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Category: International

  • Starmer says UK net migration down 82%, unveils free bus travel plan amid deepening economic hardship

    Starmer says UK net migration down 82%, unveils free bus travel plan amid deepening economic hardship

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — Keir Starmer has claimed that net migration into the United Kingdom has fallen by 82 per cent, saying his government is delivering on its promise to restore control of British borders and strengthen national security.

    In a statement he issued on Thursday, the British Prime Minister said his administration remains committed to overhauling the country’s immigration system and reducing dependence on foreign labour, which fuels mass immigration to the United Kingdom.

    “I know there’s more to do. We’re introducing a skills-based migration system that rewards contribution and ends our reliance on cheap overseas workers,” Starmer stated.

    The Prime Minister said the measures form part of broader efforts by his government to build what he described as a more secure and economically stable Britain.

    However, analysts and critics have continued to raise concerns over illegal migration into the country, alleging that approximately 70,000 illegal migrants have entered the UK through the English Channel since Starmer assumed office as Prime Minister.

    According to reports, the majority of the migrants reportedly applied for asylum upon arrival, fueling ongoing debate over border security and pressure on public services and the British economy.

    The issue of illegal migration remains one of the most contentious political challenges facing the UK government amid rising economic concerns and growing public scrutiny over immigration policies.

    In another development, Starmer announced that children across England will enjoy free bus travel throughout August as part of measures aimed at easing financial pressure on families.

    “We know that families are still feeling the cost-of-living pressure, so we’re delivering immediate support,” the Prime Minister said in a separate statement.

    According to him, the initiative is designed to help families cope with rising living expenses during the school holiday period while also reducing transportation costs for households.

    Starmer further disclosed that his administration is taking additional steps to reduce the cost of everyday food items and put more money back into the pockets of citizens.

    The announcement comes amid mounting economic pressures in the United Kingdom, including inflation concerns and the impact of ongoing instability linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

    Earlier, the British government unveiled plans to subsidise groceries for struggling families as part of wider measures aimed at cushioning the effects of the cost-of-living crisis across the country.

  • Vandals desecrate 140 Belgian military graves, authorities launch investigation

    Vandals desecrate 140 Belgian military graves, authorities launch investigation

    BRUSSELS, Belgium (NPA) — Belgium’s Minister of Defence and Foreign Trade, Theo Francken has announced that about 140 Belgian military graves were vandalised overnight between Monday, May 18 and Tuesday, May 19, at the military cemetery in Houthulst.

    According to the minister, the cemetery, which is managed by the War Heritage Institute, suffered extensive damage after vandals pried loose a large number of metal memorial plaques from gravestones.

    He disclosed that around 10 gravestones were severely damaged or completely broken during the attack, while several memorial plaques were also badly damaged.

    Francken stated that all displaced grave plaques had since been recovered by the WHI War Graves Service.

    “We are deeply saddened and shocked by this shameless act of vandalism at a place where we safeguard the memory of those who gave their lives for our country, our freedom, and our democracy,” the minister said.

    Authorities described the incident as a desecration of a sacred memorial site dedicated to fallen soldiers who died in service to Belgium.

    The Belgian police have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the vandalism.

    As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not identified the individual or group responsible for the attack, while the motive behind the desecration also remains unclear.

    The incident has sparked outrage among residents and officials, with calls for those responsible to be brought to justice.

  • Russia, China declare support for multipolar world order, reject global hegemony

    Russia, China declare support for multipolar world order, reject global hegemony

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The governments of Russia and China have jointly declared support for the establishment of a multipolar world order and a new framework for international relations, warning against what they described as growing hegemonism, bloc confrontation and unilateral control of global affairs.

    The joint statement comes as Vladimir Putin paid a state visit to China shortly after Donald Trump departed the country.

    In a Joint Declaration released on May 20, both countries said the current international system is undergoing a “profound transformation” as global power shifts away from dominance by a small group of states toward what they called a more balanced and polycentric world order.

    The declaration, titled “Joint Declaration of the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China on the Establishment of a Multipolar World and a New Type of International Relations,” reaffirmed longstanding cooperation between the two nations and referenced a series of previous bilateral agreements dating back to 1997.

    According to the statement, Russia and China described themselves as major centres of influence in the emerging multipolar system and pledged to continue playing what they called a constructive role in maintaining global balance and reforming international relations.

    The two countries argued that the global political landscape has changed significantly since the end of World War II and the Cold War, pointing to the rise of sovereign states across Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and the Middle East.

    They noted that the growing influence of developing nations and regional organisations demonstrates that attempts by certain countries to unilaterally dominate global affairs or impose their interests on other states have failed.

    The declaration also criticised what it described as neocolonial tendencies in modern international politics, including the use of unilateral force, hegemonic policies, military alliances and bloc confrontation.

    Russia and China warned that repeated violations of international law and weakening global governance institutions are creating new threats to peace and development, adding that the world risks returning to what they described as the “law of the jungle.”

    As part of the declaration, both countries called on the international community to adopt principles aimed at building what they described as a more equal and orderly international system.

    The first principle emphasised openness and mutually beneficial cooperation among sovereign states, while rejecting coercive policies and attempts to divide the world into rival blocs.

    According to the statement, every country has the right to choose its own political and economic development model without outside interference.

    The declaration also stressed the principle of “indivisible and equal security,” arguing that no country should strengthen its security at the expense of another.

    Russia and China opposed the expansion of military alliances, proxy conflicts and hybrid warfare, while calling for disputes to be resolved peacefully through dialogue and respect for the security concerns of all nations.

    The two governments further advocated reforms to global governance institutions, including the United Nations, insisting that developing countries should have greater representation and influence in international decision-making.

    According to the declaration, the UN Charter remains the fundamental basis of international relations and should not be replaced by rules imposed by a limited group of countries.

    The statement also emphasised cultural and civilizational diversity, arguing that no civilisation or value system should be regarded as superior to another.

    Russia and China condemned the politicisation of human rights issues and opposed the use of human rights as justification for interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states.

    The declaration additionally called for stronger dialogue among civilisations, religions and cultures, saying such engagement is necessary to promote mutual understanding and global stability.

    Both countries concluded by pledging to continue developing a shared vision for what they described as a more equitable multipolar world and a new type of international relations based on equality, sovereignty and mutual respect.

  • U.S. Treasury sanctions flotilla organisers, Muslim Brotherhood networks backing Hamas

    U.S. Treasury sanctions flotilla organisers, Muslim Brotherhood networks backing Hamas

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) — The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has announced sweeping sanctions against individuals and organisations linked to Hamas, targeting both the organisers of a pro‑Hamas flotilla attempting to reach Gaza and key actors within Muslim Brotherhood networks that support the militant group.

    The action, unveiled on May 19, 2026, reinforces Washington’s determination to dismantle Hamas’s global financial and logistical support structures.

    Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the flotilla as “a ludicrous attempt to undermine President Trump’s successful progress toward lasting peace in the region,” adding that the U.S. will continue to sever Hamas’s international funding channels.

    The flotilla was organised by the Popular Conference for Palestinians Abroad (PCPA), a group Washington says is clandestinely controlled by Hamas. OFAC designated four individuals: Saif Hashim Kamel Abukishek, a Spain‑based member of PCPA’s General Secretariat and a central figure in the flotilla’s Steering Committee; Hisham Abdallah Sulayman Abu Mahfuz, acting Secretary General and President of PCPA based in Jordan; Mohammed Khatib, Belgium‑based European coordinator for Samidoun, a PFLP front organisation; and Jaldia Abubakra Aueda, Samidoun’s coordinator in Madrid.

    Treasury noted that so‑called humanitarian flotillas linked to sanctioned groups pose significant compliance risks for financial institutions. It emphasised that legitimate humanitarian aid must be safeguarded, while terrorist‑linked operations will be disrupted.

    The sanctions also extend to Hamas‑aligned religious networks. In 2014, Hamas leaders created a coordinating body to align religious discourse with its ideology, appointing Marwan Abu Ras as head. OFAC designated Abu Ras and the Palestinian Scholars Association for acting on behalf of Hamas.

    OFAC further targeted operatives tied to HASM, an Egypt‑based violent offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood. Karim Sayed Ahmed Moghny, a Hamas operative who directed militant activity and collaborated with HASM, was designated for supporting both Hamas and HASM. Muhammad Jamal Hassan al‑Najjar, involved in weapons acquisition and funding Hamas salaries, was also sanctioned. Sherif Ahmed Ewis Ahmed, a senior HASM official linked to explosives procurement, was added to the list.

    Under Executive Order 13224, all property and interests of the designated individuals in the U.S. are blocked. U.S. persons are prohibited from engaging in transactions with them, and foreign financial institutions risk secondary sanctions if they facilitate significant dealings.

    Treasury emphasised that the goal of sanctions is not punishment but behavioural change. OFAC reiterated that individuals may petition for removal from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List if they demonstrate compliance with U.S. law.

    Hamas, designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation since 2001, continues to rely on international partners to expand its influence and sustain violent operations. The latest sanctions highlight Washington’s strategy of targeting both direct operatives and the wider networks — including flotilla organisers, religious institutions, and Brotherhood affiliates — that enable Hamas’s activities.

    By striking at these financial and organisational lifelines, the U.S. aims to reinforce its broader diplomatic push for peace in Gaza while curbing the reach of groups accused of undermining stability in the Middle East.

  • Oil prices dip to $103.77 as Trump pauses Iran strike for talks

    Oil prices dip to $103.77 as Trump pauses Iran strike for talks

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — Crude benchmarks fell after U.S. President Donald Trump announced he had temporarily halted a planned military strike on Iran to allow negotiations aimed at ending the Middle East war.

    Trump, in a social media post late Monday, said the United States was “ready to resume attacks if a deal is not reached,” but emphasised that diplomacy was being given a chance.

    By midday trading, Brent futures for July delivery slipped $1.13 (1%) to $110.97 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) June contracts edged down 28 cents (0.3%) to $108.38.

    The more active July WTI contract dropped 61 cents (0.6%) to $103.77. Analysts noted that prices had touched their highest levels in weeks during the previous session before Trump’s comments triggered a reversal.

    “Markets are swinging from one headline to the next, but without any real breakthrough toward ending the conflict,” said Ole Hansen of Saxo Bank, adding that Trump’s remarks were the immediate catalyst for Tuesday’s decline.

    The ongoing war has effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor that normally carries about 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The International Energy Agency (IEA) described the closure as the largest single disruption to world energy supplies in decades.

    Iranian state media reported that Tehran’s latest peace proposal to Washington includes a halt to hostilities across all fronts, U.S. troop withdrawals from areas near Iran, and reparations for war damage.

    Domestically, the U.S. Energy Department disclosed that a record 9.9 million barrels were drawn from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve last week, reducing stockpiles to 374 million barrels, the lowest since July 2024. Industry forecasts suggest U.S. crude inventories fell by another 3.4 million barrels in the week ending May 15, with official data from the Energy Information Administration expected Wednesday.

  • Trump halts planned Iran strikes after Gulf leaders’ intervention, signals possible nuclear deal talks

    Trump halts planned Iran strikes after Gulf leaders’ intervention, signals possible nuclear deal talks

    WASHINGTON, United States (NPA) — President Donald Trump has called off the planned resumption of US military strikes against Iran, citing ongoing diplomatic interventions by Gulf leaders and renewed prospects for a negotiated settlement.

    Trump said the decision followed engagements with the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

    In a post on his Truth Social account, the US President said he had instructed the American military to suspend the planned strike on the Iran, which had been scheduled for the following day.

    He said “serious negotiations” were now underway, adding that, based on the assessment of Gulf leaders, a deal was likely to be reached that would be acceptable to the United States as well as other countries in the Middle East and beyond.

    Trump reiterated that any potential agreement would include a strict prohibition on Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.

    “NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS FOR IRAN!” he declared.

    In the statement, Trump said: “Based on my respect for the above-mentioned Leaders, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Daniel Caine, and the United States Military, that we will NOT be doing the scheduled attack of Iran tomorrow.”

    However, he added that US forces remain on standby and fully prepared to launch a large-scale military operation “on a moment’s notice” should negotiations fail or an acceptable deal not be reached.

    The development comes after Trump earlier issued a warning to Iran, insisting that time was running out to reach an agreement or face severe military consequences.

    Tensions have remained high amid the ongoing conflict dynamics in the Middle East, with the Strait of Hormuz emerging as a critical flashpoint with significant implications for global energy markets and international security.

  • Donald Trump warns Iran “time is running out” over agreement with US

    Donald Trump warns Iran “time is running out” over agreement with US

    WASHINGTON D.C., U.S (NPA) — Donald Trump has warned the Islamic Republic of Iran to move quickly toward reaching an agreement with the United States aimed at resolving the conflict between both nations.

    In a terse post shared on Truth Social on Sunday, Trump wrote: “For Iran, the clock is ticking, and they better get moving, FAST, or there won’t be anything left of them. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE! President DJT.”

    The U.S. president, however, did not specify any deadline or timeframe for Tehran to comply, nor did he elaborate on the consequences Iran could face if negotiations fail.

    The growing standoff around the Strait of Hormuz has remained at the centre of the crisis, with both Washington and Tehran making competing claims over control and possible blockades of the critical global oil transit route.

    The uncertainty surrounding the conflict has continued to rattle international energy markets, contributing to rising global oil prices.

    Analysts say the situation currently appears to be in a state of stalemate as geopolitical tensions continue to deepen amid fears of wider regional instability.

    Earlier in a related development, the United Arab Emirates announced that its air defence systems intercepted multiple drones, with one reportedly striking an electrical generator near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant. The Gulf country said it is investigating the projectiles that came through its southern borders.

  • JUST IN: Drone hits electrical generator at Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in United Arab Emirates

    JUST IN: Drone hits electrical generator at Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in United Arab Emirates

    ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (NPA) — The Ministry of Defence of the United Arab Emirates has confirmed that the country’s air defence systems engaged three drones that entered the nation’s airspace on Sunday, with one striking an electrical generator outside the perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, the Ministry said the drones entered the country from the western border on May 17, 2026.

    According to the Ministry, two of the drones were successfully intercepted by air defence systems, while the third drone hit an electrical generator located outside the inner perimeter of the nuclear facility in the Al Dhafra area.

    Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the drone attacks, adding that further details would be released upon the conclusion of the probe.

    The Ministry of Defence stressed that the UAE remains on high alert and fully prepared to confront any threats targeting the country’s security and stability.

    It added that the armed forces would continue to firmly counter all attempts aimed at undermining the nation’s sovereignty, national interests, and critical infrastructure.

  • WHO declares Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda a global health emergency

    WHO declares Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DRC and Uganda a global health emergency

    GENEVA, Switzerland (NPA) — The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the outbreak of Ebola disease caused by the Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), warning of significant risks of regional and international spread.

    In a statement issued on 17 May 2026, the WHO Director-General said the outbreak does not yet meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency under the International Health Regulations (2005) but requires urgent international coordination. He praised the governments of the DRC and Uganda for their transparency and commitment to tackling the crisis.

    As of 16 May 2026, the WHO reported eight laboratory-confirmed cases, 246 suspected cases, and 80 suspected deaths in Ituri Province, DRC, across Bunia, Rwampara, and Mongbwalu health zones. Two confirmed cases, including one death, were reported in Kampala, Uganda, within 24 hours of each other, both involving travellers from DRC. Another confirmed case was detected in Kinshasa, raising concerns about wider spread.

    Clusters of community deaths with symptoms consistent with Bundibugyo virus disease have been reported, alongside four deaths among healthcare workers, pointing to hospital-based transmission and gaps in infection prevention. WHO warned that the outbreak may be larger than currently detected due to limited surveillance and weak epidemiological links.

    The agency described the event as “extraordinary” because the Bundibugyo strain has no approved vaccines or therapeutics, unlike Ebola-Zaire. The outbreak is occurring in urban and semi-urban hotspots, increasing the risks of rapid spread. Ongoing insecurity, humanitarian crises, and high population mobility in Eastern DRC further complicate containment.

    International spread has already been documented, with confirmed cases in Uganda. Neighbouring countries with porous borders and high mobility are considered at high risk. WHO stressed that international coordination is essential to prevent further spread and ensure effective surveillance, treatment, and community engagement.

    WHO urged affected countries to activate national emergency mechanisms, scale up surveillance, contact tracing, laboratory testing, and infection prevention, and engage communities through local leaders and healers to improve case reporting and early treatment. It also called for safe burials conducted by trained personnel, strengthened border health measures, and restricted travel for suspected cases.

    For neighbouring states, the WHO advised urgent preparedness, including rapid response teams, diagnostic capacity, and community surveillance. For other countries, the WHO cautioned against border closures, noting such measures lack a scientific basis and could worsen informal cross-border movements.

    The Director-General announced plans to convene an Emergency Committee to refine temporary recommendations and guide international response. WHO emphasised the need for research and clinical trials to develop Bundibugyo-specific treatments and vaccines.

    The declaration of a PHEIC underscores the seriousness of the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak, which has already spread beyond DRC’s Ituri Province into Uganda and Kinshasa. WHO warned that weak transparency and inadequate preparedness could undermine containment efforts. The global health body urged swift, coordinated action to safeguard lives and prevent further destabilisation in the region.

  • Trump responds to Reverend Dachomo’s cries over killings of Christians

    Trump responds to Reverend Dachomo’s cries over killings of Christians

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has amplified the calls of Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo, Regional Leader of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), over the alleged killings of Christians in Nigeria.

    Trump reposted a video of the cleric on his Truth Social platform, Saturday, with the caption: “NIGERIA PASTOR SPEAKS OUT — THE WORLD NEEDS TO LISTEN.”

    In the emotional video, Rev. Dachomo appealed directly to the international community and the United States government, saying: “United Nations, I know you are watching me. American Senate, you are watching what I am doing, what I am saying here? Special Adviser, tell Trump now! Tell Trump to save our lives in Nigeria. They are killing Christians, massacring Christians in Nigeria.”

    Rev. Dachomo has consistently raised alarm over repeated attacks and killings of Christians in parts of Nigeria’s North-Central region, particularly Plateau State, urging the international community to intervene.

    On April 27, 2026, the cleric called for global attention following the killing of an entire pastor’s family in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

    The victims — Reverend Ayuba Choji, his wife and their two children, Precious and Ishaya — were allegedly killed by suspected Islamist extremists before they were buried three days later in Kwi community. Their only surviving son reportedly escaped through a window during the attack.

    On May 13, Dachomo again raised concerns over fresh attacks in Plateau State that reportedly left six persons dead.

    Earlier on April 26, the cleric also demanded justice for a teenage girl whose hand was allegedly amputated in Northern Nigeria after her family reportedly refused to approve an Islamist marriage proposal.

    Dachomo described the incident as one of the moments when “the heart can no longer carry the weight of silence.”

    Similarly, on April 12, 2026, the COCIN leader condemned the killing of five members of a family in Mbwelle village, Forof District, Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.

    According to him, the attack was allegedly carried out by armed Fulani assailants emerging from a nearby settlement reportedly under military protection.

    Several other incidents of killings, attacks and alleged persecution have also been documented by the cleric on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

    The renewed attention comes amid the redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged persistent violence on Christians and alleged government inaction.

    The Nigerian government has repeatedly denied allegations that Christians are specifically targeted, insisting that insecurity, killings and abductions across the country affect Christians, Muslims and adherents of traditional religions alike.

    As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Presidency had yet to officially respond to Trump’s latest post.

    The development also comes hours after the United States military and the Nigerian Army carried out a joint operation that eliminated Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as the global second-in-command of ISIS.

    Trump announced the operation on his Truth Social platform, describing it as a meticulously planned overnight mission executed by American forces alongside the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also praised the operation, declaring that terrorists have no hiding place in Nigeria.