Hundreds March in Senegal’s Capital Over Broken Government Promises and Inflation

By MARK BANCHEREAU and BABACAR DIONE

7:20 PM EDT, April 8, 2026

DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Hundreds of workers, union members and opposition supporters marched in Senegal’s capital Dakar on Wednesday to protest what they say are broken government promises and a worsening cost-of-living, as the country is plagued by a severe debt crisis.

The protest was organized by the country’s main labor unions and the Front for the Defense of Democracy and the Republic, also known as FDR, opposition coalition.

Mody Guiro, secretary-general of the National Confederation of Senegalese Workers, the country’s largest labor union, said the government had betrayed a deal last year that had frozen strikes in exchange for promises of better wages and working conditions. Authorities say a record debt crisis inherited from the previous administration has left the government with little money to spend.

Protesters wearing red scarfs and union hats held signs demanding that the government rehires laid off public sector workers and lowers income taxes. Some chanted slogans calling for the ousting of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.

The West African country’s government, led by Sonko and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, came to power in April 2024, promising to carry out ambitious reforms, which included fighting corruption, creating jobs for young people and maximizing the country’s natural resource benefits.

But the ruling PASTEF party’s reform agenda has run into obstacles. A 2025 government audit revealed a larger-than-reported debt of $13 billion attributed to the previous administration. Talks with the International Monetary Fund over a new financial program have stalled as the nation’s fiscal outlook worsens.

Senegal’s debt-to-GDP ratio has surged to roughly 132%, one of the highest in Africa.

The country’s economic difficulties have deepened the daily struggles of many people, with young Senegalese among the hardest hit. About 75% of the country’s population is under 35.

Last February, protests at Senegal’s top public university over unpaid financial aid were met with a violent response by security forces, leading to the death of a student.

“The country is at a standstill. It is essential that the government finds solutions to revive Senegal’s economy instead of picking fights everywhere,” said Mohamed Fall, a youth activist at the protest on Wednesday.

Another protester, Pape Laobe Samb, is one of more than 700 employees of the port of Dakar that have been laid off since early 2025, as the Senegalese government moves to overhaul state institutions.

“This is not what they promised people. They said they were going to create jobs and develop the country but they did the complete opposite,” Samb, who worked more than 12 years at the port before being let go, told The Associated Press.

The port’s director, who was appointed shortly after President Faye came to power, has described the action as a purge of irregular contracts inherited from the previous administration. Unions disagree, arguing the workers targeted were largely those associated with the previous government, and that the firings were unlawful.

Attacks on 2 Villages in Northern Nigeria Leave at Least 20 People Dead, Residents Say

By DYEPKAZAH SHIBAYAN

3:07 PM EDT, April 8, 2026

ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Gunmen attacked two villages in the north-central region of Nigeria, killing at least 20 people, residents said Wednesday.

The attacks occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in Bagna and Erena, located in the Shiroro area of Niger state. Shiroro is about 250 kilometers (155 miles) or a four-hour drive from the capital, Abuja.

“They came on motorbikes and began shooting. It was a surprise attack, because it was in the early hours of the morning,” said Jibrin Isah, who lives in Erena.

Residents said that at least 20 people were killed, with more missing. However, local police said that only three people were killed.

“Unfortunately, two vigilante members and a driver from the joint security team lost their lives during the attack, while some others were injured,” Niger state police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun said in a statement.

Residents said the attackers operated for hours, raiding homes and sending residents to flee to safety in neighboring communities.

“Those killed in the attacks were above 20,” Muhammad Tukur, a resident of Erena, told The Associated Press.

Nigeria, which is Africa’s most populous country, is battling a complex security crisis, especially in the north where there is a decade-long insurgency and several armed groups who kidnap for ransom.

Disputes over land and grazing between mostly Muslim Fulani herders and largely Christian farming communities frequently escalate into deadly clashes. Criminal gangs are also active.

The insurgency in the northeast has led to the death and displacement of many, according to the U.N.

Thousands Flood Lagos’ Vibrant Fanti Carnival to Celebrate Afro-Brazilian Heritage

By DAN IKPOYI and SUNDAY ALAMBA

9:11 AM EDT, April 7, 2026

LAGOS, Nigeria (AP) — Thousands of revelers flooded Nigeria’s Lagos for the annual Lagos Fanti Carnival, celebrating the Afro-Brazilian heritage of the “Aguda” or the formerly enslaved people who returned from Brazil in the 19th century.

The festival, usually celebrated during Eastertide in recent years, is one of West Africa’s most prominent cultural celebrations, similar to Brazil’s Rio Carnival, the world’s biggest party.

After reaching West Africa, many of the returnees settled in Lagos, building a life among the city’s Yoruba ethnic group. They retained some of the Brazilian and Portuguese cultures and infused them into music, food, architecture, religion and lifestyle, giving life to the Fanti carnival.

“If you know the history of Lagos, you will understand how this carnival is important to the city and its history,” said Ademola Oduyebo, one of the carnival revelers, on Monday. “It is important that we preserve this so for our children.”

This year’s theme, “A Homecoming of Heritage,” saw processions from across Lagos converging at the Tafawa Balewa Square, featuring communities of descendants of formerly enslaved people of different age groups.

Many wore colorful costumes, including the attendees, as they danced their way to the city center, while others rode horses. All displayed elements of their Brazilian history and identity.

Artists and performers from across Africa wore elaborate outfits, with beads and feathers, while others had their bodies covered in colorful paint, swaying along Indigenous Yoruba rhythms.

One of the revelers, Glamour Sandra, said she always looked forward to being at both the Fanti festival and Brazil’s Rio Carnival.

“I love the energy, the artistic splendor that they create,” she said of the Fanti festival.

Various community associations that represent the original Aguda settlements are heavily featured in the annual festival and help organize it.

Rwanda Tries to Protect Farmland in Africa’s Most Densely Populated Nation

By EVELYNE MUSAMBI and NADEGE BIZIMUNGU

10:53 AM EDT, April 8, 2026

KIGALI, Rwanda (AP) — The rhythmic sounds of construction muffle the thud of farmers’ hoes on a chilly morning in Rwanda ‘s capital, where new efforts aim to protect remaining agricultural land from relentless development in Africa’s most densely populated country.

Eighty-four-year-old Mukarusini Purisikira had been a farmer before she fled the country to Congo during the 1994 Rwandan genocide against the Tutsis. Upon returning, she said, her family’s land, which had stretched across the hills, had been taken away for construction. She gestured toward Kigali’s high-rise buildings.

Now she grows maize and sweet potatoes on a piece of land the size of a small cottage, which she said is barely enough to feed her.

“It is all I have,” she said, looking warily at construction equipment on a ridge nearby.

Now she has a measure of protection. Since September, Rwanda’s government has been mapping agricultural land and using satellite imagery to track any development encroaching on farmlands and forests in a country where the population is expected to reach 22 million in a couple of years.

Rwanda is striving to ensure food security amid the latest global pressures on farm inputs like fertilizer, whose prices have been rising since the Iran war began.

The capital set aside nearly a quarter of land for farming

The government has imposed fines of up to $3,000 and jail terms of up to six months on developers found to be encroaching.

Some buildings in Kigali have been torn down, though people associated with them didn’t want to comment for fear of government retaliation. The government now plans to incorporate drones for better real-time monitoring.

Meanwhile, land use data from the mayor’s office shows that the Kigali master plan has dedicated nearly a quarter of land — 22% — to agriculture.

City authorities acknowledge that housing construction is attractive due to demand but say future projections show that “farming will be even more productive.” They say the demand for food is also rising and believe that, with innovation, it can be grown on smaller pieces of land.

While most of the food consumed in Kigali comes from other districts in Rwanda, farmland in those areas is shrinking, too, a spokeswoman for the mayor’s office, Emma-Claudine Ntirenganya, told The Associated Press.

The government last year printed and displayed maps showing areas in districts across Rwanda that are designated for construction and reserved for agriculture.

Ntirenganya spoke of going into agriculture “in an urban way. We will be able to show Kigalians that they can also do agriculture and be productive.”

The city administration, which is setting up a greenhouse on its roof, requires developers seeking building permits to include green spaces and gardens in their designs.

Some explore vertical gardens and hydroponics

Other approaches in Kigali include vertical farms, where vegetables and fruits such as strawberries are grown in stackable plastic containers.

Christian Irakoze co-founded a local company, Eza Neza or “grow well,” that sets up vertical farms in the city and described them as scalable. The AP visited two of them at local homes and another that provides stocks to a grocery store. One grows 600 plants in vertical rows stretching about 50 meters (yards) along a perimeter wall.

Irakoze described his work as “a different way of thinking about farming, from traditional large-scale upcountry farming to something smaller, modular, and that anyone can really do.”

Through the use of locally available inputs such as manure and volcanic sediment in place of soil, Irakoze said farming should be adapted to lessen outside impacts.

“We really have to find ways to find our own solutions, whether through inputs like fertilizers or seeds. Some of these global events are always a reminder that we should definitely have some alternatives,” he said.

Elsewhere in Kigali, a group of young agronomists are training farmers to adopt technologies such as hydroponics to maximize productivity, using water instead of soil.

“The population is increasing, yet our land is not increasing. We make sure that we find solutions that can help farmers to overcome that, and then they produce more,” said one of the agronomists, Richard Bucyana.

Bucyana agreed that solutions such as Rwanda’s help to buffer from global events.

“African governments should start thinking how they can be self-sustainable,” he said.

Detained Aid Worker Joseph Figueira Martin Freed in Central African Republic

This family handout provided by Georges Martin shows his brother Joseph Figueira Martin playing with a sloth at the ecological park in Manaus, Brazil, Sept. 10, 2023. (Georges Martin via AP, File)

By WILSON MCMAKIN

6:35 PM EDT, April 7, 2026

DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Detained aid worker Joseph Figueira Martin, who had been held in the Central African Republic for nearly two years, was freed Tuesday, his family told The Associated Press.

His brother said that “the rumor is real and he should land in Lisbon in a couple of hours.”

Figueira Martin, a dual Belgian-Portuguese citizen and consultant for the American aid organization FHI 360, was arrested in May 2024, according to the Central African Republic prosecutor’s office, over allegations of spying, being in communication with armed groups to plot a coup, and jeopardizing national security.

He was arrested in Zemio, a town in the country’s southeast that has been plagued by fighting between ethnic militias and anti-government rebels for over a decade.

Figueiro Martin was held in a military prison and had previously started a hunger strike to protest the conditions of his detention.

The government Tuesday has not yet confirmed his release or commented on the status of his legal case.

While arrests of foreign aid workers in the Central African Republic are rare, the country is tightening its grip over aid organizations operating in areas where the military is fighting armed groups. Following Figueira Martin’s arrest, authorities warned foreign NGO workers against participating in activities that could jeopardize national security, or face judicial proceedings.

Central African Republic has been in conflict since 2013, when predominantly Muslim rebels seized power and forced then-president François Bozizé from office. Mostly Christian militias fought back. A 2019 peace deal helped slow the fighting but six of the 14 armed groups that signed later left the agreement.

The Russian mercenary group Wagner is also present in Central African Republic to hold off armed rebel groups and keep in power President Faustin-Archange Touadera, who has been in office since 2016.

Iran Declares 'Historic Victory' Over US, Says Enemy Forced to Accept its Proposal

Wednesday, 08 April 2026 12:30 AM

Iran has declared a "historic and crushing defeat" of the United States and the Israeli regime after 40 days of war, announcing that Washington has been forced to accept a 10-point Iranian proposal that includes a permanent ceasefire, the lifting of all sanctions, and the withdrawal of US combat forces from the region.

In a statement addressed to the "noble, great, and heroic nation of Iran," the Supreme National Security Council said the enemy had suffered an undeniable defeat and now saw "no way forward but to submit to the will of the great nation of Iran and the honorable Axis of Resistance."

The announcement comes on Day 40 of the US-Israeli war of aggression on Iran, which began with the assassination of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and top-ranking commanders on February 28.

According to the statement, the United States has agreed to a 10-point proposal that fundamentally commits Washington to:

No new aggression against Iran

Continued Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz

Acceptance of enrichment

Removal of all primary sanctions

Removal of all secondary sanctions

Termination of all UN Security Council resolutions

Termination of all Board of Governors resolutions

Payment of compensation to Iran

Withdrawal of US combat forces from the region

Cessation of war on all fronts, including against the heroic Islamic Resistance of Lebanon

"Iran has achieved a great victory and has forced criminal America to accept its own 10-point proposal," the statement read.

The statement by the top security body described the past 40 days as one of the "heaviest combined battles in history," in which Iran and its allies in Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, and occupied Palestine inflicted blows that "the historical memory of the world will never forget."

"Iran and the Resistance have almost completely destroyed the American military machine in the region," it stated. "They have inflicted crushing and deep blows on the vast infrastructure and capabilities that the enemy had built and deployed around the region over many years for this war against Iran."

The statement added that within the occupied territories, Resistance forces had dealt "devastating and crushing blows to the enemy's forces, infrastructure, facilities, and assets."

It further stated that the United States understood as early as 10 days into the war that it could not win.

"Not only did none of the enemy's main objectives materialize, but the enemy realized from about 10 days after the start of the war that it would have no ability to win this war," the statement said. "For this reason, through various channels and methods, the enemy began efforts to establish contact with Iran and request a ceasefire."

The top security body further said the enemy had initially imagined a quick military victory, believing Iran's missile and drone capabilities would be "quickly extinguished," and noted that the "vile global Zionism" had convinced the "ignorant President of the United States" that the war would finish Iran.

While declaring victory, the top security body also urged continued vigilance.

"We congratulate all the people of Iran on this victory," the statement read, "and emphasize that until the details of this victory are finalized, there remains a need for the resilience and prudence of officials and the preservation of unity and solidarity among the people of Iran."

The Iranian announcement came hours after Trump said he had agreed to a two-week suspension of bombing and attacks on Iran, subject to Tehran reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said he would "suspend the bombing and attack of Iran for a period of two weeks" — a decision he described as a "double-sided CEASEFIRE."

Trump said the suspension is "subject to the Islamic Republic of Iran agreeing to the COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz."

Earlier on Tuesday, he had warned that "a whole civilization will die tonight" if Iran failed to meet his demands, an inflammatory war rhetoric that triggered backlash worldwide.

Many condemned the bluster as genocidal and said it amounts to a horrendous war crime.

Pope Leo XIV called the threat "truly unacceptable," while US lawmakers decried Trump's rhetoric as "pure evil," with many of them calling for the invocation of the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office.

The Strait of Hormuz, which carries approximately one-fifth of the world's oil, has been effectively blocked by Iran since the US and Israel launched their unprovoked and illegal war of aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran on February 28.

Iranian officials had categorically stated that the strategic waterway will not be reopened unless its demands are met, which include the permanent cessation of US-Israeli attacks.

In line with the directive of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei and the approval of the Supreme National Security Council, and given Iran and the resistance's upper hand on the battlefield, the enemy's inability to carry out its threats despite all its claims, and the official acceptance of all the legitimate demands of the Iranian people, it has been decided that negotiations will be held in Islamabad to finalize the details.

This will take place within a maximum of 15 days, so that the details of Iran's victory on the battlefield may also be solidified in political negotiations.

The negotiations will begin on Friday in Islamabad. Iran will allocate two weeks for these negotiations and the timeframe may be extended by mutual agreement of the two sides.

The top security body said it is essential that during this period, complete national unity is maintained and victory celebrations continue with strength.

These negotiations, it asserted, are a national negotiation and an extension of the battlefield, so all people and political groups must trust and support this process, which is under the supervision of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. 

"If the enemy's surrender on the battlefield is transformed into a decisive political achievement in the negotiations, we will celebrate this great historic victory together. Otherwise, we will fight side by side on the battlefield until all the demands of the Iranian people are met," the statement noted. 

"Our hands are on the trigger, and the moment the slightest mistake is made by the enemy, it will be answered with full force."

US-Israeli Aggression on Iran: What Happened on 39th Day of the Imposed War

Tuesday, 07 April 2026 10:44 PM

By Press TV Website Staff

Thirty-eight days into the US-Israeli war on Iran, which began with the assassination of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and top-ranking commanders, the military aggression continues to target civilian, educational, and industrial infrastructure across the country.

Iran's Minister of Education reported that, since the war of aggression was launched on February 28, at least 60 teachers and 250 students have been martyred.

In the early hours of Tuesday, the roar of US-Israeli fighter jets and multiple explosions echoed across various Iranian cities, including Tehran. Among the strikes, a historic synagogue in Tehran's Jewish community was destroyed in a pre-dawn US-Israeli air raid, while several highways and railway lines sustained serious damage.

US President Donald Trump escalated his inflammatory war rhetoric, warning that "a whole civilization will die" in Iran.

At the UN, Secretary-General António Guterres condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure in Iran, while Russia and China vetoed a Bahrain-backed UN Security Council resolution aimed at opening the Strait of Hormuz to US and allied vessels.

Despite the war, Iran's oil revenues surged by 37 percent in March, outpacing regional neighbors, according to reports.

Key developments from Day 39 of the imposed war:

Iran's Minister of Education announced that, to date, 60 teachers and 250 students have been martyred in attacks by the United States and the Israeli regime. He added that 210 teachers and students have been hospitalized due to injuries.

In the early hours of Tuesday, the sound of fighter jets and multiple explosions was heard across Tehran, Isfahan, Alborz, Karaj, Qom, West Azerbaijan, Bushehr, Khorasan Razavi, Hormozgan, Khuzestan, Fars, Kermanshah, Bandar Abbas, and East Azerbaijan, with the enemy hitting civilian targets.

A historic synagogue belonging to the Jewish community in Tehran was destroyed in a pre-dawn airstrike carried out by the United States and the Israeli regime.

Iranian officials reported damage to crucial infrastructure, including several bridges and a vital highway, following a series of US-Israeli airstrikes in different parts of Iran.

US-Israeli strikes hit Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned attacks on Iranian civilian infrastructure, citing international law prohibitions.

In a new inflammatory war rhetoric on his social media page that triggered massive backlash, Trump threatened to annihilate "Iranian civilization."

Iranians formed human chains around the country's power plants and bridges — a grassroots effort underscoring national resilience in the face of threats.

Pope Leo XIV said Trump's threat to destroy Iranian civilization was "truly unacceptable" and that any attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asked Trump to extend his deadline for Tehran by another two weeks "to allow diplomacy to run its course."

CNN quoted a source as saying that Trump's recent abusive remarks stem from his strategic failure in southern Isfahan, carried out in coordination with Netanyahu. The source added that the escalation of Trump's insults toward the Iranian people is a sign that he has lost control of the war effort.

The Washington Post reported that War Secretary Pete Hegseth is feeding wrong information regarding the developments in the war to Trump.

The New York Times reported that two Iranian officials outlined a 10-point proposal including guarantees against renewed attacks on Iran, an end to Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the lifting of all sanctions. In exchange, Iran would lift its practical blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and collect roughly $2 million per ship — shared with Oman — using its portion to rebuild infrastructure damaged by US and Israeli attacks. It wasn’t confirmed by the Iranian side, though.

Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution prepared by Bahrain that called for states to coordinate efforts to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

CBS reported, citing CENTCOM, that at least 373 US military personnel were wounded and 13 killed during Iranian operations.

The IMF Chief warned of global inflation amid the war against Iran. The ongoing war is expected to drive higher inflation and slower economic growth worldwide, with long-lasting effects even if hostilities cease today, the IMF said.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump may authorize strikes on Iranian infrastructure Tuesday night, though ongoing negotiations could alter that plan. Republicans remain concerned about rising gasoline prices affecting the midterm elections in November.

The Wall Street Journal also stated that mediators have warned that if the US strikes nuclear and other civilian infrastructure, Tehran will retaliate against energy facilities in Israel and Persian Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia.

Reuters reported that Iran's oil revenues in March were the highest in the region despite the war, with a 37% increase. Oman saw a 26% rise and Saudi Arabia 4.3%, while the UAE's dipped by 2.6% as price surges offset lower volumes.

Politico reported that Trump's deputy, JD Vance, is prepared to join direct talks with Iran if negotiations led by Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner advance sufficiently.

Iran has rejected a proposal for a temporary ceasefire, stating that it would give the US and Israel time to regroup and launch further attacks, and citing past ceasefire violations in Gaza and Lebanon, reports said.

Iran urged Saudi Arabia and the UAE to prevent their territories from being used to attack Iran, emphasizing Iran's right to take all necessary measures, including self-defense.

Axios reported that Trump may postpone attacks if concrete progress on a potential deal is evident.

Ten major UAE companies have seen their stock values drop between 2% and 35% since the US and Israeli attacks on Iran began.

Yasmin Ansari, an Iranian-American Congresswoman, submitted motions to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove Trump and initiate impeachment proceedings against the Secretary of War, citing war crimes threats against Iranian infrastructure.

In response to escalating threats, Saudi authorities shut the bridge connecting the kingdom to Bahrain.

Three people were killed and two police officers were injured in an exchange of gunfire near the Israeli consulate building in Istanbul, Turkey.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated France's opposition to any attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure in Iran amid US threats, warning against stepping into a "vicious cycle."

'Ultimate Surrender': Pakistani Media Says Trump Backed Down to Iran After 40 Days

Wednesday, 08 April 2026 4:06 AM

US President Donald Trump

Pakistani news networks have described Donald Trump's announcement of a two-week suspension in the American attacks on Iran as the American president's ultimate surrender to the Islamic Republic.

The networks provided the coverage on Wednesday, moments after Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that he had agreed to the suspension, subject to Tehran's reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, calling the decision a "double-sided CEASEFIRE."

Iran, on its part, declared a "historic and crushing defeat" of the US and the Israeli regime after 40 days of war, announcing that Washington has been forced to accept a 10-point Iranian proposal that includes a permanent ceasefire, the lifting of all sanctions, and the withdrawal of US combat forces from the region.

In a statement, the Supreme National Security Council said the enemy had suffered an undeniable defeat and now saw "no way forward but to submit to the will of the great nation of Iran and the honorable Axis of Resistance."

Broadcasts across the networks in Pakistan noted that Trump ultimately chose to surrender to Iran and realized that he could not pressure a civilized nation through threats.

Suno TV said the US and the Israeli regime now have no choice but to accept the Islamic Republic’s pivotal role in the West Asia region and the control it exercises over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

92 News, citing defense and political experts, reported that all of the US president’s calculations regarding Iran had proven to be wrong.

It added that, contrary to the wishes of Trump and Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who goaded Washington into joining the aggression on February 28, the Iranian people stood alongside the country's Islamic establishment and Armed Forces, something that awarded the Islamic Republic with the upper hand in the face of the aggressors.

Samaa News also reported that the day marked a victory for the Islamic Republic, as Trump had been forced to accept Iran’s demands, and the Israeli regime had no option but to retreat.

Pakistan played the central role in the cessation of US-Israeli aggression against Iran by mediating between Tehran and Washington in the past few weeks.

The announcement of a two-week truce followed at least 99 waves of decisive retaliatory strikes by Iran against sensitive and strategic American and Israeli targets across the region.

It also led to the Islamic Republic's closing the Strait of Hormuz to its adversaries and their allies, a move that sent shockwaves throughout global energy and commodity markets.

After Trump's announcement, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi noted on behalf of the Islamic Republic's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) that Iran would cease defensive strikes if unprovoked attacks targeting the country were halted.

Araghchi also thanked Islamabad for its efforts aimed at ending the situation that had arisen out of the unprovoked aggression.

US War Secretary Misleading Trump About 'American Success' Against Iran: Report

Tuesday, 07 April 2026 10:45 PM

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (R) and President Donald Trump

A report shows Pete Hegseth’s public claims of "American success" during the ongoing American-Israeli aggression against Iran, might not fully reflect the reality on the ground, raising concerns about the accuracy of information being relayed by the secretary of war.

The Washington Post carried the report on Tuesday, citing an official as saying, "Pete is not speaking truth to the president. As a result, the president is out there repeating misleading information."

Air operations show limits

The Post cited a recent abortive operation, framed by Washington as a "rescue mission," as proof that the US did not have "complete control of Iranian skies," despite Hegseth’s self-described assurances last month.

The operation resulted in the US's and possibly the Zionist regime's losing a significant number of aircraft, including at least one A-10 Thunderbolt II and two Black Hawk helicopters during initial infiltration and reconnaissance missions.

Information obtained by Press TV regarding the operation has shown that the Americans miscalculated, believing that Iran's air defense would be unable to confront the aircraft involved, and, therefore, deploying numerous aircraft while the Iranian Armed Forces were on full alert and awaiting them. "In fact, American special forces fell directly into a trap set by Iranian forces," Press TV reported, citing its findings.

Trump, however, sufficed to call the successful Iranian countermeasures a "lucky hit."

Disputed statements on Iran's arsenal

Last month, Hegseth asserted that Iran’s missile and drone programs were "overwhelmingly destroyed."

The claim has been nullified by the dozens of waves of retaliatory strikes that the Islamic Republic has staged against sensitive and strategic American and Israeli targets across the region.

The reprisal recently witnessed its 99th wave, during which the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) even fired missiles from twin launch systems for the first time during the retaliation.

The Post, meanwhile, pointed out the cost that the United States had incurred by being forced to deploy expensive interceptors against swarms of relatively inexpensive, but highly effective Iranian attack drones.

Department of War spokesman Sean Parnell has, however, defended Hegseth, saying he has provided Trump with "decisive military options…," alleging, "The Washington Post is pushing a fake story of failure."

This is not the first time either the US president or his administration officials attack unfavorable accounts of Washington's performance.

White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly also insisted that Trump "always had the full picture of the conflict."

Wave 99: IRGC Targets US Aircraft Carrier, Energy Facilities in Gulf

By Al Mayadeen English

Source: IRGC Public Relations

The IRGC announces a new wave of strikes targeting US-linked energy infrastructure, an Israeli-linked vessel, and a US aircraft carrier, warning of broader escalation across the region.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Tuesday the launch of a new wave of military operations striking American and Israeli-linked targets across West Asia, in response to recent attacks on Iran’s energy infrastructure.

In an official statement, the IRGC Public Relations said the forces carried out wave 99 of Operation True Promise 4, underlining that the operation is a coordinated response to “the enemy's crimes in the attack on the Asaluyeh petrochemical plants and part of its facilities."

Combined missile and drone strikes launched

According to the statement, the IRGC Navy and the IRGC Aerospace Force conducted a joint operation beginning at dawn, employing ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and one-way attack drones. The operation was dedicated to “the martyrs of the Jewish and Christian communities of the imposed wars”.

The IRGC said the strikes targeted US bases and interests in the Gulf region, the Strait of Hormuz, as well as military positions and command and control centers in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories.

Energy infrastructure, maritime targets hit

The statement added that in the initial phase of the operation, missile and drone strikes targeted major petrochemical facilities in Saudi Arabia’s al-Jubail and al-Juaymah areas. Specifically, the facilities struck are partially-owned or operated by American companies, including Chevron Phillips, ExxonMobil, Dow Chemical Company, and SADARA Chemical Company, which is a venture between Aramco and Dow.

Additionally, the IRGC reported that a container ship linked to "Israel" was struck near the UAE port of Khor Fakkan. The vessel was transporting military equipment intended for Israeli use via an overland route, attempting to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.

The attack on the vessel was intended as a warning against any maritime cooperation with "Israel" or the United States.

Aircraft carrier group targeted

The IRGC further stated that it targeted the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) and its carrier group in the Indian Ocean using long-range anti-ship cruise missiles.

In its statement, the IRGC warned that any further escalation by US forces would prompt a wider response. It stressed that while Iran “has not been and will not be the initiator of attacks on civilian targets,” it would “not hesitate to retaliate against aggressions on civilian facilities.”

The statement also warned that US and allied infrastructure in the region could be targeted in a way that would disrupt access to oil and gas resources for years.

Iran further cautioned regional states that, while it had previously exercised restraint “due to good neighborliness," it would no longer maintain such considerations in selecting targets going forward.

'New phase of war'

Brigadier General Seyed Majid Mousavi, commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force, announced in a video posted on his UpScrolled account the start of the second phase of wave 99 of Operation True Promise 4, stating, “The war has entered a new phase with the introduction of twin slot launchers, each capable of independently firing pairs of Fateh and Kheibar Shekan missiles."

Strait of Hormuz, Bab al-Mandab Will be Blocked if US Escalates: Iran

By Al Mayadeen English

An Iranian source discloses the consequences of ongoing escalation on maritime routes, as the US insists on arbitrary demands in mediated talks.

A senior Iranian source told Reuters that backchannel communications continue, with Pakistan and Qatar conveying messages between Tehran and Washington. However, the source stressed that "the US has not changed its tone."

According to the source, Pakistan and Qatar are acting as intermediaries in conveying Tehran’s position, but no formal negotiations are underway. "There are no negotiations with the US, which wants Iran to surrender under pressure," the source affirmed, adding that Tehran is willing to show "flexibility" only "when we see flexibility from the US side."

The source emphasized that Washington’s primary objective remains "reopening the Strait of Hormuz," a critical route for global oil shipments. Iran, however, "will not open it in exchange for 'empty promises'."

Potential consequences for regional waterways

Iran warned that any escalation could have severe regional consequences. "If the US attacks Iran’s power plants, the entire region and Saudi Arabia will fall into complete darkness," the source said, noting that Qatar had already relayed Iran’s message on this issue on Monday.

The source highlighted the broader risks, signaling that aggressive actions could destabilize energy and power networks across the region, and further cautioned that if the situation spirals, Iran’s allies could move to close the Bab al-Mandab waterway. "If the situation gets out of control, Iran's allies will also close Bab al-Mandab waterway."

Iran weighs strategic bill to safeguard Hormuz, Gulf security: Rezaei

Currently, Iran’s parliamentary National Security and Foreign Policy Committee is reviewing a strategic draft aimed at safeguarding the security of the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf, spokesperson Ebrahim Rezaei said.

Rezaei stressed that “Iran will manage navigation in the Strait according to its own laws, in cooperation and coordination with Oman.”

He added that “the history of the Strait of Hormuz will be divided into before and after the aggression against Iran,” emphasizing that “no hostile vessel will be allowed to pass through the Strait.”

For Undermining Iran, US Global Influence Crumbles: Analyst

By Al Mayadeen English

Source: Russian International Affairs Council

Fyodor Lukyanov argues that the aggression on Iran could redefine US power globally, warning that prolonged confrontation risks serious economic, strategic, and political consequences.

In an analysis for the Russian International Affairs Council, Fyodor Lukyanov says the outcome of the aggression on Iran could define the United States’ global influence for years to come, making the current tensions in West Asia far more consequential than a regional confrontation.

According to Lukyanov, US policy toward Iran has grown increasingly unpredictable. Rather than focusing on fluctuating presidential statements, he emphasizes the strategic rationale behind Washington’s approach. Officials, he notes, appear convinced that the timing is right for decisive action against Tehran, exploiting what they perceive as a security vulnerability.

Ambitious goals, high stakes

Lukyanov argues that a single, well-executed attack, in theory, could achieve multiple long-term objectives: resolve the legacy of the 1979 embassy crisis, remove a regime hostile to "Israel," gain leverage over critical energy resources and trade routes, and weaken emerging Eurasian integration initiatives. Advisers, he adds, presented this as a rare opportunity, which Trump reportedly accepted.

However, he cautions that these ambitions rest on flawed assumptions. Iran is neither Iraq in 2003 nor Afghanistan in 2001. Its military capabilities, Lukyanov observes, surpass any adversary the US has faced directly in recent decades. With strategic depth, resilience, and the ability to disrupt global trade and energy flows, even a limited confrontation could have far-reaching economic and security consequences.

Strategic and political complexity

According to Lukyanov, Iran’s geographic position grants it a unique influence, and any escalation could threaten shipping routes and economic stability well beyond West Asia, directly impacting US and allied interests. Unlike previous interventions, he notes, the current show of force lacks broad international justification, raising concerns among Washington’s partners. Allies who were once compelled to support the US are now hesitant, Lukyanov adds, balancing risks against uncertain gains.

He points out that the original assumption was that Iran would quickly capitulate. But the form of such surrender, whether regime collapse, coerced compliance, or a heavily constrained negotiated settlement, remains unclear. Prolonged aggression, he emphasizes, was not part of the plan.

Defining success

Moreover, the US approach reflects a broader shift in foreign policy. “America First” often appears isolationist, but in practice it emphasizes achieving objectives with minimal cost or responsibility. While this approach yielded early results through economic leverage, it becomes riskier in uncontrolled scenarios.

Lukyanov further argues that creating a major geopolitical crisis while expecting others to bear the consequences threatens not just adversaries but the international system itself. Past US leadership operated under the “liberal world order” paradigm, presenting American dominance as mutually beneficial. The current strategy, Lukyanov asserts, assumes US prosperity may come at the expense of others, challenging old balances of power.

Iran has become a test case. According to Lukyanov, failure to achieve decisive results could undermine Washington’s credibility as a global power under new rules. Unlike Iraq or Afghanistan, he adds, the stakes are immediate, practical, and less constrained by legal or ideological considerations.

The need for decisive action

Defining victory is urgent and complex. Any operation that leaves Iran controlling the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global waterway, would likely be seen as insufficient. The longer the aggression continues without resolution, the more pressure mounts on Washington.

According to Lukyanov, the United States now faces a stark choice: secure a decisive victory or risk a prolonged, inconclusive conflict that would weaken its regional and global standing. Negotiated settlements appear unlikely, as the parties’ demands remain far apart. The risks are clear, and for Washington, "the cost of failure may be even greater."

April 7: Hezbollah Hits Israeli Troops, Warplanes Over South and Bekaa

By al Mayadeen English

The Islamic Resistance in Lebanon carries out defensive operations on Tuesday, targeting IOF warplanes, soldiers, settlements, and military infrastructure.

The Islamic Resistance in Lebanon - Hezbollah launched a wide-ranging set of strikes on Israeli occupation forces, firing continuous barrages of rockets and launching swarms of drones into occupied territories, on Tuesday.

Importantly, the Resistance has been defending against an Israeli incursion into the town of Bint Jbeil, directly engaging Israeli occupation forces on the outskirts of the town, since noon. Hezbollah said that its fighters, armed with light weapons and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), are fiercely confronting Israeli occupation forces. The Resistance's rocket and artillery units are also targeting enemy positions in the context of the battles in Bint Jbeil. 

Hezbollah said that it also fired an RPG and scored a direct hit on an Israeli Merkava tank, adding that confrontations on the eastern outskirts of Bint Jbeil are ongoing. 

Meanwhile, Resistance units fired rockets and artillery shells at Israeli occupation forces assembled in the nearby villages of Maroun al-Ras and Ainata. The Resistance also targeted forces in nearby hilltops and highlands and in areas in Bint Jbeil.

Direct confrontations and fire support

At 07:45 am Tuesday, Resistance fighters struck an Israeli force east of Khiam Detention Center with appropriate weapons.

At 09:00 am, rockets targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers in the town of Markaba.

At 09:15 am, two Merkava tanks in the Taybeh project area were hit in precision strikes, achieving direct hits.

At 10:00 am, a rocket strike hit a gathering of Israeli vehicles and soldiers at the Fatima Gate on the Lebanon–Palestine border.

At 11:00 am, artillery shells targeted a gathering of Israeli soldiers in the town of Taybeh.

At 11:15 am, a Merkava tank in the town of al-Bayyada was hit with an FPV drone.

At 11:30 am, a rocket strike targeted a gathering of Israeli vehicles and soldiers in Taybeh.

At 11:35 am, a anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) struck an Israeli force inside a house in al-Bayyada, achieving confirmed hits.

At 11:55 am, rockets targeted gatherings of Israeli vehicles and soldiers in the towns of Rashaf and Beit Lif.

At 12:30 pm, an Israeli troop gathering in vicinity of the Khiam Detention Center was struck with a rocket barrage.

At 12:50 pm, rockets and artillery shelling targeted gatherings of Israeli troops and vehicles in the al-Taybeh Project.

At 1:00 pm, a NAMER vehicle was targeted with a one-way attack drone in al-Taybeh Project, achieving a direct hit.

10 minutes later, an Israeli troop gathering near a home in al-Taybeh Project was struck with a one-way attack drone, achieving a direct hit. 

At 1:20 pm, swarms of one-way attack drones targeted gatherings of Israeli enemy soldiers at the Metula site and Yiftah barracks.

At 1:30 pm, Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers at the Misgav Am site with a rocket barrage.

At 2:00 pm, a Merkava tank on the eastern outskirts of the city of Bint Jbeil was targeted for the second time with a direct missile strike, achieving a confirmed hit.

At 2:45 pm, Resistance fighters targeted a gathering of Israeli enemy soldiers in a house in al-Taybeh with an attack drone and a rocket barrage.

At 2:50 pm, rocket barrages targeted gatherings of Israeli vehicles and soldiers in the towns of Rashaf and Beit Lif.

At 2:30 pm and then again at 3:50 pm, gatherings of Israeli soldiers in Metula site were targeted with rocket barrages.

At 3:00 pm, a Merkava tank on the eastern outskirts of Bint Jbeil was targeted for the third time with a direct missile, achieving a confirmed hit.

At 3:30 pm, the Yoav barracks in the occupied Syrian Golan were targeted with a swarm of loitering drones.

At 3:50 pm, a rocket strike targeted a gathering of Israeli vehicles and soldiers in Taybeh.

Air defense operations

At 6:30 am, the Resistance fired a surface-to-air missile at an Israeli fighter jet over the Western Bekaa. 

At 9:15 am, Hezbollah fighters launched a surface-to-air missile at another fighter jet, this time over southern regions. 

At 10:00 am, surface-to-air missiles were fired at Israeli military helicopters over the town of al-Bayyada, forcing their retreat.

Rocket and one-way drone attacks on settlements

The Resistance also launched continuous barrages of rockets at northern settlements, following a warning it had issued for settlers to evacuate, underscoring that the settlements are being used by occupation forces for military purposes.

At 01:00 am Tuesday, Resistance fighters fired rockets at the settlements of Metula and Kfar Yuval.

At 02:20 am, Metula was targeted again with a rocket strike.

At 07:00 am, a rocket strike hit the settlement of Kiryat Shmona.

At 08:00 am, Kiryat Shmona was targeted for the second time with a rocket strike.

At 08:30 am, Metula was struck for the third time.

At 08:40 am, a rocket strike hit the settlement of Shlomi.

At 09:00 am, rockets targeted the settlement of Netu’a.

At 09:40 am, the settlement of Even Menachem was struck twice with rockets.

At 10:00 am, Shlomi was hit again, and a simultaneous strike targeted the settlement of Shomera.

At 10:30 am, Metula was targeted for the fourth time.

At 10:35 am, a rocket strike hit Israeli military infrastructure in the settlement of Karmiel.

At 12:10 pm, rockets targeted the settlement of Nahariya.

At 12:10 pm, Kiryat Shmona was targeted with rockets.

At 1:00 pm, rocket barrages hit military infrastructure in Rosh Pina and Safad. 

At 1:20 pm, rocket barrages hit military infrastructure in occupied Akka. 

At 2:45 pm, Avivim was targeted with rockets.

At 2:50 pm, Yir’on was targeted with rockets.

At 3:20 pm, Zar’it was targeted with rockets.

At 3:30 pm, Kiryat Shmona was targeted with rockets. for the second time.

At 3:30 pm, Beit Hillel was targeted with rockets.

At 3:50 pm, Zar’it was targeted with rockets for the second time.

Press TV: Failed US Operation in Iran Aimed at Nuclear Site

By Al Mayadeen English

Source: Press TV

A report citing informed sources outlines a covert US operation in central Iran, including disputed objectives, military losses, and high-level decision-making ahead of the mission.

On April 5, US forces conducted what officials claimed was a “rapid rescue operation” following the downing of an F-15E Strike Eagle over central Iran. The mission, which involved special operations aviation assets including MC-130J Commando II aircraft, was carried out deep inside Iranian territory, with activity concentrated around Isfahan, an area of high strategic sensitivity due to its proximity to key elements of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, namely enriched uranium. 

In a related development, new evidence emerged regarding the failed US operation, Press TV reported, citing sources informed on the matter.

A senior security official told Press TV that the operation’s “zero hour” was determined during a closed-door meeting at the White House, overseen directly by then US President Donald Trump.

The source rejected assertions that the mission was linked to the rescue of a downed fighter pilot, instead stressing that available evidence points to a plan aimed at infiltrating and targeting a nuclear facility in the Isfahan region.

Wider context

The report further stated that, based on reconnaissance missions, a landing zone for C-130 aircraft had been identified in advance at an abandoned airstrip near one of the area’s nuclear installations.

US planners misjudged, according to the source, Iran’s air defense capabilities, assuming they would be unable to effectively counter the aircraft involved in the operation. However, the report emphasized that multiple aircraft were lost during reconnaissance and infiltration efforts leading up to the mission. These reportedly included at least one A-10 aircraft and two Black Hawk helicopters, with possible involvement by Israeli occupation forces also suggested.

The account also noted that several US military generals, who were later dismissed, had issued strong warnings to the defense secretary about the risks associated with the operation. Despite these concerns, the report said the mission proceeded, attributing the decision to a combination of presidential insistence and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's limited military experience. The generals were reportedly sacked from their positions just days before the operation was launched.

Uranium heist: Failed US operation aimed to seize Iran's stockpiles?

The operation's true objectives have been questioned by Tehran, suggesting it may have extended beyond an attempt to extract a pilot.

Speaking on the incident, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said the “American operation failed miserably," adding that Iranian forces had effectively countered the attempt, drawing parallels to Operation Eagle Claw, the failed US mission in Tabas.

Iran questions US narrative, raises uranium concerns

Baghaei pointed to inconsistencies in the US account of the operation, particularly regarding the location where American aircraft landed in Isfahan.

“The point where US aircraft landed in Isfahan is very far from the location they claimed was the hiding place of the downed pilot,” he said, referring to the area of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad province.

He added that “there is a possibility that cannot be ruled out” that the US operation in southern Isfahan was part of a plan to steal Iran’s enriched uranium, rather than being solely a rescue mission.

The spokesperson further stressed that the operation constituted a “blatant violation of Iranian sovereignty," describing it as a “catastrophic scandal” for Washington.

Failed operation underscores Iranian response

Baghaei said Iranian forces and local populations played a key role in thwarting the operation, emphasizing that “when Iran’s sovereignty is targeted, all Iranians stand united.”

He also highlighted the role of local tribes, particularly from the Lur community, in countering the incursion.

The Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) had earlier stated that it confronted and neutralized hostile aerial targets during a failed US operation inside Iranian territory. At least two MC-130J Commando II aircraft operated by US special forces, in addition to a number of helicopters, were destroyed.

According to US military data, each MC-130J aircraft deployed in the operation carries a price tag exceeding $100 million. The MC-130J is specifically designed for high-risk missions, including the insertion and extraction of special operations forces in hostile environments, and features advanced defensive systems to counter sophisticated air defenses.

Iran’s enriched uranium program has remained a focal point for US President Donald Trump, who continues to seek a political and strategic win after multiple setbacks in achieving significant objectives in Iran.

Egypt's Battered Economy Takes Another Hit Due to War on Iran

By Al Mayadeen English

5 Apr 2026 23:30

Egypt's economy faces mounting pressure as the fallout from the war on Iran drives pound depreciation, surging inflation, and sweeping electricity price hikes.

Egypt is simultaneously confronting a deepening set of economic challenges, as private sector activity contracts, energy costs surge, and business confidence deteriorates, all against the backdrop of the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran and its far-reaching regional repercussions.

The latest data show that Egypt's non-oil private sector Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) fell to 48 in March, its lowest reading in nearly two years and the fourth consecutive month of contraction. A PMI below 50 indicates a shrinking sector, and the latest figure reflects weakening demand and reduced output across key industries.

Input costs have risen sharply, driven by higher fuel prices and more expensive imports, pressures directly linked to the war's disruption of regional supply chains.

Perhaps most notably, business expectations turned negative for the first time, a signal that uncertainty over regional developments is beginning to erode confidence even among firms that had previously anticipated broader economic growth.

Egyptian pound depreciates further

A significant driver of those cost pressures is the Egyptian pound's accelerating depreciation. The pound has fallen to record lows, hitting 54.6 per dollar on the offshore market, its steepest decline in three weeks, making it the world's worst-performing currency since the start of the war.

The currency slide compounds import costs across the economy. Egypt's situation is particularly acute given its heavy reliance on hot money inflows as a primary source of financing and on Israeli gas as a key energy input, both of which have been directly disrupted by the war.

Inflation rebounds after months of easing

The currency pressure is feeding directly into prices. Egypt's annual urban inflation rate rose to 13.4% in February 2026, up from 11.9% the previous month, well above market forecasts of 12%, the highest reading since July 2025.

The rebound is particularly notable given that inflation had been on a sustained downward trajectory, whereby tight monetary and fiscal policies had helped reduce inflation to 11.9% in January 2026, supported by the Central Bank of Egypt's (CBE) commitment to exchange rate flexibility and its target of reaching 7% by the fourth quarter of the year. The war has now put that trajectory at risk.

Electricity price hikes

Compounding these pressures, the Egyptian government announced electricity price increases effective April, targeting higher-consumption households and the commercial sector.

According to the Ministry of Electricity, tariffs rose by approximately 16% for high-consumption residential users and 20% for commercial activities, while lower-consumption brackets remain shielded from the increases for now.

The hikes are framed by the government as part of a broader fiscal consolidation effort, aimed at reining in energy subsidies and curbing consumption at a time when import costs have spiked due to the war. They are not the first such measure, as fuel prices were raised three times in 2024 and again in April 2025, as part of the government's pledges to the IMF to reduce subsidy spending.

A critical juncture

This social dimension adds urgency to the government's otherwise technocratic response. Alongside the electricity adjustments, authorities have moved to reduce operating hours for certain commercial activities and raise fuel and transportation prices, measures designed to ease strain on public finances but ones that risk further dampening domestic demand and eroding household purchasing power.

The confluence of these developments places Egypt's economy at a critical juncture. The simultaneous squeeze of slackening private sector activity, a depreciating currency, rebounding inflation, and rising energy costs underscores the difficult tradeoff policymakers face. 

Egyptian policymakers are expected to advance the fiscal reforms demanded by creditors without further undermining the social stability on which any durable recovery depends.

IRGC Strikes US, Israeli Military-industrial Sites in Wave 98 of Operation True Promise 4 

Monday, 06 April 2026 2:28 PM

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has launched the 98th wave of the decisive Operation True Promise 4, targeting command, operational and logistics centers, as well as military-industrial infrastructure used by the United States and Israel in the region.

In a statement released on Monday, the IRGC’s Public Relations Department said during the first phase of the combined operations, IRGC naval forces precisely targeted the Israeli-owned container ship SDN7 with a cruise missile.

Meanwhile, the statement said, Iranian ballistic missiles struck northern and southern areas of Tel Aviv, strategic sites in Haifa, chemical companies and factories in Beersheba, and a gathering point of Israeli forces in Petah Tikva.

The elite Iranian military force also said the American amphibious helicopter carrier LHA7, transporting more than 5,000 sailors and marines, came under Iran’s attack and was forced to retreat deeper into the southern Indian Ocean.

In another phase of the operation, a drone production center jointly operated by the United Arab Emirates and Israel, along with several military aircraft stationed at Ali al-Salem air base in Kuwait, was hit by Iranian missiles and drones, the IRGC said.

The IRGC said its naval forces are monitoring transit in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf while remaining prepared to act decisively against even the slightest movement by the enemies.

The illegal, imposed war of aggression by the United States and Israel began on February 28 with airstrikes that assassinated senior Iranian officials and commanders.

Iran has responded by carrying out 98 waves of retaliatory attacks against US and Israeli military and business assets across the region, using ballistic missiles and drones.

Iran also keeps the Strait of Hormuz shut to oil and gas tankers affiliated with the aggressors and those cooperating with them. This is to maintain security at the strategic waterway.

Another Iranian Petrochemical Plant Bombed in US-Israeli Aggression

Monday, 06 April 2026 2:36 PM

Iran says utility services supplying petrochemical plants in Asaluyeh have been attacked. (IRNA photo)

Iran’s Oil Ministry says US-Israeli attacks have targeted petrochemical complexes in the southern Iranian province of Bushehr, just days after similar plants came under attack in the southwestern province of Khuzestan.

The National Petrochemical Company (NPC) said in a Monday statement that utility and marginal facilities located in the Pars Special Economic Energy Zone, which hosts major Iranian petrochemical plants in the coastal county of Asaluyeh, had come under attack earlier in the day.

The NPC said it was investigating the scale of the damage inflicted on the facilities, adding that fire caused by the attack had come fully under control.

The company said there had been no dangerous chemical leaks or fatalities from the attacks.

Another statement from Persian Gulf Mobin Energy, a company providing utility services to petrochemical plants in the region, said that the US-Israeli attacks had inflicted damage on parts of its installations.

The company added that the attacks had caused no injury or death among the personnel and workers of the plants.

The attack comes just two days after the US and Israel carried out strikes on petrochemical plants in the coastal town of Mahshahr, a key energy hub on the Persian Gulf coast that hosts ports, refineries and petchem plants.

Those attacks also disrupted the supply of utility to petrochemical plants, according to authorities in the province of Khuzestan.

They come as the US and the Israeli regime have intensified their illegal attacks on Iran’s economic infrastructure as part of their war of aggression that started in late February.

The attacks have targeted petrochemical plants, steel mills, several small-scale refineries and bridges.

In a sign of failure in reaching its objectives from the aggression on Iran, the US has threatened to target Iranian power plants, a move that has been widely criticized around the world with many international law experts warning that such attacks, if carried out, could amount to war crimes.

Dozens Killed, Including 10 Children, in Overnight US-Israeli Air Raids Across Iran

Monday, 06 April 2026 3:05 PM

People look at the aftermath of a US-Israeli air strike on a residential building in Iran.

Following overnight US-Israeli air raids across Iran, dozens of civilians, including ten children, have been martyred. 

The Public Relations Office of Tehran EMS reported early Monday that four girls and two boys under the age of ten were among the victims — children who, the agency stated, “fell victim to violence that had no connection to their innocent and childlike lives.”

The agency added that further details — including the precise location of the incident, the number of possible injured, and the status of rescue operations — would be announced later.

Earlier, Baharestan county’s governor said residential areas in the county were targeted in the early hours of the morning in US-Israeli strikes.

He stated that two residential units in the Qaleh Mir housing complex were destroyed, with 15 people confirmed dead and 20 injured so far, all transferred to medical facilities.

Search and rescue teams remain on site, he added, and operations are continuing to locate any additional victims.

Meanwhile, Morteza Heydari, Deputy Governor for Political and Security Affairs in Qom Province, who visited the scene, reported that a strike on a residential area in the city of Qom at around 1:00 a.m. has so far killed nine residents and injured 19 others.

The political deputy of Shahriar’s Governor’s Office reported that a US-Israeli strike targeted two residential buildings in the Shahedshahr area, resulting in nine fatalities and the complete destruction of both homes.

According to the official, the victims include four children, two women, and three other individuals who were on the upper floors of the buildings at the time of the attack.

Rescue teams are continuing debris removal and search operations, as one child remains trapped under the rubble.

The official noted that if the child’s body is recovered, the death toll will rise to nine.

Additionally, four injured individuals were transported to the hospital. Two of them have been discharged after receiving medical care, while two others remain hospitalized.

The US and Israel started a fresh round of military aggression against Iran on February 28, some eight months after they carried out unprovoked attacks on the country.

The US-Israeli aggression led to the martyrdom of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and hundreds of Iranian civilians, including women and children, as well as several senior military commanders.

Iran began to swiftly retaliate against the strikes by launching barrages of missiles and drone attacks on Israeli-occupied territories as well as on US bases and interests in regional countries.

Zionist-only Recognized Breakaway Somaliland President Names New Ministers, Reshuffles Deputies

Solomon Muche/DW

Somaliland has its own flag (seen here).

5 April 2026

Horn Diplomat (Hargeisa)

By Mohamed Duale

Hargeisa — Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Cirro) has appointed new ministers and reassigned several deputy ministers in a cabinet reshuffle aimed at strengthening government performance and coordination, according to a presidential decree.

The reshuffle introduced new leadership across key ministries.

Adan Geddi Qayaad was appointed Minister of Agriculture, Barkhad Jama Hirsi Batuun was appointed Minister of Information and National Guidance, Mohamed Abdimalik was named Minister of Water Development, and Dr. Abdisalaan Hussein Awale was appointed Minister of Technology.

Khadar Haji Yusuf Abdillahi was named a member of the Political Organizations Registration Committee.

Dr. Mohamed Osman Fadal was appointed Presidential Adviser on Foreign Affairs and International Relations.

In parallel, the decree reassigned a number of deputy ministers across government ministries.

Mukhtar Haji Mohamud Farah, former Deputy Minister of Agriculture Development, was appointed Deputy Minister of Water Development.

Eng. Mohamed Elmi Hussein (Huuno), former Deputy Minister of Investment, was appointed Deputy Minister of Labour, Social Affairs and Family.

Mohamed Mousa Haji Abdi (Galaaydh), former Deputy Minister of Labour, Social Affairs, was appointed Deputy Minister of Education.

Mohamed Yusuf Ibrahim Faacuul, former Deputy Minister of Education, was appointed Deputy Minister of Investment and Industry.

Dr. Mohamed Aw Dahir Ibrahim, former Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, was appointed Deputy Minister of Health Development.

Marwo Samsam Mohamed Salah Yacniile, former Deputy Minister of Health Development, was appointed Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

Eng. Maliki Abdi Hassan Hirsi remains Deputy Minister of Telecommunications and Technology and was additionally assigned responsibilities within the Ministry of Agriculture Development.

(Reporting by Mohamed Duale, Editing by Horn Diplomat Desk)

Read the original article on Horn Diplomat.

Kenya President Ruto Warns No Mercy for Oil Cartels As Fuel Scandal Investigation Deepens

William Ruto

5 April 2026

Capital FM (Nairobi)

By Irene Mwangi

Nairobi — President William Ruto has vowed a firm crackdown on oil cartels in the petroleum sector as investigations intensify into an alleged artificial fuel shortage that has rocked Kenya's energy industry and triggered the arrest and resignation of top officials.

The President said the government will take decisive action against any individuals or networks found to have manipulated fuel supply systems for personal gain, warning that no one will be spared if implicated in the ongoing investigations.

"These cartels in the energy sector will not be allowed to operate freely. They will not escape accountability," he said.

He emphasized that accountability will be enforced regardless of rank or position, as the State moves to dismantle what he described as entrenched cartel networks within the energy sector.

"In 2022, we talked about ending corruption and many did not believe it. They thought it was a bluff. I want to say here today, we will not talk about corruption we will do what needs to be done to end it in this country," he said.

Ruto's remarks come as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) continues probing allegations that senior officials in the energy sector were involved in falsifying national fuel stock data. Investigators allege the manipulation created a manufactured supply crisis that triggered emergency procurement outside established procedures.

Authorities are also examining procurement approvals, fuel importation records, and internal reporting systems as part of the widening investigation into the alleged scandal.

The developments have already led to high-level resignations and arrests within key energy institutions, as scrutiny of Kenya's petroleum supply chain continues to intensify.

Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Managing Director Joe Sang and the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo resigned following allegations of manipulating national fuel stock data to trigger an artificial sense of shortage.

Chief of Staff Felix Koskei said preliminary findings indicate that the officials are suspected of falsifying in-country fuel stock levels, allegedly creating panic and an impression of an impending fuel supply crisis.

According to Koskei, the manipulated data was used to justify emergency fuel procurement outside the established Government-to-Government (G2G) framework, leading to a shipment that was allegedly overpriced and of substandard quality.

"The emergency shipment was procured in blatant breach of the G2G framework, in complete disregard of established emergency procurement procedures," Koskei stated.

The alleged scheme reportedly took advantage of rising global oil prices and heightened public concern, influencing urgent procurement decisions that bypassed normal accountability safeguards.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing, with authorities expected to review procurement processes, fuel import documentation, and internal data reporting systems across key energy agencies.

The developments come in the wake of a broader crackdown within the energy sector, which saw several senior officials arrested in an early morning operation on April 3.

The three who have resigned and Deputy Director of Petroleum Joseph Wafula were taken to DCI headquarters along Kiambu Road for questioning, although Liban Mohamed was later released after reportedly developing medical complications.

Investigators are probing the alleged diversion of a 60,000-metric-tonne fuel consignment that was initially destined for Angola but instead rerouted to the Port of Mombasa under unclear circumstances.

The shipment, carried aboard the vessel MV Paloma, is believed to have docked in Mombasa between March 27 and March 29, 2026.

Detectives suspect the cargo may have entered the Kenyan market outside the established government-to-government oil importation framework.

Preliminary findings indicate that the fuel originated from Saudi oil giant Saudi Aramco before being sold to another international firm and allegedly redirected through a local Kenyan importer.

Read the original article on Capital FM.

Mozambique Clears IMF Debt Early

By Africa News

 02/04 - 11:43

Mozambique

Mozambique has fully repaid its debt to the International Monetary Fund, clearing more than 630 million dollars ahead of schedule. At the start of March, the country still owed over 515 million in Special Drawing Rights.

By the end of the month, that figure had dropped to zero, making Mozambique the only country among dozens to fully settle its IMF credit during that period.

The early repayment could strengthen the government’s position as it looks to secure new financial support. A previous IMF programme, approved in 2022, was suspended in 2025 after only part of the funds had been disbursed.

Mozambique had originally been expected to continue repayments through 2029, but that timeline has now been wiped out.

Discussions are already underway about a potential new programme, aimed at supporting economic stability and reinforcing ties between Mozambique and the IMF.

While officials have yet to comment publicly, clearing the debt is widely seen as a key step toward unlocking future funding.

Mozambique has a low-income, developing economy that relies heavily on agriculture, natural resources, and foreign investment.

Around 60–65% of the population lives below the national poverty line, with higher rates in rural areas.

Cairo Goes Dark as Egypt Struggles to Cope with Fallout from Iran War

By AFP

Egypt

Soaring fuel costs due to US-Israel war on Iran have pushed the Egyptian government to issue a month-long early-closing order. Small businesses are scrambling to adapt.

At a roadside cafe in downtown Cairo, Abu Ali was mid domino throw when the lights snapped off under new early-closing orders enacted to curb Egypt's soaring energy bill due to the US-Israel war on Iran.

"I used to stay here until 2:00 am," the 63-year-old told AFP, tapping his tiles as the street went dark.

"Now I'm home by 11 at most, just watching the news. This is not the Cairo we know."

The month-long order instituted last week shutters shops at 9:00 pm on weekdays and 10:00 pm on weekends, with a brief extension to 11:00 pm expected for the Coptic Easter holidays.

It's a jarring shift for nocturnal Cairenes.

Thursday nights usually buzz with families strolling between storefronts, teenagers lingering over ice cream and music spilling out of cafes, well into the early hours of the morning.

Now each evening collapses into a final frantic hour of last-minute shopping before fluorescent lights flicker out and shutters rattle down.

Police patrols ensure compliance and soon only delivery scooters remain, zig-zagging through the dark.

"This is usually when work starts," shopworker Ali Haggag said, standing outside his suddenly quiet clothing store.

The city once famed for never sleeping now "feels like COVID again," he added, recalling the 2020 lockdowns that emptied its streets.

Cutting incomes

Well-to-do Cairenes have flocked to Nileside restaurants and international hotels, exempt from the order as tourism establishments.

But small businesses are already feeling the squeeze. Haggag estimates his shop has lost more than half its revenue in a matter of days.

Officials say the decision was unavoidable, given the country's heavy reliance on imported fuel.

Global energy prices have surged since the US and Israeli war on Iran began in late February.

Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly has said Egypt's monthly energy import bill more than doubled between January and March to $2.5 billion.

Around 60 percent of the country's $20 billion annual oil budget goes toward powering the grid.

In recent weeks, the government has introduced what it calls "exceptional" measures, including hiking fuel prices, slowing state projects, enacting remote work on Sundays and dimming streetlights.

Critics say early closures are disproportionately affecting the informal economy, which accounts for some two-thirds of all jobs.

"Millions of small businesses depend on evening foot traffic," economist Wael el-Nahas told AFP. "Cutting those hours means cutting incomes."

Already the pound has shed some 15 percent of its value since the war began, soaring to a record high of 54.3 to the dollar, while inflation hit 13.6 percent in March.

At another downtown cafe, an owner said staff now rotate shifts. "Half the workers work one day and stay home the next," he said.

Still, some shopkeepers remain optimistic. Essam Farid, 67, shrugged: "People will adapt."

Some coffe shops have already implemented an old COVID-era tactic: turn down the lights, pull the shutters halfway, then keep admitting customers while a kid on the corner keeps watch for the police.

'Vibe disappears'

But the shake-up has already rocked two major industries: cinema and tourism.

Film producer Gaby Khoury said cinemas are losing more than 60 percent of their revenues.

"Most box-office income comes from 9:00 pm and midnight screenings," he told AFP. "This is catastrophic."

Several film releases have been postponed, while some productions have been delayed indefinitely, he added.

Tourism, a crucial source of foreign currency, also fears a heavy setback.

While resort hubs like Luxor and Aswan are exempted, historic attractions in Cairo such as the centuries-old Khan el‑Khalili bazaar are not.

By 9:00 pm, shop owners stack their goods, turn off display lights and pull down metal shutters, even as tourists continue to wander the alleyways.

"It's almost 8:00 pm now and tourists are still arriving," Ahmed Ali, a shopkeeper, told AFP. "How can you expect me to close at nine? Will tourists be able to leave in just one hour? It's unreasonable."

"Tourists, especially Arabs, feed off the city's energy," a tourism official told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"When Egyptians go home early, the vibe disappears and tourists will start looking elsewhere.