By Uzair Adam

Saudi Arabia has condemned what it described as direct military aggression by Iran, confirming that Iranian forces targeted Riyadh and the Kingdom’s eastern region in a sharp escalation of tensions across the Gulf.

In a statement issued by the Saudi Foreign Ministry and carried by Al Jazeera, the Kingdom said its air defence systems successfully intercepted the incoming missiles and drones.

“These attacks cannot be justified under any pretext or in any way,” the statement said, adding that Tehran had been aware that Saudi Arabia would not allow its airspace or territory to be used for operations against it.

The acknowledgement represents a significant shift in Riyadh’s posture, moving from expressions of solidarity with Gulf allies to confirming that it was itself a direct target.

The escalation followed coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on multiple locations inside Iran. Washington and Tel Aviv described the operation as aimed at weakening Iran’s military capacity and countering perceived threats.

Tehran, however, denounced the attacks as violations of its sovereignty and pledged a decisive response.

Within hours, Iran launched missiles and drones toward Israeli and American assets across the region.

Air defence systems were activated in several Gulf capitals amid reports of explosions and intercepted projectiles.

Iran had earlier warned that any assault on its territory would result in American bases in the region being treated as legitimate targets.

Despite calls for restraint from some Middle Eastern states, the United States proceeded with its military operation.

Confirmation that Riyadh and the eastern region were also targeted has intensified fears of a wider regional conflict.

Saudi Arabia now finds itself navigating a delicate strategic balance. As a longstanding security partner of Washington, the Kingdom remains aligned with the United States’ defence framework.

At the same time, it has in recent years sought to ease tensions with Tehran after decades of rivalry.

The confrontation builds on deep-rooted disputes over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and proxy conflicts in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq, alongside recurring flare-ups between Israel and Iran.

Diplomatic efforts to calm tensions have repeatedly faltered, leaving the region exposed to sudden escalation.

Analysts warn that continued hostilities could disrupt energy supplies, unsettle global markets, and strain an already fragile regional security environment.

Several air routes to and from parts of the Middle East have already been suspended amid the rising tensions.

With military exchanges intensifying and rhetoric hardening, the region faces a defining moment, as uncertainty grows over whether diplomacy can regain momentum and prevent a broader conflict.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the renewal of Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi’s appointment as the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for a second term of five years.

The new tenure, which took effect on Friday, February 27, comes just as Dr. Audi’s initial five-year stint in office came to an end. He was first appointed to the position in 2021 by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to a statement from the State House on Saturday, Dr. Audi’s reappointment was announced as he participated in the 2026 World Civil Defence Day activities at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja. He is expected to resume his duties with a renewed mandate on Monday.

In a charge to the veteran security chief, President Tinubu directed him to reposition the service to play a more significant role in the nation’s security architecture. This directive comes as the Nigeria Police Force refocuses its efforts on its primary mandate of protecting citizens from the threats of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

Dr. Audi, a native of Nasarawa State, brings decades of experience to the role. He began his journey with the Corps in November 1996 as a volunteer and was deployed as a Divisional Officer in Obi Local Government Area in 1997 following his basic officer training. Rising through the ranks, he was promoted to Commandant in 2007 and served in various capacities at the National Headquarters in Abuja.

He holds an extensive academic portfolio, including a PhD in Public Administration from Nasarawa State University, Keffi (2014), and a Master’s in Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (2019).

By Sabiu Abdullahi

An official attached to the European Union’s naval mission, Aspides, has said that ships navigating near the Strait of Hormuz are receiving radio messages from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warning that “no ship is allowed to pass the Strait of Hormuz”.

The official disclosed this on Saturday, noting that the warning was transmitted via VHF radio communication to vessels operating in the strategic waterway.

Despite the development, the official, who requested anonymity, explained that Iranian authorities have not issued any formal confirmation regarding such a directive.

The European Union Naval Force Aspides has been monitoring activities in the region, especially as tensions remain high.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global oil transit route. It links major oil-producing countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

Iran has, over the years, threatened to shut down the narrow channel in response to potential attacks against the Islamic Republic. The latest warning has raised fresh concerns over maritime security and global energy supply.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Editorial Board of The New York Times has strongly criticised Donald Trump over his decision to launch a fresh military attack on Iran, describing the move as reckless and poorly justified.

In an opinion piece published on February 28, 2026, the board said Mr. Trump had gone against his earlier campaign promise to end wars, noting that he had instead ordered military strikes in several countries over the past year.

The editorial stated that the latest operation, carried out in cooperation with Israel, was broader than earlier attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities in June. It accused the president of failing to properly explain the reasons for the action to Americans and the international community.

According to the board, Mr. Trump did not seek approval from Congress before authorising the strike, despite constitutional provisions that grant lawmakers the authority to declare war. It also criticised the timing and manner of his announcement, noting that he released a video in the early hours of Saturday claiming Iran posed “imminent threats” and calling for regime change.

The editorial questioned the credibility of the president’s justification. It pointed out that he had earlier claimed Iran’s nuclear programme was “obliterated” during the June strikes, a position it said was contradicted by intelligence reports and the need for a new attack.

While acknowledging that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is a legitimate objective, the board argued that the administration had not clearly defined its goals or secured sufficient domestic and international support.

It further stated that the president’s approach showed disregard for both U.S. law and international rules governing warfare.

The editorial also criticised the Iranian government, describing it as oppressive and responsible for widespread human rights abuses, including the killing of protesters and persecution of minorities. It added that Iran’s leadership had long posed a threat through its hostility toward the United States and alleged support for violent activities abroad.

Despite this, the board maintained that the dangers posed by Iran do not justify what it described as an ill-prepared and potentially destabilising military action by the Trump administration.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Federal Government has assured Nigerians living in Iran and neighboring Gulf countries of its commitment to their safety, following reports of military activities in parts of the Middle East.

In a statement signed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government said it is “closely monitoring the evolving and volatile situation in the Middle East,” emphasizing that the safety and well-being of Nigerians abroad remain a top priority.

The ministry urged Nigerian nationals in the affected countries to stay alert, restrict non-essential travel, and follow instructions from local security authorities.

It also advised citizens to avoid areas identified as strategic, military, or government installations, warning that such locations could become hotspots amid ongoing tensions.

“The Nigerian Embassy in Tehran and affected neighbouring Gulf countries are on high alert to provide required consular assistance and facilitate easy communication,” the statement noted.

Nigerians were encouraged to rely on credible sources of information and avoid acting on unverified reports circulating on social media. The government stressed that official communication channels remain the safest way to receive security updates.

The advisory applies to Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. Citizens in these countries were further urged to exercise caution, avoid large gatherings, and refrain from public demonstrations until the situation stabilizes.

Beyond immediate safety measures, the Federal Government called on all parties involved in the conflict to exercise restraint.

“The Government of Nigeria wishes to call on parties to the conflict to de-escalate the crisis by returning to the negotiation table for the interests of global peace and coexistence,” the statement read.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and reiterated its support for dialogue and diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts in the region.

By Anwar Usman

The Defence Headquarters has explained that the reason behind escalation in attacks and killings by terrorists across the North in recent times was as a result of pressure being mounted on them by troops through aggressive operations.

This was revealed by the Director Defence Media Operations (DMO), Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, on Friday at a news briefing, while addressing question on the incessant attacks, killings and kidnappings by the terrorists.

Onoja, however, said that scores of the terrorists were being killed across the country, assuring that their decimation is ongoing.

“You know, one of the things with terrorists is that when you put pressure on them, they are likely to target soft targets.

“I also want to let you know that that is what they are doing. But that should not deter us,” he said, adding that in the course of time the terrorists would be smoked out “from wherever they are”.

He added that, “What is happening is that due to the pressure that the cooperation with America is bringing to bear on them, they are now targeting soft targets in order to magnify their operations.

Onoja further state that terrorists need the oxygen of publicity to broadcasting their activities, but urged the media to employ professionalism in reporting some of their activities so that they will not achieve what they want to achieve, which is to cause panic within society.

He reiterated that the assistance from the Americans is adding value to troops’ operations, adding that the results would be manifest in no distant time.

Explaining the troop’s achievements in February 2026, Onoja said that a total of 312 terrorists were arrested, apart from several of them being neutralised, 409 kidnapped victims rescued, while 46 insurgents and their families surrendered.

He also gave the breakdown as follows: In the North East, 85 terrorists were arrested, while 104 kidnapped victims were rescued, and 46 insurgents and their families gave themselves up to troops during the period.

He said in the North West, troops arrested 36 terrorists and rescued 104, while in the North Central, 78 terrorists were nabbed and 54 rescued.

In the South South and South East, 59 terrorists and 54 terrorists were arrested, respectively, Onoja explained.

He said the military is taking proactive measures to checkmate the movement of fertiliser, especially in the North, as it is one of the components used for making Improvised Explosive Device (IED) by terrorists.

He said the achievements in February showed the Armed Forces’ steadfast dedication to building a safe and secure Nigeria.

“We urge everyone to remain security conscious, report any suspicious activity promptly via our emergency line 193 and collaborate closely with security agencies to ensure peaceful and incident-free observances,” Onoja remarked.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Leaders across Europe have expressed deep concern over the rising tensions involving Iran, following recent military actions by United States and Israel.

In a statement, top officials of the European Union, including Ursula von der Leyen, described the situation as “greatly concerning.” They called for restraint, protection of civilians, and adherence to international law.

The bloc stressed that dialogue remains essential. It stated that diplomatic and negotiated solutions are key to preventing a broader conflict in the Middle East. Concerns were also raised about nuclear safety and the stability of the region.

The crisis intensified on Saturday, February 28, when U.S. and Israeli forces carried out joint airstrikes on Iranian targets. The operation marked a sharp escalation tied to disputes over Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes.

Iran responded shortly after with missile strikes on American and Israeli military positions in the region. The attacks led to casualties, including civilians, and triggered widespread international reactions.

European leaders reaffirmed existing sanctions on Iran. These measures target individuals linked to repression and activities seen as destabilising. Several EU member states warned against further escalation and urged a return to diplomatic engagement.

Reactions from other parts of the world reflected similar concerns. France called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council. It warned that the strikes could threaten global peace. The United Kingdom also cautioned against a wider regional war. It maintained that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons, while emphasising the need for restraint.

Countries in the Gulf region voiced fears that the conflict could spread beyond its current scope. They warned of possible disruptions to energy supplies and the risk of large-scale displacement of people.

The impact is already being felt. Air travel across the Middle East has faced interruptions, while oil markets have shown signs of instability.

Within Iran, tension remains high among the population. Some groups fear that the situation could develop into a larger conflict.

Leaders from Europe, Australia, and other regions continue to call for calm. They insist on protecting civilians and upholding international law, even as the situation evolves rapidly.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has carried out retaliatory attacks following earlier strikes by the United States, targeting Israel and several American military installations across the Middle East, including in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.

The escalation has disrupted air travel across the Gulf region. Several countries shut their airspace, which led to the cancellation and delay of hundreds of international flights.

According to Al Jazeera, authorities in Bahrain confirmed that a missile strike targeted the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet. In Qatar, the defence ministry said its Patriot air defence system intercepted an Iranian missile.

Meanwhile, Reuters reported that a loud explosion was heard in Abu Dhabi.

Prior to the escalation, Iran had warned that it would strike American interests in the region if attacked. Reports indicate that several of the targeted bases had already been evacuated, as the US anticipated a possible response.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed that it launched missiles and drones towards Israel. In a statement cited by Al Jazeera, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Israeli strikes earlier in the day hit the country’s “territorial integrity and national sovereignty, including defensive infrastructure and non-military locations in various cities across the country.”

“The renewed military aggression by the United States and the Zionist regime against Iran constitutes a violation of international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. The Islamic Republic of Iran considers this aggression a clear breach of international peace and security and emphasises that it reserves its legitimate right to respond decisively.

“The Iranian nation has always demonstrated patience and restraint to prevent escalation and preserve regional stability,” it read, adding that the armed forces stand “fully prepared to defend the country and will make aggressors regret their actions.”

Iran also described the attacks by the US and Israel as a “clear example of armed aggression,” while referencing Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which affirms its right to self-defence.

“History shows that Iranians have never surrendered to aggression. This time as well, Iran’s response will be decisive, and aggressors will regret their hostile actions,” the statement added.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump warned that American casualties could occur as the conflict unfolds.

“The Iranian regime seeks to kill. The lives of courageous American heroes may be lost, and we may have casualties — that often happens in war — but we’re doing this not for now. We’re doing this for the future, and it is a noble mission,” he said in a video message released after the joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

He also suggested that the objective includes a possible change in Iran’s leadership.

“When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations,” the president said, addressing protesters in Iran.

The latest confrontation comes shortly after indirect talks between Iran and the United States over Tehran’s nuclear programme. The timing mirrors a similar development last June, when Israel launched attacks during ongoing negotiations.

Tensions had been building in the region. Several countries, including allies of the US, cautioned against military action, warning that it could destabilise the Middle East.

Both Iran and Israel have now closed their airspace, while air raid sirens continue to sound in Israel. Authorities there have advised residents to seek shelter.

On Friday, countries such as the United States, China and the United Kingdom urged their citizens to leave Iran and Israel due to growing fears of a wider conflict. The US also advised its citizens in Gulf states like Qatar and Bahrain to remain indoors.

This marks the second major confrontation between Iran and Israel in less than a year. The previous clash in June resulted in a 12-day conflict that caused hundreds of deaths and widespread damage on both sides. The United States later joined Israel in striking Iranian targets.

In recent weeks, the US had increased its military presence in the region, deploying additional aircraft and naval assets ahead of the latest strikes despite warnings from global leaders.

The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Israel has closed its airspace to civilian flights following a military operation against Iran, as tensions escalate across the region.

Authorities in Israel confirmed on Saturday that the action followed what officials described as a preemptive strike on Iran. Air raid sirens were activated in Jerusalem, while residents across the country received emergency alerts warning of an “extremely serious” threat.

In a statement, the defence ministry said: “The State of Israel has launched a preemptive strike against Iran.

“Defence Minister Israel Katz has declared a special and immediate state of emergency throughout the country.”

In Iran, witnesses reported explosions in the capital, Tehran. Two loud blasts were heard, and thick smoke was seen rising from parts of the city.

Iranian news outlet Fars suggested the nature of the incident. “The type of explosions suggests that this is a missile attack,” the agency reported.

Following the development, Israel announced a complete shutdown of its airspace. The country’s transportation minister, Miri Regev, said: “Following the security developments, the Minister of Transportation has ordered the Director of the Israel Civil Aviation Authority to close the airspace of the State of Israel to civilian flights.”

Iran also took a similar step. Its Civil Aviation Organisation confirmed that flights have been suspended nationwide. “The airspace of the entire country is closed until further notice,” a spokesman said.

The situation has prompted precautionary measures beyond the two countries. In Qatar, the United States embassy directed its staff to remain indoors as a safety measure.

The latest developments have raised fears of a wider confrontation, with both countries taking urgent steps to secure their territories.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has threatened to launch a strong response following recent military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, warning that any retaliation would be “crushing”.

Explosions were reported on Saturday in several Iranian cities, including Kermanshah, Lorestan, Tabriz, Isfahan and Karaj, raising fears of a widening conflict in the region.

Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, defended the operation. He said: “The State of Israel launched a pre-emptive attack against Iran to remove threats to the State of Israel.”

The latest strikes come months after a 12-day aerial confrontation between Iran and Israel in June. The development also follows repeated warnings from Washington and Tel Aviv over Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile activities.

An Iranian official told Reuters that authorities in Tehran are preparing a counteroffensive that would be severe in scale.

Reports indicate that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was not in Tehran at the time of the attack. He has since been moved to a secure location.

Reacting to the strikes, the head of the National Security Commission of Iran’s parliament, Ebrahim Azizi, issued a warning to both countries. “We warned you! Now you have started down a path which end is no longer in your control,” he said.

Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump said the action was taken to safeguard American interests.

“A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran. Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a vicious group of very hard, terrible people. Its menacing activities directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas, and our allies throughout the world,” he posted.

The situation has heightened global concern, as tensions continue to rise with both sides signalling further military action.