New Post Africa

Category: International

  • US praises Nigeria over large-scale terrorism convictions

    US praises Nigeria over large-scale terrorism convictions

    INTERNATIONAL, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — The United States Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Fares Boulos, has commended the Nigerian government for securing recent convictions of terrorism suspects, describing the move as a strong demonstration of commitment to justice and accountability.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, Boulos said the United States welcomed the convictions of 386 Islamist militants in cases that had previously faced significant delays in Nigerian courts. “We commend the Nigerian government for its strong commitment to expediting trials addressing terrorism and related crimes, and we recognize this as an important step toward accountability and justice,” he noted.

    He stressed that Washington believes timely and transparent legal processes are critical in confronting extremism and reinforcing public trust in judicial institutions. “Upholding the rule of law remains essential to ensuring the safety, stability, and long-term security of all Nigerians, and we support continued efforts to strengthen judicial efficiency and fairness across the country,” the statement concluded.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that the Federal Government secured 386 convictions out of 508 cases in the ongoing mass trial of terrorism suspects. The Attorney‑General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, confirmed the development last Friday, noting that of the 508 defendants brought before the Federal High Court in Abuja, two were acquitted while eight were discharged.

    Fagbemi further clarified that another batch of 112 suspects, whose cases could not be heard, will be arraigned alongside others in the next phase of the mass trial scheduled for 15–18 June. He stressed that the convictions send a clear message that Nigeria has zero tolerance for terrorism and related crimes.

    The United States’ endorsement of Nigeria’s judicial efforts signals support for the country’s fight against extremism, and the strengthening of national and regional security.

  • UN reveals organized child trafficking networks in South Eastern Europe

    UN reveals organized child trafficking networks in South Eastern Europe

    INTERNATIONAL, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — The United Nations has raised alarm over the growing exploitation of children in South Eastern Europe, citing harrowing cases of forced begging, sexual abuse, and coerced labour. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) revealed that children now account for nearly a quarter of all detected trafficking victims in the region, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated action.

    Recent cases illustrate the scale of the crisis: in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a married couple forced their four children to beg daily for over a year; in Slovenia, a father sold his teenage daughter into an abusive marriage; and in North Macedonia, a 12‑year‑old girl was forced to drink alcohol, dance in bars, and endure sexual exploitation. “These cases illustrate how children, including migrants and refugees, are being cruelly exploited by human traffickers,” said Davor Raus, a UNODC crime prevention expert.

    At a regional meeting in Skopje, more than 60 anti‑trafficking specialists from 20 countries discussed strategies to combat organized crime networks. Romanian prosecutor Dan Alexandru Popa warned that traffickers are increasingly sophisticated, citing an ongoing trial of 14 defendants accused of exploiting German teenagers under the guise of rehabilitation programmes in Romania. The group allegedly abused minors while misappropriating state funds meant for their welfare.

    Links between migrant smuggling and trafficking were also highlighted. In Bosnia, two Afghan nationals stand accused of luring unaccompanied children from refugee camps with false promises of free passage into the EU, only to subject them to forced criminality and sexual exploitation.

    Experts stressed the devastating impact of trafficking on child victims, including long‑term trauma, mental health issues, and disrupted education. “The impact on children is magnified due to their vulnerability and dependency on caregivers, who in some cases are the exploiters,” said Stojne Atanasovska Dimishkovska, UNODC’s National Programme Officer in North Macedonia.

    The meeting, co‑organized by France’s Permanent Mission to the UN, concluded with calls for stronger victim protection, compensation, and efforts to dismantle cultural prejudices that enable practices such as forced marriage and begging. “Traffickers are becoming more professional and organized,” said French expert Elodie Goyard, urging immediate and lasting safeguards to prevent revictimization.

    The UN stressed that tackling child trafficking requires sustained international cooperation, robust prosecution of perpetrators, and comprehensive support for victims to rebuild their lives.

  • Indian Prime Minister Modi mourns legendary singer Asha Bhosle Ji

    Indian Prime Minister Modi mourns legendary singer Asha Bhosle Ji

    INTERNATIONAL, 12 April 2026 (NPA) — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has mourned the passing of legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle Ji, who died on 12 April 2026 at the age of 92 in Mumbai.

    In a tribute message on Sunday, Modi expressed deep sadness over her death, describing Bhosle as one of the most iconic and versatile voices India has ever known. He noted that her extraordinary musical journey, spanning decades, enriched India’s cultural heritage and touched countless hearts worldwide.  

    “Be it her soulful melodies or vibrant compositions, her voice carried timeless brilliance. I’ll always cherish the interactions I’ve had with her,” Modi said. He extended condolences to her family, admirers, and music lovers, adding that her songs will continue to inspire generations and echo in people’s lives.

    Asha Bhosle, widely regarded as one of the most prolific voices in Indian cinema, died at Breach Candy Hospital after being admitted with exhaustion and a chest infection. Doctors confirmed her death was due to multi-organ failure.  

    Beginning her career in 1943 with a song for the Marathi film Majh Bal, she went on to record more than 12,000 songs in multiple Indian languages, becoming a defining voice of Bollywood through the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. Known for her ability to sing across genres—from classical to pop, cabaret, ghazals, and folk—she earned global recognition, including two Grammy nominations, and influenced generations of singers.  

    Tributes have poured in from across India and beyond, with leaders, artists, and fans mourning her passing while celebrating her unmatched contribution to music and culture. 

  • Netanyahu declares “Historic Achievements” in war with Iran, pledges ongoing operations for enduring peace

    Netanyahu declares “Historic Achievements” in war with Iran, pledges ongoing operations for enduring peace

    JERUSALEM, Israel, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel has achieved “historic accomplishments” in its war against Iran and allied militant groups, citing the destruction of nuclear facilities, missile stockpiles, and the elimination of senior Iranian leaders.

    In a televised address, Netanyahu told citizens that Israel had faced existential threats from Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and other regional actors but had turned the tide through decisive military operations. “They threatened us with destruction, and now they are fighting to survive,” he said, stressing that Israel’s actions had fundamentally altered the balance of power in the Middle East.

    Netanyahu highlighted Operation Rising Lion and Operation Roaring Lion as pivotal campaigns. He said Israeli pilots, supported by US forces, struck deep inside Iran, destroying enrichment plants, missile launchers, and heavy water facilities. According to him, these operations prevented Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and neutralized thousands of missiles that could have been launched daily against Israel.

    The Prime Minister claimed that Israel’s actions went beyond halting nuclear progress. He announced that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, his successor Ali Larijani, and multiple senior figures in Iran’s military and intelligence establishment had been eliminated. Strikes also crippled Iran’s petrochemical plants, steel industry, and gas production facilities, weakening the regime’s financial base. “We crushed the nuclear program. We crushed the missiles. We crushed the regime,” Netanyahu declared.

    Netanyahu also pointed to successes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, noting the destruction of more than 150,000 rockets in a matter of hours and the elimination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. He said Israel had created security zones along its northern border to prevent infiltration and protect communities. In Gaza, Israeli forces now control over half of the territory, while in Syria, operations extended to Mount Hermon and the Yarmouk Valley.

    The Prime Minister argued that Israel’s show of strength had shifted regional dynamics. He revealed that Lebanon had approached Israel for direct peace talks, conditioned on Hezbollah’s disarmament. He added that other Middle Eastern and international actors were seeking alliances with Israel, drawn by its military power. “Power attracts, just as weakness repels,” he said, claiming Israel had become the strongest regional power and, in some respects, a global one.

    Netanyahu credited the alliance with the United States, particularly President Donald Trump, as unprecedented in scope. He said cooperation between the IDF and US forces had reshaped the balance of power in the region. “We initiated, we acted, we attacked,” he said, noting that joint strikes with American B‑2 bombers had destroyed key Iranian facilities.

    Concluding his address, Netanyahu saluted Israeli soldiers, pilots, and citizens for their resilience. He praised the sacrifices of the fallen and the wounded, and thanked the public for standing firm. “Israel today is stronger than ever,” he said, vowing to continue operations until all threats are removed and a lasting peace is secured.

  • US begins clearing mines from Strait of Hormuz as warships cross waterway

    US begins clearing mines from Strait of Hormuz as warships cross waterway

    INTERNATIONAL, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — United States President Donald Trump has announced that the US has begun the process of clearing mines from the Strait of Hormuz to allow the full resumption of marine navigation. He said the move was being undertaken as a favour to countries across the world, including China, Japan, South Korea, France, Germany and others.

    In a post on Truth Social, President Trump criticised what he described as “The Fake News Media”, accusing them of lacking credibility and of portraying Iran as “winning” despite what he claimed was the opposite. He asserted that Iran’s military capabilities had been severely degraded, including its navy, air force, radar systems, missile and drone factories, and leadership.

    Trump noted that the only remaining threat was the possibility of ships striking sea mines, but added that all 28 of Iran’s mine‑laying boats had been destroyed. He said the US was now beginning mine‑clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe passage for international shipping.

    He also lampooned countries that had declined to participate in securing the strait during the conflict, saying they lacked the courage or will to act. He pointed out that empty oil tankers from many nations were now heading to the United States to load crude oil.

    “Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP,” he concluded.

    Earlier, Axios reported that several US warships crossed the Strait of Hormuz today for the first time since the war began, in a move not coordinated with Iran.

  • US delegation arrives in Islamabad for ceasefire talks with Iran

    US delegation arrives in Islamabad for ceasefire talks with Iran

    INTERNATIONAL, 11 April 2026 (NPA) — A high‑level United States delegation has arrived in Islamabad ahead of the planned ceasefire talks with the Islamic Republic of Iran, known as the Islamabad Talks.

    The delegation is led by US Vice President H.E. J.D. Vance, accompanied by Special Envoy Mr Steve Witkoff and Mr Jared Kushner. Their arrival marks Washington’s formal participation in the negotiations aimed at easing tensions and advancing dialogue between the two countries.

    Upon arrival in the Pakistani capital, the delegation was received by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and Minister for Interior Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi.

    The talks in Islamabad are expected to focus on de‑escalation measures and frameworks for peace, with Pakistan playing host to facilitate dialogue between the parties.

  • Amnesty condemns Iran’s internet shutdown, now over 1000 hours 

    Amnesty condemns Iran’s internet shutdown, now over 1000 hours 

    INTERNATIONAL, 10 April 2026 (NPA) — Amnesty International has condemned the Islamic Republic of Iran for the continued internet shutdown in the Persian Gulf country, describing it as a violation of basic human rights.

    The rights group, in a statement on Friday, noted that citizens have lived under “digital darkness” for more than 1,000 hours, stressing that internet access is indispensable in times of conflict and unrest. Amnesty called on the authorities to immediately restore connectivity.

    Authorities cut off more than 90 million people from the outside world on 28 February, preventing them from accessing essential information and contacting loved ones. The blackout began after nationwide protests over the worsening economy erupted on 1 February 2026, and has since deepened during the ongoing war with the United States and Israel.

    According to Amnesty, the shutdown has severely affected individuals and businesses, compounding hardship as the blackout persists. The organisation reiterated that internet access is a fundamental right and urged Tehran to restore services without delay.

  • UN Secretary‑General condemns Israeli strikes in Lebanon, calls for ceasefire

    UN Secretary‑General condemns Israeli strikes in Lebanon, calls for ceasefire

    INTERNATIONAL, 9 April 2026 (NPA) — United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres has unequivocally condemned the large‑scale Israeli strikes across Lebanon on 8 April, which left hundreds of civilians dead or injured, including children, and caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. He expressed deep alarm at the mounting toll on civilians.

    In a press statement issued on 8 April, Guterres extended his condolences to the Government and people of Lebanon and wished the injured a swift recovery.

    He warned that, with the announcement of a ceasefire between Iran and the United States, continued military activity in Lebanon poses a grave risk to the truce and to efforts towards a lasting and comprehensive peace in the region. The Secretary‑General reiterated his call for all parties to immediately cease hostilities.

    Guterres stressed that international law, including international humanitarian law, must be respected at all times. Civilians and civilian objects must be protected, and attacks directed against them are unacceptable.

    “There is no military solution to the conflict,” he said, urging all sides to recommit to diplomatic channels and to the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701.

  • Iran threatens to boycott Islamabad peace talks over Israeli strikes in Lebanon

    Iran threatens to boycott Islamabad peace talks over Israeli strikes in Lebanon

    MIDDLE EAST, 9 April 2026 (NPA) — Iran has warned that its delegation will not participate in peace talks scheduled for Islamabad if Israel continues its military strikes on Lebanon. The warning follows Israel’s most intense bombardment of Lebanon since the start of the war with the Iranian‑backed Hezbollah movement.

    In a statement, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the attacks, calling them “a blatant violation of the initial ceasefire agreement and a dangerous indication of deception and lack of commitment to potential accords.” He added: “Continuing these attacks will render negotiations meaningless; our hands will remain on the trigger, and Iran will never abandon its Lebanese brothers and sisters.”

    Pezeshkian reiterated the accusation across multiple platforms, including his official X account, stressing that Israel’s renewed incursion into Lebanon undermines any prospects for peace. He argued that repeated aggression by what he termed “the Zionist entity” signals deceit and non‑compliance, leaving Iran with no choice but to stand firmly by its Lebanese allies.

    The Iranian president’s remarks underscore growing tensions in the region, as Israel intensifies its operations against Hezbollah strongholds. 

    Tehran’s threat to boycott the Islamabad talks raises fresh doubts about the viability of negotiations aimed at ending the over one-month conflict.

  • U.S. urges citizens to leave Nigeria amid rising security risks

    U.S. urges citizens to leave Nigeria amid rising security risks

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 8 April 2026 (NPA) — The United States has authorised the departure of non‑emergency staff and family members from its embassy in Abuja, warning of a deteriorating security situation across Nigeria.

    The Department of State cited widespread violent crime, including armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, and roadside banditry. It noted that kidnappings for ransom are common, often targeting dual nationals and Americans perceived as wealthy.

    The advisory also highlighted the risk of terrorist attacks, warning that militants continue to plot assaults in Nigeria, sometimes in collaboration with local gangs. Potential targets include shopping centres, hotels, places of worship, schools, government buildings, and transport hubs.

    Civil unrest and armed gangs remain active in southern regions, particularly the Niger Delta and Southeast, where kidnappings and assaults on security forces are frequent. Violence between farming and herding communities in rural areas has also contributed to instability.

    The State Department further cautioned that healthcare in Nigeria is unreliable, with hospitals often requiring immediate cash payments and lacking adequate equipment, medicines, and emergency services. Travellers are advised to bring sufficient medication, ensure vaccinations are up to date, and secure medical evacuation insurance.

    Americans are strongly urged not to travel to several states, including Borno, Yobe, Kogi, northern Adamawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers (except Port Harcourt), due to terrorism, crime, and unrest.

    The advisory recommends U.S. citizens in Nigeria enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), maintain a low profile, avoid demonstrations, and prepare evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.