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Iran Closes Strait Of Hormuz Over Israeli Strikes In Lebanon As Trump Threatens Tolls

Omonigho Daibo
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Iran Closes Strait Of Hormuz Over Israeli Strikes In Lebanon As Trump Threatens Tolls

Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed Saturday, citing what it described as violations of the interim peace agreement by the United States and Israel, as continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon killed at least 16 people and threatened to unravel a fragile diplomatic framework reached just days earlier.

The announcement sent a fresh wave of uncertainty through global energy markets and cast a shadow over technical-level negotiations between U.S. and Iranian delegations set to begin Sunday in Switzerland.

What We Know So Far

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy warned all ships to stay away from the strait, saying their safety could not be guaranteed, NBC News confirmed. Iran’s top joint military command described the closure as the “first step” in response to what it called breaches of commitments by the United States and Israel, according to Iran’s semi-official Mehr news agency.

The United States disputed the announcement directly. “Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz. Traffic continues to flow, and U.S. forces are monitoring the situation to ensure this remains the case,” said Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for U.S. Central Command. The military confirmed that 55 merchant ships transited the waterway Saturday, carrying more than 17 million barrels of oil to global markets.

President Donald Trump responded on social media with a threat of his own, warning that the United States would impose its own tolls on the strait if a final agreement with Iran was not reached within 60 days. Trump said the money would be for “services rendered as the Guardian Angel to the countries of the Middle East.” The current interim agreement calls for toll-free transit through the strait for 60 days.

Trump did not address Iran’s assertion that the waterway was closed.

Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon killed at least 16 people, including two children, in the early hours of Saturday, one day after the United States said Israel and Hezbollah had agreed to a fresh ceasefire at Trump’s request, the Associated Press confirmed. Lebanon’s civil defense and media reported that strikes hit a series of towns across the south, with at least seven people trapped under rubble. Lebanon’s army confirmed a soldier was killed between Kfar Rumman and Nabatieh. A previous wave of strikes on Friday had killed 83 people, Lebanon’s Ministry of Health said.

The death toll in the latest Israel-Hezbollah war has surpassed 4,000, Lebanon’s health ministry confirmed Saturday.

The Israeli Defense Forces said Hezbollah had breached the ceasefire by launching more than 50 projectiles at Israeli soldiers operating in southern Lebanon overnight and that Israel struck Hezbollah targets in response. “The IDF remains committed to the ceasefire agreement,” the military’s statement read. An Israeli military official, speaking without authorization to comment publicly, later said the military had received updated political directives to cease fire but was operating defensively, retaining the right to respond to Hezbollah attacks. Five Israeli soldiers were killed in southern Lebanon in the previous 48 hours, the official said.

Hezbollah denied provoking the exchanges. A Hezbollah statement said the group had “adhered to the ceasefire since Friday evening” and accused Israel of fabricating justifications to continue strikes and “sabotage the agreement” between Iran and the United States.

A Hezbollah official told the Associated Press on condition of anonymity that Iran had informed the group it would not reopen the strait until Israel publicly committed to a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon and a full halt to military operations there. The official said Hezbollah would honor a ceasefire if Israel did the same.

What Authorities Are Saying

Vice President JD Vance departed for Bürgenstock, Switzerland on Saturday evening to join ongoing negotiations, just as Iranian state television broadcast footage of Iran’s delegation arriving in the country. Iran’s team includes parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and officials from Iran’s central bank and oil sector, the Associated Press confirmed.

Speaking to reporters before boarding his plane, Vance said the situation in Lebanon had calmed down despite news reports to the contrary. “I think we are going to hopefully make progress on the nuclear issue, hopefully make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think we are going to be focused on,” he said.

Earlier, Vance told Fox News that Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner were already in Switzerland working through technical details of the anticipated negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program.

Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally announced that technical-level talks would take place Sunday, with U.S. and Iranian representatives joined by mediators from Qatar and Pakistan.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said the Iranian delegation’s mission was to “demand the fulfillment of the other side’s obligations,” adding that formal negotiations toward a final agreement would only begin once those obligations were implemented. “If they are not,” Baghaei warned, “the memorandum of understanding as a whole will be jeopardized.”

The talks were originally meant to start Friday but were postponed after Iran initially canceled its participation because of the escalating violence in Lebanon. Negotiators for the United States and Qatar, working with Iranian input, reached a fresh arrangement between Israel and Hezbollah to reduce hostilities and allow the talks to proceed, according to U.S. and regional officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly, the Associated Press reported.

IDF spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin said Friday that Israeli forces would continue operating in southern Lebanon and would “do whatever is necessary to protect our civilians.” Neither the White House nor the Israeli prime minister’s office responded to questions about Iran’s strait closure declaration.

Why This Matters

The strait’s status sits at the center of the entire diplomatic framework. Iran committed to reopening it as part of the interim agreement signed this week, and ships had begun transiting again following the deal’s announcement, offering the first prospect of eased global energy supply in months. Iran’s closure declaration, whether enforced in practice or not, signals that Tehran is prepared to use the waterway as leverage every time it believes the terms of the agreement are being violated.

The fundamental problem is structural. Israel was not a signatory to the U.S.-Iran agreement and has made clear it does not consider itself bound by its terms, particularly regarding Lebanon. Iran insists that any ceasefire must include Lebanon. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to keep Israeli forces in southern Lebanon until all threats to Israel are eliminated, a position that appears incompatible with Iran’s core demand.

Netanyahu is also navigating a difficult domestic political landscape, facing a critical election in October and dependent on the support of far-right coalition partners who have publicly criticized the Iran deal as contrary to Israeli interests and pushed for intensified military action in Lebanon. “Netanyahu is in a challenging political spot,” Jonathan Panikoff, a former career intelligence officer now at the Atlantic Council think tank, told NBC News. “When combined with the broad view that Iran has emerged strategically stronger, Netanyahu finds himself trapped.”

U.S. intelligence agencies believe Israel will likely continue striking Hezbollah in Lebanon, a judgment that, if borne out, would keep the current crisis on a slow boil regardless of what is agreed in Switzerland, according to a source with knowledge of the assessments.

For the global economy, the back-and-forth over the strait’s status adds another layer of uncertainty to energy markets that had only just begun pricing in the prospect of resumed Gulf oil flows. Industry experts had already warned that normalizing shipping traffic through the waterway would take weeks even under the most favorable conditions, given that the threat of mines in the area still needs to be cleared.

The broader diplomatic damage is also significant. Vance publicly criticized Israeli officials Thursday, saying Israel did not appreciate American support, a rare and sharp rebuke that reflected the depth of frustration within the Trump administration over Netanyahu’s continued military operations at precisely the moment Washington was trying to consolidate its agreement with Tehran.

What Happens Next

U.S. and Iranian negotiators, joined by Qatari and Pakistani mediators, are expected to meet Sunday in Switzerland to begin technical discussions on the most complex unresolved elements of the interim agreement, including Iran’s nuclear program, the sequencing of sanctions relief, and the status of Lebanon.

The 60-day window established by the interim deal for reaching a final agreement begins from the date of signing. That clock is now running while the foundational question of whether Israel will stop striking Lebanon remains unanswered.

A new round of U.S.-backed talks between Israel and the Lebanese government is expected in Washington the following week, an effort to address the Lebanon dimension through a parallel diplomatic channel that does not require Israel and Iran to negotiate directly.

Residents on both sides of the Lebanon-Israel border expressed weariness and skepticism Saturday. “Our entire lives would change if there is a ceasefire,” said Hussein Khoshman, a resident of the Lebanese coastal city of Tyre. Across the border in northern Israel, Miriam Hod of Metula was less hopeful. “I do not believe in a ceasefire because it does not exist,” she said.

Whether Sunday’s talks in Switzerland can overcome the obstacle that Israel’s strikes in Lebanon now represent, or whether the fighting there will continue to destabilize an agreement that the United States, Iran, Pakistan, and Qatar spent months constructing, is the question on which the entire diplomatic enterprise now turns.

Dominican Republic Resort Fire: 1 Dead and Nearly 1,700 Tourists Evacuated in Bayahíbe

Zipporah Njoki
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Dominican Republic Resort Fire: 1 Dead and Nearly 1,700 Tourists Evacuated in Bayahíbe

A fast moving fire tore through a popular beachfront resort in the Dominican Republic, leaving one tourist dead and forcing the evacuation of nearly 1700 people as emergency crews battled flames along the Caribbean coast.

The blaze broke out Friday at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach Hotel in Bayahibe, a major tourist destination about 85 miles east of Santo Domingo. Authorities said the property was operating at high occupancy when the fire spread rapidly across several structures.

Emergency officials confirmed that one Italian tourist, identified as Francesca Valentino, 46, died after suffering from smoke inhalation. She had been visiting the area and was among a group gathered near the beach when the fire erupted.

Health responders transported three individuals to medical facilities, while six others received treatment at the scene for minor injuries, emergency services disclosed in updates carried by USA Today and Reuters.

Dark smoke billowed over the resort as flames consumed buildings with thatched roofing. Video footage from the scene showed widespread damage, including collapsed structures and debris scattered across the compound.

What we know so far

Authorities said approximately 1690 guests, employees and contractors were safely evacuated as the fire intensified. Emergency teams moved hotel guests to nearby accommodations as a precaution.

Officials from the Emergency Operations Center indicated that the fire spread quickly due to highly flammable roofing materials combined with strong coastal winds. Firefighters from multiple regional departments worked to bring the situation under control.

The resort has since been closed indefinitely as investigators begin to determine the cause of the fire.

What authorities are saying

Emergency Operations Center director Juan Manuel Mendez said coordinated response efforts helped prevent a larger loss of life.

He noted that rapid deployment of emergency protocols allowed for an orderly evacuation and minimized casualties despite the scale of the incident.

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts said in a statement that safety measures were activated immediately and expressed condolences to the victim’s family. The company added that the affected hotel is independently operated and will remain closed pending further assessments.

Authorities also confirmed that a nearby sister property, Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace, was not impacted by the fire.

Why this matters

The Dominican Republic remains the Caribbean’s most visited destination, drawing millions of tourists annually. Incidents at major resorts carry significant implications for traveler confidence and the country’s tourism driven economy.

This fire highlights ongoing concerns about construction materials used in tropical resorts, particularly thatched roofing, which is common for aesthetic appeal but poses fire risks under certain conditions.

The incident also underscores the importance of emergency preparedness in high density tourist facilities, where rapid evacuation can be the difference between contained damage and mass casualties.

What happens next

Investigators are expected to conduct a full assessment to determine the origin of the fire and evaluate safety compliance at the property.

Tourism officials have moved quickly to reassure visitors that activities in Bayahibe and surrounding areas continue without disruption.

Longer term, the incident may prompt stricter safety regulations for resort construction and emergency response protocols across the region.

While the immediate crisis has been contained, the broader impact on safety standards and tourism perception is likely to unfold in the coming weeks.

This incident is likely to intensify scrutiny of resort safety standards across the Caribbean, particularly as tourism rebounds globally. The reliance on traditional materials like palm thatch, while visually appealing, presents a structural vulnerability that may no longer align with modern safety expectations. Governments and hotel operators could face increasing pressure to balance authenticity with fire resistant design.

Additionally, rapid evacuation success in this case may serve as a benchmark for crisis management, even as the fatality highlights the limits of emergency response once fire conditions escalate.

USAToday

Chicago mass shooting leaves 12 wounded after SUV gunfire into crowd

Omonigho Daibo
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Chicago mass shooting leaves 12 wounded after SUV gunfire into crowd

At least 12 people were wounded late Friday when gunmen inside a sport utility vehicle opened fire on a crowd on Chicago’s South Side, in a mass shooting that unfolded during Juneteenth celebrations, police said.

The attack occurred just after 11 p.m. in the Roseland neighborhood, where a vehicle pulled up and at least two occupants began shooting into a group gathered along a residential street before fleeing the scene.

The victims, eight men and four women ranging in age from 17 to 47, were taken to multiple hospitals across the city for treatment.

What we know so far

Authorities said two victims were in critical condition, while others were listed in fair to good condition. One individual declined medical care after suffering injuries described as minor or unclear.

Officers responding to initial emergency calls found a woman with gunshot wounds to her back and a man with graze injuries. Both were transported to hospitals and listed in stable condition.

Evidence markers scattered across the scene, along with damaged vehicles and shattered glass at a nearby bus stop, pointed to the intensity of the gunfire.

The Associated Press confirmed that at least 12 people were struck, while CBS Chicago placed the number of victims at 13, noting that one additional individual refused treatment.

Police said no arrests had been made and investigators were working to determine what led to the shooting.

What authorities are saying

Chicago police said Area Two detectives are leading the investigation and are searching for the suspects who fled in the vehicle.

Officials noted that the shooting was part of a broader wave of violence, with at least 21 people shot across the city since Friday evening, including four fatalities.

Community advocate Pastor Donovan Price described the incident as deeply troubling, particularly given the timing. Speaking to CBS News, he said the violence overshadowed what should have been a day of celebration, adding that moments meant for joy were instead marked by gunfire.

Why this matters

The shooting highlights persistent concerns over gun violence in Chicago, particularly during major public gatherings and holidays. Juneteenth, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, is typically marked by community events and celebrations, making the violence especially jarring.

The scale of the incident, with more than a dozen victims struck in a single burst of gunfire, reflects a pattern of mass shootings that continue to challenge law enforcement and community leaders.

The use of a moving vehicle in the attack also underscores a tactic that increases both the speed and unpredictability of such incidents, complicating efforts to prevent or quickly respond to them.

What happens next

Investigators are expected to review surveillance footage and gather witness accounts in an effort to identify those responsible. Increased patrols and security measures may follow in affected neighborhoods as authorities seek to prevent further violence.

The incident is likely to renew calls for stronger gun control measures and community based intervention strategies, particularly during high risk periods such as holidays and large gatherings.

As the investigation continues, the focus will remain on identifying suspects and understanding whether the shooting was targeted or random, a key factor in assessing ongoing risk.

This shooting reflects a broader trend in urban gun violence where large gatherings become vulnerable to sudden, high impact attacks. The method used, involving shooters firing from a vehicle into a crowd, suggests intent to maximize casualties while minimizing exposure to immediate arrest.

The timing during Juneteenth adds another layer of significance. Public holidays often bring increased foot traffic and community events, creating environments where such attacks can have amplified social and psychological effects.

Despite ongoing policing efforts, the recurrence of mass shootings points to deeper structural issues, including access to firearms, gaps in community trust, and limited preventive infrastructure.

The scale of evidence at the scene indicates a sustained burst of gunfire rather than a brief altercation, raising questions about weapon type and planning. For policymakers and law enforcement, the incident reinforces the need for both immediate tactical responses and long term strategies addressing root causes of violence.

AP/CBSChicago

Roadside bomb blasts in northwest Pakistan kill 7, heighten security fears

Omonigho Daibo
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Roadside bomb blasts in northwest Pakistan kill 7, heighten security fears

Two roadside bombs detonated in quick succession in northwest Pakistan on Saturday, killing at least seven people and injuring several others in an attack that underscores rising militant violence in the region.

The explosions occurred in Bannu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, near the border with Afghanistan, where security forces have been battling insurgent groups amid a sharp increase in attacks.

The first device struck a vehicle carrying passengers, while a second blast went off shortly afterward as rescuers moved in to assist victims of the initial explosion, a tactic often used to target emergency responders.

What we know so far

Officials said five people were killed in the first explosion and two more died in the second blast. At least three others sustained injuries and were taken for medical treatment.

Police official Yasir Afridi said both devices were triggered remotely. The second explosion occurred as victims were being transported from the scene, intensifying the toll.

No group immediately claimed responsibility. However, security officials indicated that suspicion is likely to fall on the Tehreek e Taliban Pakistan, a militant group that has carried out similar attacks in the past.

The Straits Times of Singapore also confirmed the sequence of the twin blasts, citing local police accounts that described the targeting of a passenger vehicle followed by a second detonation during rescue efforts.

What authorities are saying

Pakistan’s president, Asif Ali Zardari, condemned the attack and expressed condolences to the families of the victims while wishing the injured a swift recovery.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also denounced the violence, reaffirming the government’s commitment to combating terrorism and holding those responsible accountable.

In official remarks, Zardari warned those supporting militant networks, referencing both internal and external actors accused of providing safe havens, funding, and logistical backing for attacks.

Security forces have launched a search operation in the area as part of efforts to track down those behind the bombings.

Why this matters

The attack highlights a worsening security situation in Pakistan’s northwest, where militant violence has surged in recent years. The Tehreek e Taliban Pakistan, though distinct from Afghanistan’s Taliban, maintains operational links and has intensified attacks since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021.

Pakistani authorities have repeatedly accused elements operating from across the Afghan border of enabling such attacks, a claim the Taliban government in Afghanistan continues to deny.

The use of a secondary explosive device aimed at rescuers reflects a troubling escalation in tactics, increasing risks for civilians and emergency responders alike.

What happens next

Investigations are ongoing as security forces expand operations in Bannu and surrounding areas. Officials are expected to increase surveillance and strengthen checkpoints in an effort to prevent further attacks.

The incident may also heighten tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly as cross border accusations persist and recent clashes have already strained relations.

Analysts warn that without improved coordination and sustained counterterrorism efforts, attacks of this nature could become more frequent, posing continued risks to stability in the region.

This attack reinforces a pattern of increasingly sophisticated militant operations in Pakistan’s border regions. The use of coordinated explosions suggests careful planning and intelligence gathering, indicating that militant groups retain both capability and intent despite ongoing military pressure.

It also exposes a broader regional challenge. With strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul, gaps in cross border security coordination may be enabling militant movements and planning.

At a strategic level, the persistence of such attacks risks undermining public confidence in security institutions while complicating Pakistan’s economic and political stability. The targeting of civilians and rescuers amplifies the psychological impact, signaling that militant groups are prioritizing visibility and disruption alongside casualties.

AP/StraitsTimes

Train Driver Killed And 89 Injured As Two Trains Collide Near Bedford North Of London

Zipporah Njoki
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Train Driver Killed And 89 Injured As Two Trains Collide Near Bedford North Of London

A train driver was killed and at least 89 people were injured Friday afternoon when two passenger trains traveling in the same direction collided outside the town of Bedford, north of London, in one of the most serious rail accidents in Britain in recent years.

British Transport Police declared a major incident at the scene, deploying more than 20 ambulances, six air ambulances, and specialist hazardous area response teams as emergency services worked to treat the injured and clear the tracks.

What We Know So Far

The collision occurred around 5:15 p.m. when the 4:40 p.m. East Midlands Railway service from Corby to London St. Pancras ran into the back of the 3:50 p.m. Nottingham to St. Pancras service, which had stopped on the same southbound track, according to East Midlands Railway and rail tracking data.

The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed that 11 people sustained very serious injuries, 22 were seriously injured, and 56 suffered minor injuries. All patients with the most critical injuries were transported from the scene to hospital, a spokesperson said.

Eddie Dempsey, general secretary of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers, confirmed the person killed was a train driver.

British Transport Police Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy said officers were working to establish exactly what had happened. “We have declared a major incident and a significant emergency service response is ongoing,” Cundy said. “We are working at pace to establish exactly what happened and will provide further information as soon as we are able.”

Passenger Peter Knapp, who was traveling in the rear train, described the moment of impact to reporters. “There was a moment of being flung into the chair in front, and then I saw smoke,” he said. “People were crying, screaming. People were so scared and confused. I got up and I saw a lot of people who were unable to speak, had broken legs. And then I managed to get out of the train and because I am quite thin I was able to squeeze out through the gap in the doors.”

Photos and videos shared on social media showed dozens of passengers, some with bandages and head injuries, standing alongside emergency vehicles parked on a road running parallel to the tracks.

East Midlands Railway canceled all services to and from St. Pancras for the remainder of Friday and said it could not confirm its Saturday schedule. National Rail suspended Thameslink services between Luton and Bedford and advised passengers not to travel on affected routes.

A fitness center on the outskirts of Bedford was converted into a triage and reception point for passengers with minor injuries. Volunteers from organizations including React Disaster Response provided food, water, and seating as passengers waited for onward travel arrangements. By late Friday evening, most passengers had been processed and the center was beginning to wind down, Sky News correspondent Barnaby Papadopulos reported from the scene.

Accident and emergency departments at Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Cambridge University Hospitals NHS both issued public appeals asking people to keep their facilities clear for the most seriously injured.

What Authorities And Experts Are Saying

Travel expert Simon Calder told Sky News he believed the lead train had stopped on the track after encountering a problem with its automatic warning system, a safety mechanism designed to alert drivers to red signals ahead. While the driver of the stationary train was attempting to address that issue, the following service caught up and struck it from behind, Calder said.

Rail expert Tony Miles told Sky News the physical damage to both trains appeared relatively limited, suggesting the rolling stock had performed well under the impact. He said both trains were traveling in the same direction on the same track, and that the most likely explanation was a rear-end collision with the leading train stationary at the time of impact. “The question has to be, how did that train in the rear get into contact with the train it was following?” Miles said, noting the cause could involve a signal fault or driver error.

Rail expert Philip Haigh said the crash had taken him completely by surprise. “We have on the railways here signalling systems that are designed to keep trains apart and prevent this sort of thing happening,” he told Sky News. He described rail travel in Britain as “incredibly safe” and crashes of this nature as “exceedingly rare.”

The RMT union said it was monitoring the situation and expressed concern over reports of serious injuries sustained by both train staff and passengers.

Why This Matters

Britain’s rail network has one of the strongest safety records in the world and rear-end collisions between passenger trains on the same track are exceptionally uncommon in the modern era of automated signaling and driver safety systems. The last major collision of this nature on the British network occurred at Potters Bar in 2002 and at Ladbroke Grove in 1999, both of which led to significant overhauls in safety protocols and technology.

Friday’s accident raises immediate questions about whether the automatic warning system failure that may have caused the leading train to stop was communicated in time to the following service, and whether the signaling infrastructure in place between Bedford and London provided adequate protection once the first train halted unexpectedly.

The fact that the collision occurred on a warm afternoon when trains were carrying significant passenger loads heading into London for the weekend contributed to the scale of the casualty figures. Haigh noted that with overhead power switched off to allow emergency access to the tracks, conditions aboard trains held in place further along the line would have been uncomfortable in the heat.

The economic disruption to one of Britain’s busiest commuter corridors connecting the East Midlands to London is also significant. The St. Pancras route serves hundreds of thousands of commuters and intercity travelers daily, and the full suspension of services on a Friday evening during peak travel hours affected a large number of passengers beyond those directly involved in the crash.

What Happens Next

Britain’s Rail Accident Investigation Branch is expected to launch a formal inquiry into the collision, as it does with all serious rail incidents. Investigators will examine the condition of the signaling system, the automatic warning mechanism on the stationary train, the response of the following driver, and whether communications between train operators and control centers followed established protocols.

East Midlands Railway is expected to publish further information about its Saturday timetable as the situation on the Bedford to St. Pancras line becomes clearer. National Rail has advised passengers on affected routes to seek alternative travel arrangements until further notice.

The identity of the driver killed in the collision has not yet been released publicly. British Transport Police said formal identification procedures were ongoing.

For the 11 passengers and crew members described as having very serious injuries, the coming days will determine the longer-term consequences of a collision that shattered what had been, until Friday afternoon, a routine commute into London.

Skynews/AP

Mother And Sister Of Slain Nigerian Bandit Leader Jailed 40 Years For Aiding Terrorism In Federal Court

Omonigho Daibo
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Mother And Sister Of Slain Nigerian Bandit Leader Jailed 40 Years For Aiding Terrorism In Federal Court

 A Federal High Court in Abuja handed down 40-year prison sentences Friday to the mother and sister of slain terrorist leader Ibrahim Battujo, as Nigerian courts delivered a pair of rulings in the same week that signal a deliberate judicial push to dismantle the human networks sustaining banditry and terrorism across the country’s north.

Justice Hauwa Yilwa imposed the sentences on Safiya Salihu, Battujo’s mother, and Halima Abdullahi, his sister, after both women entered guilty pleas on terrorism-related charges brought by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation.

What We Know So Far

The two women were convicted on three of five counts filed against them, including aiding and abetting Battujo’s activities by passing information to him through telephone conversations and receiving funds traceable to terrorism proceeds.

Safiya, the mother, faced an additional conviction for concealing information about her son’s operations after visiting his forest camp and observing him in possession of firearms. Halima, the sister, was convicted separately for withholding information that could have assisted security forces in locating and apprehending him.

The charge documents read in part: “That you Halima Abdullahi and Safiya Salihu, sometime in 2026 at Katsina State, did commit an offence when you aided and abetted the activities of Battujo, a known bandit kingpin, and passed information through telephone conversations to the said Battujo, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 26 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.”

The court discharged both women on counts one and three, which alleged they had knowingly received the sum of N490,300 from Battujo as proceeds of terrorism, following an application by Director of Public Prosecutions Oyedepo Rotimi. Although each count of conviction carries a 20-year sentence, Justice Yilwa ordered the terms to run concurrently, meaning both women will serve 40 years rather than 60. Both convicts are to undergo rehabilitation upon completing their sentences.

Battujo was killed by Nigerian security forces on June 10, 2026, following a failed mass abduction and attack on students writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination in a forest near Iluke in the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

In a related judgment delivered the same day, the Federal High Court in Kano sentenced a woman identified as Raya Haruna to 10 years imprisonment for transporting arms and ammunition to bandits operating in Kano State and neighboring areas, Sahara Reporters confirmed.

Justice Simon Amobeda found Haruna guilty on a three-count charge of unlawfully transporting firearms and providing logistical support to criminal groups. The conviction was secured under both the Firearms Act and the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act of 2022. Security operatives arrested Haruna in 2024 during a targeted operation to disrupt weapons supply chains. Her sentences, also ordered to run concurrently, take effect from the date of her arrest.

The court directed that arms and ammunition recovered during the operation be handed over to the Department of State Services. Prison authorities were also instructed to enroll Haruna in rehabilitation and reformation programs throughout her incarceration.

What The Courts Are Saying

Justice Yilwa’s ruling in Abuja reflected a firm judicial position that family members who actively facilitate terrorist operations cannot shield themselves behind personal relationships with offenders.

Justice Amobeda was equally direct in Kano, emphasizing that individuals who move weapons to criminal groups bear significant responsibility for the violence those weapons enable, even when they play no direct role in attacks themselves.

“Transportation of weapons and ammunition is a critical link in the chain of terrorist operations that enables them to carry out attacks that result in death, injuries and widespread destruction,” Amobeda said in his ruling, as confirmed by Sahara Reporters.

He warned that the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act of 2022 treats the provision of logistics, transportation, or any material support to terrorist activities as a grave criminal offense and cautioned transporters, couriers, and logistics operators against providing any assistance to criminal networks. “Those who facilitate the movement of weapons are equally contributing to the cycle of violence and insecurity confronting parts of the country,” he said.

Why This Matters

The two rulings, delivered on the same day in different Nigerian cities, point to a coordinated judicial strategy that is broadening the scope of counterterrorism enforcement beyond armed fighters to include the civilian support infrastructure that keeps those fighters operational.

Nigeria’s decade-long struggle with banditry and terrorism in its northwest and northeast has repeatedly demonstrated that dismantling armed groups requires more than eliminating their frontline members. The individuals who pass along intelligence, transport weapons, receive funds on behalf of wanted operatives, and conceal information from authorities form a layer of operational support that has historically been harder to prosecute and easier for criminal networks to replace.

The conviction of Battujo’s own mother and sister sends a message that goes beyond the individuals in the dock. It signals to communities across Katsina, Zamfara, Kaduna, and neighboring states where banditry has displaced hundreds of thousands of people that the legal consequences of material support for terrorism extend into family units and personal relationships. That is a significant shift in enforcement posture and one that will generate debate about the boundaries between criminal complicity and the complex social pressures that communities living near armed groups often face.

The killing of Battujo himself in June 2026, during an attempted mass abduction of examination students in Kogi State, was already a significant operational success for Nigerian security forces. Friday’s convictions extend the legal accountability for his network to those who sustained it from behind the scenes.

For Raya Haruna in Kano, the 10-year sentence for weapons transportation reinforces a legal principle that logistics networks supporting armed groups are criminal enterprises in their own right. Her arrest in 2024 was part of a wider security operation targeting the supply chains feeding banditry across Kano and neighboring states.

What Happens Next

Both rulings are expected to reinforce ongoing operations by Nigerian security agencies and federal prosecutors to pursue not only armed bandits and terrorists but the full range of individuals who provide them with weapons, information, financing, and transportation.

Safiya Salihu and Halima Abdullahi will begin their 40-year sentences immediately, with rehabilitation programs mandated upon completion. Raya Haruna’s sentence runs from the date of her 2024 arrest, meaning she has already served a portion of her term.

Whether Friday’s sentences prompt further prosecutions of support network members connected to other active or eliminated bandit leaders will be closely watched. Nigerian prosecutors have signaled through these cases that the legal net is widening, and that proximity to terrorism, whether through family ties, financial transactions, or logistical assistance, now carries consequences that courts are prepared to enforce with significant prison terms.

Punchng/SaharaReporters

‘Repentant’ Bandits Kill District Head’s Grandson, Kidnap 9 in Kaduna, Nigeria

Simeon Bateren
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‘Repentant’ Bandits Kill District Head’s Grandson, Kidnap 9 in Kaduna, Nigeria

Armed bandits described by residents as “repentant” have killed a commercial driver, identified as the grandson of a district head, and abducted nine others in coordinated attacks along a major highway and in farming communities in Kaduna State, local sources said.

The incidents, which occurred along the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari corridor and within Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, have renewed fears over persistent insecurity in the region despite reported peace arrangements with armed groups.

Gunmen carried out separate attacks on a highway and farmland in Kaduna, killing a prominent local figure’s grandson and kidnapping nine people, raising fresh concerns about ongoing violence in the area.

What we know so far
A family source said Mallam Ibrahim Adamu, a commercial driver and grandson of a district head in the Birnin Gwari Emirate, was killed when gunmen opened fire on his vehicle at Kwanan Giginya along the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari road.

The attackers reportedly shot him dead at the scene before abducting about five passengers traveling with him.

In a separate incident in the Kurgi area, four farmers were seized while working on their fields. The victims were taken to an unknown location.

The two attacks brought the total number of abducted victims to nine across both incidents.

Residents said the violence occurred in areas that have seen repeated attacks in recent years, despite efforts by authorities to broker peace with armed groups operating in the region.

What authorities are saying
Local residents have urged security agencies to intensify patrols along the Kaduna–Birnin Gwari highway and deploy more personnel to vulnerable rural communities.

There was no immediate official statement from security authorities at the time of reporting, but community members said the attacks highlight gaps in enforcement of existing security measures.

Why this matters
The Kaduna–Birnin Gwari axis remains one of the most volatile corridors in northwestern Nigeria, where banditry, kidnappings and attacks on travelers and farmers have disrupted daily life and economic activity.

The killing of a figure connected to a traditional leadership structure underscores the widening impact of insecurity, affecting not only ordinary residents but also prominent families.

Repeated attacks on farmers also threaten food production in a region already facing agricultural challenges, potentially worsening food insecurity.

The reference by residents to “repentant” bandits points to skepticism over government backed reconciliation efforts, with many questioning their effectiveness in curbing violence.

What happens next
Security agencies are expected to increase surveillance and operations in the affected areas, though residents say sustained action will be needed to restore confidence.

Efforts to locate and rescue the abducted victims are likely underway, while communities continue to call for stronger protection measures.

Longer term, authorities may face pressure to reassess strategies aimed at negotiating with armed groups, as attacks persist despite such initiatives.

The latest incidents reflect the fragile security landscape in northwestern Nigeria, where bandit groups operate across vast rural areas with limited state presence.

While some factions have entered into dialogue with authorities, the continued attacks suggest either fragmentation among armed groups or limited enforcement of agreements.

Targeting highways and farms reveals a dual strategy by attackers to disrupt both mobility and livelihoods, amplifying economic strain on already vulnerable communities.

For the government, the challenge lies in balancing negotiation efforts with decisive security operations. Without visible improvements, public confidence in current strategies may continue to erode.

The situation also raises broader concerns about rural security nationwide, as similar patterns of violence emerge in other states, underscoring the need for a coordinated and sustained response.

Source: Sahara Reporters

Gunmen Attack Niger Airport, Kill 11 Soldiers and 2 Civilians in Deadly Assault

Simeon Bateren
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Gunmen Attack Niger Airport, Kill 11 Soldiers and 2 Civilians in Deadly Assault

 (AP/Aljazeera) — Gunmen launched a coordinated attack on Niger’s main international airport in the capital early Thursday, killing 11 soldiers and two civilians in a fierce exchange of fire that also left dozens of attackers dead, authorities said.

The assault targeted the Diori Hamani International Airport complex, a strategic military and civilian hub, in what officials described as one of the most serious security breaches in recent months.

Armed fighters stormed Niger’s main airport and adjoining military base, triggering hours of gunfire, killing security personnel and civilians before troops repelled the attack and restored control.

What we know so far
Niger’s Defense Ministry said 11 soldiers and two civilians were killed during the attack, while 22 of the assailants were also killed. About 20 suspects were arrested, along with weapons and ammunition.

The attack began around 6 a.m. local time when gunmen arrived near a security checkpoint and engaged troops guarding the airport and adjacent airbase. Witnesses described prolonged gunfire and explosions across the area.

Residents living near the airport reported heavy military deployment and intense exchanges of fire, prompting some to turn back from their daily routines for safety.

Four people were injured, according to preliminary figures released by the ministry.

Authorities said the airport remained secure and continued operating, with aviation officials later confirming that flights resumed after the incident.

What authorities are saying
The Defense Ministry said security forces mounted a large scale response that neutralized the attackers and secured the facility.

Officials indicated that an armed group linked to al Qaeda claimed responsibility for the assault, describing it as a coordinated operation targeting both the civilian airport and nearby military infrastructure.

Security analysts and officials have warned that such high value sites remain prime targets for militant groups operating across the Sahel.

Why this matters
The attack underscores the persistent threat posed by armed groups in Niger and the wider Sahel region, where governments continue to struggle against insurgencies linked to extremist networks.

Diori Hamani International Airport holds strategic importance, serving as a base for military operations, including regional counterterrorism efforts and drone missions. It also plays a key role in safeguarding critical national assets, including uranium reserves.

The incident marks the second attack on the airport this year, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities despite increased security measures.

Beyond Niger, the assault reflects a broader pattern of instability affecting neighboring countries such as Mali and Burkina Faso, where similar groups have expanded their operations.

What happens next
Authorities said investigations are ongoing, with security forces continuing operations to track down remaining suspects and prevent further attacks.

The government is expected to review and possibly strengthen security around key infrastructure, particularly in high risk areas around the capital.

Regional and international partners may also reassess their security cooperation as threats to strategic sites intensify.

The scale and coordination of the attack point to a growing level of sophistication among armed groups in the Sahel. Targeting a heavily guarded airport complex signals both operational capability and intent to strike symbols of state authority.

Despite increased surveillance, including expanded perimeter defenses and installation of security cameras, militants continue to exploit gaps, often relying on speed and surprise.

The attack also carries economic and geopolitical implications. Disruption or damage to facilities linked to uranium storage or military operations could have ripple effects beyond Niger, affecting global supply chains and regional security strategies.

For Niger’s military government, the incident presents a test of its ability to restore stability following the 2023 coup. Continued attacks risk undermining public confidence and complicating efforts to secure international support.

Trump Declares ‘I’m the Boss’ at G7 as He Signals Stronger Backing for Ukraine War Effort

Omonigho Daibo
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Trump Declares ‘I’m the Boss’ at G7 as He Signals Stronger Backing for Ukraine War Effort

President Donald Trump told fellow world leaders “I’m the boss” during a Group of Seven summit session Wednesday, underscoring U.S. influence as he signaled a notable shift toward stronger support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.

The remark came as G7 leaders issued a unified statement backing Kyiv and acknowledging its improving position on the battlefield, a development that could reshape the dynamics of any future peace negotiations with Moscow.

Trump asserted U.S. leadership at the G7 while aligning more closely with Ukraine’s position, as Western allies rallied behind Kyiv with renewed support and pressure on Russia.

What we know so far
Leaders of the G7 nations, meeting from June 15 to 17 in the French resort town of Evian-les-Bains, agreed on a joint position supporting Ukraine and introducing additional sanctions against Russia.

Trump’s comment came as he arrived for a session on global economic security, where he addressed both leaders and reporters. The statement from the summit marked a shift from the previous year’s meeting in Canada, which ended without a unified stance on Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended the summit seeking to convince allies, particularly the United States, that Ukraine’s recent battlefield gains have strengthened its negotiating position.

Trump told reporters that Russia is suffering heavier troop losses than Ukraine and described Moscow as the offensive force in the conflict, signaling a departure from his earlier skepticism about Kyiv’s prospects.

What authorities are saying
French President Emmanuel Macron described Trump’s posture as a “real change in approach,” noting that the United States appeared more aligned with European allies on Ukraine.

Other leaders echoed that assessment, pointing to the joint statement as evidence of renewed unity among Western powers.

Trump, however, indicated that future pressure on Russia will depend heavily on U.S. decisions, leaving some uncertainty about how far Washington is prepared to go.

On a separate issue, G7 leaders expressed cautious support for a preliminary agreement between the United States and Iran, though Trump warned that military action could resume if Tehran fails to comply.

Why this matters
Trump’s evolving stance on Ukraine carries significant implications for the war’s trajectory. As the largest military and financial backer of Kyiv, the United States plays a decisive role in shaping both battlefield outcomes and diplomatic efforts.

A more supportive U.S. position strengthens Ukraine’s leverage and signals to Russia that Western unity may be consolidating rather than weakening.

At the same time, Trump’s assertive tone reinforces the reality that U.S. leadership remains central to G7 decision making, particularly on security issues. His influence could determine whether sanctions intensify and whether peace talks gain traction.

The summit also highlighted broader geopolitical concerns, including reliance on China for critical minerals and the regulation of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

What happens next
Attention now turns to how the G7’s commitments will translate into concrete actions, including additional sanctions and military support for Ukraine.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war remain uncertain, with Russia showing little willingness to concede ground despite mounting pressure.

Meanwhile, negotiations with Iran are expected to continue, with Western allies watching closely to see whether a more comprehensive agreement can be reached.

Trump’s remarks and the G7 outcome suggest a recalibration rather than a complete policy overhaul. His acknowledgment of Ukraine’s battlefield progress indicates growing recognition in Washington that Kyiv can sustain resistance against Russia.

However, his emphasis on U.S. authority also reflects a transactional approach to alliances, where support may hinge on strategic calculations rather than long standing commitments.

For Ukraine, the shift offers a short term boost but does not eliminate uncertainty. Much depends on whether U.S. backing remains consistent or fluctuates with political considerations.

For Russia, the renewed unity among Western powers presents a challenge, particularly if sanctions deepen and military aid to Ukraine expands. Yet Moscow may also interpret Trump’s unpredictability as an opportunity to test the limits of that unity.

The summit ultimately underscores a central reality of the conflict: while Ukraine’s resilience is shaping the battlefield, the decisions made in Washington continue to shape the broader course of the war.

Source: Reuters

Ukrainian Drone Strike Ignites Moscow Oil Refinery, Disrupts Flights in Major Escalation

Omonigho Daibo
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Ukrainian Drone Strike Ignites Moscow Oil Refinery, Disrupts Flights in Major Escalation

 (AP/Reuters) — Ukrainian drones struck a major oil refinery in Moscow early Thursday, igniting a large fire and forcing widespread flight disruptions in one of the most significant attacks on the Russian capital since the war began, officials said.

The strike, which involved dozens of drones, targeted the Moscow Oil Refinery for the second time in less than a week, sending thick black smoke billowing over the city and raising new concerns about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure deep inside Russia.

Ukraine intensified its long range drone campaign against Russia by hitting a key fuel facility in Moscow, triggering fires, injuring civilians and disrupting air travel, as both sides signal a potential escalation in the conflict.

What we know so far

Russian authorities said the attack occurred overnight and involved hundreds of drones aimed at multiple regions, with nearly 200 intercepted as they approached Moscow. Despite air defenses, at least one strike hit the refinery, causing a fire that sent smoke across southeastern parts of the capital.

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the blaze was largely contained hours later, though emergency crews continued to battle remaining hotspots. Video circulating online showed flames and soot falling across nearby neighborhoods.

Officials reported that debris from intercepted drones damaged residential buildings in the wider Moscow region, injuring 17 people, including two children. In the town of Zhukovsky, a drone strike hit a residential structure.

The refinery, located about 15 kilometers from the Kremlin, is one of the largest in the region and supplies a significant portion of Moscow’s fuel needs. Authorities said fuel distribution in the capital remained stable despite the attack.

Air travel was also affected. Aviation officials temporarily halted operations at four major Moscow airports, with Russian business outlet Kommersant estimating that more than 500 flights were delayed or canceled.

What authorities are saying

Russia’s Defense Ministry said air defense systems shot down 555 Ukrainian drones overnight across several regions, calling it one of the largest aerial assaults launched by Kyiv.

Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of Russia’s lower house of parliament, warned of a strong response, saying the attack would lead to “harsher blows” from Moscow.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the strike as part of a broader effort to pressure Russia into ending the war. He said Kyiv would continue targeting strategic assets tied to Moscow’s war effort.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the attack was a direct consequence of Russia’s invasion, urging Russians to question their leadership about the ongoing conflict.

Why this matters

The strike highlights a growing shift in the war, with Ukraine increasingly capable of reaching deep into Russian territory and targeting high value infrastructure. Oil facilities have become a primary focus, as Kyiv aims to weaken Russia’s economic base and disrupt fuel supplies tied to military operations.

The attack also underscores the limits of Russia’s air defense systems around its capital, a development that carries both military and symbolic weight. Repeated strikes in Moscow challenge the Kremlin’s narrative of control and security.

Beyond the battlefield, disruptions to aviation and energy supply chains signal broader economic risks, potentially affecting civilian life and business activity in Russia’s largest city.

What happens next

Investigations into the strike and the extent of damage are ongoing, while Russian authorities assess security vulnerabilities around critical infrastructure.

Ukraine is expected to continue its drone campaign, particularly against energy and logistics targets, as it seeks leverage in stalled peace efforts. Meanwhile, Russia may escalate retaliatory strikes, raising concerns about further intensification of the conflict.

Diplomatic efforts remain uncertain. While Ukraine has signaled willingness for a ceasefire backed by Western allies, Russia has yet to agree, leaving the prospect of negotiations unclear as both sides continue military operations.

The latest strike reflects a strategic evolution in Ukraine’s war effort. With limited conventional resources compared to Russia, Kyiv has leaned heavily on drone technology to offset battlefield disadvantages. These systems, often low cost and difficult to intercept at scale, allow Ukraine to extend the war beyond front lines and into Russia’s economic core.

At the same time, repeated attacks on oil infrastructure could gradually erode Russia’s ability to sustain prolonged military operations. Even if immediate disruptions appear limited, cumulative damage and increased defense spending may strain resources over time.

However, such attacks also carry escalation risks. Calls within Russia for stronger retaliation, including extreme measures, indicate growing domestic pressure on the Kremlin. This dynamic could push the conflict into a more dangerous phase if not contained through diplomatic channels.

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