Iran declares Strait of Hormuz closed amid escalation
Iran has declared the Strait of Hormuz closed, with a senior Revolutionary Guards adviser warning that any ship attempting to pass will be attacked. The strait is the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoint, carrying more than 20 million barrels of crude and fuel daily.
The threat has rattled global energy markets and raised fears of severe supply disruptions to Europe, the United States and Asia. Analysts warn that any sustained blockade could trigger sharp spikes in oil and shipping costs worldwide.
- Iran declares Strait of Hormuz closed amid escalation
- Spain eefuses US use of bases for Iran operations
- France to expand Nuclear arsenal, extend deterrence to Europe
- India, Canada reset ties with landmark Nuclear deal
- Gas prices surge after Qatar halts LNG production
- US Sanctions Rwanda over eastern Congo fighting
- Rebels claim drone attack on Kisangani Airport
- Senegal PM gints at government split
- South African TV personality dies at 61
- At least 169 Killed in South Sudan surprise attack
Spain eefuses US use of bases for Iran operations
Spain says it will not allow the United States to use joint military bases on Spanish territory for operations against Iran. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said the Rota naval base and Morón airbase are not being used for the strikes.
Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister condemned the US and Israeli military action as “unjustified” and outside international law. Madrid also criticised Iran’s retaliatory attacks across the Gulf, while stressing any base use would be limited strictly to humanitarian purposes.
France to expand Nuclear arsenal, extend deterrence to Europe
France has announced plans to increase its nuclear warhead stockpile and extend its deterrence umbrella to allied European nations. President Emmanuel Macron said the move reflects a more unstable global security environment.
Paris plans to launch a new nuclear-armed submarine, The Invincible, in 2036 and allow partner nations to participate in nuclear exercises. Eight European countries, including Germany and Poland, are expected to join the expanded deterrence framework.
India, Canada reset ties with landmark Nuclear deal
India and Canada have agreed to a 10-year nuclear energy partnership as part of a broader diplomatic reset. Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Mark Carney also pledged cooperation in trade, defence, critical minerals and technology.
Both sides aim to conclude a long-delayed free trade agreement by 2026. Relations had deteriorated following tensions over the 2023 killing of a Sikh separatist in Canada, but leaders say they are committed to rebuilding trust.
Gas prices surge after Qatar halts LNG production
QatarEnergy has suspended liquefied natural gas production following drone attacks claimed to have originated from Iran. The strikes targeted facilities in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed, though no casualties were reported.
European gas prices jumped nearly 50 percent, while Asian LNG benchmarks surged sharply. Saudi Arabia also reported disruptions at its Ras Tanura refinery after a drone-related fire, adding to market volatility.
AFRICA
US Sanctions Rwanda over eastern Congo fighting
The United States has imposed sanctions on Rwanda’s military and senior officials over alleged support for the AFC/M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Washington said the rebels’ territorial gains would not have been possible without Rwandan backing.
Kigali rejected the accusations, calling the sanctions unfair and politically distorted. Congo’s government welcomed the move as a strong signal in defence of its sovereignty.
Rebels claim drone attack on Kisangani Airport
AFC/M23 rebels say they carried out a drone strike on Kisangani’s airport, far from their eastern strongholds. The group claims the operation targeted drones allegedly being prepared for attacks against civilians and rebel positions.
Provincial authorities reported intercepting several drones near the airport and said no casualties were recorded. The incident highlights the widening scope of the conflict beyond traditional front lines.
Senegal PM gints at government split
Ousmane Sonko, Senegal’s Prime Minister has warned he could pull his party out of government if President Bassirou Diomaye Faye diverges from their shared political vision.
The remarks come amid speculation of tensions within the ruling coalition as the country negotiates with the IMF over a suspended $1.8 billion programme. Economic pressures and political uncertainty continue to test Senegal’s stability.
South African TV personality dies at 61
Veteran South African television personality Ian von Memerty has died at the age of 61, his family confirmed. He had recently spoken publicly about personal struggles and concerns about aging and financial insecurity.
The entertainer was widely known for his roles on talent and dance competition shows, as well as theatre productions. His family has requested privacy as they mourn his passing.
At least 169 Killed in South Sudan surprise attack
Authorities in South Sudan say at least 169 people were killed in a pre-dawn assault in the Ruweng Administrative Area. The dead include civilians, security personnel and local officials.
Officials allege the attackers were armed youth linked to opposition forces, though those groups deny involvement. The United Nations has warned that rising violence risks pushing the country back toward full-scale civil war.
