🇿🇲 BRIEFING | Govt Warns of Possible Fuel Price Shock as Middle East War Disrupts Global Oil Markets
Government says Zambia could soon face higher fuel prices and a rising cost of living as the conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global oil markets.
Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa says the pressure on fuel prices is being driven by international developments rather than domestic policy decisions.
According to Mweetwa, the ongoing Iran–Israel–United States conflict has already unsettled global energy markets, pushing crude oil prices upward and threatening supply routes in the Gulf.
He said if fuel prices rise in Zambia in the coming weeks, citizens should understand that the situation would be linked to the international crisis.
“If fuel prices and the cost of living rises particularly in the near future, citizens should know that it is not the government’s doing but the unavoidable effects of the Iran-Israel/USA war.”
The Middle East conflict has raised fears about the security of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping corridors. Nearly one fifth of global oil supplies normally pass through the narrow waterway.
Any disruption to that route tends to push global oil prices upward, a development that quickly feeds into fuel costs in countries like Zambia that rely heavily on imported petroleum products.
Rising global oil prices often trigger a chain reaction across economies, affecting transport costs, food prices and general inflation, particularly in import-dependent markets.
Government officials say the situation will continue to be monitored as global markets react to developments in the Gulf.
KABESHA RAISES ALARM OVER SOCIAL MEDIA MISINFORMATION THREAT AHEAD OF 2026 ELECTIONS
By: Gift Tembo
Justice sector leaders have called for stronger collaboration among prosecutors, electoral authorities, and law enforcement agencies to safeguard democracy and ensure credible elections ahead of Zambia’s 2026 general elections.
Speaking during the National Annual Prosecutors Conference, Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha urged prosecutors to remain vigilant and uphold the rule of law as the country prepares for the polls.
He stressed that prosecutors play a critical role in protecting democratic space by ensuring that electoral offences such as hate speech, incitement to violence, and misconduct are prosecuted swiftly and fairly.
General Kabesha also warned that social media platforms are increasingly being used to spread misinformation and hate speech aimed at discrediting political opponents.
Meanwhile, Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri emphasized that prosecutors must uphold integrity, professionalism, and independence in discharging their constitutional mandate.
He said credible elections depend on strong institutions that enforce the law impartially.
Phiri highlighted achievements by the National Prosecution Authority, including the recruitment of 100 advocates to strengthen capacity, particularly in economic and financial crimes.
He added that prosecutors must adapt to emerging challenges such as technology-facilitated crimes during election periods. #SunFmTvNews
Rev Mwambazi escalates allegations against Dr Sibanda
A PROMINENT Zambian clergyman has added extra heat to the allegations of sexual impropriety leveled against Pearl of Health Gynaecologist Dr Reward Sibanda.
The man of the cloth says three women have contacted him privately with more damning accusations against the medic.
This morning, Kalemba published a story in which a 31-year old Lusaka resident, Alice Makina has accused Dr Sibanda of attempting to coerce her into a sexual relationship during a medical appointment.
According to a demand letter seen by Kalemba, the alleged incident occurred during a scheduled intrauterine device (IUD) insertion procedure.
The complainant claims that Dr Sibanda expressed romantic interest in her, made inappropriate remarks, and engaged in non-consensual physical contact.
She further alleged that the doctor removed the wrapper meant to cover her during the procedure, leaving her exposed.
According to the documents, when Alice resisted, the doctor allegedly reassured her that she should not fear pregnancy because he had undergone a vasectomy.
Her lawyers are now demanding K3.5 million in compensation from both the hospital and the doctor for trauma, mental anguish, and other damages.
A few minutes after reading the story, Rev Walter Mwambazi commented that he knew the doctor as a professional who had worked with his family in a commendable manner.
The reverend further cautioned that while such allegations could not be dismissed, it was important to wait and see whether similar claims would emerge from other women.
According to Rev Mwambazi, about 30 minutes after his comment, he received a call from a friend who confirmed that Dr Sibanda had repeatedly made advances towards her, asking for sex over a long period despite being regarded as an older brother.
Rev Mwambazi claimed that after receiving the first message, he texted the doctor to express his disappointment.
He said while doing so, two other women reached out to his inbox with details he could not publish at their request, but confirmed that Dr Sibanda allegedly touched them inappropriately and sought sexual relations with them.
“One is a direct victim, the other is her niece, who was the victim. I believe this case may turn out to have many more victims. Some may have consented, while others were too afraid to come forward. I hope justice can be sought and served without fear or favour. What a disgraceful man he is, the true definition of a narcissist,” shared the reverend.https://kalemba.news/…/rev-mwambazi-escalates…/
YES THE PROBABILITY OF HH WINNING IS VERY HIGH, BUT THIS IS ALSO HOW HH WOULD LOSE THE 13TH AUGUST ELECTIONS-poor adoptions.
Yes poor adoptions would cost both MP’s, Councilors and especially the President: because, the majority of Zambians use the three-piece suit voting pattern. Where one voter votes for the president, MP and councilor-all from the same political party.
This is where you have to get me right: going with adoptions that are off, would definitely frustrate voters.
Actually, an MP who has failed to deliver development in their constituency, then runs away from that constituency to stand in another constituency: is not different from a criminal, who steals from one town and after hearing that the law enforcers are after them then they decide to run to another city-to continue with their theft activities.
The concept is that a fool somewhere remains a fool elsewhere.
Anyway, forget about that: allow me to give you a benefit of following this page.
UPND will need to leave out most of their underperforming MP’s as the upcoming elections are concerned. UPND will win these elections by simply letting the locals choose their leaders before August. How? The party will have to adopt candidates who are popular/people’s choices on the ground.
I have read and heard many suggesting that the president is winning and that many MP’s would lose their seats. Unfortunately, there’s no such voting pattern in Zambia. Zambians can either vote for the party and it wins or vote against, and it exits.
There has never been an election in Zambia where the losing party had many Mp’s than the winning party (take that as an important point).
So, just like I have been saying in my many previous posts, UPND will have to adopt candidates who are supported by the grassroots and I’m happy reading from the UPND Deputy Secretary General, Getrude Imenda after her interview with Kalemba today. This is what she was saying:
If underperforming MPs aren’t backed at grassroot level, they wont be adopted.
You should be worried if you are underperforming because if the ground does not vote for you, who are we to disregard their observations. ……….. Imenda told Kalemba in an interview that if underperforming MPs are not backed at grassroot level, the party leadership will have no choice but to leave them out -Kalemba …..
Just like I have been saying in my other posts, this is the reason underperforming MP’s are running away from their constituencies. UPND as a party already knows who they’re not supposed to adopt, let them stick to that-if an MP runs away from their constituency where they are currently incumbents: leave them out, don’t adopt them.
Moving from one constituency to another must be for those who have delivered, not failures.
Shipungu March 16, 2026 (Photographs: for illustration purposes only)
CABINET APPROVES 24-HOUR OPERATIONS FOR BUSINESSES, MARKETS AND BUS STATIONS
By Patricia Mbewe
Cabinet has approved the extension of business and operating hours to 24 hours for business houses, markets and bus stations in Zambia.
The decision, made at the 3rd Cabinet meeting on 16th March, 2026, chaired by President Hakainde Hichilema, aims to create a 24-hour economy to unlock economic growth, employment, and service delivery.
Announcing the resolutions at a media briefing in Lusaka today, Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa said the move is expected to maximize productivity, enhance competitiveness, and create inclusive economic opportunities across all sectors.
Mr. Mweetwa said Cabinet also indicated a need to see supermarkets, ordinary markets, bus stations, and other business places operate 24 hours per day.
During the meeting, Mr. Mweetwa said Cabinet also approved the “Education (Amendment) Bill, 2026” for publication and introduction in Parliament.
He said the Bill provides free education for children enrolled in public institutions from early childhood to secondary school and revises the school education system, implementing government’s free education policy.
Always Document Land Transactions – Court By Dickson Jere
Two friends. One worked for National Housing Authority (NHA). The other one wanted to buy a house from NHA and decided to use his friend to buy it for him since he was an employee and therefore easy to get the offer. He provided the funds and the house was bought but under his friend’s name. The house was then put on rent and the rentals were remitted to a company owned by the friend.
After a while, his friend decided to sell the house since it was in his name. He did not consult the owner and the transaction went smooth. However, the purported owner of the house discovered the sale. He was livid!
He sued in the High Court and claimed ownership of the property saying his friend was merely holding the property in “trust” for him as he paid for it. The Judge heard the case and ruled that indeed he was the owner and his friend was holding onto the property in trust. The sale was, consequently, canceled and the house given back to the ‘owner’.
Unhappy, the friend appealed.
The Court of Appeal Judges heard the case and reversed the High Court decision. They opined that the friend did not provide documents to show that he actually paid for the house through his friend. The receipts were all in the name of the NHA employee and the two did not sign any documents.
Dissatisfied, the other friend appealed to the Supreme Court, arguing that he paid for the money and the friend was merely holding the property in trust. Witnesses actually testified in his favor but without any documentary evidence.
Three Judges of the Supreme Court determined the case thus; “A case may either be proved orally or through documentary evidence or both,” the Judges said.
However, some cases such as present one required that the oral evidence must be backed by documents as it was a requirement under the Statute of Frauds that land transactions must be witnessed in writing.
“The appellant did not adduce evidence that he paid for the property with his own money giving rise to the creation of a resulting trust in his favor,” the Court ruled.
“A trust of personality can be created without writing whereas a trust of land requires to be in writing,” the Court ruled and dismissed the appeal.
“In the present appeal, the issue involves land. It cannot, therefore, be argued by the appellant that there was no need to execute an instrument to create a resulting trust,” the Court concluded.
Always document land transactions!
Case citation – Kunkuta v Chibangula & Another – Appeal No. 8/2019.
Lecture Notes;
Take note that the Statute of Frauds Act of 1677 is applicable in Zambia and requires that all land transactions must be witnessed in writing. No verbal agreements when dealing with land. Make sure you always consult a lawyer when transacting in land.
In this case, the Court agreed that the witnesses testified as to who was the owner of the house but non presented any documents to buttress that position. If documents showed that he gave money to his friend to buy him the house, the Court would have ruled that there as a “resulting trust” and owner would have taken the house
Two friends. One worked for National Housing Authority (NHA). The other one wanted to buy a house from NHA and decided to use his friend to buy it for him since he was an employee and therefore easy to get the offer. He provided the funds and the house was bought but under his friend’s name. The house was then put on rent and the rentals were remitted to a company owned by the friend.
After a while, his friend decided to sell the house since it was in his name. He did not consult the owner and the transaction went smooth. However, the purported owner of the house discovered the sale. He was livid!
He sued in the High Court and claimed ownership of the property saying his friend was merely holding the property in “trust” for him as he paid for it. The Judge heard the case and ruled that indeed he was the owner and his friend was holding onto the property in trust. The sale was, consequently, canceled and the house given back to the ‘owner’.
Unhappy, the friend appealed.
The Court of Appeal Judges heard the case and reversed the High Court decision. They opined that the friend did not provide documents to show that he actually paid for the house through his friend. The receipts were all in the name of the NHA employee and the two did not sign any documents.
Dissatisfied, the other friend appealed to the Supreme Court, arguing that he paid for the money and the friend was merely holding the property in trust. Witnesses actually testified in his favor but without any documentary evidence.
Three Judges of the Supreme Court determined the case thus; “A case may either be proved orally or through documentary evidence or both,” the Judges said.
However, some cases such as present one required that the oral evidence must be backed by documents as it was a requirement under the Statute of Frauds that land transactions must be witnessed in writing.
“The appellant did not adduce evidence that he paid for the property with his own money giving rise to the creation of a resulting trust in his favor,” the Court ruled.
“A trust of personality can be created without writing whereas a trust of land requires to be in writing,” the Court ruled and dismissed the appeal.
“In the present appeal, the issue involves land. It cannot, therefore, be argued by the appellant that there was no need to execute an instrument to create a resulting trust,” the Court concluded.
Always document land transactions!
Case citation – Kunkuta v Chibangula & Another – Appeal No. 8/2019.
Lecture Notes;
Take note that the Statute of Frauds Act of 1677 is applicable in Zambia and requires that all land transactions must be witnessed in writing. No verbal agreements when dealing with land. Make sure you always consult a lawyer when transacting in land.
In this case, the Court agreed that the witnesses testified as to who was the owner of the house but non presented any documents to buttress that position. If documents showed that he gave money to his friend to buy him the house, the Court would have ruled that there as a “resulting trust” and owner would have taken the house.
🌍 REGIONAL | South Africa Pushes Back Against U.S. Pressure Over Iran Ties
South Africa has rejected growing pressure from the United States to distance itself from Iran, signalling a widening diplomatic rift between Washington and Pretoria as global tensions surrounding the Middle East war continue to spill into international politics.
In an interview with Reuters, South Africa’s Director-General of the Department of International Relations, Zane Dangor, said Pretoria sees no reason to sever its relationship with Tehran despite warnings from the newly appointed U.S. ambassador.
“We have not any reason to cut ties with Iran,” Dangor said, adding that South Africa would not allow itself to be drawn into the geopolitical rivalries of major powers.
The remarks come after U.S. Ambassador Leo Bozell reportedly told South African media that the country’s association with Iran could damage relations with Washington.
“An association with Iran is an impediment to good relations with the United States,” Bozell said.
Pretoria has pushed back strongly against the suggestion, with Dangor arguing that the United States should not expect African countries to automatically align with its foreign policy positions.
“We cannot be pulled into the sort of sphere of influence politics that great powers want to pull us into, and that in this instance includes the US.”
The diplomatic dispute is unfolding against the backdrop of the ongoing U.S.–Israel conflict with Iran, which has increased global political pressure on countries to take sides.
Relations between Washington and Pretoria have already been strained during President Donald Trump’s second term. Last August, the United States imposed 30 percent tariffs on South African imports, a move economists warned could threaten tens of thousands of jobs in a country already struggling with unemployment levels above 30 percent.
The tensions have also spilled into several other policy areas.
The United States has reportedly urged South Africa to withdraw its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, reconsider its Black Economic Empowerment laws, and accept a refugee programme for white South Africans that the Trump administration claims face persecution.
Pretoria has rejected those demands.
Dangor said South Africa’s legal case against Israel is a matter for the international courts and will not be influenced by diplomatic pressure.
“It’s not even on the table. If you disagree with us on this, it’s a court process.”
The refugee proposal has also drawn criticism from the South African government. The United States has suggested it could process around 4,500 refugee applications per month from white South Africans, a claim Pretoria disputes.
“It’s a preferential immigration programme,” Dangor said. “They should do it through the normal channels. They cannot use the moniker of ‘refugee’.”
Despite the tensions, South Africa says it remains open to improving relations with Washington but insists engagement must focus on areas of mutual agreement rather than pressure over domestic or foreign policy choices.
For many observers, the dispute reflects a broader trend in global politics as African governments increasingly resist being drawn into rival blocs between major powers.
As the war involving Iran continues to reshape diplomatic alliances, countries like South Africa are signalling that their foreign policy decisions will not be dictated solely by geopolitical pressure from Washington or any other global power.
BREAKING update from PM Netanyahu: “This morning we eliminated Ali Larijani. Ali Larijani is the boss of the Revolutionary Guards, which is the gang of gangsters that actually runs Iran. Alongside him, we also eliminated the commander of the Basij—the henchmen of the gangsters, who spread terror in the streets of Tehran and other Iranian cities against the population. We’re operating there too; operating from the air with Air Force planes, with drones.
We’re undermining this regime in the hope of giving the Iranian people a chance to oust it. It won’t happen all at once, it won’t happen easily. But if we persist in this—we’ll give them the opportunity to take their fate into their own hands.
In parallel, we’re helping our American friends in the Gulf. I had a long conversation with President Trump yesterday on this matter. There’s cooperation between our air forces and navies, between me and President Trump and his people. We’ll help both with indirect attacks, which create immense pressure on the Iranian regime, and with direct operations. There are still plenty of surprises. “With stratagems shall we wage war.” We won’t reveal all the stratagems here, but I told you: there are many of them.
Now, regarding one more thing: the most important thing to win a war is determination. Determination, determination, determination. Determination of the leaders, determination of the commanders, determination of the people. We are determined to win, and we will achieve these things.
I ask you simply to ignore the channels of gloom. We are achieving historic accomplishments. We, with God’s help, have reached a situation after October 7th, when we were on the brink of the abyss, and now we are a mighty power, almost a global one, with the friend who is the global superpower, fighting shoulder to shoulder. That’s already a tremendous achievement in the face of all the threats that will come upon us. What other country has these capabilities? They’re all under attack here. Who has our strengths, the strengths of the alliances, of the IDF, of the Air Force, and of a strong people? So stay strong
I want to tell you: we’ll help you too. Everything related to compensation—I have instructed to present you with the plan and also to expand the plan. To help the North as well, and to help anyone who needs it, just as we did before in “With the Strength of a Lion,” just as we did previously during the corona [pandemic]. We’ll do it even more so this time.”
Israeli and American airstrikes have delivered a major blow to Iran’s ballistic missile program. According to assessments from the Israel Defense Forces, Iran’s domestic production of ballistic missiles has dropped to zero.
Before the conflict escalated in late February, Tehran was churning out up to 100 missiles per month, with plans to ramp up further. That assembly line now stands silent.
The campaign, which began around February 28, targeted key facilities including Shahid Hemmat Industrial Group sites and the Parchin Military Complex. Strikes hit production lines for solid propellant, missile components, and assembly areas.
Israeli officials estimate that roughly two-thirds of Iran’s overall military production capacity has suffered serious damage. While Shahed drone manufacturing continues at a reduced pace, the core ballistic missile pipeline remains shut down for the time being.
Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, highlighted the significance of this development. He described it as a stunning achievement that prevents Iran from replenishing its arsenal in the short term.
The halt buys critical time for Israel and its allies as the conflict continues. Sustained pressure will be necessary to keep Iran from rebuilding these capabilities.
Iran still holds substantial stockpiles, with estimates of more than 2,000 ballistic missiles remaining in inventory. Some launchers have survived initial attacks, and reports indicate occasional missile firings toward Israel persist.
Potential resupply routes from partners like Russia or North Korea could offer Tehran workarounds. Skeptics point to these factors when questioning whether the production stoppage marks a permanent shift.
The strikes form part of a broader effort to degrade Iran’s offensive reach and protect regional security. With thousands of additional targets identified across Iran, operations show no sign of slowing. Preventing reconstruction of missile factories will remain a top priority as the war enters its next phase.
Trump: “Iran Has No Right to Block the Strait of Hormuz We Have Already Defeated Them. It’s Simply Unfair.”
In strong remarks to reporters, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that Iran has no right to continue disrupting or blocking the Strait of Hormuz, insisting the United States has already “defeated” Iran in the ongoing conflict.
“It’s not even fair,” Trump stated. “We’ve already won! They have no right to continue what they are doing.” He added: “You win a war, but they have no right to be doing what they’re doing.”
The comments come as Iran continues to mine and attack shipping routes in the critical waterway through which roughly 20% of global oil passes despite U.S. and Israeli military operations that the President says have destroyed Iran’s military capabilities.
Trump has repeatedly called on allies to join a coalition to secure the strait, warning that failure to act could have serious consequences for NATO and global energy markets.
Source: Reports from Bloomberg (cited across major outlets), BBC News, Reuters, CNN, and The Hill, published March 16–17, 2026.
This developing story is sending ripples through global energy markets and diplomatic circles. Stay tuned for updates.
Putin’s “Demilitarization” Plan Backfires as Ukraine Emerges as Europe’s Largest Army and Drone Warfare Leader
When Vladimir Putin launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, he said the goal was to “demilitarize” the country. Four years later, the opposite seems to have happened.
Ukraine now fields one of the largest armies in Europe and has become a global leader in drone warfare. Ukrainian experts are even helping protect infrastructure in the Persian Gulf and training forces within NATO.
Did the invasion unintentionally turn Ukraine into a military powerhouse — and what does that mean for the future of European security?
Iraqi Militia Releases Footage of Reconnaissance Drone Flying Unintercepted Over U.S. Embassy in Baghdad for Nearly Two Minutes
In a startling demonstration of vulnerability amid escalating regional tensions, an Iranian-backed Iraqi militia has posted video showing a fiber-optic guided FPV reconnaissance drone navigating freely over the heavily fortified U.S. Embassy complex in Baghdad’s Green Zone.
The newly released footage, captured from the drone’s perspective, depicts it flying unchallenged for almost two minutes circling buildings, passing near the U.S. flag, and surveying the compound without any apparent interception by American air defenses such as C-RAM systems
The video was published by Sar∆ya Awliy∆ al-D∆m (Guardians of Bl0od Brigades), a pro-Iran Popular Mobilization Forces faction operating under the Isl∆mic Resistance in Iraq. It highlights a new capability using hard-to-jam fiber-optic drones, coming just hours after Iraqi security sources described the most intense drone-and-rocket assault on the embassy yet (with at least five drones involved in overnight attacks on March 17, 2026).
Sources confirming the video and context: – Forbes (David Hambling analysis, updated March 17, 2026) – Stuff.co.nz (direct reporting on the Saraya Awliya al-Dam footage) – Reuters (multiple reports on missile/drone strikes hitting the embassy) – BBC (coverage of the “most intense assault” on the U.S. Embassy)
This marks a significant escalation in Iran-aligned proxy actions against U.S. assets in Iraq. No inju₹ies or major damage from this specific recon flight have been reported, but it underscores growing challenges for U.S. defenses against low-tech, fiber-optic threats.
China’s newest weapon: An AI that supposedly cracks America’s stealth edge.
A Chinese defense firm called Jingan Technology just claimed its Jingqi monitoring system picked up radio signals from US B-2 Spirit stealth bombers right after their March 1 strikes on Iranian targets. The bombers—using call signs Petro 41 through 44—were supposedly tracked on the return leg, with the AI piecing together patterns from satellite data, flight tracks, and open-source intel to spot the buildup weeks earlier.
The pitch sounds dramatic: goodbye American air superiority, hello Chinese AI eyes on every US plane. The original post declares the end of the stealth era, and the claim has spread fast across accounts hyping multipolar wins.
Here’s the reality check. The system caught radio communications—not radar reflections off the airframe itself. B-2s maintain strict radio silence during ingress and strike phases, but returning aircraft sometimes switch to less restricted comms. Picking up routine voice or data links on the way home doesn’t mean the plane’s low-observable design has been defeated. Stealth is about evading detection by radar and infrared, not necessarily going completely silent on every frequency once the mission’s done.
Jingan Technology provides intel services to the PLA and has every incentive to talk big. Reports from outlets like South China Morning Post, Interesting Engineering, and Eurasian Times confirm the company made the announcement and even shared alleged audio, but no independent Western defense source has verified the intercepts or their tactical value. No evidence shows real-time tracking, targeting-quality data, or anything that would let China (or anyone) actually guide weapons onto a B-2 mid-flight.
So yes, China has a shiny new signals-intelligence toy that spotted chatter linked to the bombers. Impressive for open-source fusion and pattern analysis? Probably. Game-changing proof that stealth is obsolete? Far from it. More like propaganda dressed as breakthrough—useful for domestic morale and rattling cages, but the B-2 still flew in, hit hard, and flew out without getting touched. Air superiority isn’t dead yet.
Trump Hugs the B-2 Bomber Model Like It’s Family – Classic Trump Moment Goes Viral
President Trump brought the house down during yesterday’s White House briefing with a hilarious display of pure enthusiasm for American military might. While touting the success of recent B-2 strikes that hammered Iran’s nuclear ambitions and set their program back hard, he couldn’t resist grabbing the scale model on the table
“These gorgeous B-2 bombers — give me that bomber, Andrew. Let me just hug that little sucker — give me that bomber over there!”
He snatches it, holds it up proudly.
“This looks small, but in person, it’s really big!”
The room erupts in laughs as Trump beams, turning what could have been a dry recap into vintage Trump showmanship.
President Trump’s bold move to seize Iranian oil tankers in February has already disrupted over a billion dollars in illicit exports, delivering a much-needed blow to the mullahs’ terror-funding machine.
Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) laid it out clearly on Fox News: Iran has been killing Americans since 1979, from the embassy hostages to the Beirut barracks bombing that claimed 241 Marines, and continues funding proxies like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis while cozying up to Russia and China.
“Look, this is long overdue and it’s exactly the kind of decisive action we’ve needed for decades,” Tenney said. “Iran has been killing Americans since 1979—our embassy hostages, the Beirut barracks bombing that killed 241 Marines, the Khobar Towers, funding IEDs that killed and maimed thousands of our troops in Iraq. They’ve never stopped.”
She slammed past weakness that let Iran’s shadow fleet evade sanctions: “For years under the previous administration we let their shadow fleet sail right through sanctions. Oil would go out, cash would come in, they’d buy more drones, more missiles, more proxies to attack our interests and our allies. President Trump said enough. We’re not playing that game anymore.”
The seizures target the lifeline—oil sales, mostly to China, which buys about 90 percent of the sanctioned crude. “These seizures are part of a layered approach,” Tenney explained. “We’re interdicting the tankers, we’re enforcing the sanctions with real teeth, and we’re sending a very clear message: you will not use oil revenue to fund terror and threaten the United States or our allies. And by the way, this hits China hardest—they’re buying something like 90% of this sanctioned Iranian crude. So when we choke that flow, we put pressure on Beijing too, and we strengthen America’s hand around the world.”
On escalation fears, Tenney was unflinching: “They’ve been threatening retaliation since I was in high school. The difference now is they know this president means what he says. We have the capability to protect shipping, to keep the Strait open, and to respond overwhelmingly if they try anything. This isn’t about starting a war—it’s about ending the free ride they’ve had for 45 years.”
Maximum pressure is back, and it’s working. The Iranian people deserve better than this oppressive regime, and America’s allies are safer when Tehran feels the squeeze. Peace through strength delivers results.
Iran Strikes Another Oil Tanker Off UAE Coast Amid Escalating Crisis
Iran has struck an oil tanker with a projectile near the Strait of Hormuz, off the UAE’s Fujairah port.
Reports from Reuters and other sources confirm the incident as the latest in a series of attacks, now the 22nd on commercial vessels since early March.
Images circulating show a missile launch and thick black smoke rising from a burning tanker, consistent with recent maritime strikes in the region.
The attack deepens risks to global oil flows through this vital chokepoint. Tanker traffic remains heavily disrupted, with many vessels anchored or rerouted as tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel show no sign of easing. Oil prices face renewed upward pressure from the uncertainty.
The question people keep asking (usually with the casual arrogance of a superpower) is deceptively simple: Why not just invade Iran?
The question reveals more about the ignorance of the person asking than about the country being discussed.
Because Iran was not built like Iraq. It was engineered like a fortress.
Most countries have a single military hierarchy. Iran deliberately does not.
After the 1979 revolution that overthrew the Shah, the new leadership faced a problem that revolutionary regimes always fear: a coup from the old army. The solution was structural paranoia.
Iran created two parallel militaries.
One is the Artesh, the conventional national army. Its job resembles that of any traditional military: defend borders, operate tanks, manage naval fleets, and maintain air defense networks. The regular army alone includes roughly 350,000 ground troops, plus naval and air personnel.
But the Artesh does not guard the regime.
That responsibility belongs to an entirely different institution: the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or the IRGC.
The IRGC was created in 1979 with a very specific mandate: ensure the survival of the revolution.
It is not simply a military unit. It is a hybrid organism—part army, part intelligence service, part economic conglomerate.
The IRGC maintains its own ground forces, aerospace units controlling Iran’s missile arsenal, naval forces operating in the Persian Gulf, and an external operations wing known as the Quds Force, which manages proxy relationships and expeditionary activities across the region.
Personnel estimates vary, but the core force alone includes roughly 125,000–190,000 troops depending on how one counts its branches.
That still does not capture the full system.
Because beneath the IRGC sits another layer.
The Basij is Iran’s paramilitary network. It operates as a volunteer militia integrated into the IRGC command structure.
Roughly 90,000 members serve in active roles, while hundreds of thousands of reservists can be mobilized in crisis.
Iranian sources report membership numbers far larger (into the millions).
The Basij functions less like a conventional military formation and more like a distributed internal security grid. They appear in neighborhoods, universities, factories, and provincial towns.
Their primary purpose is not fighting foreign armies. It is preventing internal collapse.
Now the logic becomes clear.
The Artesh protects the nation. The IRGC protects the revolution. The Basij protects the regime from society itself.
These institutions overlap, monitor each other, and answer ultimately to the Supreme Leader rather than to civilian political institutions. The structure is intentionally redundant and opaque.
In practical terms, it means a coup becomes extremely difficult. Any faction attempting to seize power would have to overcome not one security apparatus but several.
This architecture also complicates foreign invasion.
You are not fighting a single army. You are fighting a system.
Add the pieces together and the scale becomes obvious.
Roughly 350,000 personnel in the regular army.
Around 190,000 troops in the IRGC.
Tens of thousands of Basij regulars with hundreds of thousands more mobilizable.
The total security ecosystem exceeds 600,000 active forces and can expand toward one million personnel when reserves and paramilitaries are included.
This does not even account for Iran’s population base of nearly 90 million people, providing a manpower pool larger than many European countries combined.
The Taliban fielded roughly 40,000 fighters during the war that exhausted the United States over two decades.
Iran’s organized security forces exceed that figure by an order of magnitude.
And unlike the Taliban, Iran controls: – ballistic missile arsenals – an indigenous drone industry – a navy capable of disrupting the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supply flows – regional networks of allied militias
In other words, the battlefield would not be confined to Iran itself.
It would radiate outward across West Asia and the global energy system.
So why doesn’t anyone simply invade Iran?
Because the question assumes the objective is military victory.
The real challenge is political control.
Invading Iran would not resemble the swift overthrow of Saddam Hussein in 2003. It would look more like a vast insurgency across a mountainous country nearly four times the size of Iraq, defended by a security apparatus designed explicitly to prevent regime collapse.
The architects of the Iranian state studied history carefully.
They watched what happened to governments that relied on a single army.
Trump’s Approval Holds Firm as Iran War Fails to Budge Voters
CNN’s own data guru Harry Enten just delivered a reality check that left the network’s viewers stunned: two weeks into U.S. military action against Iran, President Trump’s approval rating hasn’t moved an inch.
“What we are seeing right now is a president whose approval rating is steady,” Enten reported. “This has NOT been a big deal politically.”
The numbers back it up cold. Trump’s approval sat at 41% before the strikes began on February 28 and remains 41% now. No dip, no surge, just rock-solid stability despite the media frenzy.
Public interest? Barely there. Only 45% of Americans say they care “a lot” about the Iran situation. “Just 45% of Americans say they care a lot about the situation going on in Iran,” Enten pointed out. “So despite all the hubbub, right now we’re talking about less than a majority of Americans who say they care a lot about what’s going on in Iran right now.”
Google searches tell the same story. Interest in “Iran” has plunged 84% since the conflict kicked off, even trailing Academy Awards buzz by three or four times. “I’m just not thinking that this is necessarily going to be the big political mover and shaker that you might expect,” Enten concluded.
The liberal media and Democrat strategists hoped this would tank Trump. Instead, it exposed how out of touch they are with everyday Americans. The president stays steady, the war hasn’t become a voter obsession, and the critics are left grasping at air. Facts over narrative—Trump’s resilience speaks louder than the headlines.
BOMBSHELL: U.S. Intelligence Knew in February 2020 That China Breached Voter Registration Databases – And Buried It for Over Six Years
Investigative journalist John Solomon dropped a bombshell today on Just the News, exposing long-hidden evidence that America’s intelligence community detected Chinese penetration of U.S. voter registration systems well before the 2020 election – and the government kept it secret.
In as early as February 2020, the United States intelligence community determined that China had breached U.S. voter registration data, had gained access to the data that voters used to register to vote in the 2020 election.
A declassified – but heavily redacted – April 2020 National Intelligence Council memo, quietly released under the Biden administration, confirms the breach: Chinese intelligence officials analyzed multiple U.S. states’ election voter registration data to conduct public opinion analysis on the 2020 US general election.
Former DNI John Ratcliffe sounded the alarm back then, publicly warning about Chinese interference efforts while accusing the CIA of downplaying or suppressing the threat. Now, as CIA Director, those same warnings are resurfacing amid fresh declassifications and reviews.
The timing is no coincidence. This revelation hits just as the House gears up for a vote on the SAVE America Act, which demands proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration – a direct firewall against exactly these kinds of foreign vulnerabilities.
For years, conservatives warned that our election systems were wide open to foreign manipulation. The deep state buried the proof. Now the truth is out – and heads should roll for the cover-up.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has announced that Ali Larijani, the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran overnight. According to the Israeli military, the strike targeted a safe house in the Iranian capital.
Here are the established facts currently surrounding the situation:
The Israeli Announcement: Defence Minister Katz stated that Larijani, who had emerged as a de-facto leader in Iran following the February 28 assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was “eliminated” in the strikes.
Additional Targets: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) also claimed to have killed Gholamreza Soleimani, the commander of the Basij paramilitary force, in the same wave of overnight attacks.
Lack of Official Confirmation: Iranian authorities have not yet issued an official statement confirming or denying the deaths of Larijani or Soleimani.
Social Media Activity: Adding to the uncertainty, a handwritten note attributed to Larijani was posted to his X (formerly Twitter) and Telegram accounts shortly after Israel’s announcement. The message paid tribute to Iranian naval forces killed in an earlier clash on March 4, though it remains unclear exactly when the note was written.
Larijani had just recently been seen in public, participating in Quds Day rallies in Tehran alongside Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian days prior to the reported strike.
In a defiant stance signaling no immediate end to the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran war, Iran’s Supreme Leader has firmly rejected proposals for reducing tensions or agreeing to a ceasefire with the United States. The proposals were conveyed to Iran’s Foreign Ministry through two intermediary countries.
According to a senior Iranian official speaking anonymously, the rejection was made clear during the leader’s first foreign policy session since assuming power following the death of his father, former Supreme Leader ∆li Kh∆menei.
The new leadership described its position on seeking revenge against the U.S. and Israel as very tough and serious, stating it was not the right time for peace until the United States and Israel are brought to their knees, accept defeat, and pay compensation.
This development comes as the conflict enters its third week, with heightened military exchanges, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, and rising global concerns over energy security and regional stability.
Invisible Hand? UK Defence Chief Says Russia May Be Passing “Stealth Drone” Tactics
John Healey revealed on March 12 that there is growing suspicion that Vladimir Putin may be quietly influencing the evolving drone tactics used in attacks against Western-linked targets in the Middle East.
According to the British defence chief, analysts have identified tactical “fingerprints” in recent drone strikes that closely resemble methods previously used by Russian forces during the war in Ukraine.
British investigators are currently examining the wreckage of a drone that crashed into aircraft shelters at RAF Akrotiri earlier this month. The analysis is focused on identifying electronic components or systems that could trace back to Russian or other foreign suppliers.
Nick Perry said Iranian operators and allied proxy groups have increasingly adopted “ultra-low altitude flight” techniques to evade radar detection a tactic that Russian forces have refined extensively on the Ukrainian battlefield.
The shift makes interception significantly harder and increases the likelihood of drones reaching high-value targets.
Healey added that it would come as little surprise if Moscow were involved in transferring such operational knowledge to Iran, noting that military cooperation and weapons exchanges between the two nations have deepened over the past several years.
UK Defence Chief Says Russia May Be Passing “Stealth Drone” Tactics
John Healey revealed on March 12 that there is growing suspicion that Vladimir Putin may be quietly influencing the evolving drone tactics used in attacks against Western-linked targets in the Middle East.
According to the British defence chief, analysts have identified tactical “fingerprints” in recent drone strikes that closely resemble methods previously used by Russian forces during the war in Ukraine.
British investigators are currently examining the wreckage of a drone that crashed into aircraft shelters at RAF Akrotiri earlier this month. The analysis is focused on identifying electronic components or systems that could trace back to Russian or other foreign suppliers.
Nick Perry said Iranian operators and allied proxy groups have increasingly adopted “ultra-low altitude flight” techniques to evade radar detection a tactic that Russian forces have refined extensively on the Ukrainian battlefield.
The shift makes interception significantly harder and increases the likelihood of drones reaching high-value targets.
Healey added that it would come as little surprise if Moscow were involved in transferring such operational knowledge to Iran, noting that military cooperation and weapons exchanges between the two nations have deepened over the past several years.
Western Leaders Exposed: Cowardice in the Face of Iranian Jihadists
Emirati analyst Amjad Taha delivers a blistering takedown of European spinelessness as President Trump and Israel deliver decisive blows against Iran’s Islamist regime in Operation Epic Fury.
While America and its allies confront the mullahs head-on—crushing nuclear ambitions, missile sites, and terror proxies—UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz cower on the sidelines. They crave Iran’s oil, gas, and markets but refuse to defend those interests when it counts. Instead of standing with their closest ally, they issue timid statements, hedge bets, and quietly engage the very regime threatening global stability.
This is not prudence; it’s betrayal. Zero loyalty. Zero backbone. These leaders lecture the world on democracy and freedom yet abandon civilization’s defense when jihadist rats in Tehran bare their teeth.
The fractures are clear: Europe dithers while the U.S. acts to prevent nuclear catastrophe and secure vital sea lanes like the Strait of Hormuz. Gulf partners, through frameworks like the Abraham Accords, prove far more reliable than fading transatlantic pretenders.
Time to face facts. Friendship is earned through action, not empty words. When the moment demanded resolve, Europe chose excuses. America—and its true allies—chose victory.
Finland’s President Stubb Backs Trump: NATO Allies Must Step Up on Hormuz
Finland’s President Alexander Stubb delivered a blunt message to NATO partners on March 16, 2026: take President Trump’s warnings seriously.
With the Strait of Hormuz largely closed due to the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict, Trump has called on roughly seven nations to join a naval coalition and escort oil tankers through the vital chokepoint.
Stubb stressed that capable allies should assist the United States in keeping global energy lanes open. He emphasized that Trump’s words carry weight, especially when he ties NATO’s future to shared security burdens.
While major European powers like Germany, the UK, France, and others have so far refused to commit ships, avoiding entanglement in a war they did not start, Stubb urged those able and willing to act.
This stance stands in sharp contrast to the widespread European reluctance. Trump’s push highlights a core conservative principle: alliances demand real contributions, not just words.
Free-riding on American protection while global oil flows remain threatened risks higher energy prices and weakened Western leverage.
Stubb’s call reminds NATO members that leadership means sharing the load when freedom of navigation and energy security hang in the balance. Europe should listen.
Trump Defends Iranian Protesters: Regime Threats and Mass Killings Make Uprising Impossible Right Now
President Trump delivered a blunt reality check when asked why Iranians aren’t rising up against their government amid ongoing U.S. and Israeli military pressure.
A reporter pressed: “Iranians aren’t rising up like you asked, what’s up with that?”
Trump responded firmly: “They put out statements that if you protest, you will be shot and killed. The protestors have no guns.”
He continued: “It’s very hard for them to protest. I fully understand it.”
“They killed 32,000 protestors, at least. We think the number’s much higher than that.”
“Who were greatly enthusiastic and wanted to see a change… think of it. Shot and killed much more than 32,000. Now they put out a notice ‘we’re going to shoot and kill any protestor.’ And protestors don’t have guns.”
“I can fully understand why they’re not doing it.”
The President’s candid remarks highlight the brutal reality facing ordinary Iranians under the mullahs’ iron-fisted rule. The regime has a long history of slaughtering dissenters and now openly threatens to gun down anyone who dares take to the streets unarmed.
Iranians aren’t cowering—they’re smart. Many are heeding guidance from Trump, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, and Israeli leadership to stay sheltered and safe until the moment is right, especially as U.S. and allied operations like Epic Fury degrade the regime’s ability to terrorize its own people.
This isn’t weakness; it’s strategy. The evil theocrats have already proven they’ll rape, torture, and murder even medical workers who help the wounded. Protesters know the score: wait for the regime’s military backbone to crack, then rise when victory is within reach.
Trump’s words cut through media spin: regime change in Iran is coming, but it won’t be rushed into a bloodbath against defenseless civilians. Patience and precision will finish the job the mullahs fear most—freedom for the Iranian people.
CHINGOLA MAN ARRESTED FOR OCCASIONING ACTUAL BODILY HARM AFTER ACCUSING ELDERLY MAN OF MAKING HIS MANHOOD DISAPPEAR
By: Sun Fm TV Reporter
Police have confirmed the arrest of a man in Chingola for allegedly assaulting a 61-year-old resident whom he accused of causing his manhood to disappear.
Police say the suspect has been charged with the offence of occasioning actual bodily harm and is currently in police custody.
The arrest follows public calls from Zambians demanding action against the man after reports emerged that he had mistreated the elderly victim based on the suspicion that he had made his manhood disappear.
The 61-year-old man had been apprehended by some individuals who claimed their private parts had vanished.
However, police investigations later established that the complainants private parts were intact, leading to the victim’s release.
THE United Party for National Development government is broke and that is why it is failing to fund projects under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), Mpika member of Parliament Francis Kapyanga has said.
In an interview with The Mast yesterday, Kapyanga said the government had failed to release over K1.8 billion to all the 156 constituencies in 2024.
“This government is broke, it has no money and that is why it has failed to release K12 million to each constituency from the 2024 CDF funding. All the 156 constituencies are still owed K12 million from the 2024 allocation,” Kapyanga said.
He said the K12 million shortfall in the 2024 CDF budget had affected the implementation of projects for 2025 and 2026.
“The CDF is a hot issue; it is just that media houses don’t pay attention. In 2024 government issued a circular directing councils to use- The Mast
GOVERNMENT CHALLENGED TO DISCLOSE ZAMBIA’S GAINS FROM 10-YEAR TAX HOLIDAYS IN MFEZS AND INDUSTRIAL PARKS
By: Thomas Afroman Mwale
Former Commerce Minister in the Patriotic Front (PF) government, Bob Sichinga has challenged the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) to publicly disclose what the country has gained from offering 10-year tax holidays to investors in Multi-Facility Economic Zones and industrial parks.
Speaking in an interview with Sun FM TV News, the People’s Pact Vice President called on the government to conduct a detailed assessment to evaluate the impact of incentives such as 100 percent repatriation of profits for foreign investments on Zambia’s economic recovery.
Mr. Sichinga Charged that similar incentives should be made available to Zambian entrepreneurs noting that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) struggle to capitalize on such opportunities due to lack of capital.
Meanwhile economist Trevor Hambayi noted the need to establish a regulatory framework that ensures small businesses receive equal treatment.
He warned that the current trend of 100 percent profit repatriation to foreign investors is increasing turnover externalization and putting pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves. #SunFmTvNews
Russia earning $150 million a day as global oil prices surge
Russia is reportedly earning about $150 million per day in additional revenue as global oil prices rise amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The surge in energy prices follows growing instability linked to the confrontation involving Iran and Israel, which has tightened global oil supply and pushed prices higher on international markets.
As one of the world’s largest energy exporters, Russia is benefiting from the price increase through higher tax revenues and export earnings from crude oil and petroleum products.
Despite Western sanctions imposed after the Russian Invasion of Ukraine, Russian oil continues to find strong demand in international markets, particularly in major Asian economies such as India and China.
Analysts say sustained high oil prices could significantly strengthen Russia’s budget revenues if geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt global energy markets.
UPND Must Hold General Conference-UPND long-time member, Innovent Innocent Matyola
TO BE FOREWARNED IS TO BE FORARMED
Good day to all my ordinary UPND members and our leaders.
We are a political institution and a political party existing in the Great Republic of Zambia , a country with a National Constitution as its unique book of do’s and don’ts.
Our political party has a constitution that deals with various organizational concerns such as the convention , disciplinary etc..We have said time and time again that our administration is one that is anchored on the rule of law and the general public expects us to act as such even in our own internal party matters.
Our good president himself is a product of a democratically conducted convention which was held on the 26th May 2006.
If we truly love our party and the president, let’s be truthful to ourselves and to him as our flag bearer.
We have nothing against those who joined us recently or along our long political journey who may be privileged today except with a few who thrive on lying to our leaders and blackmailing old party members in order to appear relevant to some of them and we know some of them are the ones peddling this unsustainable lie that even without the convention positions in the party leadership can be filled using dark corner peacemeal approach. These are lies.
I know that many of our friends may not be privy to the critical facts about the party’s history and heritage, including the process that brought about President HH to be at the helm of the party today.
Here is some free information. When our UPND founding President Anderson Kambela Mazoka died in April 2006,our good team called the National Management headed by the acting party president, a renowned constitutional lawyer called Mr. Sikota organised a convention that was held at the Mulungushi Conference Center on 27th May 2006 at which two contestants, namely Mr. Baldwin Nchite ,a businessman who operated in Botswana and South Africa and the then CEO of Grant Thornton Mr. Hakainde Hichilema weighed into this contest against Mr.Sakwiba Sikota to lead the UPND.
In a hair rising debate , we saw each one of these three appealing to the electoral college of party structures who had traveled from all the 9 provinces then. On the sides, the Secretary General ,vice, National Chairman and all the National Management Committee positions and various committees positions were up for grabs by all those that were able , the rest is history but, the unhappy acting president Sakwiba Sikota formed the ULP which went into an alliance with the Michael Sata led Pf in the general elections of that same year.
The question is , do we have an issue in having a convention as required by the national constitution of this country?
Do we honestly think that the national constitution will have to be adjusted for our sake so that the Electoral Commission of Zambia will also relax that pre-qualification requirement of holding a convention before filing in to contest this year’s August 13th general elections? I doubt it .
Why does it appear like we have a growing cold feet in addressing this important national issue as a ruling party who ought to have been proud to lead by examples ?
Has it occurred to all of us, the UPND, that if we dont hold a convention, the most likely outcome is that our party the UPND may not even participate in this year’s general elections and no courts will come to our aid to remedy this embarrassment ?
Where are the seasoned constitutional legal experts in our party and our political advisory teams who ought to have taken care of this situation?
Could there be some game of tactical deception at play in which our leadership may have been made to think that this constitutional requirement will only apply to the opposition political parties and not the ruling UPND?
I believe it’s high time we got a much more serious official position on the date of the convention as required by our party and the national constitution.
The observation that some political parties had departed from undemocratic practices by operating like monarchs in avoiding intra party elections is the hallmark of the constitutional amendment to make it a law for all parties to have conventions as a pre-qualification for filing in to contest the general elections.
Let us resist the temptation of thinking that the incumbency factor will save us from obeying this law because we may end up scoring into our own net and give away power on a silver plate.
I wish to seriously urge ourselves as party members as well as our leaders to take this issue seriously as we will not blame anybody for any political negligence if we choose to eliminate ourselves from contesting this year’s general elections owing to trivialising the convention issue.
May God bless us with wisdom to decern the hidden agendas of those who fake their loyalty to our leaders.
WARN AND CAUTION STATEMENTS RECORDED IN ALLEGED ELECTION DOCUMENT FORGERY CASE
March 16, 2026 — The Zambia Police Service wishes to confirm that it has recorded Warn and Caution Statements from Ms. Saboi Imboela (47) and Mr. Mambwe Zimba (43) regarding allegations of creating a document without authority, contrary to Section 356 of the Penal Code, Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
It is alleged that the duo provided false information to the Electoral Commission of Zambia by signing an adoption certificate for James Phiri during the December 2025 Chawama Parliamentary by-election on behalf of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). This is contrary to Section 18(1)(b) and (2) of the Electoral Process Act No. 35 of 2016.
The matter follows a complaint filed by Mr. Stephen Chewe of the National Democratic Congress, which was reported on December 23, 2025.
Investigations are ongoing, and more details will be provided in due course. After the interviews, the duo was allowed to leave.
Issued by: Godfrey Chilabi Public Relations Officer Zambia Police Service
Leaked diplomatic reports suggest a significant disconnect between Saudi Arabia’s public calls for de-escalation and the private counsel being shared with the White House. While official statements from Riyadh urge regional restraint, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is reportedly encouraging a continued “maximum pressure” military approach to permanently neutralize shared security threats.
This behind-the-scenes strategy appears aimed at weakening a long-standing regional rival while maintaining a public image of a cautious peacemaker to avoid direct retaliation.
This dual-track diplomacy allows the Kingdom to influence U.S. military policy without being seen by the global community as a primary instigator of the conflict.
The revelation comes as the U.S. continues precision strikes on key infrastructure, a campaign that analysts say aligns perfectly with the Kingdom’s long-term strategic goals. By providing quiet intelligence and logistical support, Riyadh is essentially acting as a silent partner in the current air campaign.
Publicly, Saudi officials have expressed concern over the rising cost of energy and the safety of commercial shipping, which often acts as a diplomatic shield against criticism from other Arab nations. Privately, however, the message to Washington is clear: maintain the offensive until the opposing command structures are fully dismantled.
As these secret communications come to light, they may complicate the Kingdom’s relations with neighboring states that are pushing for an immediate ceasefire.
The focus now shifts to how this internal pressure will shape the next phase of President Trump’s military strategy in the Middle East.
Breaking News : Trump Says Putin “Fears the United States, Not Europe” as Tensions Over Ukraine War Continue
U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin has no real fear of Europe, arguing that Moscow’s strategic calculations are primarily influenced by the United States rather than European powers
Speaking about the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the war in Ukraine and Western support for Kyiv, Trump stated that Putin does not see Europe as a decisive military or political threat. According to Trump, the Russian leader is far more concerned about the actions and capabilities of the United States.
Trump suggested that European countries, despite providing significant financial and military assistance to Ukraine, lack the level of power and deterrence necessary to influence Putin’s decisions on the battlefield or in negotiations. In his view, the Kremlin’s calculations are driven mainly by Washington’s policies rather than those of European capitals.
The remarks come at a time when debates continue within the West about the balance of power in the Ukraine conflict and the role of European nations in shaping the outcome of the war.
European governments have collectively provided hundreds of billions of euros in financial and military aid to Ukraine and have imposed extensive sanctions on Russia since the invasion began.
However, Trump indicated that despite these efforts, Putin remains primarily focused on the United States when assessing risks and potential escalation. His comments highlight an ongoing debate in Western strategic circles over whether Europe possesses enough independent military and political influence to deter Russia without strong American leadership.
Trump’s statement also reflects broader tensions over how the West should approach negotiations and military support in the war.
While some policymakers argue for increased European leadership in security matters, others maintain that U.S. involvement remains the key factor shaping Russia’s strategic behavior.
The Ukraine war, which escalated into a full scale conflict in 2022, continues to dominate international politics and has become one of the most significant security crises in Europe in decades.
Diplomatic efforts and military developments remain closely watched as both sides seek leverage in potential future negotiations.
Prediction market odds have fallen sharply on President Trump visiting China by the end of March. Traders now see only a 25 percent chance of the trip happening this month, down after Trump linked any visit to Beijing helping reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
The narrow waterway carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Iran has blocked it during the ongoing conflict with the US and Israel, driving prices up significantly since early this year.
Trump has called on China, a major importer of that oil, to join a coalition effort to secure the strait. He warned the trip could be postponed without cooperation, using the prospect as leverage in tense US-China relations.
The Polymarket contract tied to a March visit has seen heavy trading volume in the millions, reflecting bets on whether diplomacy or pressure will prevail. Longer-term odds for an April visit remain higher, but the immediate outlook has cooled fast.
China’s newest weapon: An AI that supposedly cracks America’s stealth edge.
A Chinese defense firm called Jingan Technology just claimed its Jingqi monitoring system picked up radio signals from US B-2 Spirit stealth bombers right after their March 1 strikes on Iranian targets. The bombers—using call signs Petro 41 through 44—were supposedly tracked on the return leg, with the AI piecing together patterns from satellite data, flight tracks, and open-source intel to spot the buildup weeks earlier.
The pitch sounds dramatic: goodbye American air superiority, hello Chinese AI eyes on every US plane. The original post declares the end of the stealth era, and the claim has spread fast across accounts hyping multipolar wins.
Here’s the reality check. The system caught radio communications—not radar reflections off the airframe itself. B-2s maintain strict radio silence during ingress and strike phases, but returning aircraft sometimes switch to less restricted comms.
Picking up routine voice or data links on the way home doesn’t mean the plane’s low-observable design has been defeated. Stealth is about evading detection by radar and infrared, not necessarily going completely silent on every frequency once the mission’s done.
Jingan Technology provides intel services to the PLA and has every incentive to talk big. Reports from outlets like South China Morning Post, Interesting Engineering, and Eurasian Times confirm the company made the announcement and even shared alleged audio, but no independent Western defense source has verified the intercepts or their tactical value. No evidence shows real-time tracking, targeting-quality data, or anything that would let China (or anyone) actually guide weapons onto a B-2 mid-flight.
So yes, China has a shiny new signals-intelligence toy that spotted chatter linked to the bombers. Impressive for open-source fusion and pattern analysis? Probably.
Game-changing proof that stealth is obsolete? Far from it. More like propaganda dressed as breakthrough—useful for domestic morale and rattling cages, but the B-2 still flew in, hit hard, and flew out without getting touched. Air superiority isn’t dead yet.
Breaking News : U.S. Loses About a Dozen MQ-9 Reaper Drones in Iran Operations — One Shot Down by Gulf State Ally
The United States has lost approximately a dozen MQ-9 Reaper drones during intensified military operations over Iran, according to senior U.S. military officials.
This includes at least one drone that was accidentally shot down by forces from a Gulf state partner nation. At the same time, the U.S. has been flying more than 10 Reaper drones simultaneously over Iranian airspace as part of ongoing strikes and surveillance missions.
The losses highlight the high-risk nature of the Reaper drone campaign deep inside Iran, even as the aircraft continue to play a central role in targeting hundreds of Iranian sites.
Trump Says He Has Contacted 7 Countries to Reopen Strait of Hormuz, Warns He Will “Remember” Who Refuses
U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that he has already spoken with at least seven countries regarding the deployment of naval forces to help reopen and secure the Strait of Hormuz. The move comes as tensions around the strategic waterway continue to escalate amid the ongoing regional conflict.
Trump emphasized that the United States has long supported Europe and its allies in security matters, suggesting that Washington expects reciprocal support in the current situation.
He also warned that he would “remember” which nations choose not to assist the effort to restore maritime security in the vital global oil transit route.
Rubio Warns Havana Regime: Time Is Up as Blackouts Cripple Communist Cuba
Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a stark warning to Cuba’s failing communist government amid a crippling nationwide blackout that has left millions without power and sparked growing unrest.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Rubio did not mince words about the regime’s vulnerability.
“If I lived in Havana and I were in the government, I would be concerned right now. Very concerned,” he said. “Because when you lose the ability to provide electricity to your people, when you can’t keep the lights on, when you can’t provide basic services… that is when regimes become the most vulnerable.”
He pinned the crisis squarely on decades of bad choices by Havana’s rulers.
“This didn’t happen by accident. This is a direct result of choices that were made — choices to align with certain countries, choices to oppress their own people for decades. And now they’re paying the price.”
Rubio made clear the Trump administration’s firm stance: “Cuba needs to change. It needs to change. The people of Cuba deserve better than this. And the United States under President Trump will continue to make very clear that we stand with the Cuban people — not with the regime that’s failed them so badly.”
With fuel shortages from tightened U.S. sanctions biting hard, the island’s aging grid has collapsed, protests are flaring in Havana, and the communist hold on power looks shakier than ever. The message from Washington is unmistakable: the clock is ticking for the dictatorship.
STRIKE HARD: Saudi Crown Prince Urged President Trump To Continue Striking Iran Hard.
The New York Times reports that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been encouraging President Donald Trump to continue military pressure on Iran during the ongoing conflict.
According to the report, the Saudi leader has urged President Trump to “keep hitting the Iranians hard,” as the two leaders remain in close contact throughout the war.
The reported communications highlight Saudi Arabia’s strong interest in weakening Iran’s regional influence as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East
Israel Vows to Continue War, Unveils 3-Week Plan as Iranian Troops Reportedly Lose Morale
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced plans to continue military operations against Iran for at least three more weeks, aiming to systematically dismantle Tehran’s defense industry and weapons production network across the country.
Officials said the joint campaign with the United States is progressing faster than initially expected but will require sustained operations to achieve its objectives.
IDF spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin stated that Israeli forces are prepared to continue combat operations through the Passover period in early April, with additional contingency plans extending several weeks beyond that timeline.
The main objective, according to the military, is to eliminate what Israel describes as Iran’s “strategic threats.”
The Israeli military also claims it has begun to observe signs of disruption and declining morale among Iranian forces following a series of strikes that reportedly destroyed multiple command centers during the early phase of the conflict.
