The Israeli Air Force’s F-35I “Adir” fighter jet has made history by shooting down an Iranian Yak-130 jet over Tehran, marking the first-ever downing of a manned aircraft by an F-35.
The Yak-130 is a Russian-made, two-seat combat training aircraft, and this incident highlights the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.
The last time IAF jets shot down a manned enemy aircraft was on November 24, 1985, over Lebanon.
In that incident, an IAF F-15 downed two Syrian MiG-23 fighters
The Israeli military has been conducting strikes on Iranian targets, including missile launchers and defense systems, in response to Iran’s retaliatory attacks.
Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has inaugurated a seven-member committee, to drive the implementation of state police in Nigeria.
The committee is led by Professor Olu Ogunsakin, a renowned expert in police studies.
While speaking during the inauguration, Disu asked the committee to propose an operational framework for the establishment and coordination of state police structures.
This move is part of efforts to decentralize policing and improve security in the country, with state governments playing a more active role in managing local security challenges.
The committee’s tasks include reviewing existing policing models, assessing community security needs, and proposing an operational framework for state police structures.
Meanwhile, on several occasions, President Bola Tinubu has promised that his administration will create state police as part of the measures to address the country’s insecurity.
United States CIA is working to arm Kurdish forces with the aim of causing a popular uprising in Iran,
Multiple sources familiar with the plan according to CNN, said Trump administration has been in serious discussions with Iranian opposition groups and Kurdish leaders in Iraq about providing them with military support.
Over the years, Kurdish rebels have opposed Iran and carried out numerous attacks in Iran’s Kurdistan province as well as other western provinces.
They operate along the Iraq-Iran border, with Iran and Iraq’s Kurdish minorities sharing close ties.
The CIA has a history of working with Kurdish groups in neighbouring Iraq, which the US invaded in 2003.
It is also on record that Washington funded, armed and trained Kurdish fighters in Syria against former President Bashar al-Assad.
The CIA has funded rebels and armed groups in numerous countries over the past several decades to destabilise governments critical of US foreign policy.
Amid the ongoing war, and as Iran hits US assets and personnel hosted in neighbouring Gulf countries, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has also targeted Kurdish positions in the west.
“Instinctively, it feels like a bad move,” analyst Neil Quillian of the United Kingdom-based think tank Chatham House told Al Jazeera of the plan, warning that it might cause more internal conflict in Iran.
“It is an afterthought and has not featured in any major planning to support any broader endgame. It reveals that the US-Iran war against Iran has been poorly thought out,” he said.
Nigeria’s net foreign exchange reserves stood at $34.8 billion as of December 2025, according to Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso.
In a statement issued on Monday in Lagos, Cardoso was quoted to have disclosed this at the end of the last Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting.
The last MPC meeting was held on Feb. 24 in Abuja.
He had earlier stated that the country’s gross external reserves stood at 50.45 billion dollars as at Feb. 16, 2026.
According to him, net reserves increased from 3.99 billion dollars at the end of 2023 to 34.80 billion dollars at the close of 2025.
He described the increase as a fundamental improvement in reserve quality and overall external buffers.
Cardoso said the 2025 net reserve figure exceeded the total gross reserves recorded at the end of 2023, which stood at 33.22 billion dollars.
He added that net reserves rose from 23.11 billion dollars at end-2024 to 34.80 billion dollars at end of 2025.
He also said gross external reserves increased to 45.71 billion dollars from 40.19 billion dollars within the same period.
The governor noted that the expansion underscored Nigeria’s enhanced capacity to meet external obligations and support exchange rate stability.
He noted that improved transparency and credibility in foreign exchange management boosted investor confidence and attracted stronger FX inflows.
Cardoso said the end-2025 reserve position validated the bank’s ongoing policy reforms and external sector adjustments.
He reaffirmed the CBN’s commitment to maintaining adequate reserve buffers and sustaining macroeconomic stability in line with its mandate.
The US Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, citing potential protests in the city.
Affected applicants, the embassy said in a statement posted on it’s official X handle, will be contacted to reschedule.
It advised applicants to monitor their website and social media for updates.
This is coming after members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), known as Shi’ites, staged protests in several states over the killing of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, during recent US-Israeli strikes on Tehran.
Demonstrators were seen in Lagos, Kano, Niger, Sokoto, Gombe and Kaduna states condemning the joint military action by the US and Israel, which led to Khamenei’s death alongside members of his family.
Similar protests were reported in Bauchi and Yobe states.
The protesters waved Iranian flags, displayed portraits of Khamenei, and carried placards denouncing both the United States and Israel while expressing solidarity with Iran.
The demonstrations followed heightened tensions in the Middle East following coordinated airstrikes by the US and Israel on Iranian targets.
In Nigeria, the Shi’ites have historically expressed solidarity with Iran and its leadership, often organising processions and demonstrations in response to developments involving the Islamic Republic.
Filmmaker, actor, and media mogul Tyler Perry is firmly pushing back against a $77 million sexual assault lawsuit, describing the claims as “frivolous” and financially motivated. The lawsuit, filed last year by actor Mario Rodriguez, accuses Perry of sexual assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
According to court documents filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court on February 27, Perry’s legal team categorically denied the allegations. Rodriguez alleges that after landing a minor role in the 2016 film Boo! A Madea Halloween, he was subjected to unwanted sexual advances and misconduct by Perry. He claims that Perry invited him to his home under the pretense of discussing career opportunities and later assaulted him.
Perry’s attorneys argue that the lawsuit is a calculated attempt to extract money. In their response, they state that Rodriguez sought financial assistance from Perry on multiple occasions after the film project, portraying him as someone who tried to leverage proximity to the filmmaker for personal gain. The filing claims that when financial support was not provided, Rodriguez allegedly fabricated the accusations in an effort to generate public controversy and secure a settlement.
The legal team also addressed Rodriguez’s visits to Perry’s residence between 2016 and 2019, characterizing them as voluntary and part of what they described as a friendly relationship. They reject any suggestion of coercion or misconduct, asserting that the claims are inconsistent with the nature of their interactions.
In addition to denying the allegations, Perry has moved to transfer the case to federal court in Georgia, citing residency and jurisdictional grounds. His attorneys maintain that the case should not proceed in California and argue that Georgia is the appropriate venue for the legal battle.
Complicating matters further, Perry is also defending himself against a separate lawsuit filed by actor Derek Dixon from the television series The Oval, who has made similar accusations. Perry’s lawyer, Matthew Boyd, has dismissed both cases as fabricated and insisted that the filmmaker will vigorously defend himself in court.
The high-profile nature of the lawsuit has drawn significant public attention, particularly given Perry’s prominent status in the entertainment industry as the creator of the Madea franchise and the founder of one of the largest film production studios in the United States. Legal experts note that cases of this scale often involve complex litigation processes, including motions over jurisdiction, evidentiary hearings, and potentially lengthy court proceedings before any final resolution is reached.
As the matter unfolds, both sides appear prepared for a prolonged legal fight. Perry continues to deny all allegations, while Rodriguez’s claims remain before the court. The outcome of the case could have significant implications not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader conversation surrounding accountability and legal disputes within the entertainment industry.
British rapper Ghetts, whose real name is Justin Clarke-Samuel, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for causing the death of 20-year-old university student Yubin Tamang in a tragic hit-and-run incident in north-east London. The sentencing took place at the Old Bailey, where Ghetts pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and an additional charge of dangerous driving.
The fatal incident occurred on Redbridge Lane East in Ilford on October 18, 2025. Prosecutors told the court that Ghetts, who was 41 at the time, was driving his BMW M5 at more than double the legal speed limit, running six red lights, swerving onto the wrong side of the road, mounting the kerb, and colliding with multiple vehicles before ultimately striking Tamang. The 20-year-old student from Nepal was taken to hospital but tragically passed away two days later.
Prosecutor Philip McGhee highlighted that Ghetts had consumed alcohol and was approximately one and a half times over the legal limit. CCTV footage presented in court was described by Judge Mark Lucraft KC as a “quite appalling litany of incidents” and “simply shocking,” illustrating a reckless series of dangerous maneuvers that ultimately ended in tragedy.
Ghetts claimed he believed he was being followed and that this fear contributed to his dangerous driving. However, police investigations found no evidence of any pursuit. Further evidence linking him to the crash came from debris traced back to his vehicle, which was later recovered near his home in Woodford Green, showing significant front-end damage consistent with the collision.
In a victim impact statement, Tamang’s family spoke about their devastation, saying their “hearts are broken beyond repair” and expressing that Ghetts had “stolen our son’s future and ours with it.” The statement reflected the immense grief felt by the family and the wider community over the loss of the young student.
As part of the sentencing, Ghetts was also disqualified from driving for 17 years, in addition to his 12-year prison term. Legal experts noted that the severity of the sentence reflects not only the reckless nature of the incident but also the societal need to uphold road safety and accountability, particularly for drivers under the influence of alcohol.
The case has sent shockwaves through the UK music community, with fans and fellow artists expressing their sorrow over the loss of Yubin Tamang and calling for greater responsibility among public figures. Social media discussions have focused on the dangers of reckless driving, particularly when combined with alcohol, and the long-lasting impact such incidents have on victims’ families.
Ghetts’s sentencing marks a somber reminder of the consequences of reckless and dangerous behavior behind the wheel, underscoring that fame and status do not exempt anyone from the law. The tragedy has sparked renewed conversations about road safety in London and the importance of legal accountability in cases involving loss of life.
An Iranian missile has hit a US military base at Al-Udeid in Qatar, with Qatar’s Defence Ministry stating that air defence systems successfully intercepted one of the missiles, while the second missile struck the base without causing any casualties.
The ministry did not specify whether the missile caused material damage to the facility. It also revealed that since the beginning of the Iranian attacks, its forces had detected a total of 39 suicide drones, three cruise missiles, and 101 ballistic missiles heading toward Qatari airspace.
Officials stated that all 39 drones and 24 missiles were intercepted.
In response to the direct strike on its territory, the Qatari government issued a strong statement regarding its defensive posture.
The ministry said the “Qatari Armed Forces possess the full capability to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and territory and remain prepared to respond firmly to any external threat.”
Authorities urged citizens, residents, and visitors to remain calm, follow official instructions, and rely on verified information rather than rumors.
However, this comes as Iran retaliates for US-Israeli attacks, launching missiles and drones across the Gulf.
The Federal Government has prohibited cash collection of taxes and banned the mounting of roadblocks for revenue enforcement, as part of fresh regulations to implement Nigeria’s new tax laws nationwide.
The Executive Secretary (ES) of the Joint Revenue Board, Mr Olusegun Adesokan, made this known during the signing of the Presumptive Tax Regulations and Guidelines on the Implementation of the Tax Laws in Abuja on Tuesday.
He said that the new framework was designed to end informal, coercive and fragmented tax practices, particularly at the subnational level.
“It bans all forms of cash collection by tax authorities.
“It also bans the mounting of roadblocks for the collection of taxes,” he said.
Adesokan said that the regulations would entrench transparency and equity in tax administration, especially within the commerce and informal sectors.
“These regulations are another demonstration of his commitment to taxing prosperity and not poverty,” the ES said.
He said that nano and small businesses with an annual turnover of N12 million or below would be exempted under the presumptive tax regime.
“Our nano and small businesses with an annual turnover of N12 million and below are exempted from tax,” Adesokan said.
He said that the framework introduced a one per cent tax rate on turnover for other categories of informal businesses, while encouraging the use of technology-driven payment systems.
“It also introduces a tax rate of one per cent of turnover on all other categories of informal businesses,” he said.
Adesokan noted that the guidelines provided a uniform structure for subnational governments in taxing the commerce sector and integrating operators into the formal system through a Tax Identification platform.
“These regulations constitute the framework for taxing the commerce sector.
”The alignment of states behind the framework signalled a coordinated national approach,” he said.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, said that the signing marked a transition from legislative approval to operational enforcement of the tax reforms enacted in 2025 and early 2026.
“With the signing of these regulations, we are transitioning from regulation to structured implementation of the tax reforms,” Edun said.
He said that the regulations was a simple and transparent framework for applying presumptive tax anchored on transparency, fairness, clarity, indeed, equity, and economic inclusion for Nigerians.
“Our aim is to ensure consistency, prevent arbitrary assessments and to protect small businesses while ensuring the continuous growth of the Nigerian economy,” the minister said.
Edun said that the reforms were not intended to raise tax rates but to broaden the tax base in a structured manner.
“We will expand the tax base, not raising taxes, but expanding so that each bears his rightful contribution to the common cause,” he said.
The minister said that the regulations were developed in collaboration with the Joint Revenue Board to ensure alignment across federal, state and local governments.
“Our role is to ensure that tax administrations are coordinated, not fragmented, deliver results and impact to all Nigerians,” Edun said.
The minister said that the reforms bring broader growth objectives, adding that the economic expansion had exceeded four per cent in the last quarter of 2025 but required further acceleration.
“We are trying to get to seven per cent GDP growth, the President’s said the target by 2030 is one trillion dollars economy,” Edun said.
He said that the implementation would be closely monitored to safeguard fairness, and an ombudsman mechanism had been introduced.
The Chairman of the National Tax Policy Implementation Committee, Mr Joseph Tegbe, said that the signing was a decisive shift from policy intention to practical execution.
He said that the reforms were not about imposing new burdens but correcting distortions in the system.
“It is not about imposing new volumes but restoring order where there has been fragmentation and replacing arbitrariness with transparency, ” the chairman said.
Tegbe said that the informal sector employs more than 80 per cent of Nigeria’s workforce but has historically contributed little to structured public revenue due to systemic weaknesses.
“The informal sector employs more than 80 per cent of the workforce yet its contribution to structured public revenue has been disproportionately low, not because they are unwilling to pay but because our framework was either too complex or did not reflect operational realities,” he said.
Tegbe said that sustainable development required sustainable revenue mobilisation and that the committee would work with tax authorities to ensure disciplined and transparent rollout of the new framework.
Iranians are set to bid farewell to their late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at a multi-day ceremony in Tehran, following his death in U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Saturday. Khamenei, who ruled Iran for decades, was 86 years old.
Hojjatoleslam Mahmoudi, head of Iran’s Islamic Propagation Council, told state media that the farewell ceremonies will span three days, with the funeral procession to be announced at a later date.
The public will have the opportunity to pay their respects at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall, beginning at 10 p.m. local time (1830 GMT).
“The Mosalla (prayer hall) will be receiving visitors, and the people can attend and take part in the farewell ceremony, marking a strong presence once again,” Mahmoudi said.
Khamenei’s death marks a significant turning point for Iran, whose leadership has long been defined by hostility toward the U.S. and Israel.
The circumstances surrounding his killing have intensified tensions across the Middle East.
Sean “Diddy” Combs is now projected to be released from federal prison about six weeks earlier than previously scheduled, even as he pushes forward with an appeal to challenge both his conviction and four-year sentence. New data from the Federal Bureau of Prisons shows that his projected release date has shifted from June 4, 2028 to April 25, 2028, a reduction tied to his participation in an intensive prison rehabilitation program.
Combs entered the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) in November, a highly structured therapeutic initiative available to eligible inmates. Participation in RDAP can lead to a sentence reduction upon successful completion, and federal records indicate he has been actively involved. A spokesperson for Combs emphasized his dedication to the process, stating that he has taken the program seriously, focusing on personal growth and positive change since the beginning of his sentence.
The adjustment to his release date comes after a period of instability in Combs’s incarceration timeline. Late last year, his release was delayed, pushed back from an earlier projected May 8, 2028 date to June 4, 2028, following reported violations of prison rules. The latest revision is seen by some legal observers as a significant outcome of his RDAP participation despite those setbacks.
While the new release date offers a small reprieve from the earlier schedule, Combs’s legal battles remain far from over. In December, his defense team filed an appeal asking a federal appellate court to overturn his convictions or, alternatively, reduce his sentence. The appeal centers on arguments related to legal errors made during his trial and sentencing phase. In response, federal prosecutors moved to uphold both his conviction and the full four-year sentence during court proceedings in February, setting the stage for a protracted legal showdown.
The case against Combs began in September 2024 when he was arrested on serious federal charges following accusations from more than 120 individuals. The allegations included kidnapping, blackmail, physical abuse, and a range of crimes tied to prostitution and trafficking, with some of the accusers being minors. In October of that year, he was convicted in a New York federal courthouse on two counts of transportation for prostitution. The sentencing judge, Arun Subramanian, handed down a term of more than four years in prison.
Initially detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, Combs was later transferred to FCI Fort Dix, a low-security federal correctional facility in New Jersey, where he has been serving his sentence. It is there that he completed intake into the RDAP and where prison officials say he has maintained his engagement in rehabilitative programming.
In a high-profile twist earlier this year, Combs’s legal team also pursued clemency from then-President Donald Trump. According to reports, Trump briefly weighed the possibility of granting a full pardon during the final weeks of his presidency, but ultimately chose not to issue one. The decision left Combs to continue his appeal through the courts rather than through executive clemency.
As the revised release date approaches, legal experts say the outcome of Combs’s appeal, still pending before a federal appellate panel, could have major ramifications not only for his own future but for how high-profile criminal appeals are handled in similar cases. Should the appeal fail, Combs is expected to serve out his term according to the Bureau of Prisons’ updated schedule. If the appellate court sides with his arguments, however, the convictions could be reconsidered or his sentence reduced.
Meanwhile, the case continues to generate widespread media attention with supporters, detractors, and legal analysts closely watching every development. Whether his time behind bars ends in April 2028 or earlier under extraordinary legal circumstances, the pop culture and legal communities agree that the saga of Sean “Diddy” Combs is far from finished.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced Tuesday evening that France is sending an aircraft carrier group to the Mediterranean in response to the widening Middle East conflict following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.
In a televised address, Macron confirmed that the Charles de Gaulle, along with its air assets and escort frigates, will head to the Mediterranean.
Additional French air defence forces and the frigate Languedoc are being deployed to Cyprus after a drone attack targeted the British air base at Akrotiri.
“The United States of America and Israel decided to launch military operations, conducted outside international law, which we cannot approve of,” Macron said.
He also stressed that Iran bears “primary responsibility” due to its nuclear program, support for regional proxies, and violent suppression of domestic protests earlier this year.
Macron noted that French forces had already shot down Iranian drones in self-defence during the initial hours of the conflict, protecting allies in Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates.
The deployment reflects France’s growing involvement in the region to safeguard its interests and those of its allies amid escalating tensions following the killing of Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei in U.S.-Israeli strikes.
The situation has raised concerns over regional stability, prompting European powers to monitor developments closely while preparing contingency measures for their citizens in affected areas.
The French president warned of the risk of the conflict spreading beyond the Middle East and reaffirmed France’s commitment to defend its allies while urging restraint from all parties.
France’s rapid military mobilization underscores the intensifying geopolitical tensions as Iran continues to retaliate against U.S. and Israeli actions across the region.
The United States has imposed sanctions on the Rwanda Defence Force and senior Rwandan military officials due to their role in ongoing fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The sanctions demand an immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces from the mineral-rich region.
According to the U.S. Treasury Department, the territorial gains of the rebel group AFC/M23 would have been impossible without support from Rwanda.
The U.S. State Department added that this support enabled “horrific human rights abuses.”
Rwanda has consistently denied backing the rebels, accusing the sanctions of unfairly targeting one party in the peace process and misrepresenting the conflict.
The Rwandan government stressed its commitment to disengaging forces alongside the DRC under U.S.-led mediation efforts but criticized the Congolese government for failing to honor commitments, including ending militia support.
Congo welcomed the sanctions, calling them “a strong signal in support of respect” for its sovereignty.
Meanwhile, fighting in eastern DRC continues across multiple fronts.
The rebels recently launched a drone attack on Kisangani’s airport, hundreds of kilometers from the main conflict zone, claiming responsibility for the strike.
Sanctioned Rwandan officials include army chief of staff Vincent Nyakarundi, chief of defence staff, special operations commander, and the 5th Infantry Division commander.
Despite a peace agreement signed in Washington in December 2025 under the U.S. President Donald Trump’s mediation, the conflict escalated when AFC/M23 forces briefly occupied the eastern city of Uvira near the Burundian border, highlighting the fragility of the region’s peace.
The sanctions reflect U.S. concerns that continued rebel activity risks expanding the conflict into a broader regional war, threatening stability in the Great Lakes region of Africa.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has destroyed a secret underground nuclear site in Tehran, Iran, where the country had relocated its nuclear project.
The site, known as “Minzadehei”, was reportedly developing key components for nuclear weapons.
IDF spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin stated that the strike was part of a broader effort to eliminate Iran’s nuclear threat, following previous attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025.
Though, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed damage to Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility, but noted that no radiological impact has been detected.
The social media platform X announced a 90-day suspension from its Creator Revenue Sharing program for users posting AI-generated videos of armed conflicts without disclosure.
The move comes amid the ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
X’s head of product, Nikita Bier, said the policy aims to protect information authenticity during wartime.
“Current AI technologies make it trivial to create content that can mislead people,” Bier noted, emphasizing the importance of providing authentic updates on the ground.
The policy requires creators to clearly disclose AI-generated content depicting conflict.
Repeat violations could result in permanent removal from the revenue-sharing program, which compensates eligible users with a portion of advertising revenue generated by their posts.
Violations will be detected using Community Notes—X’s crowd-sourced fact-checking systemalongside metadata and other technical signals embedded in AI-generated content.
This represents a notable shift for X, which since its acquisition by Elon Musk in October 2022 has largely relaxed content moderation policies and faced criticism for its approach to misinformation.
The platform said it will continue refining its rules to maintain trust during critical moments of conflict.
Police in Cleveland are seeking public assistance after two young Black girls were found dead inside separate suitcases buried in shallow graves Monday evening.
According to the Cleveland Division of Police, the victims are believed to be between the ages of 8 and 14.
Authorities said there are currently no missing persons reports in the city matching the identities of the girls.
The discovery was made near East 162nd Street and Midland Avenue, in a field close to Ginn Academy, after a man walking his dog noticed a partially buried suitcase near a fence by a playground.
The man reportedly unzipped the suitcase, saw what appeared to be a human head, and immediately contacted police.
Officers responding to the scene located a shallow grave containing the first suitcase with a deceased individual inside.
A search of the surrounding area led to the discovery of a second shallow grave and another suitcase containing a second victim.
Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd described the case as a “terrible, horrific situation” during a news conference.
“This is a traumatic event for our officers and for the community,” Todd said. “This is just such a tragic incident, but we are trying to develop any leads we can. That’s why we are also asking for the community’s help.”
Authorities have not yet identified the girls or determined their causes of death. Police also said it remains unclear how long the bodies had been buried.
The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office has taken custody of the bodies for autopsies. Officials confirmed that the victims had not been dismembered.
Police stated there is no immediate indication of a broader threat to public safety but emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing.
The Cleveland Police Homicide Unit has established a 24-hour tip line and is urging anyone with information to come forward.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has clarified that his split with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was solely due to differences in party affiliation.
While speaking on Channels Television, the governor stressed that although they now belong to different political parties, he still maintains a cordial relationship with Atiku.
Fintiri dismissed claims of any communication breakdown, insisting that their political differences have not strained their personal relationship.
“There is no strained communication with the former vice president because of political differences,” he said.
“Nothing has gone wrong. We have simply chosen different political paths. I am now in the APC, while they are in another party.
He stated that individuals committed to Nigeria’s progress should recognize each other as partners in nation-building, and his current stance aligns with supporting a southern candidacy.
Fintiri’s defection to the APC has been seen as a significant political blow to Atiku, strengthening the ruling party in Adamawa State.
The governor also mentioned that his decision was guided by political considerations, as he hasn’t seen any presidential candidate formally emerge from the PDP.
The United States Department of Defense has identified four of the six U.S. Army Reserve soldiers killed in a March 1 drone attack in Kuwait while supporting Operation Epic Fury.
Diaspora Digital Media reported that the soldiers were killed at the Port of Shuaiba during what authorities described as an unmanned aircraft system attack.
All were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command based in Des Moines, Iowa, which provides logistical and operational support to U.S. forces overseas.
The fallen service members were identified as Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Lakeland, Florida; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota; Sgt.
1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska; and Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of Des Moines, Iowa.
Two additional soldiers killed in the strike have not yet been publicly identified pending family notification.
Lt. Gen. Robert Harter, chief of Army Reserve and commanding general of U.S. Army Reserve Command, paid tribute to the soldiers.
“We honor our fallen heroes who served fearlessly and selflessly in defense of our nation,” Harter said. “Their sacrifice, and the sacrifices of their families, will never be forgotten.”
Khork enlisted in the National Guard in 2009 before commissioning as a military police officer in the Army Reserve in 2014.
He deployed to Saudi Arabia in 2018, Guantánamo Bay in 2021 and Poland in 2024. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal.
Amor joined the National Guard in 2005 as an automated logistics specialist and later transferred to the Army Reserve.
She deployed to Kuwait and Iraq in 2019 and received multiple commendations, including the Army Commendation Medal.
Tietjens entered the Army Reserve in 2006 as a wheeled vehicle mechanic and completed two previous deployments to Kuwait. His decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal and the Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star.
Coady, the youngest of the four identified soldiers, enlisted in 2023 as an Army information technology specialist.
He was posthumously promoted to sergeant. His awards include the National Defense Service Medal and the Overseas Service Ribbon.
Maj. Gen. Todd Erskine, commanding general of the 79th Theater Sustainment Command, extended condolences to the families, describing the soldiers as representing “the heart of America.”
The attack comes amid heightened regional tensions and expanded U.S. military operations in the Middle East. Officials said further details would be released as the investigation progresses.
In a dramatic and potentially transformative development for the Islamic Republic of Iran, reports emerging Tuesday indicate that Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has been selected by the powerful Assembly of Experts as the country’s new supreme leader. The decision, first reported by Iran International, was said to have been made during a confidential vote allegedly conducted under significant pressure from the influential Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, widely known as the IRGC.
According to sources cited in the report, members of the 88-member Assembly convened amid extraordinary security conditions following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during Israel’s military campaign known as Operation Roaring Lion. The operation, which marked an unprecedented escalation in the region, resulted in the death of Iran’s highest authority and plunged the nation into political uncertainty. With the country reeling and regional tensions at boiling point, the urgency to establish continuity at the apex of power became paramount.
Senior Israeli officials, speaking anonymously, have indicated that they expect the Assembly to formally announce Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment within hours. While no official confirmation has yet been issued by Iranian state media, insiders suggest that the groundwork for the succession had been quietly discussed for years, even if Mojtaba was not widely seen as the leading contender in public discourse.
The reported selection is already stirring controversy both inside and outside Iran. According to Iran International’s correspondent, the vote was conducted “under pressure from the Revolutionary Guards,” suggesting that the IRGC — Iran’s most powerful military and economic institution — may have played a decisive role in shaping the outcome. The Guards, who command vast influence over security policy and regional strategy, are believed to have favored a candidate aligned with their hardline worldview, particularly at a time of open confrontation with Israel and the United States.
Mojtaba Khamenei, a mid-ranking cleric who teaches Shiite theology at a seminary in Qom, has long been a shadowy but significant figure within Iran’s inner power structure. Though he has never held a formal government post, he has been widely regarded as a behind-the-scenes operator with deep ties to the security establishment. Analysts have frequently described him as a “gatekeeper” within his father’s inner circle, someone who managed access, coordinated political alliances, and maintained close working relationships with senior commanders in the Revolutionary Guards.
His ideological posture is viewed as closely aligned with that of his late father. Mojtaba has publicly supported strong measures against regime opponents within Iran and has endorsed assertive policies toward what Tehran describes as foreign adversaries. His reported elevation therefore signals continuity rather than reform — a consolidation of hardline authority at a moment of national vulnerability.
In 2019, the United States imposed sanctions on Mojtaba Khamenei, asserting that although he did not hold an official title, he effectively represented the supreme leader’s office and exercised considerable influence in state affairs. That designation reinforced the perception among Western observers that Mojtaba was more than simply a cleric in Qom; he was a political actor embedded within the regime’s strategic decision-making framework.
Yet despite his name periodically surfacing as a potential successor over the years, many Iran watchers did not consider him the most likely heir. One major reason was the optics of dynastic succession. Elevating the son of the supreme leader could be interpreted domestically and internationally as a hereditary transfer of power — an uncomfortable echo of the monarchy that was overthrown during the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Critics argue that such a move risks undermining the ideological foundation of the Islamic Republic, which was established in opposition to royal autocracy.
There are also theological considerations. Traditionally, the position of supreme leader requires significant clerical seniority and recognition within the Shiite religious hierarchy. Some observers have noted that Mojtaba may not be regarded as sufficiently senior by classical standards, raising questions about how religious legitimacy will be framed in the official announcement. However, constitutional provisions allow the Assembly of Experts broad discretion in determining suitability, particularly during times of national emergency.
Under Iran’s constitution, the supreme leader is chosen by the Assembly of Experts, whose members are themselves elected by the public but must first be vetted and approved by the Guardian Council — a body appointed directly or indirectly by the supreme leader. The structure ensures that ultimate authority remains within a tightly controlled ideological framework. The supreme leader wields unparalleled power, commanding the armed forces, overseeing the judiciary, influencing foreign policy, and maintaining final authority over key state institutions.
Israeli officials have previously suggested that Mojtaba has been deliberately kept out of the public spotlight, cultivating influence without assuming overt visibility. That low profile may now shift dramatically if the Assembly formally confirms his appointment. The timing of the reported decision — coming so soon after his father’s death — suggests a calculated effort to project stability and prevent factional fragmentation within the regime.
For Iran’s domestic audience, the transition will be framed as constitutional continuity. For international observers, it represents a defining moment in the evolution of the Islamic Republic. Whether Mojtaba Khamenei’s leadership will mirror his father’s in both tone and substance, or whether the extraordinary circumstances of his ascent will alter Iran’s strategic trajectory, remains to be seen.
As of now, Iranian state media has not issued immediate confirmation of the reported selection. However, with foreign governments monitoring developments closely and regional tensions already inflamed, the formal announcement — if it comes — will mark the beginning of a new and uncertain chapter in Iran’s political history, one that could reshape the balance of power within the Middle East for years to come.
US President Donald Trump has threatened to cut off all trade with Spain after Madrid refused to allow American forces to use its military bases for strikes on Iran.
Trump also criticized Britain for its limited cooperation, saying the US-UK relationship isn’t what it used to be.
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez defended his country’s stance, stating that US forces can only use Spanish bases for operations consistent with the United Nations Charter.
Trump’s comments came during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, where he also criticized Spain’s defense spending, saying it’s the only NATO country not meeting the 5% GDP target.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent backed Trump’s claim, citing presidential authority to impose embargoes.
“Spain has been terrible,” Trump told reporters during a meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the White House.
“So we’re going to cut off all trade with Spain. We don’t want anything to do with Spain,” Trump said, adding that he had directed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to suspend economic dealings with Madrid.
However, it remains uncertain what authority Trump would have to terminate trade with Spain, especially after the US Supreme Court invalidated his use of emergency powers to impose sweeping tariffs.
Reflecting on the matter, the 79-year-old former property developer asserted that he could stop all business ties with Spain “tomorrow — or today,” claiming broad executive authority.
Nigerian entertainer Peller has joined the conversation surrounding the growing tension between DJ Tunez and Caterefe, calling out what he describes as ungratefulness and unnecessary disrespect.
The drama began when DJ Tunez reportedly blocked Caterefe on social media, a move many fans interpret as a clear indication of the strained relationship between the two artists. Sources suggest that Caterefe’s recent interview, in which he appeared to criticize both DJ Tunez and Wizkid, escalated the situation, sparking heated reactions from fans and industry insiders alike.
Reacting to the unfolding saga, Peller expressed his surprise at the level of disrespect shown, stating, “DJ Tunez has already blocked Caterefe, and that alone shows how ungrateful Caterefe is. After everything, Caterefe going on an interview to insult both Wizkid and DJ Tunez is just wild. That level of disrespect is unnecessary.”
Fans have since flooded social media with opinions, with many siding with DJ Tunez and calling out Caterefe for airing grievances publicly instead of resolving issues privately. Industry watchers note that the incident highlights a growing conversation about professionalism, loyalty, and respect within the Afrobeats music scene.
The controversy also raises questions about how artists handle public criticism, especially when it involves colleagues they have worked with closely. While some fans hope for reconciliation, others feel that DJ Tunez’s decision to block Caterefe sends a strong message that loyalty and gratitude are non-negotiable in the industry.
As the situation continues to unfold, fans are eagerly watching for any response from Caterefe, and whether he will clarify his statements or issue an apology. For now, the drama serves as a reminder of the fragile relationships and high stakes involved in the fast-paced world of music.
The United States Embassy in Israel has informed American citizens in Israel that it is currently unable to provide evacuation or direct assistance amid escalating security concerns in the region.
In a notice posted on its X account, the Embassy directed that all U.S. government employees and their families “continue to shelter in place in and near their residences until further notice” due to the volatile security situation.
The Embassy advised Americans to make independent arrangements for their safety and provided guidance on potential exit options.
According to the notice, the Israeli Ministry of Tourism began operating shuttles to the Taba Border Crossing into Egypt as of March 2, though travelers must register via the Ministry’s evacuation form.
The Embassy stressed that it cannot recommend the use of the shuttle service and cannot guarantee the safety of those who choose to use it.
For Americans attempting to enter Jordan, it advised taking the shuttle to Eilat and proceeding by taxi to the Yitzhak Rabin Border Crossing.
Shuttle meeting points include Herzliya, Haifa, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv.
Officials also noted that the Taba land crossing into Egypt operates 24 hours daily, but travelers may be required to pay a visa fee in advance.
Flight options from Taba and Sharm al-Sheikh airports remain limited, while Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan is open with restricted flights via Royal Jordanian Airlines.
The Embassy urged U.S. citizens to follow instructions from the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command, remain vigilant, and seek immediate shelter during any mortar, rocket, or hostile aircraft alerts.
“Travel restrictions on U.S. government personnel and their families could be expanded without notice, including to areas of Jerusalem and the West Bank,” the Embassy warned.
For real-time updates, Americans were encouraged to consult official sources and mobile applications maintained by the IDF Home Front Command.
The notice comes as tensions across the region continue to escalate, leaving American citizens responsible for arranging their own safety and departure from Israel.
Annabel Schofield, the Welsh-born model and actress whose presence defined London fashion in the 1980s and later graced international television screens, has passed away at the age of 62. She was widely recognized for her striking looks, commanding presence, and the effortless way she captured attention both on the runway and on screen.
Schofield first gained fame as one of the leading faces of 1980s London fashion, appearing in campaigns for major brands and becoming a familiar figure in magazines across the UK and Europe. Her style and charisma made her an icon of the era, influencing fashion trends and inspiring a generation of models and designers.
Her career later expanded into acting, most notably with her role as Laurel Ellis on the popular primetime soap Dallas, where she starred alongside Larry Hagman. Her performance brought a mix of sophistication and warmth to the screen, earning her recognition from both fans and peers. Beyond television, she also took on film roles and contributed creatively behind the scenes in production, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry.
Even in her final years, Schofield remained engaged with her fans, often sharing insights into her life and experiences. Friends and colleagues remember her not just for her talent and beauty but also for her generous spirit, professionalism, and the lively energy she brought to every project.
Annabel Schofield leaves behind a legacy that spans fashion and entertainment, remembered as a trailblazer who successfully bridged two dynamic industries while inspiring countless people with her artistry and determination.
United States and Ecuadorian military forces have launched coordinated operations targeting suspected narco-terrorist groups in Ecuador, according to the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).
In a statement posted Tuesday, SOUTHCOM said the joint effort represents “decisive action” against designated terrorist organizations operating in the region.
The command did not immediately confirm whether there were casualties resulting from the operations.
“On March 3, Ecuadorian and U.S. military forces launched operations against Designated Terrorist Organizations in Ecuador,” SOUTHCOM said, describing the initiative as a strong demonstration of regional cooperation in combating narco-terrorism across Latin America and the Caribbean.
SOUTHCOM Commander Francis L. Donovan praised Ecuador’s armed forces for their collaboration, commending their “unwavering commitment” and continued efforts against criminal networks within the country.
Separately, the U.S. Embassy in Ecuador announced the successful conclusion of a joint operation involving Europol and Ecuadorian authorities.
The operation dismantled the Hernán Ruilova Barzola transnational drug trafficking organization, which officials said is linked to the Los Lobos cartel.
The latest actions follow a series of U.S. military strikes targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.
Last week, U.S. forces struck a suspected narco-trafficking vessel in the Caribbean tied to designated terrorist organizations, reportedly killing three suspected traffickers.
According to SOUTHCOM, U.S. forces have conducted at least 43 strikes on alleged drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, resulting in approximately 150 deaths.
Officials described the operations as part of ongoing efforts to curb the influence of narco-terror networks and reduce violence and corruption linked to transnational drug trafficking in the hemisphere
COL Group and BeLive Holdings are set to make a major impact at the Hong Kong International Film and TV Market with the launch of their innovative “Microdrama in a Box” solution. The unveiling at Hong Kong FilMart signals a bold step forward in the rapidly growing microdrama industry, positioning both companies at the forefront of short-form digital storytelling.
“Microdrama in a Box” is designed as a complete, ready-to-deploy solution for businesses looking to enter the booming microdrama space. The offering combines a full software platform with a curated library of short-form drama content, giving partners everything they need to launch their own branded microdrama streaming service quickly and efficiently. Instead of building infrastructure from scratch, companies can plug into a packaged ecosystem that includes streaming technology, monetization tools, content management systems, and multilingual support.
Microdramas have become one of the fastest-growing formats in global entertainment. Built for mobile-first audiences, these short episodic stories are typically fast-paced, emotionally engaging, and designed for vertical viewing. Their accessibility and addictive storytelling style have made them hugely popular among younger audiences and emerging digital markets.
By introducing this turnkey solution, COL Group and BeLive Holdings aim to lower the barrier to entry for telecom operators, broadcasters, OTT platforms, and digital publishers interested in capitalizing on the microdrama trend. The companies believe that many regions around the world have strong audience demand but lack the technical infrastructure or content pipelines to scale effectively. “Microdrama in a Box” addresses that gap by delivering both the technology and the storytelling assets in one streamlined package.
The launch at Hong Kong FilMart is strategic, as the event gathers major players across film, television, and digital content industries. It provides an ideal platform to showcase how microdrama can evolve from a niche mobile trend into a sustainable, monetizable business model.
Industry observers see this partnership as part of a broader shift toward bite-sized entertainment formats that cater to shorter attention spans and on-the-go consumption habits. If successful, “Microdrama in a Box” could accelerate the global expansion of microdrama platforms and reshape how short-form content is distributed and monetized worldwide.
With digital storytelling continuing to evolve, this initiative places COL Group and BeLive Holdings in a strong position to lead the next wave of mobile-first entertainment innovation.
Two additional soldiers killed in the strike have not yet been publicly identified pending family notification.
