Iran

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran has suspended indirect negotiations with the United States amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, citing Israel’s military operations in Lebanon as the reason for the move.

According to a report published on Monday by Iran’s state-aligned Tasnim news agency, Tehran halted the exchange of messages with Washington after Israeli forces expanded their military campaign in southern Lebanon despite an earlier ceasefire arrangement.

Iran had reportedly agreed to Pakistan-mediated discussions with the United States on the condition that a regional ceasefire would be maintained. However, recent developments in Lebanon, including Israel’s capture of the historic Beaufort Castle over the weekend, have heightened tensions across the region.

The report stated that Iranian authorities were angered by what they described as continued Israeli incursions and an expanding presence in Lebanese territory.

“Tehran is stopping the negotiations and exchange of messages through a mediator,” Tasnim reported, citing top-tier intelligence sources.

Iran has also demanded an “immediate cessation of hostilities” in Lebanon and Gaza before any future dialogue with Washington can resume.

In addition to suspending talks, Tehran and allied groups across the region, including the Houthis in Yemen and Iraqi paramilitary factions, have indicated they are prepared to “activate other fronts.”

The warning includes threats to disrupt maritime traffic through the Bab al-Mandab Strait and close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route that handles a significant share of the world’s oil exports.

The growing conflict has attracted international concern. France has called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address Israel’s expanding military operations in Lebanon.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot described the situation as “unacceptable,” stating that “nothing can justify the prolongation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and its increasingly deep occupation of Lebanese territory.”

British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also expressed concern over the conflict. She said Israel’s military actions were “deeply damaging” and warned that continued hostilities could undermine stability across the Middle East.

The suspension of talks comes after a fragile ceasefire reached between Tehran and Washington in April. The truce followed a period of direct confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

Both sides had reportedly been discussing an extension of the ceasefire and possible progress on Iran’s nuclear programme before the latest escalation.

Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that it conducted what it described as “measured and deliberate strikes” against Iranian assets over the weekend.

CENTCOM said the attacks were in response to “aggressive Iranian actions,” including the reported downing of an American MQ-1 Predator drone.

Iran, however, maintained that the drone had entered its airspace, prompting retaliatory action.

Analysts say the combination of intensified fighting in Lebanon, the collapse of diplomatic contacts between Tehran and Washington, and threats against major maritime corridors has increased fears of a broader regional crisis with potential consequences for global trade and energy supplies.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Multiple U.S. service members have been injured in an Iranian missile strike on an air base in Kuwait within the last 24 hours, according to a report from Bloomberg News.

Citing an unnamed official, the report states that two MQ-9 Reaper drones were also destroyed in the attack. While the Fateh-110 missile was successfully intercepted, debris from the strike fell inside the Ali Salem base, causing damage and injuries.

Security sources indicate that the attack comes amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf region. Both the United States and Kuwait had previously confirmed a similar attack in recent days, though the timelines of the reports have not been consistent.

Earlier, U.S. Central Command stated that a missile had been fired from Iran toward Kuwait on May 27, which was also successfully intercepted.

Separately, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed the strike was retaliation for U.S. attacks near Bandar Abbas, stating it targeted a base believed to be the source of U.S. operations.

The incident occurred as U.S. President Donald Trump met with his advisors on Iran policy, while the White House reiterated that any agreement with Iran must accept U.S. terms.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a fresh message that centred on reducing American influence in the Middle East and promoting a new regional order.

The statement came through Iran’s state television. Khamenei has not appeared publicly on video since he became the country’s supreme leader.

In his latest remarks, Khamenei said countries in the Middle East would no longer serve as “a shield” for American military installations. He also declared that the United States would no longer enjoy a “safe haven” in the region.

The comments reflect one of Tehran’s long-standing positions during the conflict in the region. Iranian authorities have repeatedly argued that the American military presence in the Middle East should come to an end. Iran has also maintained that it would respond to any threat it identifies against its interests.

Khamenei also praised what he described as the success of the “axis of resistance”, which includes groups allied with Iran in countries such as Lebanon. According to him, Iranian-backed forces have delivered lessons to both the United States and the “Zionist entity”.

He further urged Muslim nations and other countries to build partnerships that would influence the future political and economic direction of the region and the wider world.

“With sincerity and purity, I invite all Islamic countries and governments to friendship and cooperation for the common good,” Khamenei stated.

The message strongly emphasised Iran’s desire for a new balance of power in the Middle East that would reduce Washington’s role in regional affairs.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

United States President Donald Trump has suggested that a peace agreement with Iran is close to completion, saying key parts of the deal have already been negotiated, including plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump made the remarks on Saturday in a post on his Truth Social account, where he said he had held discussions with several Middle Eastern leaders. He explained that an agreement had reached an advanced stage but still required final approval.

He stated that the arrangement remains subject to final agreement between the United States, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and other involved countries.

Trump also said:

“Final aspects and details of the Deal are currently being discussed, and will be announced shortly.

“In addition to many other elements of the Agreement, the Strait of Hormuz will be opened,” he said.

Further details of the proposed deal are expected to be made public once the remaining terms are concluded.

By Uzair Adam

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards on Wednesday warned that any renewed attacks by the United States and Israel on the Islamic Republic could trigger a wider conflict extending beyond the Middle East.

In a statement published on the Guards’ official website, Sepah News, the force said, “If aggression against Iran is repeated, the promised regional war will spread far beyond the region, and our devastating blows will crush you.”

The warning followed remarks by US President Donald Trump, who said Washington could launch fresh strikes on Iran if both sides fail to reach a long-term settlement within the next few days.

Tensions have continued to rise as both sides exchange threats alongside diplomatic proposals aimed at ending the conflict, which erupted on February 28. A ceasefire has been in effect since April 8.

“The American-Zionist enemy must understand that despite the offensive carried out against us with the full capabilities of the world’s two most expensive armies, we have not yet deployed the full strength of the Islamic revolution,” the Revolutionary Guards added.

The nearly 40-day conflict claimed the lives of several top Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and prompted retaliatory missile and drone attacks by Tehran across the region.

On Tuesday, Trump suggested a deadline of only a few days before possible military action could resume if negotiations fail.

“I’m saying two or three days, maybe Friday, Saturday, Sunday, maybe early next week — a limited period of time,” he said.

Trump had earlier revealed that Gulf Arab leaders urged him at the last minute to avoid launching another attack on Iran.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X that any “return to war will feature many more surprises.”

By Inusa Rabiu Isah

As tensions continue to rise around the Strait of Hormuz, global oil prices are climbing again, shipping risks are increasing, and analysts are warning that any prolonged disruption in the Gulf region could trigger another major energy shock. For many Nigerians, the immediate reaction is predictable: “Nigeria will benefit because we are an oil-producing country.” Yet every major oil shock continues to expose the same uncomfortable reality: despite its enormous crude oil reserves, Nigeria remains dangerously vulnerable to global energy instability.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most strategic energy transit routes. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), about 20 million barrels per day of crude oil and petroleum products passed through the Strait in 2025, representing roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption and nearly 25% of global seaborne oil trade. In addition, the United States Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that around 20% of global LNG trade moves through the same corridor.

This explains why instability around Hormuz immediately affects global energy markets. The concern extends beyond crude supply to tanker movements, shipping insurance, freight costs, refinery feedstock availability, refined product pricing, and market speculation.

Similarly, past disruptions such as the 1973 oil embargo, the Gulf Wars, and the 2022 Russia–Ukraine conflict demonstrated how geopolitical instability can rapidly trigger inflation across import-dependent economies through higher fuel, transport, and food costs.

Nigeria is no exception.

Although Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest crude oil producers, the country still operates an economy heavily dependent on imported energy-linked systems. Millions of households and businesses rely on petrol and diesel generators due to an unstable electricity supply, while transport and logistics remain overwhelmingly road-dependent. Consequently, rising diesel and petrol prices quickly spread across the economy.

The first major mistake in many public discussions is the assumption that higher crude prices automatically benefit Nigeria. Oil revenue depends not only on price, but also on production volume.

According to Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) data released in April 2026, Nigeria’s combined crude oil and condensate production rose to about 1.546 million barrels per day in March 2026. However, crude oil production excluding condensates stood around 1.382 million barrels per day, still below Nigeria’s OPEC quota of approximately 1.5 million barrels per day.

Therefore, higher crude prices alone cannot guarantee stronger economic benefits unless production remains stable, oil theft is reduced, and export infrastructure functions efficiently.

The second mistake is confusing crude oil price with petrol price. Nigerians do not buy crude oil at filling stations; they buy refined petroleum products. Petrol and diesel prices are influenced not only by crude benchmarks but also by refining margins, freight charges, foreign exchange rates, logistics, taxes, insurance, and marketer margins.

This is where Nigeria’s foreign exchange challenge becomes critical. A weaker naira significantly increases the cost of refined products and energy-related imports. Since the removal of fuel subsidies, domestic fuel prices now respond more directly to global market volatility. Consequently, international oil shocks now transmit faster into local petrol and diesel prices.

Although the Dangote Refinery represents a major improvement in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, local refining alone cannot completely shield the country from global oil-price volatility. Crude feedstock pricing remains internationally linked, and refined product prices still respond to international market conditions. Nonetheless, the refinery remains a critical step toward improving Nigeria’s long-term energy security and reducing import dependence.

Recent domestic fuel data already show how exposed Nigeria’s economy remains. National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data indicated that the average retail petrol price rose to about ₦1,288.54 per litre in March 2026, while diesel prices recorded an estimated 16.05% month-on-month increase during the same period.

These are not just economic statistics. They affect transport fares, food prices, manufacturers, small businesses powering generators, and millions of Nigerians already struggling with inflation.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s deeper challenge remains structural energy vulnerability. Electricity supply is weak, gas infrastructure is underdeveloped, rail freight systems are limited, and strategic fuel reserves are inadequate. Under these conditions, every major disruption in global energy markets quickly evolves into domestic inflation and economic hardship.

The policy lesson is therefore clear: Nigeria must stop celebrating rising oil prices without asking whether the country is structurally prepared to benefit from them. Nigeria must raise and sustain crude oil production, strengthen domestic refining, expand gas infrastructure, develop strategic fuel reserves, and treat energy security as an economic-security issue rather than merely a petroleum-sector issue.

Conclusively, the Strait of Hormuz may be geographically distant from Nigeria, but its economic consequences can reach Nigerian households within days. That is the reality of today’s interconnected global oil market. Until Nigeria builds real energy resilience, global oil shocks will continue producing the same painful irony: a country rich in crude oil, yet perpetually vulnerable to energy insecurity and affordability.

Engr. Inusa Rabiu Isah, GMNSE, MIAENG, is a petroleum engineer and energy analyst with interests in petroleum economics, energy security, and sustainable industrial development. He writes from Abuja and can be reached via inusarabiuisah@gmail.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

United States President Donald Trump has declared that he is “not open” to granting concessions to Iran as diplomatic efforts continue over the ongoing conflict involving Washington, Tehran and Israel.

Trump’s remarks came after Iranian authorities confirmed that they had sent a response to the latest American proposal through Pakistan, which is serving as a mediator in the talks.

The latest developments emerged amid growing international concern over security, energy supplies and humanitarian conditions across the Middle East.

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov defended Iran’s right to pursue uranium enrichment for civilian purposes. Speaking at a news conference in Moscow, Lavrov said, “Iran, like any other member of the Non-Proliferation Agreement, has the full right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes.”

He also stressed that Russia would not obstruct ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.

“We will support any resolutions agreed upon and accepted by the negotiating parties themselves. In this case, the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Lavrov said, according to Russia’s Interfax news agency.

Meanwhile, Iran announced plans to tighten its oversight of the Strait of Hormuz through the creation of a new body known as the Persian Gulf Strait Authority. Iranian officials said the authority would provide real-time operational updates concerning the strategic waterway, which handles a large share of global oil and gas shipments.

Reports also indicated that Tehran plans to introduce an insurance scheme for vessels operating through the Strait of Hormuz and nearby Gulf waters. According to Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency, transactions linked to the insurance arrangement would be settled through cryptocurrency payments.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held discussions with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. Iranian state media said both officials discussed regional developments and diplomatic contacts between Tehran and Washington.

Germany joined calls for restraint after fresh attacks in the Gulf region. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates and other regional allies.

“Attacks on nuclear facilities pose a threat to the safety of people throughout the entire region. There must be no further escalation of violence,” Merz wrote on social media.

He further urged Iran to resume negotiations with the United States, halt threats against neighbouring countries and ensure unrestricted access through the Strait of Hormuz.

In the occupied Palestinian territories, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry criticised Israel’s reported decision to seize the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem’s Sheikh Jarrah area.

Palestinian officials warned that the move represented a “dangerous precedent” that could undermine international law. They said Israeli authorities planned to construct army and security facilities on the site, reportedly under the cover of establishing a museum.

Elsewhere, the Gaza Health Ministry said the territory’s medical system had suffered severe damage during the war. Officials stated that more than 76 percent of medical imaging equipment had been destroyed.

According to the ministry, all MRI services in Gaza have stopped after the destruction of nine machines. Only five of the enclave’s 18 CT scanners remain operational, while many X-ray machines are reportedly worn out and frequently malfunctioning.

The United Arab Emirates also condemned a recent drone strike targeting the Barakah nuclear power plant. UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan Al Jaber described the attack as “a terrorist attack on a peaceful project, built to the highest safety standards, that powers homes, hospitals, and industries across the UAE.”

Authorities in the UAE said investigations were ongoing to determine the origin of the drones, which reportedly entered the country’s airspace through the western border.

In Europe, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for stronger cooperation between Europe and North America amid tensions between the United States and NATO allies over the conflict involving Iran.

“It is the task of all of us here in Poland, in Europe, across the Atlantic, in the US, in Canada, to ensure that transatlantic cooperation regardless of various political variables survives this difficult period,” Tusk said.

Tensions also escalated after organisers of the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla announced that Israeli authorities detained several participants, including Dr Margaret Connolly, sister of Irish President Catherine Connolly.

In a pre-recorded message released by organisers, Connolly stated: “If you are watching this video, it means I have been kidnapped from my boat in the flotilla by the Israeli occupying forces, and I’m now being held illegally in an Israeli prison.

“I am so proud to be taking part in this flotilla – it is the largest to date.”

By Anwar Usman

The Islamic republic of Iran on Monday said it had executed a man by hanging convicted of spying for Israel and the United States, the latest in a wave of executions during the war with the two foes.

“Erfan Shakourzadeh… was hanged for collaborating with the US intelligence service and the Mossad spy service,” the judiciary’s Mizan Online website said.

Iran did not specify when he was executed or when he was arrested, but said he worked at one of Iran’s “scientific organisations active in the satellite field”.

Recall that, Iran has long faced Western accusations that its satellite programme is being used to advance ballistic missile capabilities.

Mizan said Shakourzadeh had “knowingly and willingly” passed classified information to the CIA and Mossad.

Iran is the world’s second-most prolific executioner after China, according to rights groups.

Norway-based group Iran Human Rights says the Islamic republic executed at least 1,500 people last year, one of the highest numbers worldwide.

Iran has been at war with Israel and the United States since late February, with a ceasefire in place since April 8.

Since the beginning of the conflict, Iran has carried out executions, particularly in cases involving alleged espionage or security-related charges.

Last week, three men were executed in Tehran convicted of involvement in anti-government protests that rocked the country in December and January.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, on Wednesday held talks with China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, in Beijing as tensions continue to rise over the Strait of Hormuz.

The visit comes just one week before United States President Donald Trump is expected in Beijing for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping scheduled for May 14 and 15.

China’s state news agency, Xinhua, confirmed that the meeting between both officials had commenced, although it did not disclose details of the discussions.

This trip marks Araghchi’s first visit to China, a key ally of Tehran, since the US-Israel war on Iran began on February 28. Since the outbreak of the conflict, both ministers have maintained contact through several phone conversations.

In Washington, DC, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he hopes China will urge Iran to ease its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and gas shipments.

Iran shut the strait shortly after the conflict started, a move that triggered a sharp rise in fuel and fertiliser prices and unsettled the global economy.

Although a ceasefire was reached in April, the United States later imposed a blockade on Iranian ports in an effort to pressure Tehran into accepting its conditions for peace.

Reporting from Beijing, Al Jazeera’s Katrina Yu said the meeting is expected to focus mainly on sustaining the ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

“We know that China has been very critical of the US’s naval blockade on Iranian ports, calling it dangerous. But increasingly, Beijing has also been critical of Iran’s decision to continually close that vital chokepoint,” Yu said.

She added that China may seek clarity from Iran on its future actions, while Tehran is also looking for assurances of continued Chinese support.

“Iran will need Chinese backing, for example, at the United Nations, to continue to block any action that would put any additional sanctions on Iran because of its closure of the strait,” Yu said.

“Reportedly, the Iranian foreign minister is looking for clarity from Beijing as to what it will put on the table when Xi meets with Trump, and whether Beijing will be making any concessions to Washington that could make Tehran nervous.”

China, on its part, is said to be seeking guarantees from Iran that it will avoid any escalation ahead of the high-level meeting between Xi and Trump.

Meanwhile, President Trump has announced a temporary halt to a US military mission aimed at escorting stranded vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

The operation, which started earlier in the week, had heightened tensions after the US military claimed it destroyed several Iranian boats that allegedly tried to disrupt the effort. The United Arab Emirates also accused Iran of launching missile and drone attacks, including one that caused a fire at an oil facility. Tehran has denied involvement.

Trump wrote on Truth Social that the pause followed appeals “on the request of Pakistan and other Countries” and because “Great Progress has been made toward a Complete and Final Agreement with Representatives of Iran”.

Pakistan has been playing a leading role in mediating between Washington and Tehran. Direct talks were held in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, but both sides failed to reach an agreement.

Key disagreements remain, including US demands for Iran to stop all nuclear enrichment activities, while Tehran insists on maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United States has said it is not seeking a confrontation with Iran over tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, but made it clear it would respond forcefully if provoked.

Speaking on Tuesday, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth stated that any attack by Iran on vessels operating in the strategic waterway would attract a “devastating” reaction from the US.

“We’re not looking for a fight. But Iran also cannot be allowed to block innocent countries and their goods from an international waterway,” Hegseth told reporters.

He added, “If you attack American troops or innocent commercial shipping, you will face overwhelming and devastating American firepower.”

In a related development, General Dan Caine, a top US military official, said American forces are fully prepared to return to large-scale combat operations if directed.

Caine, who spoke with journalists, stressed that Washington’s current posture should not be interpreted as weakness.

According to him, US Central Command and other military units remain on standby for possible action.

“No adversary should mistake our current restraint with a lack of resolve,” he said.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route, and rising tensions in the area have continued to draw international attention.