Three dead in suspected hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship
A suspected outbreak of hantavirus aboard a cruise ship in the Atlantic has left three people dead and several others under medical observation, according to health authorities. The vessel, travelling from Argentina towards Cape Verde, has become the focus of an international investigation.
The World Health Organization confirmed at least one case of the rare virus, which is transmitted through rodent exposure and can be fatal in severe cases. Efforts are under way to evacuate affected passengers and contain any further spread, as global health officials coordinate a response.
Trump announces operation to free stranded ships in Hormuz
Donald Trump, United States President has announced a planned maritime operation to assist vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a “humanitarian gesture” aimed at supporting neutral countries caught in the conflict with Iran. The move comes after weeks of disruption, with Iran restricting access to the vital shipping lane and leaving dozens of vessels low on supplies.
Trump said US forces would guide ships safely through restricted waters, though details of the operation remain unclear. The announcement underscores the growing strategic importance of the strait, through which a significant share of global oil supplies normally passes, and highlights mounting pressure to prevent a deeper global economic shock.
Iran reviews US response to latest peace proposal
Iran has confirmed it received a response from the United States to its latest peace proposal, signalling a potential, albeit uncertain, diplomatic opening. According to state-linked media, the response was delivered through Pakistan and is currently under review by Tehran.
Iran’s proposal reportedly includes a 30-day framework to end hostilities, alongside demands for the withdrawal of US forces from its vicinity and the lifting of naval blockades. While Washington has not formally confirmed its reply, President Donald Trump has reportedly dismissed the proposal as unacceptable, indicating significant gaps remain between both sides.
Russian strikes kill 10 as Ukraine hits key naval targets
Russian drone and missile strikes have killed at least 10 people across multiple Ukrainian regions, as Moscow continues its sustained assault on urban centres. Ukrainian officials reported dozens more injured, with widespread damage caused by both direct hits and falling debris.
In a counteroffensive, Ukraine says it struck several Russian naval assets, including oil tankers and a missile carrier, in what President Volodymyr Zelensky described as a blow to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”. The escalation on both sides highlights the enduring intensity of the conflict, now deep into its third year.
Two women die in English channel migrant crossing attempt
Two women have died while attempting to cross the English Channel in a small boat from northern France, in the latest tragedy along one of Europe’s most dangerous migration routes. The vessel, carrying more than 80 people, ran aground shortly after departure, leaving several others injured.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, as concerns grow over the continued risks posed by human trafficking networks facilitating such crossings. The deaths add to a mounting toll that underscores the humanitarian dimension of migration across the Channel.
AFRICA
Search intensifies for missing US service members in Morocco
A multinational search operation is under way in Morocco after two US service members went missing during joint military exercises near coastal cliffs. Officials believe the incident may have been accidental, with early indications suggesting the soldiers could have fallen into the ocean.
The exercise, part of the large-scale African Lion drills, involves thousands of personnel from dozens of countries and is aimed at strengthening military coordination and crisis response capabilities across the region.
Kenya flood death toll rises as heavy rains persist
Kenya is grappling with deadly floods and landslides that have claimed at least 18 lives following days of heavy rainfall. Authorities say several regions have been severely affected, with emergency services responding to multiple incidents triggered by saturated ground and rising water levels.
Officials have warned that the situation remains dangerous, with further rainfall expected to exacerbate already fragile conditions. The disaster highlights the growing impact of extreme weather patterns across East Africa.
Mali probes soldiers over suspected role in insurgent attacks
Malian authorities have launched an investigation into several soldiers suspected of involvement in coordinated militant attacks on army bases. The inquiry follows a wave of assaults by groups linked to al-Qaeda and Tuareg separatists, exposing vulnerabilities within the country’s security apparatus.
Prosecutors say arrests have already been made, with efforts ongoing to identify additional accomplices. The development raises concerns about internal security breaches within Mali’s military amid a protracted insurgency.
China expands zero-tariff access for African exports
China has announced it will eliminate tariffs for nearly all African countries, expanding a policy aimed at boosting trade and strengthening economic ties. The measure, which excludes only Eswatini due to its diplomatic relations with Taiwan, will remain in place until at least 2028.
While Beijing has framed the move as a major step towards supporting African economies, analysts caution that structural trade imbalances and non-tariff barriers remain significant challenges for exporters across the continent.
Taiwan president visits Eswatini amid China tensions
Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s President has visited Eswatini, the island’s only diplomatic ally in Africa, in a trip marked by heightened tensions with China. The visit follows claims that Beijing pressured several African countries to block the president’s transit through their airspace.
China has dismissed the visit, reiterating its position that Taiwan has no right to formal diplomatic relations. The episode reflects the broader geopolitical contest between Beijing and Taipei for influence on the continent.
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