Trump Tells Financial Times: “My Favourite Thing Is to Take the Oil in Iran” and Signals Possible Seizure of Kharg Island
In a candid interview with the Financial Times, U.S. President Donald Trump has openly stated his preference to seize Iran’s oil resources and indicated that Washington could move to capture Kharg Island Iran’s primary oil export hub responsible for over 90% of the country’s crude exports.
“To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran but some stupid people back in the US say: ‘why are you doing that?’ But they’re stupid people,” Trump told the FT.
When asked about Iranian defences on Kharg Island, the President said: “I don’t think they have any defence. We could take it very easily.” He added: “Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options,” while noting that any such operation would require a sustained U.S. presence.
Trump drew parallels to the recent U.S. operation in Venezuela, where American forces effectively gained long-term control of the country’s oil sector. The remarks come as the Pentagon deploys thousands of additional troops to the Middle East amid ongoing tensions.
Source: Exclusive interview with *Financial Times* (published March 30, 2026)
BREAKING: Pope Leo XIV Tells Trump God Doesn’t Answer the Prayers of Warmongers
Pope Leo XIV used his Palm Sunday address to deliver a scathing moral rebuke of the U.S.-led war in Iran, warning that God refuses to hear the prayers of those whose hands are stained with blood. The Chicago-born pontiff, speaking to thousands of worshipers ahead of Easter, invoked the prophet Isaiah to make clear that war and Christianity cannot be reconciled.
“Jesus is the King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” Pope Leo said. “He does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them.”
The address carried unmistakable weight given what U.S. military commanders have been doing since the offensive against Iran began on February 28th alongside Israeli forces.
Multiple commanders reportedly told troops the operation was part of “God’s divine plan,” with some invoking Armageddon and the return of Jesus Christ as recruiting tools. The Military Religious Freedom Foundation says it received over 200 calls from active-duty personnel stationed across 50 military installations after those remarks spread.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also publicly prayed for the military to use “overwhelming violence” in Iran during a Pentagon Christian worship service held after the war began.
Pope Leo called on those bearing responsibility for the conflict to examine their conscience, asking pointedly whether they had the humility to seek confession. He expressed grief for what he called a “crucified humanity” and urged warmongers to lay down their weapons and remember their common humanity.
The war has now claimed more than 2,500 lives across Iran and Lebanon, including at least 13 American service members. The Israeli military also targeted and killed three Lebanese journalists over the weekend.
Pope Leo has previously called the conflict “atrocious” and has repeatedly demanded a ceasefire, positioning himself as one of the most prominent moral voices pushing back against the administration’s Middle East policy.
ARGENTINA ASSIGNMENT: ZAMBIAN EMBASSY STAFF IN BRAZIL VISIT CHIPOLOPOLO IN ARGENTINA
CHIPOLOPOLO have been urged to rise to the occasion ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against world champions Argentina.
First Secretary for Political and Consular Affairs at the Zambian Embassy in Brazil, Batseba Ngwenya, says the match is a chance for the 2012 African champions to prove themselves on the global stage.
She was speaking after paying a courtesy call on the squad at EFE Hotel & Cowork in Buenos Aires on Sunday.
“It will be a tough match playing the world champions, but I want to remind you that football is played on the pitch and is not always determined by reputation,” Ngwenya said.
Ngwenya urged the players to believe in themselves, remain disciplined and approach the match with confidence and determination.
Earlier, FAZ president Keith Mweemba said the fixture is more than just a friendly but a moment that could be a turning point for Zambian football.
Mweemba explained that while there is no need to dwell on past shortcomings, the current state of the game falls below expectations.
He expressed optimism about a revival of Zambian football under his reform agenda, “Operation Making Zambia Great Again.”
“Zambian football has dropped to levels where no one can be proud. But we must unite and rebuild the game through what I am calling ‘Operation Making Zambia Great Again,” Mweemba said.
At the same event, FAZ Technical Committee vice chairperson Kalusha Bwalya said the invitation from the Argentine FA is a sign of growing confidence in Zambia’s rebuilding efforts.
And Chipolopolo captain Fashion Sakala thanked Ngwenya for her encouragement and assured the nation that the team is ready for the challenge.
Zambia face Argentina on Tuesday at 20:15 local time (01:15 Wednesday, Zambian time) at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires.
”MY FAVOURITE THING IS TO TAKE THE OIL IN IRAN,” DONALD TRUMP. Iran says it agreed to “most of” the 15-point US peace plan. Trump says Iran sent 20 ships of oil as proof.
Iran War, Day 30. Here are the 10 latest updates you should probably know…
1. President Trump just said “My favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran.”
In a Financial Times interview today, Trump said he wants to seize Kharg Island, the hub that handles 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports.
“Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options.”
He added: “I don’t think they have any defence. We could take it very easily.”
10,000 troops have been ordered to deploy. 3,500 Marines already arrived Friday. 2,200 more are on the way.
Portions of the 82nd Airborne are also being dispatched.
The Pentagon has confirmed plans exist for the operation.
One White House source told Axios the strategy is: “Get them by the balls and use it for negotiations.”
—
2. Iran says it agreed to “most of” the 15-point US peace plan. Trump says Iran sent 20 ships of oil as proof.
Also today, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One: “They gave us most of the points.”
He claimed Iran sent 20 ships loaded with oil, beginning delivery tomorrow to “prove they’re serious.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister has signaled skepticism of Washington’s position all week.
Two completely different stories. Same war. Same day.
—
3. Iran is threatening to leave the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Day 30 and Iranian politicians are now openly pushing for Iran to exit the NPT, the global agreement that governs nuclear weapons.
If Iran leaves the NPT inspections stop. Oversight ends. The path to a nuclear weapon becomes wide open.
This is the most significant escalation signal of the entire war.
The US and Israel went to war to stop Iran’s nuclear program.
Iran is now threatening to remove every legal barrier to building one.
—
4. Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces, Iranian-backed Shia militia — were filmed entering Iran today.
Footage confirmed. PMF forces crossing into Iran.
A new ground actor is now inside Iranian territory.
Another player. Another front. Another complication for any ceasefire.
—
5. Four foreign ministers met in Islamabad today to end the war. Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt.
The most significant multilateral diplomatic push since the war began.
Pakistan — the messenger between Washington and Tehran said it is prepared to host direct US-Iran talks “in coming days.”
—
6. Iran’s parliament speaker said Tehran’s forces are “waiting” for a US ground invasion.
“They are secretly planning a ground invasion while floating negotiations,” said Speaker Ghalibaf.
“Our forces are waiting for them.”
—
7. Oil hit $116 a barrel overnight. Brent is heading for a record monthly jump.
Up more than 50% since February 28th.
The IEA called it the biggest oil shock in history.
Brent futures rose 3.2% to $116 in early Asia trading alone, on the back of today’s Kharg Island news and ongoing Houthi strikes.
—
8. Iran struck a chemical plant in Israel’s Ne’ot Hovav industrial zone. Hazardous leak feared.
A ballistic missile struck the Ne’ot Hovav chemical complex — home to some of Israel’s most hazardous industrial facilities.
One person injured. Authorities feared a hazardous chemical leak.
—
9. A first-born American-Israeli soldier was killed in Lebanon.
Sgt. Moshe Yitzhak Katz, 22 years old, from New Haven, Connecticut.
Killed by Hezbollah rocket fire in southern Lebanon overnight.
The first confirmed American-born IDF soldier killed in the campaign.
Three IDF soldiers killed in Lebanon in three consecutive days.
—
10. US Central Command has now struck over 11,000 targets in Iran.
Iran’s death toll: 1,900+ killed, 20,000+ injured.
And Iran is still firing.
Still blocking the strait.
Still threatening to escalate.
. .
This is Day 30.
Stay updated & turn on your notifications because this affects all of us.
UGANDA ARMY CHIEF SAYS HE CAN CAPTURE IRAN IN 14 DAYS — IRAN RESPONDED WITH A JOKE!
Uganda’s top military commander and President Museveni’s own son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, took to X and declared that a single UPDF Brigade could capture Tehran in less than 2 weeks. He also announced Uganda was ready to mobilise in support of Israel against Iran.
The whole world stopped and stared.
Iran didn’t even send a diplomat. The Iranian Embassy responded with pure sarcasm —calling Muhoozi “the latest phenomenon to entertain you on Africa’s Got Talent.”
Now let’s talk reality. Uganda has 45,000 soldiers, 200 tanks and 50 combat aircraft. Iran has ballistic missiles, battle-hardened forces, advanced drone technology, air defence systems and has been fighting proxy wars across the Middle East for decades.
If Iran fires one missile what exactly does Uganda intercept it with?
Sharp mouth is not a defence system.
This is the same general who threatened to invade Kenya in 2022 and got removed from his post. Same mouth. Different continent.
Africa deserves better representation on the world stage than this.
African Hype Media does not condone violence against any civilian. African hype media
Trump Strikes Major Blow: Long-Sought Iranian Targets Destroyed
President Trump delivered a clear message of American strength Monday, announcing that U.S. forces had taken out and destroyed multiple high-value Iranian targets in a major military success.
“Big day in Iran. Many long sought after targets have been taken out and destroyed by our great military, the finest and most lethal in the world. God bless you all!” Trump posted.
This comes as the U.S. presses Iran hard over its closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has choked global oil flows and driven up energy prices worldwide. Iran rejected ceasefire offers and kept hitting back with attacks on Israel and Gulf allies, but America’s precision strikes are degrading the regime’s missile sites, nuclear infrastructure, and military capabilities.
Breaking News | Trump Hints At Seizing Iran’s Oil Lifeline As Kharg Island Emerges As Primary Target
In a major escalation signal amid the ongoing Iran war, former US President Donald Trump has suggested that the United States could seize Iran’s oil resources, stating that his “favourite thing is to take the oil” while hinting at a potential takeover of Kharg Island, the country’s most critical oil export hub.
Kharg Island, located in the Persian Gulf, handles nearly 90 percent of Iran’s oil exports and serves as the backbone of Tehran’s energy economy. Any attempt to capture or control the island would allow the US to severely disrupt Iran’s oil trade and apply immense economic pressure on the country.
Trump’s remarks come at a time when US forces have already deployed thousands of troops in the region, raising concerns about a possible ground offensive as the conflict intensifies.
The idea of seizing Kharg Island is being viewed as one of the most aggressive strategic options under consideration in the current war scenario.
However, military analysts have warned that such an operation would be highly risky. Kharg Island lies close to Iran’s mainland and within range of Iranian missile and drone systems, meaning any US ground presence could face sustained attacks. Experts caution that instead of ending the war quickly, a seizure attempt could prolong the conflict and expose American forces to significant danger.
The island’s strategic importance has made it a central target throughout the conflict, with previous US strikes reportedly focusing on military infrastructure while avoiding direct damage to oil facilities.
Controlling Kharg would not only impact Iran’s economy but also send shockwaves through global energy markets already strained by the ongoing war.
Trump’s latest comments underscore a shift toward more direct economic warfare targeting Iran’s energy lifeline, signaling that the conflict could enter a far more dangerous and unpredictable phase.
The United Arab Emirates has started canceling residency visas for Iranian nationals stuck outside the country, hitting even golden visa holders with property and businesses in Dubai. Iranian schools have closed, the Iranian hospital in Dubai has shuttered its doors, and the consulate is down to skeleton staff. Repatriation routes are running through Afghanistan. Iran International and local portals confirmed the crackdown expanded March 27 to target long-term residents who thought their investments bought them protection.
For decades, Dubai served as Iran’s favorite loophole. Locked out of SWIFT by Western sanctions, Tehran funneled dollars through free zones, currency exchanges, and shell companies run by golden visa holders. This shadow network kept the regime’s economy breathing. No more. The UAE is now freezing assets and cutting off the flow, turning hospitality into hard enforcement.
Iran always ran two financial tracks. The old dollar back door relied on Emirati tolerance and SWIFT-adjacent tricks. The new yuan front door runs on China’s CIPS system, settled at the Strait of Hormuz under Iranian guns. Control that narrow chokepoint and you collect tolls without needing friendly banks abroad.
The UAE move wasn’t meant to speed up de-dollarization. It was payback for Iranian attacks. Yet it does exactly that: it torches the dollar lifeline while the regime builds a replacement that needs only territorial muscle and yuan settlements. No more free zones. Just raw control of 21 miles of water at Hormuz, escorted by the IRGC.
Since late February, the UAE has intercepted hundreds of ballistic missiles and thousands of drones aimed its way. While absorbing those strikes, it is dismantling the very financial infrastructure that let Iran dodge sanctions for thirty years. The Iranian flag has even been stripped from the Dubai hospital building.
This is no simple visa tweak. It is the severing of a vital umbilical cord. One door closes on the dollar. Another opens on the yuan. The financial map of the Middle East is being redrawn in real time, and Iran’s enemies are the ones forcing the shift.
Breaking News : Sanctioned Russian Tanker Enters Cuban Waters With 730,000 Barrels of Crude, Apparently With U.S. Acquiescence
A sanctioned Russian oil tanker has entered Cuban waters, poised to deliver the first major crude shipment to the energy-starved island in over two months, with reports suggesting Washington quietly stepped aside to allow it.
The Anatoly Kolodkin, a Russia-flagged vessel owned by state shipping company Sovcomflot and under U.S., EU, and UK sanctions, departed the Russian port of Primorsk on March 8 carrying approximately 730,000 barrels of crude oil. Maritime tracking platforms including Kpler, MarineTraffic, and LSEG confirm the vessel has now entered Cuban waters and is expected to offload at the port of Matanzas in western Cuba. In a notable detail, the vessel’s AIS transponder listed its destination throughout the journey as “Atlantis.”
The New York Times, citing a U.S. official, reported that Washington was allowing the tanker to proceed to Cuba. Bloomberg separately confirmed, citing two people familiar with the matter, that the Trump administration had decided not to block the delivery, a significant shift given that the U.S. Coast Guard had positioned cutters off the northeastern Cuban coast in recent days. The reason for this apparent reversal has not been officially stated.
Cuba has been in a severe energy crisis since losing Venezuelan oil supplies following the U.S. capture of Nicolas Maduro in January. Daily electricity deficits in March have reached between 1,700 and 2,040 megawatts, with blackouts exceeding 30 hours in some areas. Mexico’s Pemex also suspended shipments earlier in 2026 under threat of U.S. sanctions. Once the crude arrives, energy sector experts estimate it will take 15 to 20 days to refine and an additional 5 to 10 days to distribute, potentially yielding around 250,000 barrels of diesel, covering roughly 12.5 days of Cuba’s demand.
A second vessel, the Hong Kong-flagged Sea Horse, had earlier altered course away from Cuba and diverted to Venezuela, reportedly following U.S. pressure.
Analysts are divided on Russia’s intent. Some view the shipment as a geopolitical signal timed to the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict rather than a serious commitment to Cuba’s energy needs.
A former U.S. Embassy official in Havana, cited by Politico, assessed that Moscow is not genuinely focused on rescuing Cuba but rather on generating a strategic effect at low cost.
Sources: AFP, France 24, RFE/RL, Bloomberg, The New York Times, UPI, The Maritime Executive, Kpler (maritime analytics)
Breaking News | Iran’s Most Resilient Missile Arsenal Emerges After Massive Losses As Final Phase Becomes Hardest To Eliminate
Despite suffering heavy losses including the destruction of around 300 missile launchers and 66 production facilities, Iran’s remaining ballistic missile arsenal is now assessed to be the most difficult phase for adversaries to neutralize, according to a detailed analysis.
The report highlights that earlier stages of missile suppression operations typically target visible infrastructure such as factories, storage depots, and fixed launch sites. These targets are comparatively easier to detect and strike using intelligence, surveillance, and precision-guided munitions. However, with much of this infrastructure already degraded, what remains is a smaller but significantly more elusive and survivable missile force.
Iran’s remaining capabilities are believed to rely heavily on mobile launchers, concealed storage, and hardened underground facilities. These systems are designed specifically to withstand sustained air campaigns and complicate targeting efforts. As a result, locating and destroying the final portion of the arsenal requires far greater intelligence accuracy, persistent surveillance, and rapid strike coordination.
The analysis further emphasizes that this last segment of missile forces represents a strategic challenge, as even a limited number of surviving launchers can maintain a credible deterrent and continue to pose operational threats. Mobile platforms in particular can relocate quickly, fire with minimal warning, and blend into civilian or rugged terrain, making them highly resistant to conventional suppression tactics.
Additionally, underground missile infrastructure remains a critical factor. Deeply buried facilities and tunnel networks not only protect missiles from airstrikes but also enable Iran to preserve second-strike capabilities. This layered approach significantly raises the cost and complexity of any effort aimed at complete disarmament.
The findings underline a broader pattern observed in modern conflicts, where initial strikes degrade large portions of an adversary’s capabilities, but eliminating the final residual forces becomes exponentially more difficult.
In Iran’s case, this surviving missile segment may ultimately represent the most strategically significant portion of its arsenal.
Iranian Media Releases Satellite Images Claiming Damage to U.S. Base in Bahrain
Iran’s Tasnim News Agency has published satellite images allegedly showing damage to facilities at Isa Air Base in Bahrain, following a series of drone and missile attacks reportedly carried out over the past month.
According to the report, the images indicate impacts on multiple structures within the base, including radar maintenance facilities, drone hangars, equipment storage areas, and shelters associated with the U.S. Navy’s P-8 Poseidon aircraft.
The base, known as Isa Air Base, is a key joint-use facility supporting operations of the United States Navy in the region. However, there has been no independent verification of the images, and U.S. officials have not released confirmation regarding the extent of any damage.
Analysts note that satellite imagery has increasingly become a tool in information warfare, with both sides seeking to shape narratives amid ongoing regional tensions. The situation remains unclear as further details are awaited.
Reports Claim Joint Airstrikes on Tehran, University Site Among Alleged Targets
Unverified reports indicate that the United States and Israel may have carried out joint airstrikes targeting locations in Tehran, Iran, with one of the alleged targets being the Iran University of Science and Technology.
The university is widely regarded as one of Iran’s prominent and long-established academic institutions. However, details regarding the extent of damage, the nature of the strike, and whether the facility itself was directly impacted remain unclear.
There has been no official confirmation from U.S., Israeli, or Iranian authorities, and independent verification is not yet available.
Analysts caution that information surrounding the incident is still developing and should be treated carefully amid heightened regional tensions.
China Accused of Using Fake LinkedIn Profiles to Spy on NATO and EU Officials
European security sources have revealed an alleged intelligence operation by China involving fake profiles on LinkedIn to gather sensitive information from officials linked to NATO and the European Union.
According to reports from Brussels, the operation targeted dozens of individuals across allied institutions and EU bodies. The scheme reportedly involved operatives posing as recruiters, initially offering paid research tasks before gradually requesting non-public or classified information.
Investigations indicate that commonly used fake identities included profiles such as “Kevin Zhang,” allegedly representing a fictitious firm named “Oriental Consulting” based in Hong Kong. Targets across countries including France, Belgium, and the United Kingdom were reportedly offered payments ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Belgium’s Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden warned that similar approaches have been used globally for years, with government officials, academics, and other high-profile individuals unknowingly contacted by operatives linked to Chinese intelligence.
The information sought reportedly includes EU sanctions policies, strategic planning within NATO, and regional security matters, particularly those related to Taiwan, highlighting growing concerns over cyber-enabled espionage and information security risks within Western institutions.
Iran Fires Ghadr-110 Missile at Industrial Site in Southern Israel
Iran has reportedly launched a medium-range Ghadr-110 missile targeting the Neot Hovav industrial zone in Beersheba, located in southern Israel.
The targeted site, known as Neot Hovav, is a major industrial complex housing chemical production facilities primarily used for export. Initial reports indicate the strike is part of an escalating exchange between the two sides, though full details on damage and casualties have not yet been officially confirmed.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that the attack was carried out in retaliation for prior Israeli strikes on Iranian industrial infrastructure, framing the action as part of a broader response cycle amid intensifying regional conflict.
Security analysts warn that continued targeting of economic and industrial assets could further widen the scope of confrontation, increasing risks to civilian areas and critical supply chains in the region.
Israeli Airstrike Reportedly Kills Four IRGC Officers in Central Iran
An Israeli airstrike has reportedly killed four officers from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the city of Isfahan, located in central Iran, as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate.
According to reports, the strike was carried out by F-15I Ra’am aircraft operated by the Israeli Air Force, targeting a group of IRGC personnel at a roadside location near a fuel distribution point. All four officers were reported killed at the scene.
Further details, including the identities of those killed and the broader operational context, have not yet been officially confirmed.
The incident highlights a continued pattern of targeted strikes, raising concerns among analysts about the risk of further escalation and a widening conflict in the region.
(There has been no official confirmation from either Israeli or Iranian authorities, and independent verification is not yet available. As a result, the accuracy of the reports cannot be confirmed at this stage.)
Airstrike Reported at Iranian Gulf Port, Regional Tensions Intensify
Reports suggest that Israel may have conducted an airstrike targeting the port area of Bandar Daylam in Bushehr Province, southern Iran, along the Persian Gulf coastline.
The location is considered strategically sensitive due to its proximity to key maritime routes and regional energy infrastructure. Initial information indicates the strike took place during the evening, though details regarding the extent of damage or possible casualties remain unclear.
There has been no official confirmation from either Israeli or Iranian authorities, and independent verification is still unavailable. Analysts caution that developments in the area should be monitored closely, as the situation remains fluid and subject to rapid change.
JUST IN: Israel says they are coming up with a “plan” to allow church leaders to worship at the holy site “in the coming days” after Cardinal Pizzaballa was blocked from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday.
Netanyahu’s office has released the following statement:
“Over the past several days, Iran has repeatedly targeted the holy sites of all three monotheistic religions in Jerusalem with ballistic missiles. In one strike, missile fragments crashed meters from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
As a result, Israel has temporarily asked worshippers from all faiths not to worship at the holy sites in Jerusalem’s Old City to protect them.
Today, out of special concern for his safety, Jerusalem police prevented the Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pizzaballa from holding mass this morning at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Again, there was no malicious intent whatsoever, only concern for his safety and that of his party.
However, given the holiness of the week leading up to Easter for the world’s Christians, Israel’s security arms are putting together a plan to enable church leaders to worship at the holy site in the coming days.”
According to information provided by The Washington Post News, the United States has used more than 850 Tomahawk cruise missiles against Iran by March 2026. And this is considered a record for a large number of Tomahawk attacks in such a short time in a single war.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that these missiles were mainly launched from warships. The US forces have used such low-speed cruise missiles to destroy Iran’s deep underground or fortified military bases or installations.
The Tomahawk cruise missile was first included in the US Navy in 1983, which was first used extensively against Saddam Hussein’s military forces in Iraq from the Persian Gulf in January 1991.
This subsonic speed missile has a maximum range of about 1,600 kilometers and is capable of hitting specific targets with great precision using GPS and infrared technology.
To evade enemy radar, the Tomahawk cruise missile flies very close to the sea surface or ground, making it difficult to detect in flight. It can be launched from both warship and submarine platforms.
It can carry about 1,000 pounds of explosives and is designed and manufactured to carry nuclear warheads in addition to conventional warheads, although the US Navy currently uses it only with conventional warheads.
In short, the Tomahawk cruise missile works much like a small unmanned jet aircraft. Although it is a very old technology and slow-moving, it is still in use as one of the main weapons of the US military.
Liberia Civil War-President Samuel Doe. SAMUEL DOE became president of Liberia in 1980 at the age of 28 when he engineered a military coup that ousted and killed President William Tolbert.
Upon coming to power , Doe ordered the execution of 13 senior government officials from the Tolbert administration without trial.
HE suspended the country’s constitution until 1984, when a new constitution was approved by a popular vote. In 1985 he won a presidential election that was widely criticized as fraudulent. Doe was inaugurated as the first president of the Second Republic of Liberia in January 1986.
Samuel K. Doe was captured in Monrovia on 9 September 1990, by Prince Y. Johnson, leader of INPFL, a breakaway faction of Taylor’s NPFL. General Quinoo, had invited Doe to the ECOMOG headquarters for a meeting and assured him of his safety from the rebels. On the morning of 9 September 1990, Doe arrived at a precarious time during an ongoing change in guard duty from the well-armed and better equipped Nigerian team of peacekeepers to the weaker Gambian contingent.
The Nigerian team had just withdrawn from the scene when Doe’s convoy of lightly armed personnel arrived. Doe was escorted to General Quinoo’s office where he was formally welcomed, while most of his team of aides and guards waited outside. Johnson’s rebels surprised everyone by suddenly arriving on the scene uninvited and heavily armed, overwhelming and disarming the entirety of Doe’s team while encountering no resistance. They then started shooting Doe’s team individually and later in groups.
Upon hearing the gunshots from outside, Doe expressed concern to Quinoo, who assured him that all was fine. Quinoo later excused himself to check on what was happening outside and was followed by his aide, Captain Coker of the Gambian contingent. Both men took cover upon assessing the situation. Johnson’s men moved indoors, finished off Doe’s remaining team, shot him in the leg, and took him captive. When the dust settled, over 80 of Doe’s men lay dead. Coker characterized the incident not as a fight, but a brutal massacre. Remarkably, none of the ECOMOG personnel were shot in the carnage.
Doe was taken to Johnson’s military base. To prove that he was not protected by black magic, Johnson ordered Doe’s ears be cut off in his presence. Shackles were also placed around Doe’s legs and something strange was tied around his glans, as can be seen in the recording.
At the end of the recording Doe was forced to get up, and some of his fingers and toes were also amputated. After 12 hours of torture at Johnson’s hands, Doe was finally murdered; his corpse had its head shaved and was exhibited naked in the streets of Monrovia with cigarette burns.
Doe’s body was later exhumed and reburied. The spectacle of his torture was video-taped and seen on news reports around the world. The video shows Johnson sipping a beer as Doe’s ear is cut off.
U.S. Now Has Over 50,000 Troops in the Middle East 10,000 Above Normal Levels After Fresh Deployment of 5,000 Marines and Sailors
The arrival of 2,500 Marines and another 2,500 sailors has maintained American troop strength in the Mideast at more than 50,000 — roughly 10,000 more than the usual baseline as the month-old conflict with Iran continues.
This marks one of the largest U.S. military buildups in the region in nearly two decades, according to U.S. military officials.
2.SCALE G -Diploma holders both Secondary and Primary teachers. Note: Advanced Diploma has no salary scale.
3.SCALE H -Senior Teachers only at primary schools.
4.SCALE I -Degree holders both primary and secondary. -Deputy head teacher primary. -District Resources Center Coordinator (DRCC) Note. Master Degree has no salary Scale.
5.SCALE J -Head teachers primary. -Head Of Department (HOD). -Deputy Head teacher Secondary. -College lecturers. -Education Standard Officers (ESO).
6.K SCALE -Head Teacher Secondary. -PRCC. -District Education Standard Officer(DESO) -District Education Board Secretary (DEBS). -HOD teacher training college. -Vice Principal College. -Senior Education Standard Officers (SESO). -Senior Education Officers(SEO).
7.L SCALE -Principal Education Standard Officer (PESO) both and provincial and National levels. -Principal Education Officer (PEO). -Principal teachers College. -Assistant Directors.
IF ZAMBIANS DON’T FUND MY CAMPAIGN, IT MEANS THEY’RE HAPPY WITH HOW THINGS ARE – SANGWA
MOVEMENT for National Renewal leader John Sangwa says he would rather not take part in an election than beg foreign interests to fund his campaign.
He adds that if he doesn’t receive campaign contributions from Zambians, it would indicate that citizens are satisfied with the current state of the country.
Meanwhile, Sangwa argues that Zambia’s judiciary is currently weak.
Appearing on the Justified Politics Podcast earlier this week, Sangwa said renewal was about trying something new.
“Renewal is not about doing the same thing, it’s actually about abandoning things that have been repeatedly done and trying something new. And no one has ever come out in Zambia to say I’m going to have my campaign fully funded by Zambians, we want to do that. And somebody asked me to say, what if you don’t get the money? Well, if I don’t get the money, it means Zambians are happy with the status and there is nothing I’m going to do about that, it’s as simple as that. I love my country and I can make sacrifices, but there is one line that I cannot cross and that is to start begging money from business interests and foreign interests, that I will not do. I would rather not take part in the election at all. If we don’t get the money, all what it means is that Zambians are happy with the way things are. If Zambians don’t fund it (campaign) then that’s it, I’ll respect that it’s a democracy after all,” he said.
Speaking on the independence of the judiciary, Sangwa said Zambia’s judiciary under the one-party state was more effective than it is now.
“What we have seen since 2021 is the complete distraction of oversight institutions. By oversight, I mean the Judiciary, you’re also talking about the National Assembly, you’re also talking about institutions like that of the Auditor General and all these institutions that are supposed to serve as a check on the presidency. They are either occupied by people that are sympathetic to the regime or they are just weak, underfunded and ultimately completely ineffectual.
They exist on paper but in real terms they are completely ineffective. What is worse in every country; I have a saying [that] it’s okay to have a corrupt and weak president, it’s okay to have a weak and corrupt National Assembly but you cannot survive to have a weak and corrupt Judiciary,” said Sangwa.
“Once you have that, you’re basically gone as a people and that is where we are. Not only is our Judiciary very weak but I have been practicing law for 36 years and I have never seen the Judiciary at this point in terms of weakness. In fact, the Judiciary we had during the time of one-party rule from 1972 to 1991 was a far more effective Judiciary than we currently have.
.So, really when you talk about Judiciary, you are not just being serious, this is an institution that has literally collapsed. Still on the Judiciary, the biggest problem is not really the structure of the institution, the biggest problem is the character of individuals appointed to these offices.
Recently they were recruiting some judges and I said as a way of improving the status of the Judiciary, can we have a transparent system of appointment? I’ve always challenged judges and some of them are my friends and I always say that none of the judges in Zambia often say they were appointed on merit. Not a single judge in Zambia can say ‘I was appointed on merit,’ why? There is no transparent system”.
DISMISSAL OF NKOMBO AS UPND CHAIR FOR ELECTIONS IS ILLEGAL – UPND MEMBER
UPND member Charles Longwe says the dismissal of Gary Nkombo as the party chairperson for elections by the National Management Committee (NMC) is unlawful because the committee’s mandate expired on February 14, 2026.
Longwe adds that the upcoming UPND convention slated for April 15, 2026, is illegal, as party members have not been given a 30-day public notice as stipulated in the UPND constitution.
On Friday, UPND acting Secretary General Gertrude Imenda disclosed that the ruling party would hold its general conference next month.
In a statement, Saturday, Longwe said the guidelines from the Registrar of Societies are explicit as public notices should have been issued to the membership.
“I would like to address a significant governance issue regarding the unlawful actions, referred to as ‘imingalato’ by certain individuals within the United Party for National Development (UPND) secretariat.
Firstly, following my earlier response to a widely circulated document from the so-called presidential media team on March 26, 2026, a retraction of that document was issued, and a new memo was introduced, which suggests that the internal memo was originally dated March 14, 2026.
The authenticity of this memo was confirmed by the party’s Deputy Secretary General, Ms. Getrude Imenda, in the March 27, 2026 edition No.2220 of the News Diggers newspaper, where she also affirmed that the intra-party election process leading up to the party convention on April 15, 2026, is in progress.
In light of statements made by the Deputy Secretary General, I must draw your attention to the relevant provisions in the UPND party constitution, specifically Articles 53, 87, 88, 89, 90, and 93,” Longwe stated.
“The proposed party General Assembly scheduled for April 15 requires a 30-day public notice to members prior to its convening. This context explains the backdated notice issued on March 26, purporting to have been made on March 14, 2026, which is fraud and hence illegal.
Furthermore, the DSG claims that intra-party processes are ongoing. Article 93 stipulates a 14-day notice period for such conferences at all levels. No such notices have been issued or published as required by law.
https://youtu.be/viGMI9idM50?si=71RF1KhzAJG_tItl
I anticipate that, given these disclosures, the secretariat and media team may issue further backdated notices in an attempt to rectify their oversight. However, I assure you that these irregularities will not go unchallenged. The guidelines from the Registrar of Societies are explicit; public notices should have been duly issued to the membership”.
Longwe urged UPND members not to endorse “illegal activities”.
“It has now come to the public light that personnel changes within the National Management Committee (NMC) regarding the Elections and Campaigns portfolio have occurred following the dismissal of Hon. G. Nkombo MP last February, with Hon. L. Mufalali MP appointed as his replacement. Members of the press, on March 18, 2026, I initiated legal proceedings against the UPND in the Lusaka High Court concerning the expiration of the mandate for all elected members of the NMC, which lapsed on February 14, 2026, rendering the committee functus officio.
It is important to mention here that the UPND has been evading service of the court process. Additionally, the appointment of the new Elections Chairperson is unlawful, as no individual within the party possesses legitimate authority to appoint or dismiss any party member from any position since February 14, 2026. Consequently, such appointments are void ab initio.
I urge UPND members not to endorse illegal activities or engage in futile endeavours. I reiterate what was said in our last statement, that our commitment to holding a General Assembly in 2026 remains steadfast. The UPND will conduct its conventions in 2026 lawfully,” said Longwe.
NKANA Member of Parliament (MP) Binwell Mpundu says he will report a minister over a questionable contract involving the construction of a pharmaceutical industry in Zambia.
The Zambian government, in partnership with a private Indian firm, recently launched the construction of a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical manufacturing plant at the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone (LS-MFEZ) in what is reported to be a joint venture.
But Mpundu said when he featured on a live Facebook stream by former Petauke Central MP Emmanuel ‘Jay’ Banda the whole deal reeked of corruption and that he had tried to present the matter to Parliament but that it did not go as planned.
https://youtu.be/viGMI9idM50?si=71RF1KhzAJG_tItl
“I’m going to report because this deal is corruption of the highest order, which needs to be dealt with by the powers that be,” he said.
Mpundu said he did not understand the rationale behind the deal because the Indian firm was not coming with any money but would get a fortune from the said deal.
And Banda accused the finance minister of registering his maid as one of the shareholders in the said deal.
He said the minister would benefit about US$25 million which was equivalent to K524 million from the venture.
“I want to challenge the minister to deny the allegations I’m giving about him including his maid in this deal,” he said.
THE UNEMPLOYMENT LEVEL IN UPND HAS WORSENED, GRADUATES ARE NOW MAKING SHAWARMA WHILE OTHERS ARE STREET VENDORS – KAFWAYA
LUNTE Member of Parliament Hon Mutotwe kafwaya, has raised concern over the rising levels of unemployment in zambia, stating that the situation has worsened under the upnd government.
He observed that many university graduates are now resorting to selling shawarma and engaging in street vending to survive an outcome he believes should not be the norm for individuals with higher education qualifications.
Kafwaya argued that when someone trained in a professional field, such as medicine, ends up in informal trading, it reflects economic desperation rather than entrepreneurship.
He further stated that during its time in power, the pf government was able to create jobs within its seven-year tenure.
He made these remarks when he appeared on a Prime TV programme.
WHY THE RECENTLY PUBLISHED BENCHMARK BOND POLICY MATTERS TO ORDINARY PEOPLE IN ZAMBIA
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has introduced the 2026 Benchmark Bond Policy to make the domestic bond market work better, more predictably, and more efficiently. That may sound technical, but the idea behind it is actually simple. The Government wants to improve the way it raises money locally, manages domestic debt, and supports the development of a stronger financial market here at home.
In plain language, the policy is meant to fix a long-standing problem in the domestic bond market: too many fragmented bonds that are difficult to trade, compare, and price properly. When a market is fragmented, it becomes harder for investors to know the true cost of lending, harder for Government to borrow efficiently, and harder for the wider economy to benefit from a clear and reliable interest-rate signal. The new policy responds to that problem by organizing Government bond issuance into a smaller number of standard, more liquid instruments.
What does that mean in everyday terms? It means Government wants to issue bonds in a more orderly and concentrated way so that they are easier to buy, sell, and use as reference points in the financial system. When that happens, the market begins to produce a clearer yield curve. A yield curve is simply a guide that shows the cost of borrowing for different time periods. Once that guide is clearer, it becomes easier for financial institutions, businesses, and investors to price money more accurately across the economy.
This is where the policy becomes important to citizens. A stronger domestic bond market is not only about debt managers and bankers. It is about building a more stable financial system that can support investment, improve market confidence, and reduce inefficiencies in public financing over time. If Government can manage domestic borrowing more strategically, it helps create a more predictable environment for the broader economy.
It is also important to correct possible misreads. This policy does not mean Government is announcing uncontrolled new borrowing. It does not mean Government is abandoning debt discipline. It does not mean public money is being handed over to outside interests. And it does not mean ordinary citizens will be pushed aside for the benefit of large financial players. Rather, the policy is about improving the structure of the domestic debt market so that borrowing, refinancing, and trading happen in a more disciplined, transparent, and market-aware way.
The policy is grounded in Zambia’s legal framework, especially the Public Debt Management Act, 2022 and the BANK OF ZAMBIA Act, 2022. That matters because it shows this is not an improvised measure. It sits within an established system for debt management, market development, and fiscal responsibility.
The policy also provides practical tools for implementation. These include reopening selected bonds instead of constantly creating new fragmented ones, using auctions as the main method of issuance, maintaining market-based pricing, and carrying out liability management operations such as bond switches and buybacks. Again, in simpler terms, this means Government is trying to clean up and streamline the domestic debt portfolio rather than allow it to become scattered and difficult to manage.
The BANK OF ZAMBIA, acting as fiscal agent, will help operationalize the program, and the policy will be reviewed every three years so it remains aligned with changing market conditions and national priorities.
For citizens, the key message is this: Zambia is working to build a domestic debt market that is more orderly, more credible, and more useful to the wider economy. This is not a policy for speculation. It is a policy for structure. It is not about borrowing for the sake of borrowing. It is about managing domestic debt better, supporting financial market development, and laying a firmer foundation for stability, investment, and long-term economic transformation.
The real value of this policy will be seen not in headlines alone, but in whether it helps Zambia build a financial system that serves the national interest more effectively, more transparently, and more sustainably.
Download A Copy Of The 2026 Benchmark Bond Policy, Here: https://www.mofnp.gov.zm/?wpdmpro=2026-benchmark-bond-policy
The domestic bond market is the part of a country’s financial system where Government, companies, or other approved institutions borrow money from investors within the country, usually in the local currency.
In Zambia’s case, it mainly refers to the market where the Government issues Kwacha-denominated securities, such as Treasury bills and Government bonds, and where banks, pension funds, insurance firms, asset managers, and other investors buy and trade them. Put simply, it is a local borrowing market.
HERE IS A PRACTICAL MEANING: When the Government needs financing, it does not always borrow from outside the country. It can also raise money inside Zambia by issuing bonds to investors in the local market. Those investors lend money to the Government, and the Government agrees to repay them with interest over time. The system through which those bonds are issued, bought, sold, and traded is the domestic bond market.
It usually has two parts. The primary market is where the bond is first issued by the Government and bought by investors. The secondary market is where those investors later sell the bond to other investors before it matures.
WHY IT MATTERS: A well-functioning domestic bond market helps the Government finance itself more predictably, gives investors safer long-term investment options, helps establish local interest-rate benchmarks, and supports broader economic stability.
In conclusion, the domestic bond market is the local market where Government and other institutions raise money by issuing bonds to investors, usually in the country’s own currency.
Iran Parliament Speaker Accuses U.S. of Deception, Warns of Severe Retaliation
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has issued a strong warning toward the United States, accusing Washington of using peace proposals as a cover for potential military escalation, including preparations for a possible ground operation.
In remarks addressed to the public, Ghalibaf claimed that recent diplomatic signals from the U.S. are misleading, suggesting they are intended to divert attention from what he described as strategic military planning targeting key areas such as Kharg Island and the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that Iran views any such move as a direct act of aggression that would not be tolerated.
Ghalibaf further stated that Iran would not accept what he described as “humiliating terms,” warning that both the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and national armed forces are prepared to respond decisively if U.S. troops enter Iranian territory.
His comments reflect escalating rhetoric between Tehran and Washington, as tensions continue to rise over the possibility of a broader military confrontation in the region.
Trump Readies Boots on the Ground to Crush Iran’s Regime
The Pentagon is gearing up for weeks of ground operations inside Iran, deploying thousands of U.S. Marines and Army paratroopers to the Middle East as the conflict with the mullahs enters its fifth week.
According to reports, these plans focus on targeted raids using Special Operations forces and conventional infantry — hitting key sites like Kharg Island and coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz.
No full-scale invasion, but a clear escalation to finish the job after U.S. and Israeli strikes already hammered Iran’s missile sites, navy, and top leadership.
President Trump has not given final approval yet, but the military is moving fast. This comes after Iran rejected serious peace overtures and kept threatening the region with its remaining drones and missiles. The goal: neutralize the terror-sponsoring regime that’s destabilized the Middle East for decades, protect vital shipping lanes, and prevent a nuclear-armed threat from ever rising again.
Critics on the left and isolationist fringes are already crying “forever war,” but America’s fighting men and women stand ready. Weakness invited this mess — strength will end it. Pray for our troops as Trump weighs the call to deliver decisive victory. No more half-measures with Iran.
US-Israel Airstrikes Take Out Top Iranian Nuclear Weapons Boss
Murad Ali Fouladvand, director of Iran’s SPND nuclear research organization and a central figure in the regime’s covert push for atomic weapons, has been eliminated in recent US and Israeli airstrikes. Iranian sources confirm the strike hit in Borujerd, killing Fouladvand along with family members.
Fouladvand led SPND, the successor outfit to Iran’s pre-2004 nuclear weapons program, overseeing dual-use technologies that advanced Tehran’s forbidden bomb ambitions. The US had already sanctioned him for his role in the threat.
This is no random hit. Fouladvand survived a June 2025 attack during the 12-day war that killed his wife, Masoumeh Pirhadi. He did not dodge justice a second time.
Spanish Socialist PM Sánchez Slams Israel Over Palm Sunday Blockade at Christianity’s Holiest Site
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez wasted no time blasting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after police blocked top Catholic leaders from celebrating Palm Sunday Mass at Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
“Netanyahu has prevented Catholics from celebrating Palm Sunday in Jerusalem’s Holy Places. Without any explanation. Without reasons or motives,” Sánchez declared. “From the Government of Spain, we condemn this unjustified attack on religious freedom and demand that Israel respect the diversity of beliefs and international law.”
The incident marks the first time in centuries that the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and the Custos of the Holy Land were turned away by Israeli police while heading privately to the church — the traditional site of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Vatican officials called the move “manifestly unreasonable and grossly disproportionate.”
Netanyahu’s office claimed the block was purely for the leaders’ safety amid Israel’s ongoing war with Iran, insisting there was “no malicious intent.”
This isn’t Sánchez’s first shot at Israel. The socialist leader has repeatedly accused Israel of genocide in Gaza, pushed for EU sanctions, and recognized a Palestinian state. His quick condemnation fits a pattern of European leftists piling on Israel even as it fights for survival against Iranian-backed threats.
While security concerns in a war zone are real, denying access to Christianity’s most sacred site on one of its holiest days — with zero advance warning — raises legitimate questions about proportionality and respect for religious freedom. Christians worldwide expect better from the stewards of Jerusalem’s holy places, not political grandstanding from abroad.
Former Venezuelan Leader Maduro Breaks Silence from U.S. Detention, Thanks Supporters
Former Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro has issued his first public message since being detained in the United States, expressing gratitude to supporters and stating that he remains “calm” and “strong” while in custody.
Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have reportedly been held for nearly three months in a federal detention facility in New York City following their arrest earlier this year. Despite limited access to outside communication, a message posted on Maduro’s account on the platform X claimed the couple continues to receive support through letters, messages, and prayers.
In the statement, Maduro described the outpouring of support as a source of “spiritual strength,” while also praising the unity of the Venezuelan people during what he called a difficult period. It remains unclear who published the message on his behalf.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Maduro is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, a federal facility that has faced criticism over living conditions. Reports suggest he is permitted limited communication with family members and legal representatives under strict time constraints.
The development adds a new dimension to the political situation surrounding Venezuela, as questions continue to arise over the legal and diplomatic implications of Maduro’s detention.
DAMN: Republican Rep admits they’ll ‘Lose 60 to 70 Seats’ if Trump launches Iran ground invasion, after massive MAGA backlash from families seeing their kids and grandkids putting boots on the ground for a meaningless war.
A new Politico report exposes panic inside the GOP as Trump edges closer to deeper war with Iran. One Republican lawmaker too cowardly to give his name said, “We lose 60 to 70 seats if troops hit the ground.”
And it’s not just one voice. Even loyalists are cracking.
Rep. Eli Crane said: I’m really, really hopeful this doesn’t turn into a boots-on-the-ground situation… My biggest concern this whole time is that this would turn into another long Middle Eastern war. I know a lot of our supporters and a lot of members of Congress are very concerned.
Rep. Nancy Mace drew a hard line: No U.S. troops on the ground. If that changes, we’re in a different phase of the conflict.
Rep. Derrick Van Orden made it clear he opposes sending troops. Rep. Ryan Mackenzie warned about another Forever War.
Even Speaker Mike Johnson tried to calm fears, saying a ground invasion is not the intention and should not be necessary.
But behind closed doors, they already know. They voted to block oversight, handed Trump unchecked power, and now they’re terrified of the consequences.
They enabled this. Now they’re running from it while the country pays the price.
Like and Share if you support stopping another endless war before it begins… and PUNISHING Republicans for backing it.
ARMY COMMANDER CONVICTED OF GUINEA STADIUM MASSACRE DIES IN PRISON
ONE of the key military figures convicted of crimes against humanity for his involvement in Guinea’s 2009 stadium massacre has died in custody, authorities say.
Aboubacar Sidiki Diakité, also known as Toumba died early on Wednesday in hospital following a medical emergency, the prison administration said.
He was serving a 10-year sentence for his role in one of the darkest episodes in Guinea’s history in which more than 150 people were killed in the capital, Conakry, as they demanded an end to military rule. At least 109 women were also raped.
While in custody, Diakité remained a controversial figure, creating a political party and attempting to run for president.
Last year, he declared his intention to stand in the presidential elections, which was rejected by the Supreme Court after it ruled he was ineligible.
At the time of the massacre, Diakité was commander of the presidential guard and a close ally of Guinea’s then military ruler, Moussa Dadis Camara.
According to the prison administration, Diakité was declared dead at the Samory Touré Military Hospital in Conakry, where he was taken late on Monday.
Citing his medical report, the administration said he presented symptoms characterised by gastric swelling, abdominal pain and constipation.
His death has prompted mixed reactions in Guinea where memories of the 2009 violence remain politically sensitive, with people still waiting for justice.
One political expert likened his death to “the end of an era”, telling the BBC: “He died, but the full truth died with him.”
Tens of thousands of people had gathered at a stadium on 28 September 2009 to protest against the possibility of Camara running for president.
On Camara’s orders, security forces opened fire on the crowd. More than 150 people were killed and hundreds more injured.
According to judicial findings, at least 109 women and girls were also raped.
AFP via Getty Images Police standing in a line – with their backs to the camera – pushing against protesters AFP via Getty Images Tens of thousands of protesters had gathered at the stadium in Conakry in 2009 Camara survived a shot to the head shortly after the massacre, which was blamed on Diakité, according to the AFP news agency.
Diakité later fled the country and in December 2016, he was arrested in Senegal, where he was living under an assumed identity. A year later, he was extradited to Guinea.
After being shot, Camara spent 12 years in exile before returning to face justice. Following a 22-month trial, he and seven of his commanders were convicted in 2024.
Camara was sentenced to 20 years in prison for crimes against humanity, but pardoned in March last year by the current leader, Mamady Doumbouya – less than a year into his imprisonment – for health reasons.
His killing has underlined the unresolved tensions in Guinea’s political landscape, where former military figures have continued to exert influence long after leaving power, and where the boundaries between justice, reconciliation and political ambition remain contested.
Guinea has experienced repeated periods of instability since independence, marked by military coups, contested elections and violent crackdowns on dissent.
Although the country has formally returned to civilian rule, efforts to address past abuses have been slow and, at times, deeply divisive.
In 2010 – shortly after the massacre – Alpha Condé won a presidential election. He was ousted in the country’s most recent coup in 2021 by Doumbouya, who went on to win presidential elections last year.
Diakité’s death raises fresh questions about the legacy of accountability and about the fate of those held responsible for one of the darkest episodes in Guinea’s recent history.
CAF GENERAL SECRETARY RESIGNS AMID AFCON FINAL FALLOUT
THE General Secretary of the Confederation of African Football has resigned amid a chaotic time for football on the continent.
Veron Mosengo-Omba said in a statement he was retiring, but his departure comes during the fallout over decisions to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title and postpone the women’s tournament at the last minute.
These incidents have left Caf, the governing body for African football, battling a crisis of confidence.
Mosengo-Omba alluded to controversies faced during his tenure in his statement on Sunday.
“Now that I have been able to dispel the suspicions that some people have gone to great lengths to cast on me, I can retire with peace of mind and without constraint, leaving the CAF more prosperous than ever,” Mosengo-Omba, deputy to Caf president Patrice Motsepe, wrote.
The 66-year-old has been criticised for staying on as general secretary past the organisation’s mandatory retirement age of 63.
He has also been accused by some employees of creating a toxic atmosphere in the workplace, although an investigation after staff complaints cleared him of any wrongdoing.
Mosengo-Omba, who hails from the Democratic Republic of Congo but also holds Swiss nationality, was appointed general secretary in March 2021.
Ukraine Expands Strikes on Russian Energy Infrastructure, Targeting War Revenue
Ukraine has intensified its counteroffensive by targeting key energy infrastructure inside Russia, including oil refineries, fuel depots, and port facilities, according to reports from Moscow.
Ukrainian officials have indicated that such sites are considered legitimate targets, as part of a broader strategy to disrupt revenue streams that help sustain Moscow’s military operations. The campaign reflects a shift toward deeper economic pressure, aiming to weaken Russia’s logistical and financial capacity amid the ongoing conflict.
The escalation highlights Kyiv’s evolving approach, moving beyond frontline engagements to strike critical infrastructure, while analysts warn the strategy could provoke further retaliation and deepen the intensity of the war.Expands Strikes on Russian Energy Infrastructure, Targeting War Revenue
Ukraine has intensified its counteroffensive by targeting key energy infrastructure inside Russia, including oil refineries, fuel depots, and port facilities, according to reports from Moscow.
Ukrainian officials have indicated that such sites are considered legitimate targets, as part of a broader strategy to disrupt revenue streams that help sustain Moscow’s military operations. The campaign reflects a shift toward deeper economic pressure, aiming to weaken Russia’s logistical and financial capacity amid the ongoing conflict.
The escalation highlights Kyiv’s evolving approach, moving beyond frontline engagements to strike critical infrastructure, while analysts warn the strategy could provoke further retaliation and deepen the intensity of the war.
U.S. Amphibious Assault Ship Arrives in Middle East, Fuels Ground Operation Speculation
The United States has deployed the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli to the Middle East, according to United States Central Command, intensifying speculation over a potential expansion of U.S. military operations in the region.
CENTCOM stated that the vessel, which is typically forward-deployed in Japan, arrived in the region on Friday carrying approximately 3,500 U.S. Marines and Navy personnel. The ship is equipped with transport aircraft, fighter jets, and amphibious warfare systems designed for rapid deployment and expeditionary missions.
The deployment comes amid growing discussion in Washington over possible next steps in addressing tensions involving Iran. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently suggested that U.S. objectives could be achieved without ground forces, President Donald Trump has remained ambiguous on the issue.
U.S. media reports indicate that the administration is considering the option of deploying additional troops to the Middle East, with figures potentially reaching 10,000 personnel. Analysts note that the arrival of the USS Tripoli signals a heightened state of readiness, even as uncertainty remains over whether a ground operation will ultimately be authorized.
Jada Smith saw her husband, Will Smith, having fvn with another w0man.
It has now been reported that she hasn’t allowed Will to live with her.
According to her, she’s enjoying her peace and wants to be alone for now.
When she was asked when the couple would start living together again as husband and wife, she said she doesn’t know how they would do it, but it will happen when the time comes.
Recall that Will Smith took her back after she had an a~ff~air with their son’s friend.
Will also sl~@-pped Chris Rock on stage because he felt Chris was d-!-srespecting his wife.
He later renewed his vows with her, saying he would take her back no matter what she had done.
Now, Will has been spotted having fvn with another w0man.
America Sends Massive B-52 Bomber Fleet to Hammer Iran
Two more U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers just thundered onto RAF Fairford in England, pushing the total at the base to 23 heavy bombers ready for action.
This rapid buildup gives America overwhelming long-range strike power aimed straight at Iran’s missile sites, nuclear facilities, and terror proxies. Each B-52 can haul up to 70,000 pounds of precision munitions like JDAMs, delivering destruction from thousands of miles away without relying on vulnerable forward bases.
The move comes as the U.S. ramps up Operation Epic Fury against the mullahs’ regime. Washington is done with half-measures and empty diplomacy that only emboldens Tehran. Strong leadership is projecting real strength, forcing the ayatollahs to face the consequences of their aggression, ship attacks, and nuclear games.
Britain’s approval of the base use shows even reluctant allies recognize the threat. While some locals gripe about noise or “unwanted” involvement, the free world benefits when America leads with firepower instead of weakness.
Makebi Zulu says he was blocked from leaving Zambia at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, describing the incident as a breach of constitutional rights and a sign of tightening political space ahead of the August 13 general election.
The episode, which he says occurred as he attempted to travel for engagements outside the country, raises questions about whether political participation now carries informal restrictions imposed by those in office. His position is clear: contesting leadership does not suspend a citizen’s right to movement.
The incident comes at a time when political activity is intensifying across the country, with multiple actors positioning themselves ahead of the polls. Zambia’s Constitution guarantees freedom of movement, and no statute requires political figures to seek clearance from government officials before travelling. Zulu argues that any deviation from this principle shifts authority from law into discretionary control.
He frames the experience as part of a broader pattern. In his account, the line between governance and control is narrowing, with state power extending into areas traditionally protected by constitutional safeguards. Once movement becomes conditional, he argues, the foundation of political participation begins to weaken.
Zulu links the moment directly to the electoral calendar. With August 13 approaching, he suggests that such incidents carry weight beyond personal inconvenience, shaping perceptions of how freely political actors can operate. He casts the restriction as a form of political pressure, describing it as reliance on limitation rather than open contest.
His remarks also highlight the tension between institutional authority and political neutrality. When actions affecting opposition figures occur without transparent legal grounding, scrutiny shifts toward the institutions involved and the conditions under which they operate.
The argument rests on a central premise: rights must apply uniformly, regardless of political alignment. Any inconsistency, he says, turns isolated incidents into matters of national concern, particularly in an election year where credibility depends on equal treatment.
Zulu’s closing message — “Makebi For President – 2026” — places the incident within a campaign framework, signalling that the issue will form part of his political narrative in the months leading to the vote.
US troops flee as Iranian strikes intensify across West Asia
Sustained Iranian air strikes are reportedly forcing United States troops to withdraw or reduce their presence at multiple bases across West Asia, marking a dangerous escalation in regional tensions.
From Kuwait to the United Arab Emirates, repeated strikes have allegedly damaged infrastructure, destroyed key military assets, and disrupted operations linked to U.S. forces.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a warning to civilians across the region to stay away from areas hosting American troops, signalling the widening scope of potential targets.
Reports further suggest that some U.S. personnel have been relocated to hotels across Gulf states following attacks on military installations. Iran has now warned that even these locations could be considered targets if they are used to shelter American forces.
The situation raises serious concerns about a broader regional conflict, as both sides appear to be hardening their positions.
