New Post Africa

Category: Middle East

  • U.S. military sinks Iranian drone carrier, vows destruction of Iranian naval power

    U.S. military sinks Iranian drone carrier, vows destruction of Iranian naval power

    Florida, U.S. (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — The United States military has announced the sinking of an Iranian naval vessel described as a drone carrier. The announcement was made by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida.

    In a statement accompanied by video footage, CENTCOM said: “U.S. forces are not holding back in the mission to degrade the Iranian Navy. Today, an Iranian drone carrier, roughly the size of a World War II-era aircraft carrier, was struck and is now on fire.”

    The incident follows a recent operation in which U.S. forces sank another Iranian naval vessel off the coast of Sri Lanka, reportedly leaving more than 100 Iranian military personnel dead and dozens injured. The latest strike underscores escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, with analysts warning of potential wider regional implications.

  • Azerbaijan warns of retaliation after drone strike blamed on Iran

    Azerbaijan warns of retaliation after drone strike blamed on Iran

    Baku, Azerbaijan, March 5, 2026 (Agency Report) — Azerbaijan said Thursday it is preparing retaliatory measures after four Iranian drones allegedly crossed its border into the Nakhchivan exclave, injuring four people and striking civilian infrastructure. The incident has heightened fears that the Middle East war could spill further into the Caucasus.

    President Ilham Aliyev, addressing his Security Council, condemned the attack as “an unprovoked act of terror and aggression against Azerbaijan.” He ordered the armed forces to prepare a response, warning Tehran: “We are ready to demonstrate our strength against any hostile force — and they should not forget this in Iran.”

    Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi rejected the accusation, telling local media: “We do not attack our neighbouring countries.” Azerbaijani officials said investigations are underway to identify the drones, noting that one struck the terminal at Nakhchivan International Airport, another landed near a school, a third was shot down by the army, and a fourth damaged civilian infrastructure.

    The Foreign Ministry has demanded clarification from Tehran and lodged a formal protest with Iran’s ambassador. Officials warned that any threat to Azerbaijan’s energy infrastructure — a major supplier to Turkey and Europe via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline — could further drive up global oil prices already rattled by the U.S.–Iran war.

    Relations between Baku and Tehran have long been strained, with Azerbaijan deepening ties to Turkey and Israel. There is a growing fear that the conflict risks igniting violence between the neighbours, particularly given the presence of nearly 20 million ethnic Azerbaijanis inside Iran, the country’s largest minority group.

  • Middle East War: Two coalitions emerge — Israel’s President

    Middle East War: Two coalitions emerge — Israel’s President

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 5, 2026 — Amid escalating military operations by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran, the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, declared on Thursday that the conflict has given rise to two opposing coalitions in the Middle East.

    In a video message monitored by our correspondents, Herzog stated: “Two coalitions have emerged in the Middle East. One of terror, with Tehran at its centre. And one of hope, with Muslims, Christians, and Jews living together in peace. This coalition of hope, coexistence, and peace will prevail.”

    Israel’s objectives in its current strikes on Iran are twofold: to cripple Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and to weaken or remove the ruling regime. Coordinated closely with the United States, these attacks represent the most direct attempt yet to reshape Iran’s political and military landscape. Targets have included nuclear facilities, missile sites, and command centres, intending to reduce Iran’s capacity to arm regional proxies such as Hezbollah and deter future assaults on Israeli territory.

    Beyond military deterrence, analysts suggest Israel’s broader strategic goal is regime change in Tehran. The killing of senior Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, underscores this ambition. By destabilising Iran’s leadership, Israel hopes to pave the way for a government less hostile to its existence and regional stability. This marks a dramatic escalation from defensive operations toward actively reshaping Iran’s political order.

    Iran has responded with avalanches of missiles and drone strikes across countries in the region, inflicting significant damage and deaths in the Gulf.

  • Middle East War: Israel intensifies strikes on Tehran as U.S. Senate backs Trump’s war authority

    Middle East War: Israel intensifies strikes on Tehran as U.S. Senate backs Trump’s war authority

    JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (NPA) — March 4, 2026 — Israel carried out extensive airstrikes on Tehran Thursday, targeting facilities it said were linked to Iranian authorities, after missile attacks forced millions of Israelis into bomb shelters.

    The U.S.–Iran war, now in its sixth day, has spread beyond the Gulf into Asia, disrupting global markets and leaving thousands of tourists and residents scrambling to leave the region.

    In Washington, Republican senators late Wednesday blocked a measure that would have required congressional approval for continued military action against Iran. The move leaves President Donald Trump with broad authority to direct the campaign as fighting intensifies.

    U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth assured Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz in a phone call: “Keep going until the end — we’re with you,” according to Israel’s defence ministry.

    Iran’s foreign minister condemned the sinking of the frigate Dena off Sri Lanka, which killed at least 80 sailors. He said the vessel, visiting under the Indian navy’s invitation, was struck without warning in international waters, calling the attack an “atrocity at sea” and warning Washington would “bitterly regret” the precedent.

    General Kioumars Heydari of the Revolutionary Guard Corps vowed on state television: “We have decided to fight Americans wherever they are. We do not care how long the war lasts.”

    Later Thursday, the Guards claimed responsibility for striking a U.S. tanker in the northern Gulf, leaving the vessel ablaze. State media reported that the force declared that during wartime, passage through the Strait of Hormuz would remain under Iran’s control.

    Later on Thursday, the Revolutionary Guards said they ​had hit a U.S. tanker in the northern part of the Gulf, and the vessel was on fire. The Guards said in the statement carried by state media that in time of ​war, passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be under the control of the Islamic Republic.

  • Middle East War: Israel Accuses South Africa of Backing Iran

    Middle East War: Israel Accuses South Africa of Backing Iran

    JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (NPA) — March 5, 2026 — The Israeli Foreign Ministry has sharply criticised the South African government for allegedly backing Iran, following Pretoria’s co-chairing of the Hague Group’s March 4, 2026, meeting in The Hague. The gathering, attended by representatives from 40 states, focused on enforcing international law in Palestine.

    Israel condemned the landmark diplomatic event — the largest Hague Group meeting since its founding in January 2025 — accusing South Africa of aligning with Iran in its confrontation against Israel and the United States.

    In a statement issued on March 4, the Foreign Ministry declared: “South Africa, a close ally of the murderous regime in Tehran, which slaughtered thousands of its own citizens, has just organised another distorted anti-Israel meeting of the Hague Group. These two corrupt regimes, united by their hatred of Israel, recently held a joint naval exercise.”

    The statement further mocked the forum’s credibility, adding: “We can expect the outcome of the Hague meeting to be as successful as Iran’s navy, which is probably why Bolivia and Honduras had the sense to leave this forum.”

    The meeting’s agenda centred on strengthening coordinated state action to enforce international law in Palestine, discussing measures targeting Israeli settlements and arms transfers, promoting accountability mechanisms through international institutions, and highlighting South Africa’s role as a leading voice in global justice and solidarity with Palestine.

  • Reza Pahlavi Urges Iranians Abroad to Sustain Global Support Against Islamic Republic  

    Reza Pahlavi Urges Iranians Abroad to Sustain Global Support Against Islamic Republic  

    Lagos, Nigeria (NPA) — March 4, 2026 — Reza Pahlavi, the exiled Crown Prince of Iran, has called on Iranians in the diaspora to maintain the momentum of their global protests amid ongoing military action against the Islamic Republic regime.  

    In an online broadcast on Wednesday, Pahlavi — the eldest son of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, and Empress Farah Diba — praised the “tireless efforts and passionate presence” of Iranians abroad, noting that their activism, particularly during Global Action Day, has helped shift international opinion and compelled decision-makers to support the Iranian people.  

    He urged Iranians overseas to intensify their efforts by:  

    • Engaging policymakers: Contact representatives and decision-makers in host countries to ensure continued support for the Iranian people until the regime’s collapse.  
    • Defending sovereignty: Emphasise Iran’s territorial integrity and insist on full commitment to the people’s will in shaping the nation’s future system.  
    • Protecting civilians: Demand utmost care to prevent harm to non-combatants.  
    • Amplifying voices: Communicate the clear demands of Iranians through media outlets and civil society organisations.  
    • Mobilising visibly: Participate in grand marches to demonstrate solidarity and articulate the aspirations of the Iranian people.  

    “Fateful moments lie ahead of us — moments that will shape Iran’s future for decades and centuries to come. Redouble your efforts,” Pahlavi declared, invoking the legendary figure of Arash the Archer as a symbol of sacrifice and resilience.  

    Political observers note that Pahlavi is increasingly seen as a potential transitional leader for Iran, as military pressure from Israel and the United States has weakened the Islamic Republic, with several high-ranking officials reportedly assassinated in recent operations.  

    Pahlavi has outlined a political roadmap centred on democracy, secular governance, and human rights, encapsulated in his slogan “Make Iran Great Again (MIGA).”

  • Israeli Air Force Flattens Missile Launch Complex in Western Iran, Deepens Air Superiority

    Israeli Air Force Flattens Missile Launch Complex in Western Iran, Deepens Air Superiority

    Jerusalem, Israel (NPA) — March 4, 2026 — The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has confirmed the successful execution of extensive precision-guided airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure late Tuesday night.

    In a statement released Wednesday, the IAF announced that among the primary targets was a missile launch and storage complex in Isfahan, western Iran, housing “Qadr” ballistic missiles. The strike was carried out to prevent further launches from the facility.

    The statement declared: “In addition, numerous sites used for storing ballistic missiles and defence systems of the Iranian terror regime were attacked. These strikes deepened air superiority in several areas in Iran.”

    The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reinforced its position, stating: “The IDF will not allow harm to the State of Israel and its citizens. We will continue to deepen the damage to all systems of the Iranian terror regime and act forcefully against its infrastructure wherever required.”

    Israeli officials have described the campaign as overwhelmingly extensive and precise, resulting in the elimination of senior Iranian government figures, including the Supreme Leader. Iran has retaliated with volleys of missiles and drone strikes targeting Israel and Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and others.

  • U.S. Embassy Issues Security Alert Over Potential Protests in Abuja

    U.S. Embassy Issues Security Alert Over Potential Protests in Abuja

    Abuja, Nigeria (NPA) — March 4, 2026 — The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued a security alert warning of possible protests in Abuja linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

    In a statement released Wednesday, the mission cautioned U.S. citizens in the capital to remain at home, citing a heightened risk of demonstrations.

    “The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that there is a high potential for protests in Abuja today, March 4, 2026, due to the current conflict with Iran,” the statement said. “Previous protests by some groups have resulted in violent clashes with Nigerian security forces.”

    The advisory urged U.S. citizens to avoid protest areas and large gatherings, monitor local media, remain alert in public spaces, and review personal security plans. It also recommended carrying identification, keeping phones charged, and varying travel routes to reduce predictability.

    Recent protests have already taken place in cities including Sokoto and Kaduna, following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Demonstrators have called on the Nigerian government to respond, describing the incident as an injustice.

  • BREAKING: Over 100 Missing After Reported Submarine Strike on Iranian Vessel Near Sri Lanka

    BREAKING: Over 100 Missing After Reported Submarine Strike on Iranian Vessel Near Sri Lanka

    COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (NPA) — March 4, 2026 — More than 100 people are reported missing and 80 others wounded on Wednesday,  following what officials described as a submarine strike on an Iranian vessel off the coast of Sri Lanka, according to sources within the country’s navy and defence ministry.

    Authorities have not confirmed the country that deployed the submarine, and whether the vessel was carrying personnel linked to the Islamic Republic of Iran’s government.

    Investigations are ongoing, and further details are expected as the situation develops.

  • U.S. Army Identifies Four Soldiers Killed in Kuwait Drone Attack

    U.S. Army Identifies Four Soldiers Killed in Kuwait Drone Attack

    FORT BRAGG, N.C., USA (NPA), March 4, 2026 — The U.S. Department of War, in coordination with the Public Affairs Office of the U.S. Army Reserve Command, has confirmed the deaths of four Army Reserve soldiers during an unmanned aircraft system attack at the Port of Shuaiba, Kuwait, on March 1. The soldiers were supporting Operation Epic Fury and were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, based in Des Moines, Iowa. The incident remains under investigation.

    In a statement issued March 3, Lt. Gen. Robert Harter, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Reserve Command, said: “The fallen heroes served fearlessly and selflessly in defence of our nation. Their sacrifice, and the sacrifices of their families, will never be forgotten.” He extended condolences to the families and pledged continued support for their units and loved ones.

    The deceased soldiers have been identified as:

    • Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Lakeland, Florida

    • Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota

    • Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska

    • Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of Des Moines, Iowa

    Maj. Gen. Todd Erskine, Commanding General of the 79th Theatre Sustainment Command, described them as “brave men and women who put it all on the line every single day. They represent the heart of America. We will remember their names, their service, and their sacrifice.”

    Brig. Gen. Clint A. Barnes, Deputy Commanding General of the 1st Theatre Sustainment Command, added: “It is with deep sadness and unyielding grief that we acknowledge our soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. They were the ultimate ambassadors for freedom and represent the best of what our country stands for. May God grant their families peace and comfort. We will never forget them.”