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  • US sanctions Iranian missile and drone procurement networks

    US sanctions Iranian missile and drone procurement networks

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The United States has imposed sweeping sanctions on 14 individuals, entities, and aircraft linked to Iran, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for their roles in procuring or transporting weapons and components for the Iranian regime. The measures, announced on 21 April 2026 by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), form part of Economic Fury, Washington’s campaign to counter Iran’s missile and drone programs.

    Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the sanctions underscore America’s determination to hold Tehran accountable for destabilising global energy markets and targeting civilians with missiles and drones. “Under President Trump’s leadership, as part of Economic Fury, Treasury will continue to follow the money and target the Iranian regime’s recklessness and those who enable it,” he declared.

    The action builds on National Security Presidential Memorandum 2, which directs the US government to curtail Iran’s ballistic missile program, deny it nuclear weapons capability, and restrict the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from accessing resources that sustain its activities. It also represents the fifth round of non‑proliferation designations since UN sanctions were reimposed in September 2025 following Iran’s “significant non‑performance” of nuclear commitments.

    Targeting Shahed UAV Procurement

    OFAC sanctioned three individuals tied to Iran’s Pishgam Electronic Safeh Company (PESC), already blacklisted in 2023 for supplying the IRGC Aerospace Force Self Sufficiency Jihad Organization. PESC procured thousands of servomotors used in Shahed‑136 one‑way attack drones, which have been deployed against US and allied targets.

    Those designated include Tehran‑based currency exchanger Kamal Sabah Balkhkanlu, accused of facilitating payments for PESC’s procurement of carbon fibre and servomotors; Mohammad Vahidi, linked to shipments routed through Dubai; and Danial Khalili, who acted as PESC’s agent in receiving and delivering items.

    Ballistic Missile Propellant Precursors

    Sanctions also hit Türkiye‑based Emti Fiber Textile Import Export Trade Limited Company for supplying cotton linters to Iran’s Pardisan Rezvan Shargh International Private Joint Stock Company. Cotton linters are processed into nitrocellulose, a key ingredient in solid propellant rocket motors used in ballistic missiles.

    OFAC further designated Iran’s Adak Pargas Pars Trading Company and its executives Hamidreza Roknifard and Mostafa Roknifard for facilitating procurement of sodium perchlorate, another missile propellant precursor. The company had previously assisted German national Marco Klinge, sanctioned in 2025 for supplying materials to Iran’s Defence Industries Organization.

    Action Against Mahan Air

    The sanctions extend to Iran’s Mahan Air, long accused of transporting weapons and UAV systems for the IRGC‑Qods Force. OFAC designated Mahan Air in 2011 under counter‑terrorism authorities and again in 2019 under non‑proliferation measures.

    Entities linked to Mahan Air include Sepehr Kaveh Kish International Trading Company, its executives Gholam Abbas Ataei Aghdam and Jamshid Hosseinzadeh, and manager Mohammad Hossein Mahdian. OFAC also targeted Saman Air Services Company, a Mahan subsidiary that facilitated UAV shipments to Venezuela in coordination with state airline Conviasa.

    Dubai‑based Chabok FZCO was sanctioned for procuring US‑origin aircraft components for Mahan Air. Additionally, two Boeing 777 aircraft, EP‑MTE and EP‑MTB, were identified as property in which Mahan Air has an interest.

    Sanctions Implications

    As a result of the designations, all property and interests in property of the sanctioned individuals and entities within US jurisdiction are blocked. US persons are prohibited from engaging in transactions with them, and entities owned 50 percent or more by designated persons are also blocked.

    Violations may result in civil or criminal penalties, with OFAC enforcing sanctions on a strict liability basis. Foreign financial institutions risk secondary sanctions if they knowingly conduct significant transactions on behalf of designated persons.

    OFAC emphasised that the ultimate goal of sanctions is behavioural change, not punishment. It noted that individuals and entities may petition for removal from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list if they demonstrate compliance with US law.

    Broader Context

    Iran has increasingly relied on Shahed‑series drones to strike energy infrastructure and civilian targets across the Middle East. Washington argues that Tehran’s procurement networks in Türkiye, the UAE, and beyond are critical to sustaining these operations. By targeting facilitators, suppliers, and transporters, the US aims to deplete Iran’s missile inventories and prevent reconstitution of its production capacity.

    The latest measures reinforce Washington’s dual approach: constraining Iran’s weapons programs while signalling to international partners that cooperation with Tehran’s procurement networks carries significant risks.

    Secretary Bessent concluded: “The Iranian regime must be held accountable for its extortion of global energy markets and indiscriminate targeting of civilians with missiles and drones. Treasury will continue to act decisively against those who enable Iran’s destabilising activities.”

  • Three years of war in Sudan, EU calls for immediate ceasefire

    Three years of war in Sudan, EU calls for immediate ceasefire

    AFRICA/INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The European Union has renewed its call for peace in Sudan as the country enters its third year of war, warning that the conflict continues to devastate lives and undermine the aspirations of the 2018/19 revolution.

    In a statement on 21 April 2026, the EU High Representative reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rejecting unilateral attempts to establish parallel governance that could risk partition. Preventing escalation into a full‑scale regional war, the EU stressed, remains paramount.

    The statement highlighted the Sudan Conference in Berlin held on 15 April, which demonstrated international resolve to pressure the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and affiliated militias to end hostilities.

    Recalling the October 2025 Council Conclusions, the EU urged all actors to engage in negotiations towards an immediate and lasting ceasefire. It expressed readiness to support credible peace initiatives, including international monitoring mechanisms, and called on external actors to stop fuelling the war.

    Sudan’s humanitarian crisis is worsening, with civilians targeted, famine conditions persisting, and mass displacement destabilising communities and the wider region. The EU condemned attacks on civilians, healthcare facilities, aid workers, and humanitarian convoys, stressing that obstruction of relief efforts may constitute war crimes.

    At the Berlin Conference, donors pledged €1.5 billion in aid, including €812 million from the EU and its Member States, to support humanitarian response and protect critical infrastructure.

    The EU also denounced grave violations of international humanitarian and human rights law, including systematic sexual and gender‑based violence, with rape used as a weapon of war. It pledged support for accountability mechanisms such as the UN Fact‑Finding Mission and the ICC, noting that sanctions targeting the war economy remain under consideration.

    Reaffirming support for Sudanese aspirations for democratic governance, the EU welcomed the Joint Call to End the War and Advance a Sudanese‑Owned Political Process, agreed by civilian actors at the Berlin Conference under the AU‑led Quintet. The statement concluded: “It is long overdue to bring this devastating conflict to an end.”

  • AU Deputy Chairperson Haddadi urges paradigm shift in global cooperation at WBG/IMF Spring Meetings

    AU Deputy Chairperson Haddadi urges paradigm shift in global cooperation at WBG/IMF Spring Meetings

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The African Union Commission (AUC) has urged a fundamental shift in multilateral cooperation to support job creation and economic transformation across the continent.

    Speaking at the Joint Ministerial Committee of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund during the 2026 Spring Meetings in Washington, AUC Deputy Chairperson Selma Malika Haddadi stressed that Africa’s demographic strength must be harnessed through deliberate action to create more and better‑paid jobs.

    “For Africa, this is not an abstract policy question. It is an urgent development, economic, and stability imperative,” Haddadi said. She emphasised that Africa’s greatest asset is its people, particularly youth and women, but warned that prosperity will only be realised if enabling conditions are created.

    The Deputy Chairperson welcomed the World Bank report’s central message that job creation requires deliberate investment in infrastructure, digital public systems, skills development, institutional strengthening, regulatory certainty, and private sector growth. “Job creation does not happen by chance, but requires deliberate action to build the right enabling environment,” she noted.

    Haddadi, however, criticised the current multilateral system, saying it has not consistently provided the robust and predictable support needed for Africa’s transformation. “Too often, support remains fragmented, reactive, and insufficiently aligned with regional and continental development priorities and opportunities,” she said.

    She pointed to frameworks such as Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as evidence of Africa’s political resolve and institutional capacity to drive reforms. Member States, she added, are undertaking difficult reforms to strengthen competitiveness, enterprise, and employment.

    The AU–World Bank partnership, Haddadi said, has elevated the conversation by linking jobs more clearly to infrastructure, energy, trade, skills, industrialisation, and financial inclusion. What is now required, she argued, is a paradigm shift: “From fragmented initiatives to coordinated delivery, from short‑term interventions to long‑term transformation, and from dialogue to implementation at scale.”

    In closing, Haddadi underscored that job creation is central to Africa’s future. “Creating the enabling environment for more and better‑paid jobs is not peripheral to Africa’s future. It is central to resilience, dignity, and shared prosperity,” she said.

  • US Senator Cruz laments continued killings of Christians in Nigeria, urges Trump to hold state, federal governments officials accountable

    US Senator Cruz laments continued killings of Christians in Nigeria, urges Trump to hold state, federal governments officials accountable

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — United States Senator Ted Cruz has again condemned the killings of Christians in Nigeria, accusing authorities of complicity and urging the U.S. government to hold both state and federal officials accountable.

    In a video, today, posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Cruz said: “More Christians are killed for their faith in Nigeria than anywhere else in the world. Since 2009, Islamic jihadists have murdered more than 50,000 Christians in Nigeria, and more than 20,000 churches, schools, and religious institutions have been destroyed, most burned to the ground.”

    He added that scores of Christians and others were kidnapped during Holy Week, alleging that “Nigerian officials have been, unfortunately, complicit in facilitating these atrocities.”

    “At the state level, a dozen Nigerian states implement Islamic blasphemy and Sharia laws. At the federal level, the government looks the other way at Islamic violence. The result is, unsurprisingly, yet more jihadist violence,” he said.

    The Texas senator recalled introducing the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act, which seeks to return Nigeria to the Country of Particular Concern (CPC) list to compel stronger action.

    He lamented that despite assurances from Nigerian officials during visits to Washington, the situation had not improved.

    Cruz also claimed that the U.S. government is aware of officials allegedly enabling the violence and should take action against them. “I’m sorry to say that Nigerian officials are, at minimum, in denial,” he said.

    He criticised Nigerian authorities, saying they had pushed back against his comments while doing nothing to stop the attacks on Christians, even as he continued to call for an end to the killings.

    Recalling meetings with senior defence officials last year, Cruz said: “They told me they are committed to ending the violence.” However, he added that he would judge their words by results, noting that months later, “those results are yet to materialise.”

    He further urged President Donald Trump to follow through on commitments to use all instruments of statecraft to address the crisis and ensure the protection of Nigeria Chrsiatians.

    Calling the promises of Nigerian officials “infuriating and hypocritical,” Cruz reiterated his call for decisive action by the United States Government to halt the violence.

    The Nigerian government has repeatedly rejected claims of targeted killings of Christians by Islamic jihadists, stating that attacks across several communities are not directed at any specific group. It noted that Muslims, Christians, and traditional worshippers have all been victims of violence by terrorist groups in the country.

  • Jimoh Ibrahim presents Letter of Credence, assumes role as Nigeria’s UN Permanent Representative

    Jimoh Ibrahim presents Letter of Credence, assumes role as Nigeria’s UN Permanent Representative

    NEW YORK, USA (NPA) — Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, has formally presented his Letter of Credence to UN Secretary-General António Guterres in New York, marking his official assumption of office.

    In a statement, Ibrahim wrote: “I had the honour of presenting my Letter of Credence to the Secretary-General of the United Nations in New York, USA, officially assuming my role as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.”

    The former Senator representing Ondo South noted that the presentation symbolises Nigeria’s renewed voice, commitment, and presence in global diplomacy.

    Appointed as part of the Federal Government’s effort to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic footprint, Ibrahim brings a blend of private-sector experience and public service to the role. A lawyer, businessman, and politician, he is expected to advance Nigeria’s interests on key international issues.

    His appointment is regarded as strategic, particularly as Nigeria seeks stronger influence in multilateral diplomacy, peacekeeping, and economic cooperation. As Permanent Representative, Ibrahim will engage in high-level negotiations, represent Nigeria at the UN General Assembly, and promote the country’s positions on security, development, and global governance reforms.

  • Netanyahu Condemns IDF Soldier’s Desecration of Religious Icon in Lebanon

    Netanyahu Condemns IDF Soldier’s Desecration of Religious Icon in Lebanon

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the actions of an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier who was filmed destroying a Catholic religious icon in southern Lebanon, as the military intensifies operations against Hezbollah in the region.

    Netanyahu described the incident as shocking and unacceptable, stressing that Israel, as a Jewish state, upholds values of tolerance and respect for all faiths. “All religions flourish in our land, and we view members of all faiths as equals in building our society and region,” he said.

    The Prime Minister noted that Israeli military authorities have launched a criminal investigation and pledged “harsh disciplinary action” against the offender. He expressed regret for the incident and any hurt caused to believers in Lebanon and worldwide.

    Netanyahu contrasted the situation with broader regional dynamics, claiming that while Christians face persecution in parts of Syria and Lebanon, Israel remains the only country in the Middle East where the Christian population is growing and enjoying improved living standards.

    “Israel is the only place in the Middle East that adheres to freedom of worship for all,” he said, adding that the government remains committed to protecting religious rights.

  • Iran rules out further talks with U.S. amid Strait of Hormuz tensions

    Iran rules out further talks with U.S. amid Strait of Hormuz tensions

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The war in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran shows no sign of easing, as Tehran has dismissed prospects for renewed negotiations with Washington.

    Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baqaei, stated that Tehran has “no plan” for another round of talks with the U.S., adding, “If the U.S. sends a team to Islamabad, that is a matter that concerns them.” His remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that American envoys were en route to Islamabad to continue discussions aimed at ending the conflict.

    Baqaei stressed that Iran would not accept deadlines or ultimatums, reiterating that its “red lines” remain unchanged. He further clarified that the issue of transferring Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles abroad was “never raised” and is “not on the agenda.”

    The spokesperson also criticized U.S. actions, describing the ongoing naval blockade as a violation of the ceasefire. He accused Washington of making “unreasonable demands” and insisted that progress depends on “good faith” from the American side.

    Tensions have escalated following Iran’s decision to reimpose the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which the U.S. condemned as a breach of prior agreements. In response, President Trump warned of “devastating consequences” should Iran persist with the blockade.

    Analysts note that uncertainty over the Islamabad Talks and mutual accusations of violations have left the conflict at risk of further escalation, with trust between the two sides at a low point.

  • Zelenskyy condemns Kyiv shooting, confirms multiple casualties

    Zelenskyy condemns Kyiv shooting, confirms multiple casualties

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned a deadly shooting incident in Kyiv, yesterday, where a lone gunman went on a rampage, killing and injuring several people.

    Zelenskyy said at least two people were initially confirmed dead and 10 others injured, noting that the number of casualties later rose as more details emerged from the scene.

    According to him, the attacker took hostages during the incident, killing one of them, while four others were shot dead on the street. One additional victim later died in hospital from injuries sustained in the attack.

    “My condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims,” he said.

    The president added that four hostages were successfully rescued, while at least 14 people have been reported injured, including a 12-year-old boy. He warned that the casualty figure could increase as more victims seek medical attention.

    Zelenskyy said the attacker was neutralised by security operatives.

    He disclosed that investigators from the National Police and the Security Service of Ukraine are examining the circumstances surrounding the attack on civilians in Kyiv.

    Preliminary findings indicate that the suspect had earlier set fire to an apartment before carrying out the shooting. He was also said to have had a prior criminal record and had lived in the Donetsk region, with reports indicating he was born in Russia.

    The president said all available information regarding the suspect and his motives is being thoroughly investigated.

    “Every detail must be verified,” he added.

  • Netanyahu mourns Israeli Soldier Killed in Southern Lebanon, prays for injured

    Netanyahu mourns Israeli Soldier Killed in Southern Lebanon, prays for injured

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has mourned the death of an Israeli soldier, Staff Sergeant (res.) Lidor Porat, who was killed in battle in southern Lebanon amid the ongoing military offensive against the Iran-backed group, Hezbollah.

    In a statement, Netanyahu conveyed his deep condolences, as well as those of his wife, Sara Netanyahu, to the family of the fallen soldier.

    “My wife and I, along with all the citizens of Israel, join in their deep grief and extend our profound condolences to the family of Staff Sergeant (res.) Lidor Porat, who fell in battle in southern Lebanon,” he said.

    The Prime Minister also prayed for the speedy recovery of other soldiers injured in the operation, wishing them a swift and complete recovery.

    He noted that the deceased and the injured fought with valour to protect Israeli communities from attacks by Hezbollah, and reaffirmed that Israel would continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard its citizens.

    “May his memory be blessed,” the statement added.

  • South Korea’s MFDS named first WHO collaborating centre for food safety emergencies

    South Korea’s MFDS named first WHO collaborating centre for food safety emergencies

    INTERNATIONAL — 18 April 2026 (NPA) — The Risk Information Division of the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has been designated as the first World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Food Safety Emergencies, marking a significant step in strengthening global preparedness for food-related health risks.

    The designation, formalised in November 2025, recognises over a decade of collaboration between the MFDS and WHO, particularly through the International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN). The partnership has focused on improving international coordination in responding to food safety incidents, which can spread rapidly across borders in an increasingly interconnected world.

    Food safety emergencies, including outbreaks of foodborne diseases, require swift and coordinated action across multiple sectors such as health, agriculture, trade and laboratory services. Experts note that effective systems enable earlier detection of risks, faster information sharing and stronger protection of public health.

    As a WHO collaborating centre, the MFDS is expected to expand its role in supporting countries by providing training and education to INFOSAN members, assisting in the development of emergency response plans, and contributing technical expertise to both regional and global coordination efforts. The goal is to enhance countries’ capacity to detect, assess and respond to food safety threats while maintaining confidence in food systems during crises.

    Officials from the MFDS and WHO marked the designation during events held in Seoul and Osong in November 2025, highlighting the importance of sustained international cooperation.

    Minister of Food and Drug Safety, Yu-Kyung Oh, described the recognition as a milestone built on years of trust and collaboration, noting the agency’s role in supporting global food safety response efforts.

    WHO officials also underscored the significance of the partnership. Carmen Savelli said the designation reflects the MFDS’s consistent contributions to strengthening national and regional capacities, including hosting meetings and sharing best practices. Similarly, Katherine Helena Oliveira de Matos emphasised that no country can manage food safety emergencies alone, stressing the importance of collective action.

    The development is expected to reinforce preparedness across the Western Pacific region, ensuring faster and more coordinated responses to food safety risks worldwide.