Iran warns of escalation as US reinforces Middle East presence
Iran has issued a fresh warning to the United States as additional American troops arrive in the region, signalling a potential escalation in the already volatile conflict. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s parliament speaker, said Iranian forces were “waiting for American soldiers” and threatened to “rain fire” on any troops entering Iranian territory.
The deployment of about 3,500 US sailors and marines, led by the warship USS Tripoli, adds to a growing American military build-up that already includes aircraft carriers, bombers and missile defence systems. While US officials have not confirmed plans for ground operations, reports suggest the Pentagon is preparing contingency options that could include limited raids rather than a full-scale invasion.
Mixed messaging from Donald Trump, United States president, has further clouded the outlook. While he has hinted at winding down the war, his administration is reportedly considering significant additional funding, pointing to the possibility of a prolonged campaign.
Anti-Trump protests spread nationwide in ‘No King’s’ rallies
Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across the United States in a renewed wave of “No Kings” protests targeting Donald Trump’s policies, including immigration crackdowns and the ongoing war in Iran.
Organisers said more than 3,200 events were held across all 50 states, with participation extending beyond major cities into smaller communities. The movement has gained momentum since its launch last year, reflecting growing public dissent.
In Minnesota, a key flashpoint in immigration debates, large crowds gathered outside the state capitol. Tim Walz, Minnesota governor, told protesters their actions represented “the heart and soul” of democratic resistance, framing the movement as a stand against authoritarianism.
Israel expands Southerner Lebanon offensive as regional tensions rise
Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel prime minister, has ordered the military to expand its offensive in southern Lebanon, deepening Israel’s involvement in a widening regional conflict linked to the war with Iran.
The push aims to extend a security buffer zone towards the Litani River and weaken Hezbollah’s presence near Israel’s northern border. Israeli officials say the strategy mirrors tactics used in Gaza, where buffer zones were established through sustained military operations.
Lebanon’s health ministry says more than 1,200 people have been killed since the conflict escalated in early March, underlining the mounting humanitarian toll as fighting intensifies.
Regional powers meet in Pakistan to revive Hormuz shipping routes
Pakistan has convened talks with Turkey, Egypt and Saudi Arabia in a bid to de-escalate the Iran conflict and restore shipping through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.
Foreign ministers discussed proposals to stabilise maritime traffic and explored pathways towards a broader ceasefire. The talks come as global oil markets remain under pressure, with the strait—once carrying about a fifth of global energy supplies—effectively disrupted.
Officials indicated that the discussions also included potential US-Iran engagement, with mediation efforts gaining urgency amid fears of a prolonged disruption to global energy flows.
Paris arrests linked to foiled attack on US-linked financial site
French authorities have arrested three individuals over a suspected attempted bomb attack near a Bank of America site in central Paris.
Investigators say an improvised device containing flammable liquid and an ignition system was discovered before it could be detonated. Two additional suspects were later detained as part of a widening probe.
Laurent Nuñez, France interior minister, said the incident could be linked to broader geopolitical tensions stemming from the Iran conflict, though investigations are ongoing.
AFRICA
Cholera response disrupted as Iran war delays medical supplies
Efforts to prepare for cholera outbreaks in parts of Africa have been disrupted by logistical delays linked to the Iran conflict, raising concerns ahead of the rainy season.
Emergency medical kits stored in Dubai—intended for countries including Chad and South Sudan—have been delayed, with aid agencies forced to consider costly alternatives. The supplies are critical for establishing rapid-response treatment centres and preventing the spread of the disease.
Officials warn that delays could leave vulnerable populations exposed as seasonal flooding increases the risk of outbreaks.
Belgian Ex-diplomat challenges trial over Lumumba assassination
A former Belgian diplomat has appealed a court ruling ordering him to stand trial over the 1961 assassination of Patrice Lumumba, marking a significant moment in efforts to address colonial-era injustices.
Etienne Davignon, now 93, is the only surviving suspect linked to the killing of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s first prime minister. Prosecutors allege he was involved in Lumumba’s unlawful detention and transfer.
The case represents the first criminal prosecution tied to the assassination, decades after Belgium acknowledged “moral responsibility” for the killing.
Kenya flood death toll rises as displacement worsens
Flooding in Kenya has killed at least 108 people, with thousands displaced following weeks of heavy rainfall.
Authorities say more than 2,700 families have been affected, with infrastructure damage disrupting transport and power supply.
Although rainfall has eased in some regions, officials warn that saturated ground and overflowing drainage systems continue to pose risks.
The floods underscore the growing vulnerability of East African countries to extreme weather events.
Egypt scales back state activity to cushion war-driven energy shock
Egypt is scaling back fuel-intensive state projects and cutting government energy use as it grapples with the economic fallout from the Iran war.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced a temporary slowdown of major projects and a 30 percent reduction in fuel allocations for government vehicles. Remote work measures have also been introduced to reduce consumption.
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