upper house. Unlike previous arrangements, the president cannot dissolve the Senate, though senators will possess the power to remove presidents from office.

The new bicameral structure actually makes presidential impeachment simpler, requiring only 40 of 60 senators for approval. The previous single-chamber system needed 87 of 130 lawmakers to vote for removal, a power they used repeatedly and contributed to the country’s presidential instability over the past ten years.

This legislative change proceeds despite 80% of voters rejecting the bicameral system in a 2018 public referendum. Lawmakers modified the Constitution in 2024 to enable the transition.

Alejandro Boyco, who studies politics at the Institute of Peruvian Studies, explained that senators will select and oversee senior government officials, including the national Ombudsman, Constitutional Court justices, and certain Central Bank leadership positions. The upper chamber will also examine and modify legislation from the lower house.

“They’ve concentrated too much power in a 60-people chamber,” Boyco observed. “They are not going to be immune to being corrupt.”

A diplomatic team from Iran is set to arrive in Pakistan’s capital city Thursday evening for discussions aimed at resolving ongoing tensions with the United States and Israel, according to Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan.

Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam announced the planned diplomatic mission in a social media post Thursday, stating the delegation would engage in substantive discussions.

“Despite skepticism of Iranian public opinion due to repeated ceasefire violations by Israeli regime … Iranian delegation arrives tonight in Islamabad for serious talks based on 10 points proposed by Iran,” Moghadam wrote on the social media platform X.

The diplomatic initiative comes as regional tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East, with Iran seeking to address conflicts through negotiations in Pakistan’s capital.

NEW DELHI (AP) — Polling commenced Thursday across India’s Assam and Kerala states, along with the federal territory of Puducherry, marking the beginning of crucial regional elections that will gauge Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political influence beyond his party’s traditional base.

These contests feature Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party and its regional partners competing against various opposition groups. Currently, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance controls Assam and Puducherry, while opposition forces govern Kerala.

Voting will extend to two additional opposition-controlled regions, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, before the month concludes. Official results across all five areas are scheduled for release on May 4.

The electoral process unfolds as citizens grapple with escalating fuel prices and reduced availability of cooking gas stemming from ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts.

These results may reveal whether Modi’s political organization can expand its influence by penetrating territories where opposition parties have historically held sway. Strong performance would strengthen his federal administration, particularly after the 2024 national elections required his party to depend on regional partnerships for government formation.

For opposition movements nationwide, these elections represent a vital opportunity to establish sustained resistance against BJP control.

In Assam, located in India’s northeast region, the BJP campaigns for re-election by promoting strict immigration policies, addressing a divisive topic in this state that shares borders with Bangladesh. The ruling party’s messaging centers on preventing illegal entry by Bengali-speaking Muslim populations.

Kerala state in southern India offers distinct challenges, where governance has historically shifted between coalitions led by the Indian National Congress and communist organizations. Modi’s party faces difficulties establishing influence there despite significant investment in regional expansion efforts.

Within Puducherry, the small federal territory, the BJP depends on partnership with local political groups to maintain its governing position.

West Bengal represents the most closely monitored and controversial upcoming contest, where the regional Trinamool Congress party has maintained control through three successive terms. Modi’s organization has never held power in West Bengal, and disputes over voter registration procedures have heightened political friction.

Opposition groups claim that election officials’ Special Intensive Revision process has prevented millions of citizens, particularly Muslim minorities, from participating in voting. India’s Election Commission has rejected these accusations, stating the review removed deceased, duplicate, and fraudulent voter registrations.

Comparable registration reviews have occurred in multiple states throughout the country.

Iranian state-affiliated media outlets released information Thursday indicating that the nation’s Revolutionary Guard forces deployed naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing hostilities, appearing to be a strategic move to apply pressure during a fragile two-week truce between Iran, Israel and the United States that precedes potential talks in Islamabad.

In a rare display of forceful criticism, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued an “unequivocal” condemnation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon that resulted in hundreds of casualties Wednesday following the ceasefire announcement, his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed.

Israeli officials maintain that their ceasefire deal does not cover their ongoing conflict in Lebanon against Hezbollah, the militant organization backed by Iran, though both Iran and mediating nation Pakistan assert it should. Warning sirens echoed across northern Israel early Thursday as Hezbollah announced rocket attacks on the region.

Iran responded to Israeli military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon by shutting down the Strait of Hormuz once again on Wednesday.

President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform Thursday, declaring that American naval forces and military personnel will stay positioned near Iran “until such time as the REAL AGREEMENT reached is fully complied with.”

Trump’s social media remarks seem designed to maintain pressure on Iran while questions surround the temporary two-week halt in fighting currently in effect.

“If for any reason it is not, which is highly unlikely, then the ‘Shootin’ Starts,’ bigger, and better, and stronger than anyone has ever seen before,” Trump wrote.

The president also emphasized that Iran would be prevented from developing nuclear capabilities and declared that “the Strait of Hormuz WILL BE OPEN & SAFE.” His statement comes while maritime traffic remains halted through the strategic waterway that serves as the narrow entrance to the Persian Gulf, previously handling 20% of global oil and natural gas shipments.

A New York-based research organization has issued a warning that the temporary halt in the Iran conflict “hovers on the verge of collapse.”

The Soufan Center indicated that Wednesday’s Israeli military operations in Lebanon could cause the agreement to unravel.

“Even if Lebanon was formally outside the deal, the scale of Israel’s strikes was likely to be viewed as escalatory, nonetheless,” the organization stated in Thursday’s analysis.

“Israel’s strikes can be understood both as an effort to drive a wedge between Iran and its proxies and as a response to being allegedly sidelined in the original ceasefire discussions.”

The Al-Aqsa Mosque complex welcomed worshippers for dawn prayers Thursday after remaining shuttered throughout the Iran conflict, according to Jerusalem’s Islamic Waqf, the Jordanian religious body overseeing the site.

Jerusalem police announced Wednesday that access limitations would be removed from all religious sites in the Old City beginning Thursday morning, with hundreds of officers and volunteers deployed throughout the area.

During the now-suspended fighting, entry to Christian, Jewish and Muslim holy places was either completely banned or limited to small groups of worshippers, as Iranian missile strikes frequently forced Jerusalem residents to seek shelter.

These limitations dampened Lent, Passover and Ramadan observances for many believers at some of the most sacred locations for Christianity, Islam and Judaism.

However, the timing allows Orthodox Christians to celebrate Easter (Pascha) on Sunday, one week following Catholic and Protestant commemorations.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Iranian media outlets released navigation charts on Thursday indicating that the nation’s Revolutionary Guard forces may have deployed underwater mines in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz during recent military operations.

The information appeared in reports from ISNA, a semiofficial Iranian news service, along with Tasnim, another news agency that maintains close ties with the Revolutionary Guard organization.

According to the published chart, a large area was designated as a “danger zone” written in the Farsi language, positioned directly over the Traffic Separation Scheme — the primary shipping corridor vessels typically use when navigating through the strait. This marked area reportedly indicates where the Guard forces placed the explosive devices.

The chart recommended that maritime traffic should instead travel through northern waters closer to Iran’s coastline near Larak Island, an alternative path that maritime observers noted some vessels adopted during the conflict period.

The timeframe indicated on the navigation chart spanned from February 28 through Thursday, April 9.

Whether the Revolutionary Guard has removed the alleged mines from the shipping route remains unknown. Military analysts suggest this disclosure may represent a strategic pressure move as Iran, Israel and the United States currently maintain a fragile two-week ceasefire while preparing for potential diplomatic talks in Islamabad.

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The Australian government has committed to supporting two major fuel companies in purchasing petroleum products at elevated costs, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese cautioned Thursday that supply shortages will persist long-term regardless of whether the Iran ceasefire remains in effect.

Albanese announced that his administration has reached agreements with the nation’s top fuel suppliers, Ampol and Viva Energy, to guarantee contracts for gasoline and diesel purchased on spot markets at rates exceeding standard commercial prices.

Under these arrangements, the government will also maintain authority over fuel distribution strategies, prioritizing rural communities and agricultural regions where service stations have experienced shortages in recent weeks, according to Albanese.

“This will have a long tail, which is why after this we will travel to Singapore,” Albanese told reporters at an Ampol refinery in Australian city of Brisbane.

“I’m looking forward to a constructive meeting with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong tomorrow,” Albanese said.

“We don’t preempt one-on-one meetings at leaders’ levels, but the fact that we’re being welcomed at relatively short notice to Singapore speaks about the strength of the relationship,” he added.

Singapore officials indicated that Albanese’s upcoming visit represents part of ongoing regional efforts to maintain fuel supply chains by enhancing Australia’s energy access, according to a government statement from Singapore.

The two nations maintain significant energy trade relationships, with Australia serving as Singapore’s second-biggest liquefied natural gas provider while Singapore ranks as Australia’s primary source of refined petroleum products.

“This visit follows Australia and Singapore’s joint commitment to keep fuel flowing between both countries and to work together to strengthen energy supply chain resilience,” Singapore said.

The Prime Minister emphasized his administration’s rapid response to boost the country’s fuel availability.

Albanese characterized this week’s announcement regarding a two-week Middle East ceasefire as a positive development.

“If the ceasefire holds, that doesn’t mean that the world global capacity comes online in a week or a month. It will take as considerable period of time. This will have a long tail. That is very, very clear,” Albanese said.

A major international commodities trading company has booked a massive oil tanker for Middle Eastern crude transport to Asia, representing what industry sources believe is the first such arrangement since the recent U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement.

Glencore secured the Asian Lion, a massive vessel known as a very large crude carrier that can transport up to 2 million barrels of oil, according to shipping industry sources and LSEG tracking data. The supertanker is currently en route to the Middle East region.

The trading giant agreed to pay W580 using the Worldscale industry standard for calculating shipping costs, sources revealed. This represents a significant increase from the W230 rate recorded on February 27, just before the conflict began. Additionally, the daily waiting fee stands at $580,000, which covers costs if the vessel takes longer than expected to complete loading and unloading operations.

Company representatives from Glencore were not immediately available to provide comment regarding the vessel arrangement.

Despite the ceasefire announcement, shipping industry officials expressed Wednesday that they require additional clarification about the agreement’s specific terms before resuming regular passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian authorities have maintained that the strategic waterway continues to be restricted to vessels operating without proper authorization.

Iranian officials indicated they would provide secure transit coordination through their military forces, though the country’s coastguard issued stern warnings Wednesday that unauthorized vessels would face being “targeted and destroyed.”

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards naval division released navigational charts showing recommended shipping lanes within the Strait of Hormuz designed to help vessels avoid underwater explosive devices, according to reports from the semi-official Iranian news agency ISNA early Thursday.

The six-week military confrontation virtually halted maritime traffic through the strategic waterway, which serves as a critical passage for approximately 20% of worldwide oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, causing global energy costs to surge dramatically.

A federal appeals court issued a decision Wednesday reversing the criminal conviction of Juan Orlando Hernandez, the former president of Honduras, and directed a lower court to dismiss all charges against him.

The appellate court’s ruling marks a significant legal victory for Hernandez, who had been facing criminal charges in the United States justice system.