US lifts Iran blockade as ceasefire deal takes effect despite tensions

The United States has lifted its naval blockade of Iran after both countries signed a ceasefire agreement aimed at ending their conflict and restoring stability in the Gulf. The deal includes an immediate halt to military operations and the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.

However, tensions remain high as Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader criticised Donald Trump, US President, saying the agreement was reached out of American “desperation”. US Vice President JD Vance insisted Iran would receive no sanctions relief or economic benefits until it fully complies with the agreement, including commitments related to its nuclear programme and regional activities. Further technical talks between the two sides are expected in Switzerland.

Ecuador gang leader killed in airport flower bouquet assassination

A suspected leader of Ecuador’s notorious Los Águilas criminal gang was shot dead outside Guayaquil airport in a carefully planned attack disguised as a welcome greeting.

Security footage showed the attackers waiting with flowers and stuffed toys before one gunman pulled a weapon hidden behind a teddy bear and opened fire.

Police identified the victim as Carlos Alberto Suástegui Villanueva, an alleged gang leader involved in drug trafficking and extortion. Two teenagers have been arrested over the killing, which comes amid a worsening wave of gang violence that has transformed Ecuador into one of Latin America’s most dangerous countries.

UK jails two men for spying on Hong Kong dissidents for China

A former UK Border Force officer and his associate have been sentenced to prison for spying on Hong Kong pro-democracy activists in Britain on behalf of Chinese intelligence.

Chi Leung “Peter” Wai received a 10-year sentence after using his access to Home Office databases to gather information on targeted individuals, while his handler Chung Biu “Bill” Yuen was jailed for eight years. British authorities described the operation as a covert campaign linked to the Hong Kong authorities and the Chinese state, allegations Beijing has denied.

SpaceX shares fall as post-IPO surge loses momentum

Shares of Elon Musk’s SpaceX dropped more than 6 percent as the excitement surrounding its historic stock market debut began to fade. The company had briefly become one of the world’s five most valuable firms after its share price surged following its record-breaking initial public offering.

Despite the decline, SpaceX remains significantly above its listing price, maintaining a market value of more than $2.5 trillion. Investors continue to back the company’s ambitions in space technology and artificial intelligence, although trading activity has slowed after the initial buying frenzy.

Ukraine strikes Moscow refinery in escalating drone campaign

Ukraine intensified its campaign against Russia’s energy infrastructure by launching another drone attack on an oil refinery in southeast Moscow, causing a major fire and sending thick smoke over the Russian capital.

The strike was part of Kyiv’s broader strategy to disrupt the oil industry that helps finance Russia’s war effort. By hitting strategic infrastructure close to the Kremlin, Ukraine also aims to demonstrate that the consequences of the conflict can increasingly be felt inside Russia.

AFRICA

Thirty-five killed in assault on Niger’s main airport

At least 35 people have been killed after heavily armed attackers launched a major assault on Diori Hamani International Airport in Niger’s capital, Niamey.

According to the defence ministry, the dead included 22 attackers, 11 soldiers and two civilians. The attack, the second on the airport in less than five months, highlights the continuing security challenges facing Niger as it battles Islamist insurgent groups operating across the Sahel region.

Zimbabwe moves to extend presidential terms, potentially keeping Mnangagwa in power longer

Zimbabwe’s parliament has approved legislation that would extend presidential terms from five years to seven years, a move that could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.

The proposed constitutional change has sparked concern among critics who fear it could weaken democratic safeguards and further consolidate power. Mnangagwa, who took office after the 2017 removal of long-time leader Robert Mugabe, is currently serving his second term.

Congo Ebola outbreak worsens as cases approach 900

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has continued to spread, with confirmed cases rising to 896 and the death toll reaching 232.

Health officials warned that the steady increase in infections points to ongoing community transmission and that the disease could spread into new areas unless stronger containment measures are implemented quickly.

IMF approves $211 million climate resilience funding for Sierra Leone

The International Monetary Fund has approved a new $211.5 million programme to help Sierra Leone strengthen its ability to cope with climate-related disasters.

The IMF also completed a review of the country’s existing financial support programme, allowing an immediate release of about $31.7 million. The funding is expected to support economic reforms while improving resilience against extreme weather and environmental shocks.

US imposes visa restrictions over Ethiopia peace concerns

The United States has announced targeted visa restrictions against individuals it says are undermining peace efforts in Ethiopia, particularly hardline members of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and their immediate relatives.

Washington warned that renewed tensions between the TPLF and Ethiopia’s federal government risk reigniting conflict in the north and threatening the fragile peace agreement that ended a devastating civil war in 2022.