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Iran Signals Possible World Cup Withdrawal After U.S.-Israeli Airstrikes Kill Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

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Simeon Bateren
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TEHRAN, Iran (BN24) — Iran’s national football team could withdraw from this summer’s World Cup following U.S. and Israeli airstrikes that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the head of the country’s football federation indicated Sunday, casting uncertainty over one of the tournament’s most politically sensitive participants.

The comments came a day after a coordinated military operation struck several major Iranian cities, including Tehran, amid escalating tensions between Iran and Western allies. Iranian state television broadcast remarks from Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, suggesting that participation in the global tournament may no longer be assured.

“With what happened today and with that attack by the United States, it is unlikely that we can look forward to the cup,” Taj said on the Iranian TV network “Tehran,” as cited by Marca. He added that a final determination would rest with the country’s sports authorities.

“But the sports chiefs are the ones who must decide on that,” Taj said.

The World Cup, scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico, is set to begin in just over three months. Iran is slated to open its campaign against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The team is also scheduled to face Belgium and Egypt during the group stage, with matches in Los Angeles and Seattle.

If Iran advances beyond the group stage and both it and the United States finish second in their respective groups, the two nations could meet in Dallas on July 3 a matchup that would carry heightened political significance given the latest developments.

FIFA officials addressed the unfolding situation cautiously. Speaking Saturday at an International Football Association Board (IFAB) meeting in Wales, FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafstrom acknowledged awareness of the breaking news but refrained from detailed comment.

“I read the news the same way you did this morning,” Grafstrom said. “We had a meeting today, and it would be premature to comment on that in detail.”

He added that FIFA’s priority remains the safe organization of the tournament.

“Of course we will monitor the developments around all issues around the world,” Grafstrom said. “We had a final draw in Washington where all teams participated, and our focus is to have a safe World Cup with everybody participating.”

Iran earned qualification for its fourth consecutive World Cup by finishing first in Group A of Asian qualifying, reinforcing its status as one of the strongest sides in the Asian Football Confederation. The team has increasingly established itself as a consistent presence on the global stage, advancing through a competitive regional field to secure its place in the expanded tournament.

The sudden geopolitical upheaval, however, introduces uncertainty that extends beyond sport.

The possibility of Iran’s withdrawal presents complex logistical and diplomatic challenges for FIFA and tournament organizers. Replacing a qualified team at this late stage could require emergency procedures under FIFA regulations, potentially involving the next-best finisher in Asian qualifying or a special playoff arrangement.

Beyond scheduling considerations, security planning could face intensified scrutiny. The World Cup is expected to draw millions of spectators across North America, and any escalation of hostilities or retaliatory actions could heighten security concerns in host cities, particularly if politically sensitive matchups materialize.

The prospect of a U.S.–Iran match on American soil already carried symbolic weight even before the airstrikes. Past encounters between the two nations in international competitions have drawn global attention, blending sport with diplomatic undertones. A renewed confrontation under current circumstances would likely amplify those dynamics.

Political analysts note that national teams often become symbols of unity during times of domestic crisis. Iran’s leadership may face competing pressures balancing public sentiment, security concerns and international optics when determining whether to proceed with participation.

A withdrawal could also have economic consequences. The World Cup represents significant commercial opportunity through sponsorships, broadcasting revenue and global exposure. For Iranian players, many of whom compete internationally, missing the tournament would represent both a professional setback and a loss of global visibility.

While the immediate focus centers on whether Iran will compete, the broader significance lies in how geopolitical conflict increasingly intersects with global sporting events. International tournaments such as the World Cup are designed to transcend politics, yet history shows they often reflect the prevailing international climate.

FIFA’s cautious language underscores the delicate balance it must strike. The organization seeks to avoid political entanglement while ensuring safety and competitive integrity. However, in situations involving state-level conflict, neutrality becomes more complicated.

Should Iran withdraw voluntarily, FIFA may avoid imposing sanctions. But if security concerns or political pressure compel external intervention, the governing body could face criticism from multiple sides. Additionally, the potential absence of a major Asian team would alter competitive dynamics in Group G and beyond.

The coming weeks will likely determine whether diplomacy, de-escalation or further conflict shapes the trajectory of Iran’s participation. For now, uncertainty clouds preparations just 107 days before kickoff.

As global attention turns toward North America for the expanded 2026 tournament, organizers confront a stark reminder: even the world’s most celebrated sporting spectacle is not insulated from geopolitical shockwaves.

FIFA officials have indicated they will continue monitoring developments as they assess the path forward.

Zimbabwe Releases Nearly 4,000 Prisoners Under Presidential Amnesty Amid Constitutional Reform Debate

By
Simeon Bateren
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HARARE, Zimbabwe (BN24) —Zimbabwean authorities on Monday initiated the release of nearly 4,000 inmates following a presidential amnesty aimed at reducing prison overcrowding, a move that comes as the government advances contentious constitutional reforms that could extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure in office.

Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, addressing journalists in Harare, confirmed that the discharge of 3,978 beneficiaries had commenced. He indicated that the measure forms part of a broader clemency initiative designed to ease pressure on correctional facilities while prioritizing inmates considered vulnerable or demonstrably rehabilitated.

National correctional data shows Zimbabwe’s prison population exceeded 24,000 during the second quarter of 2025, a figure that has intensified concerns over overcrowding and strained infrastructure within detention centers.

Ziyambi explained that the total number of individuals eligible for release under the decree will reach 4,305, including 223 women. He emphasized that the selection criteria targeted inmates who had shown measurable reform during incarceration.

“This initiative underscores the nation’s dedication to restorative justice and the humane management of correctional institutions,” Ziyambi told reporters, framing the amnesty as both compassionate and strategic.

The cabinet unveiled the clemency decision in February on the same day it endorsed sweeping constitutional amendments. Those proposed changes include provisions that would allow the 83-year-old president’s term to run until 2030. The legislative package also seeks to extend presidential terms from five to seven years and eliminate direct general presidential elections, transferring authority to parliament to select the head of state. The amendments require parliamentary approval, where Mnangagwa’s ruling Zanu-PF party holds a dominant majority.

Among those released Monday was 23-year-old Tendai Chitsika, who had been serving a six-month sentence for theft and was nearing completion of his term. Speaking to AFP at Harare Central Prison, Chitsika described his incarceration as transformative.

“It was a learning curve for me. I’m a changed person, and I promise to do good out there,” he said, expressing gratitude to the president for the opportunity.

Scenes at the prison reflected both relief and lingering uncertainty. Inmates assembled in separate groups: those still clad in orange uniforms awaiting continued confinement, and those who had changed into civilian attire, preparing to depart. Some detainees chanted slogans praising Mnangagwa, while one held a banner bearing the president’s image.

Authorities clarified that the amnesty excludes individuals convicted of serious offenses such as murder, armed robbery, and rape. It also does not extend to those found guilty of violating the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act, legislation previously invoked in cases involving protesters and political opponents.

The political climate surrounding the amnesty remains tense. Zimbabwe has experienced mounting public frustration over economic hardship, governance issues, and political reforms since last year. Leading opposition figures have condemned the proposed constitutional changes as a “constitutional coup,” arguing that the amendments could entrench executive authority and weaken democratic accountability.

While government officials portray the prison release as an administrative and humanitarian necessity, critics question its timing. The alignment of the amnesty announcement with the constitutional reform package has fueled debate about whether the move carries broader political symbolism.

Factually, the amnesty affects thousands of inmates and excludes those convicted of violent or grave crimes. It follows official prison population data indicating overcrowding. The constitutional amendments remain subject to parliamentary approval.

Beyond those established details, analysts note that prison congestion has long plagued Zimbabwe’s correctional system. Limited resources, aging facilities, and rising incarceration rates have placed sustained pressure on the country’s penal institutions. Amnesty programs, while not unprecedented, are often deployed to mitigate logistical challenges and demonstrate executive clemency.

At the same time, the political ramifications cannot be ignored. The simultaneous progression of constitutional reforms that would lengthen presidential terms and shift electoral mechanisms has heightened scrutiny from civil society groups and opposition leaders. They contend that transferring presidential selection powers to parliament,t where Zanu-PF maintains a commanding presence, could effectively sideline competitive national elections.

Supporters of the government argue that structural changes are necessary for political stability and long-term development planning. They maintain that extended terms would allow for policy continuity in a country navigating economic volatility and international sanctions.

The release of inmates may also carry social implications. Reintegration efforts will test the capacity of community support systems, employment markets, and social services to absorb thousands of former prisoners. Experts frequently caution that successful rehabilitation hinges not only on clemency but also on post-release opportunities.

For Mnangagwa, the amnesty reinforces an image of executive mercy at a politically sensitive moment. For opponents, it highlights the intersection of governance reforms and power consolidation.

Zimbabwe’s next parliamentary deliberations on the constitutional amendments will likely intensify debate. With Zanu-PF holding a legislative advantage, passage appears plausible, though opposition parties and advocacy groups have pledged to challenge what they describe as democratic backsliding. As inmates exit prison gates and the political process unfolds, the country stands at a crossroads marked by both institutional reform and deepening political contestation.

Zendaya and Tom Holland Secretly Married, Stylist Law Roach Reveals at 2026 SAG Awards

By
Simeon Bateren
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LOS ANGELES (BN24) —Actors Zendaya and Tom Holland have quietly married, according to a remark made by Zendaya’s longtime stylist, Law Roach, during a red carpet appearance at the 2026 SAG Awards.

While speaking to Access Hollywood on Sunday in Los Angeles, Roach indicated that the couple’s wedding had already taken place. “The wedding has already happened,” he said during the exchange. “You missed it.”

Roach, who has collaborated with Zendaya for more than a decade and has played a prominent role in shaping her public image, did not provide further details about the ceremony, including when or where it occurred. Representatives for Zendaya and Holland have not publicly responded to the comment, and neither actor has independently confirmed the marriage.

The pair, both 29, first met in 2017 while filming Spider-Man: Homecoming, where Holland portrayed Peter Parker, and Zendaya played Michelle “MJ” Jones. Their on-screen rapport quickly sparked widespread speculation during the film’s promotional tour, though both actors consistently deflected questions about a possible off-screen romance at the time.

Public confirmation of their relationship came in July 2021, when photographs published by Page Six showed the couple kissing inside a car in Los Angeles. From that point forward, the actors adopted a notably guarded approach to their personal lives, rarely discussing their relationship in interviews and limiting public displays of affection to occasional social media posts.

Despite maintaining privacy, both have seen their professional profiles rise sharply in recent years. Zendaya has starred in high-grossing releases, including Dune: Part Two and Challengers, reinforcing her status as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand performers. Holland, meanwhile, remains closely associated with the Marvel Cinematic Universe through his role in the Spider-Man franchise.

Speculation about a possible engagement first intensified in January 2025 when Zendaya appeared at the Golden Globe Awards wearing a prominent diamond ring. Observers quickly circulated images online, prompting questions about whether Holland had proposed. In September of that year, Holland acknowledged in an interview that he had indeed asked Zendaya to marry him.

Rumors resurfaced earlier this year when Zendaya was seen wearing a simple gold band in place of the diamond ring, prompting online conjecture that a wedding might have taken place away from public view. Roach’s latest comments now appear to lend weight to that theory, although no official announcement has followed.

As of Monday, no marriage records or formal statements have been released, and the couple’s representatives have not issued clarification.

What is established: Law Roach told Access Hollywood at the 2026 SAG Awards that the wedding “has already happened.” Holland previously confirmed an engagement in September 2025 following months of speculation. Zendaya was later seen wearing a gold band that fueled marriage rumors.

What remains unverified: The date, location, and circumstances of any ceremony have not been disclosed by the actors themselves. Without direct confirmation, Roach’s remark stands as the sole public assertion that the marriage has taken place.

High-profile actors increasingly choose private ceremonies over large, media-centered weddings. In an era defined by social media scrutiny and constant paparazzi presence, celebrity couples often seek to retain control over personal milestones. Zendaya and Holland, who have repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintaining boundaries between their professional and personal lives, fit that pattern.

Both performers rose to fame within massive franchise ecosystems, where public interest frequently extends beyond their roles into their private affairs. The “Tomdaya” moniker, widely used by fans online, reflects the intensity of that interest. Yet unlike many celebrity couples, the two have avoided leveraging their relationship for publicity, opting instead for discretion.

From a career standpoint, marriage is unlikely to alter their trajectories. Zendaya’s recent projects have demonstrated her ability to transition between blockbuster spectacle and character-driven drama, while Holland has spoken publicly about balancing large-scale franchise commitments with smaller independent films. Industry analysts suggest that their individual brand strength makes them resilient to shifts in the public narrative surrounding their relationship.

Still, the revelation, if confirmed, underscores the evolving dynamic between celebrity culture and privacy. A decade ago, a wedding involving two global stars would almost certainly have unfolded under intense media coverage. The possibility that such an event could occur without widespread detection illustrates how carefully managed public images can coexist with private realities.

For fans, Roach’s brief comment has already generated extensive online reaction, with social media platforms amplifying the news within minutes of its circulation. Whether Zendaya and Holland choose to formally acknowledge the marriage may determine how long the speculation cycle persists.

Until then, the couple’s silence aligns with the approach they have maintained since confirming their relationship in 2021: selective visibility, minimal commentary, and firm control over what aspects of their lives become public.

1 dies, 12 rescued as Nigerian tugboat sinks in South Africa

By
Simeon Bateren
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ABUJA, Nigeria (BN24) —South African maritime authorities have recovered 12 crew members alive after a Nigerian-flagged tugboat sank in rough seas off the country’s coast late Saturday, leaving one person dead and five others unaccounted for, Nigerian officials said Monday.

The vessel, identified as LEO, was carrying 18 people when it encountered trouble approximately 18 nautical miles offshore. According to information relayed to Nigerian authorities, the tugboat had traveled to South Africa for maintenance and was en route back to Lagos when it ran aground in stormy waters between Cape Town and Durban.

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed that Pretoria formally communicated details of the incident through diplomatic channels. In a statement issued in Abuja by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze, the minister indicated that South Africa’s Ministry of Transportation had notified the Nigerian government of the sinking.

“The South Africa Ministry of Transportation informed us of this development,” the statement attributed to Odumegwu-Ojukwu said.

She further conveyed that the South African Maritime Safety Authority had coordinated rescue efforts and that surviving crew members were being transported to Port Elizabeth. Officials from the Nigerian High Commission were en route to receive them upon arrival, the statement added.

Authorities confirmed one fatality in the incident. Search-and-rescue teams continued their efforts Monday to locate the five missing crew members, with operations ongoing amid challenging maritime conditions.

The precise cause of the sinking has not yet been established. Maritime officials have not publicly outlined whether mechanical failure, severe weather, navigational error, or a combination of factors contributed to the accident. Investigations are expected once recovery efforts conclude.

Confirmed facts include the vessel’s identity as LEO, the presence of 18 people on board, the rescue of 12 survivors, and the confirmation of one death. Nigerian officials have acknowledged formal notification from South Africa’s transportation authorities and cited active coordination with maritime safety agencies.

What remains unclear is the sequence of events that led to the tugboat running aground. Authorities have yet to release technical assessments, weather reports at the time of the incident, or details regarding the tugboat’s seaworthiness following repairs.

Storm activity along South Africa’s southern coastline can be unpredictable, particularly in waters influenced by the confluence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The stretch between Cape Town and Durban is known for complex currents and rapidly shifting weather systems, conditions that can pose hazards even for experienced crews.

The incident highlights ongoing risks facing commercial and auxiliary vessels operating along heavily trafficked African maritime corridors. Tugboats, often used for towing larger ships or supporting offshore operations, are typically built for resilience. However, their voyages across long distances especially after undergoing repairs, may expose vulnerabilities if mechanical systems are not fully optimized before departure.

Maritime analysts note that transnational vessel movements, such as traveling abroad for maintenance, are common practice in global shipping. Cost considerations, specialized shipyard capabilities, and scheduling constraints frequently determine where repairs occur. Yet the return journey, particularly across the open sea, demands rigorous inspection and certification to ensure seaworthiness.

Diplomatic coordination in emergencies of this nature is also routine but critical. The rapid notification from South Africa’s transportation ministry to Nigerian authorities underscores established maritime cooperation frameworks between coastal states. Embassies and high commissions typically play central roles in supporting affected nationals, facilitating medical care, and managing repatriation arrangements where necessary.

For Nigeria, a country with significant maritime trade and offshore oil infrastructure, incidents involving national vessels abroad carry both humanitarian and reputational dimensions. Ensuring transparent investigation outcomes and clear communication with families of the affected crew will likely remain a priority for officials in Abuja.

South Africa, meanwhile, maintains one of the continent’s more developed maritime oversight systems, with agencies such as the South African Maritime Safety Authority tasked with enforcing safety compliance and leading search-and-rescue missions. The success in recovering 12 survivors reflects operational capacity, though the ongoing search underscores the inherent unpredictability of maritime disasters.

Weather-related maritime accidents are not uncommon in the region. Seasonal storms, swells, and strong currents can escalate rapidly, leaving limited response time for smaller vessels. Experts emphasize the importance of updated navigational data, functioning communication equipment, and adherence to safety advisories issued by coastal monitoring services.

As rescue operations continue, attention may turn to whether distress signals were transmitted before the tugboat went down and how swiftly response teams were deployed. Such factors often prove decisive in survival outcomes.

Families of the crew members are awaiting further updates as authorities work to account for the missing. Officials have not indicated how long search efforts will continue, though maritime protocols generally sustain operations while there remains a reasonable prospect of recovery. Further details are expected once the investigations progress and maritime agencies release preliminary findings.

11 terrorists neutralized, Army Major killed as troops foil multiple ISWAP attacks on military bases in Borno state, Nigeria

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Simeon Bateren
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MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (BN24) —Nigerian troops have repelled coordinated attacks by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on multiple military positions in Borno State, killing 11 militants in a series of clashes that also left a senior army officer dead, the military said Sunday.

The assaults targeted Forward Operating Bases in Mayanti, Gajigana, and Gajiram between late Feb. 28 and the early hours of March 1, according to a statement issued by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, spokesperson for the Joint Task Force (North East) operating under Operation HADIN KAI.

Uba indicated that troops “successfully foiled” the attempted incursions, describing the attacks as coordinated and heavily armed. Five militants were killed during the confrontation in Mayanti, three in Gajiram, and two in Gajigana, he said. In a separate ambush operation in Gujba Local Government Area, troops killed two additional fighters, bringing the total number of militants killed to 11.

An army major, identified as Umaru Ibrahim Mairiga, was killed during the fighting in Mayanti, military authorities confirmed. Another soldier sustained injuries in the Gajiram attack and was evacuated by a Nigerian Army Aviation helicopter for advanced medical treatment.

According to the statement, the Mayanti base came under what officials described asan intense assault by a large number of ISWAP fighters on Feb. 28. Reinforcements navigating improvised explosive devices and ambush threats joined defending troops in pushing back the attackers.

Military personnel recovered three PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, two RPG-7 launchers, four AK-47 rifles, two FN rifles, and several rocket-propelled grenades, along with ammunition, the statement said. Blood trails at the scene suggested additional casualties among retreating militants, it added.

At approximately 1:15 a.m. on March 1, fighters armed with PKT machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, and what the military described as armed drones launched an attack on the Gajiram base. The offensive was repelled with support from air assets, according to Uba. Troops later recovered four AK-47 rifles, anti-tank explosives, locally made mortar bombs, and an armed drone abandoned along the withdrawal route.

In Gajigana, troops maintained control of their position after what the statement characterized as a failed militant attempt to overrun the base.

Additional operations in Sector 2 included engagements in Kayawa Village, where troops forced suspected militants to retreat, leaving behind motorcycles and other equipment. Soldiers also destroyed structures described as logistical support sites and detained two individuals, the military identified as ISWAP logistics suppliers. Medical supplies and drugs allegedly intended for wounded fighters were seized, officials said.

During an ambush near Bulturam Corner and Dadingel in Gujba Local Government Area, troops killed two militants and recovered weapons and other materials, the statement added.

“All locations remain firmly undertheir own control,” Uba said, asserting that the outcome of the engagements reflects mounting pressure on ISWAP’s operational capacity.

The casualty figures, weapons recoveries, and account of events were provided by Operation HADIN KAI. Independent verification of battlefield claims is often difficult in northeastern Nigeria, where access to conflict zones can be restricted.

The death of Major Mairiga marks another loss among Nigerian security forces engaged in a protracted counterinsurgency campaign in Borno and neighboring states. The region has experienced more than a decade of insurgent violence linked initially to Boko Haram and later splinter factions,s including ISWAP.

ISWAP emerged as a breakaway faction aligned with the Islamic State group and has focused attacks on military installations and supply routes in recent years. Analysts note that the group has demonstrated tactical adaptability, including the use of drones and improvised explosive devices, increasing risks for troops stationed in remote forward bases.

The latest clashes underscore the persistent volatility in Nigeria’s northeast despite repeated military offensives. While authorities frequently announce territorial gains and militant casualties, insurgent groups have continued to mount periodic raids, particularly on isolated military outposts.

Security analysts say such attacks serve both operational and symbolic purposes. Attempts to overrun forward bases can disrupt supply chains, seize weapons, and project strength. Even unsuccessful assaults may aim to test defenses or stretch military resources.

The Nigerian military has in recent years emphasized a strategy combining ground offensives with aerial surveillance and targeted strikes. The reference to air support during the Gajiram attack highlights continued reliance on air power to counter mobile insurgent units.

At the same time, the death of a senior officer reflects the ongoing human cost of the conflict. Military casualties, though less frequently publicized than militant losses, remain a sensitive issue domestically. The loss of experienced officers can affect morale and operational continuity.

Borno State remains the epicenter of insurgent activity in Nigeria. Though authorities assert that ISWAP’s fighting capacity is degrading, the group retains the ability to stage coordinated attacks across multiple locations within short time frames.

Regional security dynamics also play a role. Porous borders with Niger, Chad, and Cameroon allow militant factions to maneuver across Lake Chad Basin territories, complicating counterterrorism efforts. Multinational task force cooperation has yielded periodic successes, but sustained stabilization remains elusive.

Humanitarian conditions in parts of Borno continue to be shaped by insecurity. Displacement, limited infrastructure,e and restricted farming access contribute to economic strain, factors analysts say can intersect with recruitment dynamics for armed groups.

The military maintains that pressure on ISWAP enclaves, logistics corridors, rs and leadership structures is constraining the group’s operational freedom. However, security experts caution that insurgencies often evolve rather than disappear, adapting tactics in response to sustained offensives.

As operations continue, authorities are expected to intensify patrols and surveillance around forward operating bases considered vulnerable to night assaults. Further updates may follow as assessments of the weekend clashes are completed.

LindaIkeji

 Jalisco Cartel Leader ‘El Mencho’ Buried in Golden Casket Under Heavy Security in Guadalajara

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The slain leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel was buried Monday in a gleaming golden casket in a Zapopan cemetery, drawing dozens of mourners and a heightened military presence in the cartel’s home state of Jalisco.

Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes — widely known as “El Mencho” — was laid to rest in the Guadalajara metropolitan area after being killed by Mexican army forces during an operation to capture him last week, a federal official confirmed on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.

The funeral procession moved through Zapopan, a suburb of Guadalajara, accompanied by a band playing regional Mexican banda music. Many attendees carried black umbrellas despite sunny skies, as enormous floral wreaths — some featuring a rooster motif referencing his nickname “Lord of the Roosters” — surrounded the polished gold-colored coffin.

The Attorney General’s Office declined to officially confirm the burial site, citing security reasons. Authorities had increased patrols around a local funeral home since Sunday as wreaths began arriving without names attached.

According to officials, Oseguera Cervantes died from multiple gunshot wounds sustained during a confrontation with soldiers outside a home in Tapalpa, Jalisco. Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla had previously said the cartel leader and two bodyguards were gravely wounded during the exchange and died while being transported to a hospital.

A death certificate obtained by The Associated Press cited bullet wounds to his chest, abdomen and legs.

His body was transferred to Mexico City for an autopsy before being returned to his family over the weekend. The certificate noted that burial was to take place — a standard legal procedure in violent death cases to preserve the possibility of future forensic review.

Oseguera Cervantes’ killing triggered waves of violence across roughly 20 Mexican states. More than 70 people died in clashes and reprisals in the days surrounding the military operation, according to government figures. Security operations targeting other high-ranking cartel members remain ongoing.

Though one of Mexico’s most feared figures, Oseguera Cervantes maintained an unusually low public profile. The only widely known photographs of him stem from arrests in California in the 1980s and early 1990s on robbery and drug-related charges.

Born Rubén Oseguera Cervantes in Michoacán, he later adopted the name Nemesio — the origin of his nickname “El Mencho.” After migrating to the United States and serving time for heroin trafficking, he was deported to Mexico, where he began rising through the ranks of organized crime.

Following the arrest and deaths of senior figures within the Milenio and Sinaloa cartels, Oseguera Cervantes co-founded the Jalisco New Generation Cartel around 2009. Within two decades, it grew into one of the most powerful criminal organizations in Mexico, with operations spanning most Mexican states and dozens of countries abroad.

U.S. authorities had offered up to $15 million for information leading to his capture. In 2024, the United States formally designated the group as a foreign terrorist organization.

Security analysts attribute the cartel’s rapid expansion to strategic alliances, aggressive territorial control and diversification into extortion, fuel theft and real estate, in addition to drug trafficking.

The secrecy surrounding Oseguera Cervantes’ burial reflects a long-standing pattern in Mexico, where funerals of major traffickers are often shrouded in mystery and spectacle.

In Culiacán, Sinaloa, elaborate mausoleums commemorate former kingpins such as Ignacio Coronel and Arturo Beltrán Leyva. Other cases have taken more unusual turns — including the 2012 theft of the body of Heriberto Lazcano and the bizarre 1997 death of Amado Carrillo Fuentes during plastic surgery.

Ballads known as narcocorridos celebrating or mythologizing traffickers often emerge within hours of a cartel leader’s death. Songs about “El Mencho” circulated rapidly following confirmation of his killing.

Experts caution that the death of a cartel leader does not necessarily weaken an organization. Past crackdowns have frequently led to fragmentation, splinter groups and intensified violence as factions compete for control.

The Mexican government has pledged continued operations against the cartel’s upper ranks. However, analysts note that Oseguera Cervantes built a decentralized structure capable of sustaining operations even in his absence.

His burial in a golden casket — under tight security in the state that gave the cartel its name — closes one chapter in Mexico’s decades-long struggle with organized crime. Whether it marks a turning point or the start of renewed conflict remains uncertain.

For now, authorities remain on high alert as the power vacuum left by one of Mexico’s most powerful cartel leaders begins to unfold.

6 Dead After Partial Building Collapse in Johannesburg as Rescue Teams Search for Survivors

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(AP) — At least six people were killed Monday when a concrete floor under construction gave way inside a building in southern Johannesburg, sending debris crashing onto workers below and triggering a high-risk rescue operation, city officials said.

Emergency crews rushed to the site in the Ormonde suburb after the upper-level floor slab collapsed, trapping multiple people beneath heavy rubble, according to the Johannesburg Emergency Management Services.

Xolile Khumalo, spokesperson for the emergency service, said six fatalities had been confirmed. Two individuals remained pinned under debris, while three others were unaccounted for as of late Monday. One person was pulled alive from the wreckage.

Khumalo told reporters at the scene that parts of the structure remained unstable, complicating rescue efforts. Sections of the building continued to shift and crumble as crews worked, creating dangerous conditions for first responders.

“It is a risky operation for our teams,” she said, explaining that the damaged structure was still “caving in” in places.

City public safety official Mgcini Tshwaku confirmed that the building was undergoing construction at the time of the incident. Authorities have not yet clarified whether all the victims were construction workers or if others were present inside the structure.

Tshwaku described one of the trapped men as being pinned by a large concrete slab that had crushed his leg. Medical teams were evaluating whether amputation might be necessary to free him safely. A surgeon from a nearby hospital was brought to the site to assess the victim’s condition, Tshwaku said.

“We just have to get everyone out,” he told reporters, underscoring the urgency of the operation.

Rescue personnel continued to comb through the debris using specialized equipment while structural engineers assessed the stability of the remaining framework.

City officials indicated that a formal inquiry would be launched to determine responsibility for the collapse. Tshwaku said investigators would examine who oversaw the project and whether building plans had been properly reviewed and approved before construction proceeded.

Authorities will also evaluate compliance with occupational health and safety regulations, a sensitive issue in South Africa’s construction sector following previous high-profile tragedies.

The collapse revived memories of a devastating 2024 incident in the coastal city of George, where a building under construction crumbled, killing 34 construction workers after a 10-day rescue effort. A subsequent investigation into that disaster uncovered multiple failures, including violations of safety standards and inadequate oversight.

The George tragedy prompted calls for stricter enforcement of building regulations nationwide. Monday’s incident is likely to intensify scrutiny once again.

South Africa’s urban centers, particularly Johannesburg, have experienced a surge in infrastructure development in recent years, driven by commercial expansion and housing demand. However, experts have cautioned that rapid growth can expose weaknesses in regulatory enforcement if oversight mechanisms fail to keep pace.

Construction-related accidents remain a concern, particularly on sites where subcontracting chains complicate accountability. Industry analysts note that insufficient inspections, rushed timelines and cost-cutting measures can heighten structural risks during critical phases such as slab casting.

While the precise cause of the Ormonde collapse has yet to be determined, such failures often stem from issues involving load-bearing calculations, curing time for poured concrete, or inadequate temporary supports during construction.

Structural engineers not involved in the project said investigations typically focus on whether the concrete had fully set before additional weight was applied, whether scaffolding met design standards and whether professional engineers certified each stage of the build.

The incident also highlights broader socioeconomic pressures. Johannesburg remains South Africa’s economic hub, and construction projects are a significant source of employment, particularly for migrant and informal laborers who may lack union protection or adequate safety training.

If regulatory lapses are confirmed, the case could trigger renewed calls for reform in municipal inspection processes. Advocacy groups have long argued that stronger penalties are needed for contractors who fail to comply with safety codes.

Meanwhile, families of the victims are awaiting confirmation of identities as forensic teams continue recovery operations.

As rescue efforts press on, city officials say their immediate priority is stabilizing the structure and locating those still missing. The outcome of the investigation will likely shape both legal consequences and policy debates in the weeks ahead.

For now, the collapse stands as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in construction work and the potentially fatal consequences when safeguards fail.

South Sudan Village Attack Death Toll Climbs to 169 as Fragile Peace Deal Falters

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(AP/Reuters) — The number of people killed in a weekend assault on a town in northern South Sudan has climbed to at least 169, regional officials said Monday, underscoring mounting instability in a country still struggling to sustain a fragile peace agreement.

James Monyluak Majok, information minister for the Ruweng Administrative Area, told The Associated Press and Reuters that 90 civilians and 79 government soldiers were among those killed when armed assailants stormed Abiemnhom in Ruweng on Sunday. He cautioned that the toll could increase as search efforts continue.

“We think this number may rise because when the attacks happened many people ran to the bush, and we still have some people who are missing,” Monyluak said in remarks conveyed to Reuters.

The attackers, described by local authorities as youth from Mayom County in neighboring Unity State, battled government forces for more than three hours, Monyluak said. He added that officials were still trying to determine the motive behind the assault.

Stephano Wieu De Mialek, chief administrator of Ruweng Administrative Area, characterized the violence as a coordinated operation involving elements linked to the White Army militia alongside fighters aligned with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), the party associated with opposition leader Riek Machar. He described the attack as an act of rebellion.

In a statement, Machar’s group rejected the allegation and asserted that it “has no military presence in the area concerned.”

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan, known as UNMISS, said about 1,000 civilians sought protection at its base following the violence. The mission confirmed at least 23 people were wounded and expressed alarm over reports that dozens of civilians and local officials had been killed.

“Such violence places civilians at grave risk and must stop immediately,” Anita Kiki Gbeho, a senior UNMISS official, said in a statement. She urged all parties to halt hostilities and pursue dialogue to resolve grievances.

“Our peacekeepers will continue to do everything within their capabilities to protect civilians seeking refuge at our base,” she added.

Aid agencies operating in the region warned that limited humanitarian access and insecurity could hamper medical assistance and food distribution, particularly if clashes spread to neighboring areas.

The attack comes amid renewed friction between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and supporters of Machar, his longtime rival. The two men signed a 2018 peace agreement intended to end a five-year civil war that left an estimated 400,000 people dead. Under that accord, Machar returned to government as first vice president in a unity administration.

However, implementation of the deal has stalled repeatedly, and mutual distrust has persisted. Machar was removed from his post in September after facing criminal charges and is currently under house arrest in Juba as legal proceedings continue. His supporters contend the charges are politically motivated.

The United Nations has warned that South Sudan’s leadership is eroding key pillars of the 2018 agreement. A U.N. inquiry previously concluded that political actors were “systematically dismantling” the peace framework designed to unify rival forces and share power.

Violence intensified in December when opposition fighters seized government outposts in Jonglei state, a region considered an opposition stronghold and long a flashpoint in intercommunal fighting. The U.N. estimates that approximately 280,000 people have been displaced in recent months as clashes spread.

Government forces have mounted counteroffensives since January, employing aerial bombardments and ground assaults despite formal commitments to the peace accord.

The United States has urged renewed talks between Kiir and Machar, calling for restraint and a return to dialogue. Diplomatic observers note that South Sudan’s political crisis risks spilling into broader ethnic and regional tensions if not contained.

Nyakenya Johannes Keah, information minister for Unity State, did not respond to requests for comment regarding allegations that youth from Mayom County participated in the assault.

The surge in violence highlights the precarious state of South Sudan’s political settlement. Although large-scale civil war ended in 2018, the underlying drivers of conflict — competition for power, disputes over security sector reform and ethnic rivalries — remain largely unresolved.

Ruweng, rich in oil resources, occupies strategic and economic significance. Control over such areas can shape political leverage in Juba and influence negotiations over revenue sharing. Analysts say attacks in oil-producing regions may reflect deeper struggles over territorial authority rather than isolated communal disputes.

The continued fragmentation of armed groups also complicates accountability. Militias such as the White Army have historically operated with shifting alliances, sometimes aligning with opposition leaders while retaining local autonomy. That fluidity blurs command structures and hampers efforts to enforce ceasefires.

If political dialogue falters further, humanitarian conditions could deteriorate rapidly. South Sudan already faces food insecurity, flooding and limited infrastructure. Renewed displacement strains aid operations and heightens the risk of localized famine.

The coming weeks will test whether South Sudan’s leaders can revive confidence in the peace process or whether sporadic violence will spiral into broader confrontation. For civilians in Ruweng and beyond, the rising death toll underscores how fragile the promise of stability remains eight years after the country’s devastating civil war formally ended.

Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz Closed, Threatens to Strike Ships Attempting Transit

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 (Reuters) — Iran on Monday declared the Strait of Hormuz closed and warned that any vessel attempting to navigate the strategic waterway would face military action, marking a dramatic escalation in the widening confrontation between Tehran, Washington and Israel.

A senior official within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the powerful branch of Iran’s armed forces, said naval and Guard units had been ordered to block traffic through the narrow channel linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Iranian state media carried remarks from Ebrahim Jabari, identified as a senior adviser to the Guards’ commander-in-chief, asserting that forces would strike ships seeking to pass.

“The strait is closed,” Jabari was quoted as saying. “If anyone tries to pass, our forces will set those ships ablaze.”

The warning represents Tehran’s clearest statement yet that it intends to halt maritime traffic through one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly 20% of global daily oil consumption, funneling exports from major producers including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates and Iran itself.

Iran’s move follows U.S. and Israeli military operations launched on Feb. 28 targeting Iranian leadership and military infrastructure. President Donald Trump publicly urged Iranians to rise against the country’s clerical leadership while backing continued military pressure.

Tehran responded with missile salvos aimed at Gulf states hosting U.S. forces, including Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain. Iranian forces also fired missiles toward the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Oman, broadening the geographic scope of the conflict.

The closure of the Strait fulfills years of Iranian threats to block the waterway in retaliation for foreign military action. The passage narrows to about 33 kilometers (21 miles) at its tightest point, making it both strategically vital and militarily vulnerable.

Oil traders reacted sharply to the announcement, with benchmark crude prices climbing amid fears that sustained disruption could choke global supply chains. Analysts note that even limited interference in the Strait can rattle markets because alternative export routes are limited.

Separately, Reuters cited Iranian news agencies as saying a fuel tanker identified as the Honduran-flagged Athe Nova — also referred to as Athen Nova in some reports — was ablaze in the Strait after being struck by two drones.

A statement attributed to the Revolutionary Guards accused the vessel of operating “in unison with America.” Maritime tracking services, including VesselFinder, indicated the 96-meter tanker had been present in the area shortly before the reported strike.

An Iranian military spokesperson, speaking on state television about Guard operations in Gulf waters, referenced the incident but did not explicitly state that Iranian drones carried out the attack. Iranian media outlets suggested the ship was supplying fuel to U.S. Navy vessels.

Reuters said it was unable to immediately reach the tanker’s registered owner for comment, and the ship’s manager did not respond to requests for clarification.

The Strait closure intensifies pressure on global shipping lanes already strained by attacks linked to Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi militants. Since the outbreak of the Gaza war in 2023, the Houthis have targeted commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden with drones and missiles, disrupting trade routes connecting Asia and Europe.

Maritime security firms warned that insurers may suspend coverage for ships transiting the Strait if threats escalate further, potentially deterring commercial traffic even before any sustained blockade takes hold.

Energy-importing nations in Asia and Europe are particularly exposed. Japan, South Korea and India rely heavily on Gulf crude shipments routed through Hormuz, while European markets depend on liquefied natural gas exports from Qatar that also pass through the corridor.

Iran’s declaration signals a willingness to weaponize geography in its standoff with Washington and its regional allies. By threatening the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran leverages one of the few pressure points capable of exerting immediate economic impact far beyond the battlefield.

Yet the move carries profound risks. Any sustained blockade could provoke direct naval confrontation with the United States and allied maritime forces tasked with safeguarding freedom of navigation. Previous episodes of tanker seizures and mine attacks in the Gulf prompted multinational patrol operations and heightened military deployments.

A prolonged closure would likely strain Iran’s own economy as well. The country exports much of its oil through the same channel it now seeks to shut. Analysts suggest Tehran may be signaling resolve rather than preparing for an indefinite blockade, using the threat as leverage in a rapidly evolving conflict.

Markets remain volatile as governments assess contingency plans. Strategic petroleum reserves could cushion short-term disruptions, but a drawn-out standoff would test global supply resilience and risk pushing fuel prices sharply higher.

For now, commercial shipping companies face stark choices: risk transit under heightened military escort or reroute vessels at significant cost and delay. The coming days will determine whether Iran’s declaration becomes an enforced blockade or a bargaining chip in a confrontation that has already transformed the security landscape of the Gulf.

Donald Trump says Iran strikes could last weeks as Mideast war widens

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Donald Trump said Monday that U.S. military operations targeting Iran could continue for “four to five weeks — or longer,” underscoring the prospect of a sustained confrontation as hostilities ripple across the Middle East and unsettle global markets.

Speaking at the White House, Trump framed the expanding air and naval offensive as a decisive move to cripple Iran’s missile capabilities, neutralize elements of its naval fleet and block what he described as Tehran’s path toward acquiring a nuclear weapon. The president characterized the campaign as a strategic necessity rather than an open-ended conflict but acknowledged that its duration would depend on battlefield developments.

“This was our final opportunity to act decisively,” Trump said, signaling that U.S. forces are prepared to maintain pressure until objectives are achieved.

The remarks came as U.S. and Israeli strikes intensified across multiple fronts, drawing retaliation from Iran and allied militias and widening a war that now stretches from the eastern Mediterranean to the Persian Gulf.

Iranian state media announced the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in the initial wave of bombardment, a development that has left the country’s political structure in flux. Iranian officials vowed continued resistance, and military units launched missile and drone attacks aimed at Israeli territory and several Gulf states hosting U.S. military assets.

Lebanon’s Hezbollah, long aligned with Tehran, fired projectiles into northern Israel, prompting Israeli airstrikes on targets in southern Lebanon. Local health authorities there said dozens were killed and more than 150 wounded in the exchange. Israeli defense officials indicated operations would proceed “for as long as required” to eliminate cross-border threats.

The Pentagon confirmed additional U.S. casualties since the campaign began but did not release detailed figures. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cautioned that the military phase would involve “gritty, sustained engagement,” preparing Americans for further losses as the mission expands.

In a separate development, United States Central Command disclosed that three U.S. F-15 fighter jets were inadvertently downed by Kuwaiti air defense systems amid active combat operations. All crew members ejected and were recovered safely, officials said, and an investigation is underway.

Military analysts note that such incidents underscore the complexity of conducting multinational operations in congested airspace where allied defense systems are on heightened alert.

The conflict has spilled into strategic energy corridors. Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura oil refinery, one of the world’s largest processing facilities, was targeted by drone fire, though Saudi officials said air defenses intercepted the projectiles before significant damage occurred. Commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz reported impacts, raising alarm over one of the globe’s most critical oil transit chokepoints.

QatarEnergy temporarily halted liquefied natural gas production at one facility after an attempted strike, contributing to volatility in European gas markets. Traders reacted swiftly, with benchmark crude prices climbing amid fears of prolonged supply disruptions.

Iranian authorities also cited damage to infrastructure linked to the Natanz nuclear enrichment complex, though neither Washington nor Jerusalem publicly confirmed that site as a direct target.

Iranian representatives declared that negotiations with Washington are off the table, dismissing prospects for immediate talks. Trump, while emphasizing military pressure, left open the possibility of dialogue with a future Iranian leadership, suggesting that “new voices” in Tehran could pave the way for diplomacy once hostilities subside.

European allies, including Britain, France and Germany, pledged support for Israel’s defensive measures and urged restraint to prevent further escalation. Gulf nations reinforced missile defenses as sporadic attacks continued.

Beyond the battlefield, the administration’s strategy represents a high-stakes gamble. By targeting top leadership and core military assets, Washington aims to degrade Iran’s capacity to project power. Yet history suggests that regime destabilization can yield unpredictable outcomes, including fragmentation, power vacuums and prolonged insurgency.

Energy markets offer a preview of the conflict’s broader implications. The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s traded oil. Even limited disruptions can trigger price spikes that ripple through global economies, exacerbating inflationary pressures already confronting consumers. Analysts warn that a drawn-out campaign could test the resilience of international supply chains and strain U.S. relations with partners reliant on Gulf exports.

Domestically, Trump’s announcement of a potentially weeks-long engagement may shape political calculations in Washington. Sustained operations typically require congressional support and public backing, particularly if casualty figures rise. The president’s framing of the campaign as a preventive action against nuclear proliferation could resonate with supporters but draw scrutiny from critics questioning the scope and endgame.

In Tehran, the death of Khamenei marks a watershed moment. The Islamic Republic’s governance structure hinges on the supreme leader’s authority. A sudden transition during wartime heightens uncertainty about succession, military cohesion and internal stability. Security forces established checkpoints across parts of the capital as residents sheltered from airstrikes.

Trump’s assertion that operations could extend “as long as necessary” reflects the fluid nature of the conflict. Pentagon officials indicated that additional U.S. naval and air assets are deploying to the region, signaling preparation for sustained engagement.

As the war widens geographically and politically, the international community faces mounting pressure to contain escalation. For now, the trajectory appears set toward continued confrontation, with diplomatic pathways obscured by retaliatory strikes and hardened rhetoric on all sides.

Whether the campaign achieves its stated objectives without igniting a broader regional war remains uncertain. What is clear is that the Middle East has entered a volatile new chapter, with consequences likely to reverberate well beyond the battlefield.

AP/MSNow/TheWallStreetJournal

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