International

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Hundreds of people have been killed and many others injured after Israeli forces carried out a fresh wave of airstrikes across Lebanon, Lebanese Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine has said.

The attacks followed an announcement by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), which confirmed it had executed what it described as its most extensive coordinated military action in Lebanon since the launch of “Operation Roaring Lion.”

In a message shared on its official X account, the IDF stated, “In 10 minutes, the IDF completed the largest coordinated strike across Lebanon since the start of Operation Roaring Lion.”

According to the Israeli military, more than 100 locations linked to Hezbollah were targeted during the operation. These included “headquarters, military arrays, & command-and-control centers in Beirut, Beqaa and southern Lebanon.”

The IDF added that the strikes also focused on “intelligence command centers and central headquarters used planning terror attacks,” alongside “infrastructure of firepower and naval arrays, responsible for launching missiles.”

It further disclosed that the operation hit “assets of the Radwan Force, & the Aerial unit—Hezbollah’s elite units.”

The bombardment affected several parts of the country, including Beirut, the Beqaa Valley, and southern Lebanon. The scale of the assault marks a sharp escalation in the ongoing hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters.

Lebanese authorities confirmed a high number of casualties. However, they have not provided a precise breakdown of those killed or injured. Emergency teams are still working at multiple sites to rescue victims and assess the damage.

Israel indicated that its military campaign will continue. The IDF said it intends to maintain pressure on Hezbollah due to security concerns in northern Israel.

“We will continue striking the Hezbollah terror organization and will utilize every operational opportunity. We will not compromise the security of the residents of northern Israel. We will continue to strike with determination,” said IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, who supervised the operation.

The situation has heightened tensions across the region, with fears growing that the conflict could widen. Cross-border exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified in recent days.

Israel had earlier stated that it would sustain its strikes on Lebanon despite a two-week ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States in the broader Middle East conflict.

Several countries have previously urged Israel to halt military actions in Lebanon. Israel, however, maintains that Hezbollah, an ally of Iran, remains a significant threat due to its presence in the country.

Amid the ongoing crisis, Lebanon’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Youssef Raggi, announced a diplomatic move against Iran. He revealed that Lebanon had withdrawn its approval for Iran’s designated ambassador, Mohammad Reza Shibani, and ordered him to leave the country.

In a statement, Raggi said, “I instructed today the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants to summon the Iranian Chargé d’Affaires in Lebanon to inform him of the decision to withdraw the agrément for the designated Iranian Ambassador, Mohammad Reza Shibani, declare him persona non grata, and request that he leave Lebanese territory no later than 29 March 2026.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has called on its citizens to take protective action around critical national assets following renewed threats from the United States, Sky News reports.

The request comes as multiple attacks on Iran’s strategic infrastructure have heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, with tensions rising between Tehran, Washington, and Israel.

“Iran has called on young people to form human chains around power plants, after Donald Trump threatened to hit them.”

The announcement coincides with a looming deadline issued by former US President Donald Trump, which has intensified uncertainty about possible military operations.

“Trump’s deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 1am UK time on Wednesday looms.”

Iranian media reported that Kharg Island, a vital hub for oil exports, has been struck again amid the ongoing hostilities.

“Iran’s Kharg Island has been hit by several strikes, according to a report from the Iranian Mehr news agency.”

The island is central to Iran’s economy due to its key role in oil exports.

“The island is an oil export hub for Iran.”

Earlier in the conflict, US strikes avoided causing significant damage to the island’s infrastructure.

“The US bombed the island earlier in the war but Donald Trump made a point of saying at the time that it left Iran’s oil infrastructure alone.”

Nevertheless, Trump has previously hinted at targeting the island for strategic leverage.

“Trump has, at various points, threatened that the US could take the island to control Iran’s oil.”

Recent reports from US media also point to fresh military action targeting facilities on Kharg Island.

“The US has conducted strikes on military targets on Iran’s Kharg ⁠Island, according to American news website Axios, citing an unidentified senior US official.”

Elsewhere in Iran, additional strikes hit transport infrastructure in the central and northern regions.

“We’re receiving reports from Iranian media that a recent Israeli strike struck the Yahya Abad railway bridge in the city of Kashan, in central Iran.”

Authorities confirmed casualties in one incident, highlighting the impact on civilians.

“The Mehr News agency quoted the deputy governor of Isfahan as saying that the strike killed two people.”

Further disruptions occurred on major routes in the north-west and north, following safety warnings issued by Israeli forces.

“Strikes were also reported on the Tabriz-Zanjan freeway in the northwest and a railway in Karaj in the north.”

By Anwar Usman

Iran has rejected a proposed truce in its war with the United States and Israel, state media reported Monday, despite a stark threat by US President Donald Trump to destroy its vital infrastructure.

“Iran has conveyed to Pakistan its response to the American proposal to end the war,” the news agency IRNA said, without revealing its source or what the US offer contained.

“In this response—set out in ten points—Iran… has rejected a ceasefire and insists on the need for a definitive end to the conflict.”

AFP reports that, several countries are trying to find a diplomatic solution to end 38 days of war sparked by Israeli and US attacks against Iran, which has responded by firing missiles at targets across the Middle East.

Recall on Sunday President Trump warned that, unless Tehran agreed by Tuesday evening to allow free passage to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, he would order strikes on its power plants and bridges.

But IRNA said Tehran had countered with demands of its own, including “an end to conflicts in the region, a protocol for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, reconstruction, and the lifting of sanctions”.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has permitted a French-linked vessel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, despite the continuing conflict in the region.

The ship, identified as Kribi, sails under the Maltese flag and is owned by French shipping company CMA CGM. It is the first Western vessel to exit the Persian Gulf since hostilities involving Iran began.

Reports indicate that ships from countries such as China, Pakistan and the Philippines have successfully navigated the strait in recent days.

However, Iran’s military has maintained that the strategic waterway will remain closed to vessels linked to the United States and Israel for the foreseeable future.

There are also claims that Iran has introduced charges for ships seeking passage through the strait, with fees said to be as high as $2 million. It remains unclear whether the Kribi paid any such fee.

Tracking data suggests the vessel travelled close to Iran’s coastline while passing through the strait.

Meanwhile, attention remains on the fate of a United States fighter jet crew after their aircraft was downed in Iran. One crew member has been rescued, while the other is still missing.

A geopolitical analyst, Mona Yacoubian, said: “It could be that the US finds whoever this is, and the Iranians don’t have control over this person, but if they do, I think that that is a further escalation of the war. That’s going to present a new challenge for President Trump.

“If there are images that are broadcast of a US fighter pilot taken hostage, captured as a prisoner, that’s going to elevate the challenges in the US domestically, because now you’re going to have this conflict brought home even more personally, into people’s living rooms, on their computer screens… I think it will then increase the pressure further on the administration to do something.”

In a separate reaction, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, criticised the United States over the situation, stating: “After defeating Iran 37 times in a row, this brilliant no-strategy war they started has now been downgraded from ‘regime change’ to ‘Hey! Can anyone find our pilots? Please?’.

“Wow. What incredible progress. Absolute geniuses.”

The developments highlight rising tensions in the region, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a critical route for global oil shipments and a focal point in the ongoing crisis.

 By Hadiza Abdulkadir

A recent viral moment featuring a popular online personality inside a WWE setting has reignited debate about the future of professional wrestling. The clip, widely shared across platforms like TikTok and Instagram, drew millions of views within hours and prompted criticism from longtime fans who questioned whether WWE is drifting away from its roots.

The discussion reflects a broader issue facing World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE): how to remain relevant in an era increasingly dominated by short-form digital content and younger audiences with changing viewing habits.

For decades, WWE built its success on long-form storytelling. Weekly television programs developed narratives over time, leading to major live events. However, audience behaviour has shifted significantly, particularly among Gen Z viewers.

Younger audiences are more likely to consume highlights rather than full broadcasts, favouring short, engaging clips over multi-hour programming. This trend has affected not only wrestling but also traditional sports and entertainment formats.

Industry observers note that this shift has forced companies like WWE to rethink how content is delivered and consumed.

In response, WWE has expanded its digital presence, focusing heavily on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. The company now generates substantial engagement through clips, behind-the-scenes content, and shareable moments designed for online audiences.

Part of this strategy includes collaborations with influencers and internet personalities to attract viewers who may not traditionally follow wrestling. These appearances often generate significant online traction, helping WWE reach new demographics.

Despite the increased visibility, some fans argue that WWE’s current approach prioritises virality over storytelling. Critics suggest that certain segments appear designed for social media engagement rather than long-term narrative development.

There are also concerns about authenticity. The inclusion of non-wrestling personalities in prominent roles has led some to question whether the company is diluting its core identity.

Others, however, see the shift as part of WWE’s long history of adaptation. The company has undergone multiple transformations, from the edgier “Attitude Era” of the late 1990s to the more family-oriented programming of later years.

Media analysts point out that WWE’s current strategy reflects broader industry trends, where digital reach and online engagement are increasingly important metrics of success.

As WWE continues to expand its presence across digital platforms and explore new partnerships, the debate over its direction is likely to continue.

The central question remains: is WWE moving too far from its traditional identity, or is it successfully redefining itself for a new generation of viewers?

For now, one thing is clear: professional wrestling is no longer confined to the ring. It is part of a larger, rapidly evolving digital entertainment landscape.

By Muhammad Abubakar

Lamine Yamal has condemned what he described as a “racist” and “intolerable” chant heard during a 0–0 draw between Spain and Egypt, warning that discrimination remains entrenched in football culture.

The teenager took to social media shortly after the match, identifying himself as a Muslim and criticising supporters who chanted “the one who doesn’t boo is Muslim” inside the stadium. While noting the chant may have been aimed at opposing fans, Yamal said intent did not lessen its impact.

“As a Muslim, it doesn’t stop being a lack of respect and something intolerable,” he wrote, adding that using religion as a joke “makes you look ignorant and racist.”

The remarks quickly drew attention across the football world, with anti-discrimination advocates pointing to the incident as further evidence of the persistence of abuse in the game. Despite repeated campaigns led by FIFA and UEFA, discriminatory chanting—whether based on race, religion, or nationality—continues to surface in stadiums.

Analysts say religion-based taunts are often trivialised as fan rivalry but can reinforce exclusion and hostility, particularly toward minority players. Yamal’s intervention reflects a growing willingness among high-profile footballers to publicly challenge such behaviour.

He ended his message by thanking fans who supported the team and looking ahead to future competitions, including the FIFA World Cup.

The incident adds to mounting pressure on football authorities to strengthen enforcement measures and ensure stadiums are safe and respectful spaces for all players and supporters.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has marked the first anniversary of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme, known as ‘Customs Cares’, with the commissioning of a major project at Government Secondary School, Wuse, Abuja.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, performed the ceremony on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, in the presence of students, teachers and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Adeniyi said the decision to adopt the school under the CSR framework has yielded positive results, especially in academic performance and the learning environment.

“What we have seen here today shows clearly that we did not make a mistake in adopting this school. The performance by the students reflects the impact of what has been done,” CGC Adeniyi said.

He explained that the intervention goes beyond physical structures. He noted that it has opened up opportunities for students to interact, discover their talents and improve academically.

“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about creating opportunities for young people to grow, interact and build confidence for the future,” he said.

The Customs boss also praised the school management for identifying key areas of need early. He said this helped the Service to focus on infrastructure and security improvements.

He stated that the Service renovated important facilities and installed solar-powered lighting to enhance safety within the school.

“This is a promise made and a promise kept. We are pleased that the project has been delivered on time and to the benefit of the students,” Adeniyi said.

Adeniyi advised students to make good use of the new facilities. He stressed the importance of building communication and public speaking skills for future success.

“You must take advantage of what has been provided here. These facilities are meant to help you discover yourselves and prepare for greater responsibilities ahead,” he added.

He also highlighted the need to maintain the facilities. He warned that many public projects fail due to poor maintenance. He called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to consider partnerships that will support long-term upkeep.

“Our office remains open for further collaboration, but we must ensure that what has been provided is properly sustained,” he said.

Earlier, the Comptroller in charge of the Customs Cares Unit, Patience Ibrahim, said the event celebrated both the initiative’s first anniversary and the delivery of one of its key projects.

She said the programme was designed to address development needs in communities where the Service operates.

“In just one year, the initiative has grown into a recognised platform for delivering impactful projects across the country, and this intervention reflects the Service’s commitment to education as a driver of national development,” she said.

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, described the project as a strong example of institutional collaboration. He said it shows a clear commitment to the future of students.

“This intervention goes beyond infrastructure. It represents a commitment to the future of these students and to the broader goal of sustainable development,” he said.

Hayyo commended the NCS for extending its efforts to key sectors such as education, health and the environment. He added that the initiative creates room for stronger cooperation with the education sector.

The Principal of Government Secondary School, Wuse, Josephine Ugwu, said the project marks an important milestone in the school’s partnership with the Customs Service.

She listed the components of the intervention to include the renovation of the multi-purpose hall, installation of CCTV cameras, provision of solar-powered streetlights and distribution of learning materials.

“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” she said.

Ugwu said the project will have a lasting effect on students and improve the sense of community within the school.

Activities at the event included a basketball match between the Nigeria Customs Service team and students of the school.

The Customs Comptroller-General and his team also planted trees alongside officials of the Federal Capital Territory Secondary Education Board and other invited guests.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Tensions between Iran and the United States have deepened after Tehran dismissed recent remarks by President Donald Trump on the status of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the strategic waterway remains under its authority and will not be influenced by pressure from Washington. In a statement, the IRGC said the situation in the Strait of Hormuz is “firmly and dominantly” under its control and “will not be opened to the enemies of this nation by the ridiculous displays of the U.S. President”.

The reaction followed comments by Trump, who claimed that Iran had sought a ceasefire amid ongoing hostilities. He linked any possible consideration by the United States to the reopening of the strait.

“Iran’s New Regime President, much less Radicalized and far more intelligent than his predecessors, has just asked the United States of America for a CEASEFIRE! We will consider when Hormuz Strait is open, free, and clear. Until then, we are blasting Iran into oblivion or, as they say, back to the Stone Ages!!!” Trump said earlier.

The exchange has drawn attention to the Strait of Hormuz, which serves as a vital channel for global energy supplies. The IRGC’s position reflects Tehran’s refusal to уступ control or accept conditions tied to external demands.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian had earlier indicated that his country is willing to end the conflict under certain terms. “We possess the necessary will to end this conflict, provided that essential conditions are met, especially the guarantees required to prevent repetition of the aggression,” Pezeshkian said during a phone conversation with António Costa on Tuesday, according to a statement from his office.

The disagreement highlights sharp differences between both countries over how to reduce tensions and manage access to key maritime routes. Observers say developments around the strait could affect global oil supply and market stability.

In a related development, Trump criticised the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) after member states declined to support U.S. efforts linked to the situation. He described the alliance as a “paper tiger” and said pulling the United States out of NATO is now “beyond reconsideration,” according to an interview with The Telegraph.

The remarks signal growing strain between Washington and its European allies, as the dispute over the Strait of Hormuz continues to shape international security and economic concerns.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

United States President Donald Trump has said his administration is weighing the option of withdrawing from the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) after the alliance declined to support the ongoing war against Iran.

In an interview with The Telegraph published on Wednesday, Trump criticised the military bloc and described it as a “paper tiger”.

“Oh yes, I would say [it’s] beyond reconsideration. I was never swayed by NATO,” the president said when asked if he would reconsider US membership of the alliance after the conflict.

“I always knew they were a paper tiger, and Putin knows that too, by the way.”

Tensions have increased following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route controlled by Iran through which about 20 percent of global oil supply passes. The development has heightened concerns about energy security worldwide.

Trump has called on allied countries to deploy warships to reopen the strategic passage, although many have resisted the move.

He also directed criticism at European allies, including the United Kingdom, and took aim at British Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the country’s refusal to support the US position.

“You don’t even have a navy. You’re too old and had aircraft carriers that didn’t work,” Trump said.

Trump has previously voiced dissatisfaction with NATO. In January, he stated that the United States had “never needed” its allies in the bloc and downplayed their contributions during the Afghanistan war that lasted two decades.

His latest remarks have attracted backlash from several European leaders, including Starmer, who have defended the alliance’s relevance and unity.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a serious warning, threatening to target major American technology companies operating in the Middle East and calling on employees and nearby residents to evacuate immediately.

The statement, carried by Iran’s Tasnim news agency, identified U.S. firms involved in technology and artificial intelligence as potential targets. “Since the main element in designing and tracking terrorist targets are American and ICT and AI companies … from now on, [these] main institutions will be our legitimate targets,” it said.

The IRGC specifically named more than 15 companies that could be affected, including Boeing, Tesla, Meta, Google, and Apple. The warning noted that attacks could begin from 8 p.m. local time on Wednesday if further Iranian leaders are killed in what the statement described as “targeted assassinations.”

This announcement represents a significant escalation in regional tensions, raising concerns over the safety of multinational corporations and their staff.

Earlier, IRGC Aerospace Commander Seyed Majid Moosavi had directed a warning at employees of industrial firms connected to the United States and Israel, urging them to leave their workplaces following a series of attacks on Iran’s production facilities.

In a post on X last Friday, Moosavi stated, “You tested us once before; the world saw again that you yourselves started playing with fire and attacking infrastructure.”

He further cautioned, “This time, the equation will no longer be an eye for an eye; wait and see! Employees of industrial companies associated with the Americans and the Zionist regime should quickly leave their workplaces to avoid endangering their lives.”

The warning comes amid reports of targeted attacks on Iranian industrial facilities in recent weeks. The IRGC has repeatedly emphasized that foreign involvement in Iran’s industrial sector could provoke serious consequences, signaling a stronger defensive posture.

Last Thursday, Israel announced the killing of the Commander of Iran’s IRGC Navy, Alireza Tangsiri, in a targeted military operation. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the operation, saying Tangsiri was “directly responsible for the terrorist act of bombing and blocking the Strait of Hormuz.”

Katz added that the naval chief was “blown up” along with several other “senior Navy command officials.” Tangsiri, appointed as IRGC Navy commander in 2018, had previously served as deputy commander since 2010.

Other Iranian leaders have also been killed amid ongoing regional conflict, including the now deceased Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.