Gulf Allies Privately Furious as U.S. Actions Spark Regional Tensions, Trump Moves to Calm Leaders
Several Gulf allies are reportedly expressing deep frustration with Washington behind closed doors, blaming the United States for triggering a conflict that has placed their countries at significant risk. According to officials familiar with the situation, regional governments are increasingly concerned that recent developments have dragged them closer to a wider confrontation, raising fears about security, stability, and potential retaliation across the Gulf.
The anger is largely being voiced privately, with Gulf leaders wary that escalating tensions could directly threaten their territories, energy infrastructure, and economic stability. Many of these countries host U.S. military facilities or maintain close security partnerships with Washington, which has heightened their anxiety about becoming potential targets if the conflict spreads further across the region
Amid these concerns, former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly been in direct contact with several regional leaders throughout the week. According to people familiar with the discussions, Trump has been calling Gulf leaders in an effort to reassure them and ease their concerns about the rapidly evolving situation.
These calls are said to focus on calming tensions, reaffirming relationships, and addressing fears that the current conflict could spiral into a broader regional crisis involving multiple actors.
The developments highlight growing unease among Washington’s closest partners in the Gulf, who now find themselves navigating the fallout of a conflict they believe could place their own national security at risk.
U.S. Deploying USS Tripoli Amphibious Strike Group and Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Middle East
The United States is reinforcing its military posture in the Middle East as the Pentagon has approved the deployment of elements of the USS Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit following a request from U.S. Central Command.
According to multiple reports citing U.S. officials, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the movement of part of the Tripoli Amphibious Strike Group currently forward deployed in Japan. The force includes the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli, which is capable of operating F-35B stealth fighter jets alongside helicopters and tilt-rotor aircraft.
The deployment will add a significant expeditionary capability to U.S. forces already present in the region. A Marine Expeditionary Unit typically consists of around 2,000 Marines supported by aviation, logistics, and armored elements, designed to conduct rapid response operations ranging from amphibious assaults and air operations to evacuations and maritime security missions.
U.S. officials also indicated that two ships from the Tripoli Amphibious Strike Group are moving toward the Middle East. The movement comes amid heightened tensions across the region and growing concerns over security around critical maritime routes.
Separately, the Pentagon is also reviewing a proposal from CENTCOM to deploy two additional U.S. Navy destroyers to help escort commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global energy supplies.
The deployment underscores Washington’s effort to strengthen its military presence and maintain operational flexibility in the Middle East during a period of escalating regional instability.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, USNI News, Military Times
IRAN STRIKES INSIDE SAUDI ARABIA — 5 US WARPLANES DESTROYED AT PRINCE SULTAN AIR
Iran has taken the war deep into the Arabian Peninsula striking 5 US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker refueling planes on the ground at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, according to the Wall Street Journal citing two US officials.
These are not just any planes.
KC-135 Stratotankers are the lifeline of American air power without them, US and Israeli fighter jets CANNOT fly long-range strike missions. Iran didn’t just hit planes. Iran hit America’s ability to wage war from the sky.
President Donald Trump now faces his most dangerous moment yet American military assets have been destroyed on the soil of one of Washington’s closest Arab allies. If Saudi Arabia is no longer safe for US forces, WHERE IS?
No American soldiers were killed in the strikes but make no mistake, this is a direct hit on US military power in the Middle East.
The war is no longer contained. IT HAS EXPLODED ACROSS THE ENTIRE REGION.
Africa, this matters to you —lSaudi Arabia is Africa’s biggest oil partner and a critical source of remittances for millions of African families. A war on Saudi soil means oil prices spike, economies shake, and African people suffer.
Is Trump’s Middle East strategy falling apart? Drop your thoughts
African Hype Media condemns all attacks on civilian lives and infrastructure. We report the facts so Africa stays informed.
BREAKING: G7 leaders expose Trump’s overconfident Iran war boasts after he reportedly INSULTS U.K. Prime Minister.
A tense call between Donald Trump and the leaders of the world’s richest democracies reportedly turned into a diplomatic spectacle — with Trump boasting about victory in his Iran war while insulting one of America’s closest allies.
According to sources familiar with the exchange, Trump told G7 leaders that the United States was already on the verge of winning the conflict. “I got rid of a cancer that was threatening us all,” Trump reportedly declared during the conversation. “Nobody knows who is the leader, so there is no one that can announce surrender,” he bragged.
But the moment quickly went off the rails.
When British Prime Minister Keir Starmer offered the United Kingdom’s assistance to help manage the crisis, Trump allegedly brushed him off and insulted him — leaving several leaders stunned by the exchange.
Sources say Trump insisted the U.S. had everything under control, telling the group that America was “winning the war.”
The remarks reportedly alarmed some of the leaders on the call, who had hoped to coordinate strategy and de-escalate tensions in the region. Instead, they were confronted with a U.S. president publicly projecting confidence about victory while rejecting offers of help from allies.
Diplomatic calls between G7 leaders are normally carefully choreographed discussions focused on coordination between the world’s leading democracies. During moments of war or international crisis, those relationships can be crucial for intelligence sharing, military coordination, and avoiding dangerous escalation.
But according to those familiar with the conversation, Trump’s tone — including the jab directed at Starmer — created a far more confrontational atmosphere.
Foreign policy analysts say moments like this matter. When allies step forward offering support during a global crisis and are met with insults instead of cooperation, it can strain the very alliances that have underpinned Western security for decades.
And now, as details from the call leak out, the episode is raising new questions about whether America’s allies are being treated as partners — or simply as spectators to decisions made in Washington.
Iran’s remaining enriched uranium has likely been moved to Pickaxe Mountain, a heavily fortified underground facility buried deep beneath granite, according to U.S. intelligence cited by Fox News.
The site, located near the Natanz complex and deeper than the previously struck Fordow plant, is considered extremely difficult—if not impossible—to destroy from the air with conventional bunker-busters.
Western assessments indicate Iran relocated roughly 400-450 kg of 60% enriched uranium—material that could be further processed toward weapons-grade levels—following U.S. and allied strikes in 2025 that damaged key sites including Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan.
Satellite imagery shows accelerated construction and hardening at Pickaxe Mountain since mid-2025, including reinforced tunnel entrances, security perimeters, and burial efforts to shield access points.
This development raises serious concerns that airstrikes alone may no longer suffice. Reports suggest U.S. officials are weighing ground operations, including special forces raids, to neutralize the facility and prevent Iran from reconstituting its nuclear program.
The move underscores Tehran’s determination to protect its nuclear assets amid ongoing conflict, complicating efforts to eliminate the threat decisively.
Iran Shifts to China’s BeiDou, Dodges GPS Jamming in Middle East Conflict
Iran has turned to China’s BeiDou satellite navigation system to guide its missiles, drones, and secure communications, according to intelligence assessments and recent reports.
The move gained momentum after GPS signals were heavily disrupted during the 2025 Israel-Iran conflict, which hampered the accuracy of Iranian weapons reliant on the U.S.-controlled system.
BeiDou provides potential meter-level precision with its military signals, strong resistance to electronic jamming and spoofing, and backup features like short-message command links that function under heavy interference.
Analysts note this integration has contributed to improved strike performance in ongoing tensions, as Iran bypasses vulnerabilities tied to Western navigation tech.
The shift highlights growing fragmentation in global military systems: U.S. forces lean on GPS, while others adopt BeiDou or Russia’s GLONASS, creating parallel ecosystems in modern warfare.
In Ciego de Ávila, brave Cubans have stormed and set fire to the local headquarters of the Communist Party. This marks a dramatic escalation in the island’s growing wave of protests, now stretching into multiple nights amid endless blackouts, hunger, and total economic collapse under decades of socialist rule.
Reports from the ground describe gunfire from regime forces wounding at least one young protester, while communist militants reportedly wield machetes against their own people. Yet the crowds press on, dragging out furniture and propaganda to burn in defiance.
Reactions on social media: one calls it “the beginning of the end of the dictatorship.” Another declares the people have the right to fight back against their “tyrannical and terrorist” oppressors. Calls ring out for nationwide uprising—”Cuba libre!”—and recognition that the regime has never been weaker. Even voices note this surge aligns with renewed U.S. pressure, signaling the final countdown for Miguel Díaz-Canel’s failing government.
After 67 years of repression, empty promises, and misery, ordinary Cubans are saying enough. The communist system is crumbling under the weight of its own failures.
Zelensky Meets Exiled Iranian Prince in Paris to Push for Regime Change and End Russia Ties
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks today in Paris with Reza Pahlavi, the exiled Crown Prince of Iran and son of the last shah. The meeting comes amid escalating conflict in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The two leaders discussed the deteriorating situation inside Iran, signals of regime weakness, and the ongoing U.S. operation against Tehran’s terrorist government. Zelensky stressed the need for greater international pressure to protect Iranian lives and give the people a real say in their future.
Ukraine wants a free Iran that stops cooperating with Russia, ends its destabilization of the Middle East, Europe, and beyond, and respects national sovereignty everywhere. Pahlavi thanked Zelensky for Ukraine’s solidarity with the Iranian people’s long fight for dignity and freedom, reaffirming his support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
The two agreed to keep their teams in close contact. This follows their earlier encounter at the Munich Security Conference in February, where they condemned authoritarian alliances and called for tougher sanctions.
The Paris meeting underscores a clear message: dictatorships that arm each other and threaten the free world face growing isolation and pressure from those who value liberty.
Putin Blasts EU for Sabotaging Trump’s Ukraine Peace Push
Russian President Vladimir Putin has laid bare the real obstacle to ending the war in Ukraine: not Moscow, not Kyiv, but the stubborn bureaucrats in Brussels.
“They removed themselves from this process—that is the first point,” Putin declared. “The second point—seeing that they are also unhappy with today’s outcome, they have started to hinder the efforts of the current US Administration and President Trump to achieve peace through negotiations. They refused peace talks themselves, and now they are obstructing President Trump.
The third point—they have no peace agenda, as they are on the side of war. And even when they ostensibly try to introduce some adjustments to President Trump’s proposals—we see this clearly—all these adjustments are aimed at one thing only: to block the entire peace process, to put forward demands that are absolutely unacceptable to Russia (and they know this), and then to blame Russia for derailing the peace process.”
Trump: Iran War Will Last ‘As Long As Necessary,’ U.S. Way Ahead of Schedule
President Trump delivered a blunt update on the ongoing conflict with Iran, brushing aside media narratives and projecting confidence in American military progress.
Speaking to reporters on March 13, 2026, Trump responded to a question about the war’s duration with characteristic directness:
“It’ll be as long as it’s necessary. We’re way ahead of schedule. We’re doing unbelievably well. You read some of the fake news — it’s like, oh they’re doing wonderfully! They’re not doing wonderfully. They’re doing the opposite! We’re knocking the hell out of them. Our military — unbelievable. We’re way, way ahead.”
The President’s remarks come amid intensified U.S. strikes on Iranian military targets, including recent operations against facilities on Kharg Island. Trump emphasized that American forces have maintained a decisive edge while rejecting calls for more expansive targeting of oil infrastructure.
Supporters see the statement as proof of strong, no-nonsense leadership that refuses to be hemmed in by pessimistic press coverage or arbitrary timelines. Critics, meanwhile, point to shifting messages from earlier promises of a swift resolution.
Either way, the message from the White House is clear: the mission continues until the job is finished, on America’s terms.
Mashhad Cleric Breaks Down in Tears at First Friday Prayer Without Khamenei
In raw footage from Mashhad’s Friday prayer sermon, prominent cleric Ahmad Alamolhoda struggled to speak through sobs as he addressed the congregation for the first time since Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death.
Alamolhoda, visibly shaken, told the mourning crowd:
“Up until now, we had never held Friday prayers without a master.”
He continued, voice breaking:
“We have lost our Agha.”
The most striking line came amid heavy weeping:
“We have no master anymore… our master is gone.”
He appealed directly to God:
“O God, You be the witness… O God, You witness our condition.”
The congregation responded with widespread crying. The clip captures the depth of grief among regime loyalists two weeks after the Supreme Leader’s killing in an airstrike.
It stands in sharp contrast to the regime’s outward show of continuity as the Assembly of Experts reportedly finalized a successor selection around the same time.
IRAN & HEZBOLLAH LAUNCH JOINT MISSILE STRIKE ON ISRAEL — MISSILES HIT TEL AVIV, CENTRAL ISRAEL & THE WEST
Iran’s
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Lebanese Hezbollah have carried out a COORDINATED missile attack on Israel one of the most significant joint military operations since the conflict began.
According to Iran’s state-linked Tasnim News Agency, the IRGC confirmed its navy and drone units were also deployed in the operation alongside Hezbollah forces. Air raid sirens screamed across Tel Aviv, central Israel, and parts of the West Bank as missiles rained down.
‘
No immediate casualties or major damage have been confirmed but make no mistake, the message is clear: Iran is no longer fighting through proxies alone. IT IS DIRECTLY IN THIS WAR.
Africa and the Global South are watching closely oil prices, shipping routes through the Red Sea, and global food supply chains hang in the balance. This is not just a Middle East crisis. THIS AFFECTS ALL OF US. -African hype media
Mossad Urges Iranians: Time Is Running Out for the Regime
Israel’s Mossad has released a stark video message in Persian directly addressing ordinary Iranians, calling on them to provide intelligence that could hasten the fall of the Islamic Republic.
The roughly 11-second clip features a dramatic hourglass with sand pouring out, underscoring urgency as Israeli strikes continue against Basij checkpoints and regime targets in Tehran and beyond.
In the video, the narrator declares:
“Brave people of Iran, the countdown time for the regime has arrived. The sand clock is running out.”
It goes on to instruct viewers:
“Send us your information, coordinates, and pictures. Expose every Basij checkpoint, every IRGC headquarters, every criminal official.”
The message ends with reassurance and a promise:
“You are not alone. We are with you to return Iran to its glorious days.”
Reports confirm Israel is acting on tips from Iranian civilians to guide precision drone and airstrike operations against IRGC and Basij positions.
This hybrid approach—combining military action with grassroots intelligence—marks a serious escalation in the effort to weaken and potentially topple the regime from within and without.
The regime’s grip appears to be slipping faster than its defenders want to admit.
Iran’s New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Reportedly in Coma After Airstrike and Has No Idea He’s Running The Country
Reports from Western outlets claim Iran’s freshly installed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, lies in a coma at Tehran’s Sina University Hospital following injuries from the February 28 U.S.-Israeli airstrikes that killed his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and several family members.
Sources cited by The Sun, Daily Mail, and others allege the 56-year-old lost at least one leg, suffered severe internal damage to organs like the stomach or liver, and remains unaware of his elevation to power or the ongoing war. Tehran insiders describe heavy security sealing off parts of the hospital, with the regime insisting he remains in charge.
Yet Iranian state media released a written statement Thursday—read aloud on TV—attributed to Mojtaba, vowing revenge for “martyrs,” continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and new fronts against U.S. and Israeli forces if attacks persist. No video or public appearance has surfaced since the strikes.
Iranian officials and scholars dismiss the coma claims as Western psychological warfare aimed at sowing doubt in the regime’s stability during active conflict. Confirmed injuries include a fractured foot, facial bruising, and minor lacerations, per sources close to the situation and Iran’s Cyprus ambassador.
U.S. officials, including Secretary Hegseth, suggest Khamenei is injured, possibly disfigured, scared, and on the run—lacking full legitimacy—while President Trump has indicated he is “probably alive” but “damaged.”
The absence of direct sightings fuels speculation the regime operates on autopilot, with hardliners shielding a compromised figurehead amid escalating war. Whether Mojtaba can truly lead remains unproven as Tehran pushes defiant rhetoric.
MAKEBI ZULU RULES OUT JOINING MUNDUBILE AS RUNNING MATE UNDER TONSE
Patriotic Front (PF) Presidential aspirant, Makebi Zulu, has ruled out the possibility of joining the Tonse Alliance to support the candidature of Mporokoso Member of Parliament, Brian Mundubile, alleging that the process through which Mr. Mundubile was elected was wrong.
Mr. Zulu says he will instead focus on ensuring that the newly launched Pamodzi Alliance navigates its way towards selecting a preferred presidential candidate through what he described as a democratic process.
Speaking when he featured on Christian Voice’s Chatback program in Lusaka today, Mr. Zulu urged his supporters to remain patient as consultations continue within the alliance regarding the selection of a candidate.
Mr. Zulu emphasized that the newly formed alliance is not a PF one man show but a platform aimed at bringing together various political parties as an alternative front.
“This newly formed alliance is not a PF venture; it is another alliance that will provide an alternative and incorporate other political parties,” said Mr. Zulu.
He added that a presidential candidate must be chosen through a transparent process free from irregularities, noting that he will respect whatever outcome emerges from the Pamodzi alliance.
UPND NOT SHAKEN BY PF–PAMOZI ALLIANCE, QUESTIONS ITS AGENDA. The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) says it is not threatened by the newly formed Patriotic Front (PF)–Pamozi Alliance, describing the grouping as lacking merit and a clear national agenda.
UPND National Chairperson for Religious Affairs Rev. William Njombo says alliances formed solely to remove a governing party from office are unlikely to gain the support and mandate of the Zambian people.
Rev. Njombo says Zambia has previously witnessed the formation of several political alliances that eventually collapsed.
He has cited examples such as the Tonse Alliance, United Kwacha, questioning their sustainability and impact on the political landscape.
Speaking in an interview with Prime TV, Rev. Njombo says political parties and alliances should be established on the basis of shared ideology and a clear development agenda rather than a desire to unseat a ruling government.
He has questioned the PF–Pamozi Alliance’s policy direction, arguing that the grouping has not clearly outlined alternatives to key government programmes.
Rev. Njombo says Zambians would want to know what alternatives the alliance is proposing to initiatives such as free education, increased Social Cash Transfer benefits and expanded beneficiary coverage, meal allowances for university students, infrastructure development, and the increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
And United Party for National Development (UPND) Alliance Spokesperson Leslie Chikuse says the Patriotic Front (PF) is attempting to replicate the UPND Alliance model in a bid to strengthen its political position ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Mr. Chikuse says the PF appears to be copying and pasting the formation strategy that was used to establish the UPND Alliance, in the hope that a similar approach will yield positive results.
Mr. Chikuse adds that while the PF may attempt to imitate the alliance structure, the UPND will not disclose the strategies that contributed to its electoral victory, as doing so could allow political competitors to replicate them.
He states that the UPND Alliance is confident of winning the 2026 general elections, emphasizing that its prospects for victory are not dependent on the perceived weakness of the opposition.
Mr. Chikuse says even if the opposition were to become stronger, it would be difficult to reverse the progress that the UPND administration says it has made in stabilising the economy and improving social conditions.
Mr. Chikuse, who is also President of the Republican Progressive Party (RPP), says Zambians value peace and are unlikely to support political leadership that could reintroduce violence. PRIME TV
🇿🇲 THE PATH TO STATE HOUSE: A Pattern IN ZAMBIA’S ELECTIONS
Since 1991, presidential elections in Zambia have shown a clear pattern. Candidates who eventually win State House usually build a winning coalition around three key electoral pillars.
Political observers often call this “The Three-Region Path to State House.”
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1️⃣ Lusaka Province – The Urban Decider
Lusaka Province plays a decisive role in national elections.
• Large urban population • High voter turnout • Often reflects the national mood for change
👉 A candidate who wins Lusaka strongly usually gains national momentum.
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2️⃣ Copperbelt Province – The Swing Engine
Copperbelt Province is one of the most influential electoral regions.
• Large concentration of urban and working-class voters • Historically acts as a national swing region
👉 Winning the Copperbelt can add hundreds of thousands of decisive votes.
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3️⃣ A Strong Regional Base – The Vote Bank
Every successful presidential candidate also has a dominant stronghold region.
• A reliable vote bank • The foundation of a national campaign
👉 Without a dependable regional base, building a winning coalition becomes very difficult.
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🗳️ THE WINNING FORMULA
Most candidates who reach State House combine:
✔ A dominant regional stronghold ✔ A strong victory in Lusaka ✔ A strong performance on the Copperbelt
When these three align, a candidate usually crosses the 50% +1 requirement under the Constitution of Zambia.
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⚠️ The Early Warning Sign in Zambian Politics
Another consistent pattern has emerged:
👉 Since 1991, ruling parties that eventually lost power first lost political dominance in Lusaka and the Copperbelt before losing the presidency.
These two regions often act as Zambia’s political barometer.
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🔮 Looking Ahead to 2026
With voter registration increasing, the likely road to State House will require:
• About 2.6 – 2.8 million votes • Major victories in Lusaka and the Copperbelt • A dependable regional vote bank
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📌 In simple terms:
A stronghold builds your base. Lusaka gives you momentum. The Copperbelt delivers the presidency.
Makebi Zulu Tears Into HH Government: ‘Zambia Cannot Be Ruled by Fear’
When Patriotic Front presidential aspirant *Makebi Zulu* appeared on the ChartChat program on *Christian Voice Radio,* the interview quickly became a searing critique of the governance style of *Hakainde Hichilema and the United Party for National Development administration.
Unlike typical political interviews where caution often prevails, Zulu confronted the pressing issues head-on, calling out what he described as a culture of fear and the erosion of democratic freedoms under the current government.
Cyber Laws and the Silence of Citizens
Zulu highlighted the government’s controversial cyber laws as central to Zambia’s “reign of fear.” He warned that these laws have created an environment where citizens hesitate to express opinions, even online.
He noted that on platforms like Facebook, many now avoid commenting on political matters, opting instead for emojis or silent likes, a sign of self-censorship born of intimidation.
“When citizens are afraid to speak,” Zulu explained, “governments are misled because the only voices left are those praising them.”
Zulu reminded listeners that the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, not just the right to speak, but also the right to receive and share information. Yet, under the current government, these freedoms are increasingly restricted.
Challenging the Government’s Narratives
During the live interview, a known UPND supporter attempted to defend the government and question Zulu’s presidential ambitions.
Zulu responded decisively, warning that partisan distractions do not advance national development and urging a focus on the real issues facing Zambia. His sharp rebuttal drew strong reactions from listeners, many of whom called in to voice support for his message.
A Government That Prefers a Weak Opposition
Zulu accused the Hichilema administration of relying on a weakened opposition to maintain control. He questioned how meaningful dialogue can occur when opposition leaders are frequently arrested or intimidated.
“How do you sit down with a government for dialogue when the people you are supposed to sit with are being taken to jail?” he asked.
Callers echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for political change and unity among opposition forces.
The Constitution Must Belong to the People
A central theme of Zulu’s critique was constitutional reform. He argued that Zambia’s current framework concentrates too much power in the presidency.
Zulu called for a people-driven constitutional overhaul to ensure that governance does not depend solely on the character of a single leader. Strong institutions, he argued, are essential to prevent abuse of power.
“We cannot depend on a president with good manners,” Zulu warned. “We must build institutions strong enough to restrain those who do not have them.”
*Institutions Must Be Freed*
Zulu further claimed that key state institutions, anti-corruption agencies, investigative commissions, and law enforcement bodies, have been compromised by political interference. He called for their independence to restore public trust and attract investment.
*Youth, Women, and Economic Opportunity*
Zulu also emphasized economic empowerment. He highlighted the need to prioritize youth and women, Zambia’s largest yet most underserved demographics.
He proposed skills training, entrepreneurship programs, and access to affordable financing, stressing that their participation is vital for national development.
*A Call to Reset Zambia’s Governance*
As the interview concluded, Zulu delivered a powerful message: Zambia needs renewal. He urged citizens to reflect on the country’s direction, participate actively in shaping its future, and exercise their democratic right to vote.
“The power to change the course of the country lies with the voters,” he reminded listeners.
In conclusion,the ChartChat interview was more than a routine political appearance. By confronting the Hichilema administration on freedom of expression, constitutional reform, and institutional independence, *Makebi Zulu* positioned himself as a bold voice for change.
Whether one agrees with him or not, his statements signal that Zambia’s democratic debate is intensifying, and the demand for reform is growing louder.
*By Michael Zephaniah Phiri*
*Second vice Chairman — information, Publicity and Media (Mcc)*
Most of the People that Criticised Me Have Diplomas and School Certificates-Dr. Field Ruwe
“Some of you are urging me to offer an apology to Frank Mutubila. I will do so only after Mutubila himself, rather than you, steps forward and demands it.”
..most of you who commented have no degrees but have diplomas and school certificates!…
“I WRITE NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH”
Mutubila: Neither Broadcaster nor Journalist
Field Ruwe Responds
I thank each friend and foe for taking the time to provide feedback to my article. I am aware that social media can turn into a pressure cooker during times of controversy. I have read your comments, and I am mindful of the pervasive ignorance that substitutes informed discussion with irrational feedback. In lieu of this; I have found it necessary to respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively.
Some of you are urging me to offer an apology to Frank Mutubila. I will do so only after Mutubila himself, rather than you, steps forward and demands it. I remain doubtful that he will, as I crafted my article with the same professional precision that characterizes all my writings.
Journalism codes of conduct mandate that I pursue truth and convey it accurately. When profiling an individual, I thoroughly investigate every detail. Since 2012, I have written 301 “Hunt for Successor,” 80 “Who’s Who in Zambian Politics” and other numerous articles. If I had strayed in ad hominin, all the politicians I have critiqued, including General Miyanda, would have defended themselves in the open.
I do not write my articles out of malice. I hold no feelings of resentment, anger, or bitterness towards Mutubila. Aside from ZBS, I cannot remember any occasion in my life when I was in his company. There is nothing to retaliate for; no wounds to heal. Furthermore, I must clarify to the reader that the article was not driven by political motives. I did not give permission to Zambian Watch Dog to publish it. I am independent. I do not subscribe to any political parties.
Having dispensed with sundries let me begin by extending my appreciation to the few academics who saw the necessity to act as intermediaries with contextual adaptability. Your efforts to enhance clarity and logical reasoning are sincerely valued.
Above all, I wish to convey my heartfelt gratitude to former ZBS/ZNBC colleagues from the home and general services, as well as several UNZA graduates from the School of Mass Communication who joined ZNBC in the 1990s.
Many of you who worked with Mutubila reached out to me to render support, for which I am profoundly thankful. Your virtual check-ins were invaluable.
Regarding Frank Mutubila, my intentions were well meant. My interpretations of the terms “presenter,” “broadcaster,” and “journalist” are self-explanatory. My aim was to give Mutubila the title befitting his credentials because the era in which a degree is not always essential is over.
Broadcasters in England and America typically enter the industry with a degree in journalism, media, or related subjects. Specific formal academic credentials are not a prerequisite for presenters. Only a blend of pertinent experience is valued. This is where I believe Mutubila belongs.
Allow me, if you may, to discuss the two terms that have generated significant debate— “Phony Accent” and “Superiority Complex.” Mutubila, as a radio and television personality, is a celebrity and public figure caught in the paradox of fame. Although fame appears glamorous, it subjects individuals to intense scrutiny related to the distinctive habits, quirks, or mannerisms that form the foundation of their public persona.
Because Mutubila has chosen to be in the public eye, the law allows for more scrutiny of him regarding who he is and his actions. Describing him the way I did was to table the idiosyncrasies people are afraid to discuss. Because taboos retrogressively enforce our social norms, we find the two terms offensive. However, it is not the case when they are applied appropriately.
In closing, let me address all those who made comments. I found time to review 106,000 comments on my Facebook page as well as various traditional and social media platforms. Your comments prompted me to perform random sampling of the first 100 bloggers identified by name and credentials via their Facebook page or googling and aligning them according to Zambia’s education level. Here is what I discovered; out of 100, only 9 bloggers had a university degree, 28 a college diploma, and 63 a high school certificate.
The findings from my random sampling indicated that the 9 bloggers showed the ability to dissect the article and give their own educated opinion with empathetic communication. They were proficient in applying knowledge to make the reader understand the article. The 28 bloggers with college education, demonstrated broader understanding of conflicting viewpoints without giving their educated opinions. Many strayed into name-calling, insults and misinformation.
Many of the 63 bloggers hijacked the article and fostered a “virus” of ignorance, substituting informed discourse with insults and derogatory remarks. It was evident that they had not read the article. They relied on information provided by social media influencers and trolls.
If I were to summarize my findings, I would frame them this way: the Zambian intellectual has not managed to create a civil society that can participate in the societal discourse regarding public affairs; he/she has not sufficiently tackled or reacted to the normative challenges confronting society. This shortcoming has resulted in a society that is vulnerable to misinformation, conspiracy theories, and a diminished trust in expertise.
CPlease Note: Throughout my life, I have yearned to be a catalyst for change, unafraid to challenge authority. My objective is to foster a “growth mindset” in which we, as marginalized individuals, demonstrate to the world that we are not pushovers. I kindly request your support in articulating my vision.
THE QUIET SCIENTIST STEPPING INTO ZAMBIA’S MOST DEMANDING MINISTRY
When a president appoints a new Health Minister, the public usually asks one simple question.
Is this a politician learning health on the job… or someone who already understands the science behind it?
In the case of Alex Katakwe, President Hakainde Hichilema appears to have chosen the second option
The Solwezi East Member of Parliament has now been entrusted with one of the most sensitive portfolios in government. Yet outside North-Western Province, many Zambians are only beginning to learn who he is.
A scientist before politics
Katakwe is not simply a politician who developed an interest in health later in life. He is trained in it.
Born in North-Western Province in 1974, he studied at the University of Zambia, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Education and later a Master’s degree in Medical Parasitology.
Medical parasitology deals with diseases caused by parasites such as malaria and other infections that affect millions across Africa. In other words, his academic focus sits directly at the heart of many of Zambia’s public health challenges.
Before entering politics, Katakwe worked in teaching and academic training, building a career in education and research.
This background places him in a rare category among politicians: a technocrat with direct exposure to health science.
From Mushindamo to Parliament
Katakwe entered national politics in the 2021 general election, winning the Solwezi East parliamentary seat under the United Party for National Development.
The constituency covers Mushindamo District in North-Western Province, an area shaped by mining expansion, rural settlements, and the social pressures that often accompany rapid economic change.
In Parliament, he served on committees dealing with health and social services as well as youth and sport.
That committee work quietly positioned him within the policy space he now leads nationally.
A ministry that never rests
The Ministry of Health is not a portfolio that allows a learning curve.
It is responsible for hospitals, disease control, drug supply chains, and a public health system that serves more than twenty million citizens. The ministry also carries the constant pressure of responding to outbreaks, funding gaps, and the everyday struggles of health facilities across the country.
For a scientist-turned-politician like Katakwe, the challenge is clear.
Understanding disease is one thing. Running an entire national health system is another.
Why the appointment stands out
What makes this appointment interesting is that it breaks a common pattern in politics. Many health ministers around the world are lawyers, economists, or career politicians.
Katakwe arrives with a background rooted in the science of disease itself.
In a country where malaria, parasitic infections, and rural health access remain major concerns, the appointment signals an attempt to place technical knowledge closer to the centre of policy.
The expectations ahead
For citizens, however, qualifications alone will not be the measure.
The real test will be whether the new minister can translate academic understanding into practical outcomes.
Better stocked hospitals. Stronger disease prevention. And a health system that works not only in Lusaka, but also in the rural clinics where most Zambians first seek treatment.
If he succeeds, the quiet scientist from Solwezi East may become one of the most consequential health ministers Zambia has seen in years.
If not, the Ministry of Health has a long history of reminding leaders that in public health, results speak louder than titles. _______ Zambian Angle
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA WELCOMES NEW MINISTERS AND PERMANENT SECRETARY
President Hakainde Hichilema has officially welcomed three newly appointed officials into government service, expressing confidence in their ability to serve the nation with dedication and commitment.
In a statement, the President announced the appointment of Malama Mufenelo as Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Alex Katakwe as Minister of Health, and Tuesday Bwalya as Permanent Secretary for Muchinga Province.
President Hichilema said the government was pleased to welcome the three leaders into public service, noting that their appointments marked an important step in strengthening service delivery to the people of Zambia.
He further extended his best wishes to the newly appointed officials, expressing hope that they would serve the country with dedication and commitment as they undertake their respective responsibilities.
The Head of State emphasized the importance of public service in advancing national development and improving the lives of citizens across the country.
Actor Joe Sakala, popularly known as JAIROS, has announced his bid to contest the Kafue Parliamentary seat under the Winter Kabimba’s Economic Front (EF) party, aiming to bring a new generation of leadership and development to the constituency.
He made the announcement on his official Facebook page.
Pay Each Other -Court Orders G4 Security & ZANACO By Dickson Jere
The bank – ZANACO – hired the services of private security firm called G4 Security to guard a number of sites, including ATMs and properties that were repossessed by the bank and houses of its top executive. However, G4 Security terminated the contract after failing to agree with the bank to increase the fees due to the increase in minimum wage by government.
G4 Security rendered the invoices for the services rendered amounting to ZMK 4 million. However, ZANACO refused to pay saying it had discovered that property worth about ZMK 4 million had been stolen from the sites where G4 Security was guarding. So, they decided to set-off the loss from the invoices.
Unhappy, G4 Security sued the bank in the High Court, contending that some of the reported thefts happened before they took over the sites and that the value of the stolen properties were inflated or not ascertained.
On the other hand, ZANACO counterclaimed that the loss of property was due to negligence by the security firm and that at times premises were left without guards and therefore should bear the consequences of the theft.
The Judge heard both sides of the evidence and decided thus;
“I find that both parties have proved their respective cases on a balance of probabilities,” the Judge said, adding that each side owed each other.
The Court said the security company had an obligation to make sure that the property of the bank was safe and any theft that took place is blamed on the firm and should therefore pay.
“The losses suffered by the defendant were as a result of the plaintiff in this case and therefore, the plaintiff was obliged to indemnify the defendant of the losses,” the a judge said, adding that evidence showed that some properties were unmanned by the G4 security during the contract period.
The Court ordered that the matter goes to the Registrar for assessment and the amounts found should be set-off from each other based on the evidence to be produced.
“Upon assessment, I order that any amounts found payable to the defendant for the losses be setoff from the amount the defendant owes the plaintiff ZMW 4,035,777.00,” the Judge said.
The Court declined to give damages to the bank saying the consequential loss is the same and will be covered by the amounts due on the theft incurred for the lost property.
Case citation – G4 Secure Solutions Limited v Zambia National Commercial Bank Plc – 2025/HPC/0660 and judgement delivered last week.
Lecture Notes;
This is an interesting case in which both sides proved their cases and won. However, the final determination will be made a fate assessment and setoff. One who will lose at this stage will pay legal costs to the other. ZANACO will need to bring evidence show the losses suffered and then knock off the amount from the invoice due for services provided.
BREAKING: Pentagon Deploys 5,000 Marines on USS Tripoli to Crush Iran’s Strait of Hormuz Threats
The Pentagon is surging major firepower to the Middle East. A full Marine Expeditionary Unit—roughly 5,000 battle-ready Marines—embarked on the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli is steaming from Japan toward the region.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth approved the move after CENTCOM requested the amphibious ready group to reinforce U.S. forces amid Operation Epic Fury.
This comes as Iran ramps up attacks on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, choking off 20 percent of the world’s oil supply and endangering global energy security. The Trump administration has made clear: America’s military will dismantle Tehran’s ability to threaten allies, disrupt commerce, or menace the seas.
President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have vowed decisive action to neutralize Iran’s aggressive naval and missile capabilities.
With Marines already on the ground supporting the operation, this deployment signals Washington is prepared to escalate if needed to restore freedom of navigation and protect vital interests.
BREAKING: Top Iranian official Ali Larijani HUMILIATES Pete Hegseth after he accused Iranian leadership of being “rats” in hiding — says that America’s leaders are “on Epstein’s island!”
Sorry MAGA, it’s tough winning a propaganda war when your president’s a pedophile.
“Iran’s leadership is in no better shape. Desperate and hiding they’ve gone underground, cowering. That’s what rats do,” said Hegseth, a war criminal casually deploying dehumanizing language. “We know the new so-called not-so-Supreme Leader is wounded and likely disfigured. He put out a statement yesterday, a weak one, actually, but there was no voice and there was no video. It was a written statement.”
Hegseth’s remarks should disgust every American with a conscience. Trump launched this illegal war on behalf of Israel and started it with the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei — a man who was not just a political leader, but a sacred religious figure to Shia Muslims.
His coldblooded murder was a stunning breach of international norms and a blatant act of terrorism that resulted in the deaths of numerous innocent Iranians. One need not endorse Khamenei’s theocratic regime to realize that killing him was a massive crime that has only served to strengthen Iran’s hardliners.
Despite the assassination, Iran’s current leaders are not hiding in fear like Hegseth claimed. The country is unifying behind them despite the government’s lack of popularity in many corners. Given the choice between aligning with a domestic government that they oppose or the American and Israeli governments dropping bombs on them, they’re predictably siding with their countrymen and women.
Larijani, who is Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, posted videos on X of the nation’s leaders boldly walking through the streets in broad daylight. But it was the comment that he posted above them that really brought the hammer down—
“Mr. Hegseth! Our leaders have been, and still are, among the people. But your leaders? On Epstein’s island!” wrote Larijani.
This is what the entire world thinks of America now. Nobody believes that this war was launched to keep the people of the United States safe or to bring freedom to Iran. It was a war of choice initiated by a rapist and likely child molestor who is all too happy to kill people abroad if it distracts from his scandals back home.
🟩 DIPLOMACY — Trump Says U.S. Doesn’t Need Ukraine’s Drone Expertise
In a recent interview, Donald Trump stated that the United States does not need Ukraine’s help defending against drone attacks.
Trump said the U.S. has “the best drones in the world” and knows more about them than anyone else.
At the same time, he acknowledged that Russia may be assisting Iran “a little bit”, suggesting it could be linked to U.S. support for Ukraine.
The remarks come after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that the United States had requested Ukrainian assistance in countering Iranian Shahed drones.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine sent three teams of specialists to help partners in the region — including the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, as well as experts supporting the protection of U.S. bases in Jordan.
It’s another sign of how Ukraine’s battlefield experience with drones is now being noticed far beyond the front line.
US Army Deploys 10,000 Cheap AI Interceptors to Crush Iran’s Drone Swarms
The U.S. Army has shipped 10,000 Merops AI-powered interceptor drones to the Middle East.
These low-cost systems, battle-tested in Ukraine with over 1,000 confirmed kills against Shahed-type drones, provide a smart, economical way to neutralize Iran’s cheap one-way attack UAVs without wasting multimillion-dollar Patriot missiles.
Priced at roughly $3,000 to $5,000 each (with some reports citing up to $15,000), the Merops undercuts the cost of the very Shahed drones Iran relies on for swarm attacks. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll called it a clear win: America stays “on the better end” of the exchange ratio while preserving high-end defenses.
The irony runs deep. Ukraine’s hard-won lessons from fighting Russian Shaheds—many of them Iranian designs—are now directly protecting U.S. interests against Tehran.
Yet former President Trump previously rejected Zelenskiy’s offers of direct drone assistance, insisting America already knows drones best. The Pentagon moved fast anyway, surging these Ukraine-proven tools into theater shortly after escalations began.
This deployment shows real strategic adaptation: use affordable, AI-driven drone-on-drone tech to counter mass low-end threats. It’s pragmatic defense that saves money and lives while turning battlefield experience into an edge.
In a major revelation about internal White House divisions, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance was reportedly “skeptical” and actively opposed the decision to launch military strikes against Iran actions that have escalated into the ongoing conflict.
Two senior Trump administration officials told Politico that Vance made his reservations clear before President Trump greenlit the operation, with one describing him as someone who “just opposes” the war on Iran and was “worried about success.” This stance echoes Vance’s long-held criticism of U.S. foreign interventions and “forever wars” in the Middle East.
While Vance has publicly defended the administration’s actions since the strikes began, the new reporting sheds light on significant pre-decision tensions at the highest levels of the Trump White House.
Iranian State TV Claims Multiple MOAB Strikes Looming Today Amid Trump’s Blunt Warning
Iranian state television is sounding the alarm, claiming the United States plans to hit multiple targets inside Iran with GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bombs—better known as MOABs, the largest non-nuclear weapon in the American arsenal—on March 13, 2026.
The report follows President Trump’s sharp public statement earlier today, warning to “watch what happens to these deranged scumbags.” The MOAB, a 21,000-pound air-blast weapon designed to devastate wide surface areas and fortified positions, has fueled speculation of escalated U.S. action in the ongoing conflict.
This comes against the backdrop of sustained U.S.-Israeli strikes since late February, which have already targeted Iranian missile facilities, nuclear sites, air defenses, and leadership elements. Reports from various sources indicate significant degradation of Iran’s ballistic missile production and launch capabilities, with some accounts pointing to prior use of powerful ordnance on underground missile sites—though official Pentagon confirmation on MOAB deployment remains absent.
No independent verification has emerged for today’s specific multi-MOAB claim from Iranian media, which has a track record of dramatic wartime messaging. The regime appears rattled as American pressure mounts, oil markets react, and regional tensions show no sign of easing.
The message from Washington is clear: the campaign continues until threats are eliminated. Iran faces a stark choice—stand down or face overwhelming force.
BREAKING: Switzerland Stands Firm: Rejects US Military Overflights Amid Iran Conflict
Switzerland has denied two US military overflight requests through its airspace. The rejections came on procedural grounds, as the applications needed more clarification and could not meet required deadlines, according to the Federal Office of Civil Aviation.
The Federal Council continues to review whether the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict qualifies as a full “war” under Swiss neutrality law. If it does, that would bar military flights from involved parties and likely restrict arms exports.
This upholds Switzerland’s long-standing tradition of strict, impartial neutrality, first codified in 1815 and rigorously enforced ever since—including similar refusals during past conflicts like Iraq in 2003.
In an era of escalating global tensions, Bern’s methodical commitment to legal precision and non-involvement sends a clear message: neutrality is not optional; it is non-negotiable.
Panic in Tehran: Regime Supporters Flee as Israeli Strikes Hit During Quds Day Rally
On March 13, 2026—day 14 of the joint US-Israel campaign known as Operation Roaring Lion (Israel) and Operation Epic Fury (US)—raw video from Tehran shows pro-regime crowds scattering in fear amid explosions and rising smoke.
The footage captures supporters at a Quds Day rally and related funerals for fallen IRGC and Basij members suddenly running for cover as Israeli airstrikes land nearby. Chants quickly turn to chaos.
The regime had mobilized thousands for its annual anti-Israel display, complete with staged displays of defiance. Yet when real danger arrived, the bravado evaporated. Many fled without hesitation.
Defense analyst Babak Taghvaee shared the clips, highlighting the stark contrast between regime propaganda and the reality on the ground.
The strikes target military infrastructure, IRGC sites, and command elements embedded in urban areas—exposing how the regime uses civilian gatherings as cover while its own supporters bear the consequences.
After two weeks of sustained operations, Iran’s military capabilities continue to erode, its missile stocks dwindle, and its domestic control shows cracks. The panic in Tehran today is a vivid sign the regime’s grip is slipping.
Iran says no one can exclude it from World Cup after Trump warning
By: ENCA News
Iran says no one can exclude it from the World Cup later this year, in response to President Donald Trump’s warning that their “life and safety” would be at risk in the US.
The Iranian team also said in the social media post on Thursday that the United States should not be allowed to co-host the tournament if it could not guarantee the safety of the teams taking part.
Trump’s comments came just two days after he told FIFA chief Gianni Infantino the Iranian players would be welcome despite the Middle East war.
“The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform on Thursday.
Iran’s team responded: “The World Cup is a historic and international event and its governing body is FIFA not any individual, country.
“Iran’s national team, with strength and a series of decisive victories achieved by the brave sons of Iran, was among the first teams to qualify for this major tournament.
“Certainly no one can exclude Iran’s national team from the World Cup; the only country that can be excluded is one that merely carries the title of ‘host’ yet lacks the ability to provide security for the teams participating in this global event.”
The war, triggered by US-Israeli strikes on February 28, has thrown into doubt Iran’s participation at this summer’s tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Trump later posted another message on his social media platform to emphasise that the event would be safe for players and spectators from around the world.
“The United States of America looks very much forward to hosting the FIFA World Cup,” Trump wrote. “Ticket sales are ‘through the roof!'”
Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth Declares Iran’s Ballistic Missile Production Capacity Completely Eliminated: “No Ability to Make More”
Washington, D.C. – March 13, 2026 U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced today that America’s precision strikes under Operation Epic Fury have achieved a decisive victory: Iran’s entire ballistic missile production infrastructure has been functionally destroyed.
“As of two days ago, Iran’s entire ballistic missile production capacity… has been functionally defeated,” Hegseth stated during a Pentagon briefing.
“Every company that builds every component of those missiles has been functionally defeated with buildings destroyed. We’re shooting down and destroying what missiles they still have in stock… ensuring they have no ability to make more.”
This marks the successful completion of a core mission objective: not only eliminating Iran’s existing missile stockpiles and launchers, but permanently dismantling its ability to rebuild them.
U.S. and allied forces have systematically targeted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ missile industrial base, resulting in a reported 90% drop in Iranian ballistic missile attacks since the operation began.
The development comes as the U.S. continues its laser-focused campaign to neutralize Iran’s offensive capabilities, destroy its navy, and ensure it can never develop nuclear weapons.
Iran’s New Supreme Leader Wounded and Likely Disfigured, Says Secretary of War Hegseth
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth delivered a blunt assessment at today’s Pentagon briefing, declaring that Iran’s freshly installed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is reeling from U.S. and Israeli airstrikes.
“We know the new so-called not-so-supreme leader is wounded and likely disfigured,” Hegseth stated. “He put out a statement yesterday, a weak one actually, but there was no voice and there was no video. It was a written statement.”
Hegseth pointed to Khamenei’s silence and the absence of any visual appearance as clear signs of serious injury, mocking the regime’s attempt to project strength amid relentless American and allied operations that have crippled Iran’s missile stocks, drone fleet, and production capabilities.
The strikes continue to hammer Tehran’s ability to rebuild, with Hegseth vowing the U.S. will keep the pressure on until the threat is eliminated. The regime’s new leader appears more vulnerable than ever, hiding underground while America and its allies dominate the battlefield.
BREAKING: PENTAGON DEploys 2,500 MARINES TO MIDDLE EAST AS IRAN BLOCKADES STRAIT OF HORMUZ
The Pentagon has green-lit the rapid deployment of a 2,500-strong Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Middle East. The force is built for amphibious assault and forcible-entry operations—not escort duty.
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz to commercial traffic on February 28, 2026, and has repeatedly threatened to target Kharg Island, the loading point for roughly 90 percent of its oil exports. Tehran’s leadership has warned that any move against Kharg or its nearby facilities will trigger “unrestrained bloodshed.”
The Marine unit’s arrival comes after recent U.S. strikes destroyed several Iranian mine-laying vessels in the Gulf. Oil prices have already climbed above $100 a barrel as markets price in the risk of prolonged disruption.
Official statements still deny any Italian-Iranian back-channel talks to reopen the strait. The message from the deployment is clear: America is preparing to open the choke point by force if necessary, not negotiate it back open.
The next few weeks will show whether Tehran blinks or doubles down. Either way, the United States now has boots, ships, and landing craft positioned to answer.
Iran-Backed Terrorists Funneled Over $1 Billion Through Binance to Fund Attacks, DOJ Launches Probe
Iran’s regime and its proxy terror groups, including Yemen’s Houthis, allegedly exploited the world’s largest crypto exchange Binance to secretly move more than $1 billion in funds supporting their violent operations and evading U.S. sanctions.
According to reports from The Wall Street Journal and other outlets, internal Binance probes identified massive suspicious flows linked to networks backing the IRGC and Houthi militants. Rather than fully shutting it down, the platform faced criticism for its handling of the matter, including staff changes and delayed action on flagged accounts.
Now the U.S. Department of Justice has opened an investigation into Iran’s use of Binance to circumvent sanctions and channel money to terrorist organizations. This comes after Binance’s massive 2023 $4.3 billion settlement with U.S. authorities over past failures to stop money laundering and sanctions violations.
Binance insists it has strengthened compliance since then, blocks Iranian users, and cooperates with law enforcement—but the revelations raise serious questions about how effectively crypto giants prevent terror financing.
America’s enemies continue finding ways to exploit weak spots in the financial system to bankroll attacks on U.S. interests and allies. Time for tougher enforcement and real accountability.
Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed Iran’s Supreme Leader on March 9, 2026, succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in U.S.-Israeli strikes. The move marked a dynastic shift in the Islamic Republic during active regional conflict.
His new official X account features a profile image now confirmed as AI-manipulated. BBC Verify identified Google’s SynthID watermarks, indicating editing with Google AI tools.
Reverse analysis shows it derives from an older photo of Khamenei at a pro-regime rally, with background elements removed.
Khamenei has issued written statements through state media, including vows to maintain pressure on adversaries and keep the Strait of Hormuz restricted.
He has made no public appearances, fueling reports of injuries from early strikes and speculation about his condition.
The AI use raises doubts about regime transparency at a critical time.
UAE Air Defenses Foil Second Iranian Drone Attempt Near Burj Khalifa
UAE air defense systems shot down an Iranian drone this morning over downtown Dubai, just short of the Burj Khalifa. Video footage captured thick smoke rising amid the skyline after the successful interception.
This marks the second such attempt in recent days, following a similar incident earlier this week. Iranian attacks on the UAE, part of the broader escalation involving U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, have targeted civilian and economic sites including airports and financial districts since late February.
Official UAE reports confirm air defenses have intercepted hundreds of drones and missiles overall, limiting damage. Debris from interceptions has caused fires and minor structural hits in areas like the financial center and residential towers, but no direct strike reached the Burj Khalifa itself.
Deliberate targeting of civilian landmarks violates international law and constitutes a war crime. The UAE’s advanced systems, including Patriot and THAAD batteries, continue to prove effective in protecting population centers despite the ongoing barrage.
Six civilians have died and 131 injured across the attacks to date. Tensions remain high across the Gulf as Iran presses its retaliation campaign against American allies in the region.
🇿🇲 BRIEFING | President Hichilema Announces Cabinet Changes And Permanent Secretary Reassignments
President Hakainde Hichilema has announced a set of ministerial appointments and senior civil service changes, reshaping leadership at both Cabinet and Permanent Secretary levels.
In a press release issued by State House on 13 March 2026, the President invoked constitutional provisions to make the changes.
The statement reads:
“President Hakainde Hichilema has pursuant to Article 92 read together with Article 116 of the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia, appointed Solwezi East Member of Parliament Mr. Alex Katakwe as the new Minister of Health.”
The President also appointed Mfuwe Member of Parliament Mufunelo Malama as Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, a portfolio considered central to Zambia’s entrepreneurship and private sector growth agenda.
The changes extend beyond Cabinet.
According to the same statement, President Hichilema has relieved Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary Reverend Mathews Chilekwa of his duties with immediate effect
State House confirmed the appointment of Dr. Tuesday Bwalya as the new Permanent Secretary for Muchinga Province.
The press release states:
“In accordance with Article 270 of the Constitution, President Hichilema has relieved Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary Reverend Mathews Chilekwa of his duties with immediate effect.”
Meanwhile, Northern Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Mpundu has been reassigned to Cabinet Office, a move described as a transfer within the public service framework.
The statement clarifies:
“The President has also re-assigned Northern Province Permanent Secretary Mr. Bernard Mpundu to Cabinet Office, a transfer made under Article 92 (1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia.”
State House also extended appreciation to the outgoing Muchinga Permanent Secretary.
“The President has extended his gratitude to Reverend Chilekwa for his service to the nation and offered God’s blessings to all newly appointed officials.”
The changes come at a politically sensitive moment as Zambia moves closer to the 2026 general election cycle, a period when both political leadership and administrative performance often come under heightened scrutiny.
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*PF PAMODZI ALLIANCE: A NEW CHAPTER FOR A STRONGER PATRIOTIC FRONT*
The Patriotic Front leadership under the guidance of *Acting President Given Lubinda, together with the Members of the Central Committee (MCC) and the Council of Elders,* has taken a decisive and historic step by forming the *PF Pamodzi Alliance* in order to move the party forward and protect its identity, values and political legacy.
This decision follows the unfortunate developments surrounding the Tonse Alliance, which was originally inspired by the late Sixth Republican *President Edgar Chagwa Lungu* as a vehicle for genuine opposition unity in Zambia.
Regrettably, the noble vision of unity that *President Lungu championed* has been undermined by individuals whose actions have betrayed the spirit of cooperation and respect that the alliance was meant to uphold.
It is therefore surprising that some individuals who claim to represent the Patriotic Front continue to appear at rallies of the ruling *United Party for National Development* and speak on its platforms while simultaneously claiming ownership of the Patriotic Front.
For example, *Robert Chabinga* must explain to the Zambian people why he continues to address UPND rallies if indeed he claims to hold the legitimate mandate of the Patriotic Front. Leadership of a political party cannot be exercised from the podium of another political party.
If the courts have pronounced themselves on certain matters, then the rule of law demands that such decisions be respected by all parties involved. Political legitimacy cannot be built on attempts to impress those in power, including *President Hakainde Hichilema,* at the expense of the dignity of one’s own political organization.
The Patriotic Front remains a party built on constitutionalism and democratic principles. That is why the *PF Pamodzi Alliance* is determined to proceed with organizing a party convention, as required by the constitution of every political party.
It is ironic that some who attempt to lecture others about legitimacy are themselves associated with political structures that have failed to hold conventions for fear of internal challenges. Democracy demands accountability and renewal through proper party processes.
The Patriotic Front has therefore demonstrated that it remains committed to internal democracy and respect for constitutional obligations.
As our elders wisely say in Bemba, *“Ichilowele chiyilombela cheka umuchele.”* A good relish does not beg for salt; its quality naturally attracts what it needs.
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In the same spirit, the *PF Pamodzi Alliance will not beg for support.* Its strength, organization and commitment to the people of Zambia will naturally attract those who believe in unity, justice and democratic renewal.
No amount of intimidation, threats or political maneuvering will stop the Patriotic Front from reorganizing itself and fulfilling its constitutional mandate.
The message is simple and clear: those who have chosen other political paths must allow the Patriotic Front to rebuild and move forward without interference.
The Patriotic Front remains a formidable political force and will continue to mobilize the Zambian people as we look toward the future with confidence and determination.
*Issued by:*
*Michael Zephaniah Phiri*
*Deputy Second Vice* *Chairman – Information, Publicity and Media* *PF Pamodzi Alliance*
