New Post Africa

Category: International

  • Israel Condemns Jordanian Parliament for Erasing Mentions of Israel from Records

    Israel Condemns Jordanian Parliament for Erasing Mentions of Israel from Records

    Lagos, Nigeria (NPA): The Israeli government has strongly condemned the decision by the Jordanian parliament on February 23, 2026, to erase all mentions of Israel from its parliamentary records. Lawmakers voted unanimously to remove references to “Israel” from the minutes of a debate that followed remarks by U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee regarding proposed Israeli reforms in the West Bank—comments Jordanian MPs denounced as a breach of international law.

    In a statement issued Tuesday, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it “categorically condemns the decision taken yesterday by the Jordanian parliament to erase all mentions of Israel from its parliamentary records.” The ministry warned that the move “runs counter to the spirit of the peace treaty which has been maintained for over thirty years. It must be denounced by all who strive to build a region of tolerance and understanding.”

    Jordanian lawmakers defended the decision as a symbolic gesture of resistance, aimed at rejecting Israeli sovereignty claims in the occupied West Bank and Jordan Valley and expressing solidarity with Palestinian rights. While the measure does not alter official treaties or agreements between Jordan and Israel, it reinforces parliament’s opposition to Israeli policies and is expected to heighten diplomatic tensions between the neighbours despite their 1994 peace treaty.

    The controversy follows remarks made earlier in February 2026 by Ambassador Huckabee, who claimed that Israel has a right to much of the Middle East. His comments—widely condemned by Arab and Muslim nations as extremist rhetoric—contradicted decades of U.S. policy by asserting that Area C of the occupied West Bank “is Israel.” The statements have fuelled regional criticism of U.S. policy and intensified political actions such as Jordan’s parliamentary move.

  • US Congressional Committee Calls for Disarmament of Fulani Militias to Address Religious Violence in Nigeria, Other Measures

    US Congressional Committee Calls for Disarmament of Fulani Militias to Address Religious Violence in Nigeria, Other Measures

    WASHINGTON, U.S. (NPA): A United States congressional committee tasked by President Donald Trump to investigate allegations of widespread violence against Christians in Nigeria has submitted its recommendations to the White House.

    In a report released Monday by Congressman Riley Moore, the committee endorsed the redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), citing what it described as systematic attacks on Christian communities.

    The committee, which included Chairman Tom Cole and members of the House Appropriations Committee, stated: “Nigeria is the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian. Christians face ongoing violent attacks from well-armed Fulani militias and terrorist groups, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths, the destruction of churches and schools, and widespread kidnappings. Blasphemy laws in northern states are used to silence dissent, target minorities, and justify convictions without due process.”

    Key Recommendations

    The report outlined several measures aimed at curbing violence and strengthening bilateral cooperation between the United States and Nigeria:

    • Bilateral Agreement: Establish a binding accord to protect vulnerable Christian communities, counter jihadist activity, expand economic cooperation, and address regional influence from China and Russia.
    • Humanitarian Assistance: Co-fund donor-supported aid programs, including faith-based initiatives, prioritizing internally displaced persons (IDPs) and underserved communities.
    • Security in the Middle Belt: Deploy capable security forces to prevent attacks and kidnappings, ensure rapid response, and hold negligent officials accountable.
    • Land and Resettlement: Expel armed groups from confiscated farmland, enable displaced communities to return, and rebuild infrastructure to reduce reliance on aid and boost agricultural productivity.
    • Disarmament of Militias: Implement measures to reduce and eliminate violence by armed Fulani militias, including disarmament programs to curb illicit weapons while safeguarding legitimate self-defense for farmers.
    • Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Expand joint operations to combat foreign terrorist organizations, including the provision of defense equipment and intelligence-sharing.
    • Economic Safeguards: Address destabilizing practices such as illegal mining operations allegedly linked to foreign actors funding militias.
    • Visa Restrictions & Legal Reform: Maintain visa bans on perpetrators of religious violence, repeal blasphemy laws, and review sharia-based criminal codes in northern Nigeria.
    • Trade Measures: Consider restrictions on cattle exports to regional markets as leverage to compel disarmament of armed herdsmen.
  • Armed Intruder Shot Dead at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Estate: Motive Still Unclear

    Armed Intruder Shot Dead at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Estate: Motive Still Unclear

    Palm Beach, Florida (NPA) – U.S. authorities are continuing to investigate the motive of an armed man who was fatally shot after breaching security at President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida.

    The suspect, armed with a shotgun and carrying a fuel container, attempted to enter the property through the north gate at approximately 1:30 a.m. He was confronted by Secret Service agents and a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s deputy. The incident ended when the man crossed into a restricted zone and was shot.

    As of the time of filing this report, investigators have not established a definitive motive. Authorities are examining whether the breach was politically motivated, driven by personal grievances, or linked to mental instability. So far, only the circumstances of the intrusion and the weapons carried have been confirmed.

    The breach raises questions given Mar-a-Lago’s extensive security measures. The estate is protected by a layered system overseen by the U.S. Secret Service, including robotic patrol units equipped with cameras and sensors, multiple gated entry points monitored by armed agents and local law enforcement, high-definition surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and strict access controls with background checks for visitors and staff. A 24/7 rapid response protocol is also in place.

    Investigators now face the challenge of piecing together what the suspect intended before entering the restricted zone and being neutralized.

  • Spain Buying Israeli-Designed Missiles Through Germany — Hananya Naftali

    Spain Buying Israeli-Designed Missiles Through Germany — Hananya Naftali

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Israeli journalist and pro-Israel social media influencer Hananya Naftali has accused Spain of acquiring Israeli-designed missiles through indirect channels despite its public suspension of a major arms deal with Israel. Naftali, a former digital aide to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, made the allegation in a post on his verified Facebook page, claiming that Spain’s government blocked a €285 million Rafael Spike missile deal over Gaza but later purchased the same weapons via Germany.

    Naftali argued that the move demonstrated the indispensability of Israel’s defense technology, stating that it was “too advanced to boycott and vital for global security.”

    His comments come amid heightened tensions between Spain and Israel over the Gaza conflict. Spain has imposed a permanent arms embargo, restricted Israeli officials from entering the country, and banned ships carrying fuel for Israeli military personnel from docking in Spanish ports, citing humanitarian concerns. Israel has rejected Madrid’s accusations, with Foreign Minister Eli Cohen accusing Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez of antisemitism and recalling Spain’s ambassador from Tel Aviv.

    Naftali, who previously worked on Netanyahu’s communications team, has not held a formal government office but has played a significant role in shaping Israel’s digital outreach strategy. His remarks underscore the growing diplomatic rift between Spain and Israel, as Madrid aligns more closely with Palestinian advocacy while Israel insists its military campaign in Gaza is essential for national security.

  • Netanyahu Welcomes Modi’s Visit, Pledges Stronger Israel–India Cooperation

    Netanyahu Welcomes Modi’s Visit, Pledges Stronger Israel–India Cooperation

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has praised his country’s ties with India ahead of the arrival of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a state visit this week. Speaking at the opening of a government meeting, Netanyahu described Modi as a “personal friend” and highlighted the close relationship forged between the two leaders in recent years. “This week, expression will be given to the special relationship that has been forged between Israel and the global power that is India, and between myself and Prime Minister Modi,” he said.

    Netanyahu noted that Modi’s visit would provide an opportunity to deepen cooperation in economic, diplomatic, and security fields. He also spoke of building a broader alliance of nations across continents to counter radical movements in the Middle East. Modi is expected to arrive in Israel on Wednesday, deliver an address at the Knesset, and participate in an innovation event in Jerusalem. The two leaders will also visit Yad Vashem together. Netanyahu emphasized that the visit would advance collaboration in high-tech, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between Israel and India.

    India and Israel already maintain strong ties in defense, technology, and trade. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, cooperation has expanded significantly, with India emerging as one of Israel’s largest defense customers.

    Both countries also collaborate in agriculture, water management, cybersecurity, and innovation. In 2026, they adopted a joint working plan to strengthen strategic cooperation while engaging in regional peace initiatives, including support for the Gaza Peace Plan.

  • Zelenskyy: Ukraine and Belarus Should Join the European Union

    Zelenskyy: Ukraine and Belarus Should Join the European Union

    KYIV, UKRAINE (NPA): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that it would be in the best interest of both Ukraine and Belarus to become members of the European Union. Speaking in an interview with Belarusian independent outlet Dzerkalo, Zelenskyy acknowledged uncertainty over whether Belarusians support the idea, but argued that EU membership would benefit both countries economically, geopolitically, and in terms of independence.

    He urged Belarusians to look beyond years of anti-European propaganda, dismissing fears that EU integration would lead to higher prices, lower wages, or economic decline. Zelenskyy emphasized that the decision would ultimately rest with the Belarusian people, but stressed that peaceful relations, mutual respect for sovereignty, and an end to cross-border hostilities were essential. “The best thing that can be is peaceful relations, when we respect each other’s sovereignty and missiles do not fly from one country to another,” he said, adding that Belarus did not start the war against Ukraine.

    Ukraine’s potential accession to the EU carries significant consequences. For Kyiv, membership would open access to the single market, attract investment, and accelerate reforms in governance and rule of law. Politically, it would anchor Ukraine firmly within the Western bloc, reducing Russian influence. For the EU, enlargement eastward would expand its population and territory but also require major financial commitments for reconstruction and agricultural support. Security challenges, migration pressures, and budgetary strains would intensify, though Ukraine’s membership could strengthen the EU’s global standing if managed with unity and balance.

  • Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigerian media organisation Newpost Africa Media Publishing® (Newpost Africa) has announced its return following a successful restructuring process. The relaunch underscores the company’s renewed commitment to delivering journalism of the highest standards—anchored in integrity, balance, and diversity.

    Positioning itself as “Nigeria’s independent, world-class media organisation”, Newpost Africa emphasized its founding principles of strict editorial neutrality, an uncompromising stance against propaganda, and reporting that informs without bias or distortion. The organisation stressed that credible journalism is indispensable to democratic societies and informed citizenship.

    In a statement issued on February 22, 2026, Newpost Africa encouraged stakeholders and readers to actively engage with its mission. “By sharing perspectives and experiences, you contribute to a platform that values truth, dialogue, and collective responsibility in shaping the public record,” the statement read.

    Driven by a team of seasoned professionals and supported by a global network of journalists and writers, Newpost Africa said it is well-positioned to deliver timely coverage of rapidly evolving stories with speed, clarity, and analytical depth—while maintaining accuracy and editorial discipline.

    Its editorial focus remains firmly on Nigeria and the African continent, ensuring accountability from policymakers, institutions, and power brokers. At the same time, the organisation pledged to continue reporting on international developments that shape Africa’s place in the global context.

    The relaunch, according to the statement, is not merely a return but a reaffirmation of purpose and a strategic commitment to excellence in journalism. “This relaunch is a reaffirmation of our mission to uphold the highest standards of journalism and to serve as a trusted voice in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond,” the organisation noted.

  • Pakistani Military Strikes Afghan Targets in Retaliation for Suicide Blast

    Pakistani Military Strikes Afghan Targets in Retaliation for Suicide Blast

    KABUL, AFGHANISTAN (News Agencies): Pakistan says it has launched strikes on armed groups in Afghanistan after blaming recent suicide bombings, including attacks during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, on fighters it says are operating from its neighbour’s territory.

    Kabul has repeatedly denied allowing armed groups to use Afghan territory to stage attacks in Pakistan.

    Afghanistan’s Ministry of Defence on Sunday said “dozens of innocent civilians, including women and children, were martyred and wounded” when strikes hit a school and homes in the eastern provinces of Nangarhar and Paktika.

    Nangarhar police told the AFP news agency the bombardment started about midnight (19:30 GMT on Saturday) and hit three districts.

    “Civilians were killed. In one house, there were 23 family members. Five wounded people were taken out,” police spokesperson Sayed Tayeeb Hammad said.

    The Afghan Defence Ministry said it will “deliver an appropriate and calculated response” to the Pakistani strikes.

    The two countries have been locked in an increasingly bitter dispute since the Taliban authorities retook control of Afghanistan in 2021.

    Pakistani military action killed 70 Afghan civilians from October to December, according to the United Nations mission in Afghanistan.

    Several rounds of negotiations followed an initial ceasefire brokered by Qatar and Turkiye, but they have failed to produce a lasting agreement.

    Saudi Arabia intervened this month, mediating the release of three Pakistani soldiers captured by Afghanistan in October.

    The deteriorating relationship has had repercussions for people in both countries with the land border largely closed for months.

  • Putin Meets Cuban Foreign Minister in Moscow, Says US Restrictions Unacceptable

    Putin Meets Cuban Foreign Minister in Moscow, Says US Restrictions Unacceptable

    Russian President Vladimir Putin met Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez on Wednesday in the Kremlin, where he said that new restrictions imposed on the communist-run island were “unacceptable”, Russian state news agencies reported.

    A senior Russian diplomat said last week that Moscow would provide aid to Havana, including material assistance, to help navigate a U.S. attempt to starve the island of oil.

    “Now is a special period, new sanctions. You know how we feel about this,” Putin told Rodriguez, according to the TASS news agency. “We do not accept anything like this.”

    The Kremlin chief said relations between Russia and Cuba were developing “on a positive track”, TASS reported.

    Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told his Cuban counterpart in a separate meeting on Wednesday that Moscow was urging the U.S. not to impose a full naval blockade on the island and was advocating negotiations instead.

    Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesman, was quoted as saying by TASS on Wednesday that Moscow did not discuss the Cuba issue with Washington. Russia, Ukraine and the U.S. concluded trilateral peace talks in Geneva earlier on Wednesday.

  • Trump Says No Definitive Outcome with Netanyahu as Israeli Leader Concludes Washington Visit

    Trump Says No Definitive Outcome with Netanyahu as Israeli Leader Concludes Washington Visit

    WASHINGTON, D.C., US: President Donald Trump has wrapped up talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House amid heightened tensions in the Middle East over Iran’s uranium enrichment program, which continues despite pressure from both Washington and Tel Aviv.

    In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump described the meeting as “very good,” highlighting the “tremendous relationship” between the United States and Israel. He added, however, that “nothing definitive” was agreed upon, aside from his insistence that negotiations with Iran should continue to determine whether a deal can be reached. “If it can, I let the Prime Minister know that will be a preference. If it cannot, we will just have to see what the outcome will be,” Trump wrote.

    The president’s cryptic remarks have left foreign policy analysts uncertain about the concrete results of the meeting, particularly as the US continues to deploy aircraft carriers and other military assets to the region.

    Trump, signalling a preference for diplomacy over direct confrontation, warned Tehran against repeating past mistakes: “Last time Iran decided that they were better off not making a deal, and they were hit with Midnight Hammer — that did not work well for them. Hopefully this time they will be more reasonable and responsible.”

    Meanwhile, tensions remain high across the Middle East, with speculation mounting over possible US military action in response to Iran’s human rights abuses. Recent protests in the Persian Gulf nation reportedly resulted in mass casualties, further fuelling uncertainty about Washington’s next steps.

    Photo credit: Facebook/The Prime Minister of Israel