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  • FBI arrests Bangladeshi national in international child exploitation case

    FBI arrests Bangladeshi national in international child exploitation case

    Lagos, Nigeria (NPA) — March 6, 2026 — The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced the arrest of a 28-year-old Bangladeshi national, wanted since 2022 for allegedly operating an international child sexual exploitation enterprise.

    In a statement released Friday, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the suspect, identified as Zobaidul Amin, was apprehended in Malaysia and subsequently transferred to the United States.

    “The FBI, working closely with our international partners, has arrested Zobaidul Amin, 28, a Bangladeshi national who has been wanted since 2022 on charges including running an international child sexual exploitation enterprise,” Patel said.

    According to the FBI, Amin was flown from Malaysia to Alaska on Thursday night, where he is expected to face formal charges later today.

    Director Patel expressed gratitude to both U.S. and international agencies for their cooperation in the operation.

    “We thank Legat Kuala Lumpur, the Government of Malaysia, and our local partners across the country for their invaluable assistance in this investigation and arrest. Special recognition goes to FBI Anchorage for their outstanding work in this case,” he added.

    Sex trafficking and child exploitation are treated as serious federal crimes in the United States. Convictions can carry penalties ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment, along with substantial fines and restitution to victims. In aggravated cases involving minors, offenders may face automatic life sentences.

  • U.S. assure of energy security amid Iran conflict

    U.S. assure of energy security amid Iran conflict

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) — March 5, 2026 — The United States government has sought to calm fears of an energy crisis as military operations with Israel against Iran intensify. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Thursday that President Donald Trump’s administration has positioned the U.S. as the world’s largest producer of crude oil and natural gas, ensuring resilience against supply shocks.

    Leavitt noted that beyond domestic production, Washington is exploring opportunities to strengthen energy dominance by tapping newly discovered reserves in Venezuela. She added that the U.S. Development Finance Corporation will provide political risk insurance for crude carriers and cargo ships operating in the Gulf, while the U.S. Navy stands ready to escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary. “Rest assured — President Trump’s entire energy team has been preparing for this, and they are all over it,” she said.

    Global oil markets, however, have already reacted sharply to the conflict. Crude prices surged more than 8% in early March, with gas and LNG markets also spiking amid fears of prolonged supply disruptions. Analysts warn that higher energy costs could fuel inflation worldwide, while investors have shifted toward gold and defence stocks as safe havens. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has claimed to have shut the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil flows, raising concerns of sustained price volatility.

    In Nigeria, as the hostilities pushed global crude prices above $90 per barrel, petrol prices rose to ₦824–₦880 per litre, with regional variations based on transport and supply chain costs.

    Economic forecasters, including Oxford Economics, project that the war could last weeks or months, keeping energy markets unstable. Morgan Stanley cautioned that inflationary pressures may constrain central banks, limiting their ability to raise interest rates. The longer the conflict and Gulf disruption persist, the more severe the global economic fallout is expected to be.

  • 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.

  • 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.”

  • Middle East War: Trump Directs DFC to Provide Risk Insurance for Gulf Maritime Trade

    Middle East War: Trump Directs DFC to Provide Risk Insurance for Gulf Maritime Trade

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA), March 3, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has instructed the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to offer political risk insurance and financial guarantees to safeguard maritime trade, particularly energy shipments, transiting the Gulf region.

    The directive comes amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, now in its fourth day, involving U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran and retaliatory attacks across the Gulf. Iran has threatened to target cargo vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies.

    In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump announced:

    “Effective immediately, I have ordered the United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to provide, at a very reasonable price, political risk insurance and guarantees for the financial security of all maritime trade, especially energy, travelling through the Gulf. This will be available to all shipping lines. If necessary, the United States Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible. No matter what, the United States will ensure the free flow of energy to the world.”

    Global energy markets have reacted sharply to the escalating tensions. Analysts warn that disruptions to production facilities and refineries following Iranian strikes could drive volatility in international energy prices. However, Trump’s move is viewed by some experts as a stabilising measure that may help contain price fluctuations during the ongoing military campaign, which U.S. officials anticipate could last up to four weeks.