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UAE Warns Iran Not To ‘Hold World Economy Hostage’ The United Arab Emirates has warned that Iran must not be allowed to threaten global trade by blocking one of the world’s most vital energy routes. In an interview with Euronews, Lana Nusseibeh, Minister of State at the UAE Foreign Ministry, said Iran must not be permitted to hold the global economy hostage through what she described as “rogue state behaviour”. Her comments come as the escalating regional conflict raises fears over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman that carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Global supply chains at riskSpeaking from Abu Dhabi, Nusseibeh warned that disruption to the strait would have consequences far beyond the Middle East. “Globally, about 20% of the world’s energy supplies travel through that narrow waterway,” she said. “If that is disrupted, it impacts not only global energy prices but global food security and food supplies.” Rising energy costs would quickly filter through to everyday consumers, she added, pushing up fuel prices and increasing the cost of groceries around the world. UAE balancing defence and restraintThe warning comes two weeks into the conflict that has seen Iranian missiles and drones strike targets across the Gulf region. Despite absorbing some of the heaviest attacks since the war began, Nusseibeh said life in the United Arab Emirates had largely returned to normal. “We’ve had an incredibly challenging 14 days,” she said, adding that authorities have focused on protecting residents while maintaining economic stability. The UAE says its response requires a delicate balance: defending its territory without triggering a wider regional war. A forceful retaliation against Iran could risk drawing additional regional and international actors into the conflict, while failing to respond could leave critical infrastructure exposed. Preparing for regional turbulenceNusseibeh said the country’s resilience reflects decades of preparation for instability in the Gulf. “We have been preparing for various scenarios in a very turbulent region for decades,” she said. The UAE has invested heavily in supply chains, food security and global logistics networks, positioning itself as a major hub connecting more than 150 destinations worldwide. The country has also built extensive air defence capabilities, which Nusseibeh described as “best in class”. “Our UAE Armed Forces have kept our communities and residents safe,” she said. A wider regional stakeWhile emphasising that the UAE does not seek escalation, Nusseibeh said the country would remain firm in defending its security and economic stability. “The red lines are the security, prosperity and well-being of our Emirati and expatriate communities,” she said. For Gulf governments, the stakes extend far beyond the battlefield. The conflict threatens critical energy routes and global supply chains that underpin the international economy. SOURCE

Epstein Gave Mandelson illegal Drugs And Xanax,/ Botox, Emails Reveal Explosive emails from the so-called Epstein files suggest convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein supplied illegal drugs and arranged cosmetic treatments for senior Labour figure Peter Mandelson while he was serving in government. The messages, revealed in newly surfaced correspondence, show Mandelson asking Epstein for medication believed to include the sedative Xanax, a controlled drug in both the UK and the US. The exchanges took place while Epstein was under house arrest following his 2008 conviction for soliciting sex from a minor. In one message, Mandelson asked Epstein: “One triangle or two??” — an apparent reference to the triangular shape of certain Xanax tablets. In another email he asked how he would obtain more “triangles” after running out. At one point Mandelson wrote: “Triangles are all very well but you need someone to use them on…”, according to the correspondence. Botox appointment arrangedSeparate emails show Epstein offering to arrange cosmetic injections during Mandelson’s visit to New York in March 2010, when he was serving as business secretary in the government of Gordon Brown. In an exchange ahead of the trip, Epstein asked whether Mandelson wanted treatment, writing: “Wed face and neck?” The Labour peer responded by asking: “Do you think I should?”, to which Epstein replied: “Botox first step.” The procedure was reportedly discussed during Mandelson’s visit to Epstein while the financier remained under house arrest. Medication requestsThe emails also show Mandelson asking Epstein for supplies of Niaspan, a prescription drug used to treat cholesterol. Epstein told him to take the medication daily and suggested consulting a doctor for a formal prescription. In another exchange Mandelson discussed taking Dosulepin, an antidepressant no longer commonly prescribed because of safety concerns. The correspondence indicates Mandelson frequently sought Epstein’s advice about medication, even asking him when to take pills while travelling across time zones. Pressure over ambassador roleThe revelations are expected to intensify political pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who appointed Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the United States despite longstanding controversy surrounding his association with Epstein. Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp called the allegations “jaw-dropping” and urged police to investigate. “If Mandelson was being provided with restricted drugs and cosmetic treatments by Epstein while serving in government, the authorities should look into this immediately,” Philp said. Mandelson has previously admitted his relationship with Epstein was a “terrible mistake” and described the friendship as a case of “misplaced loyalty”. Earlier links with Epstein circleSeparate testimony from former Epstein employee Christine Kenneally has also resurfaced, claiming she was once asked to provide massages to Mandelson and Prince Andrew during a visit to Martha's Vineyard in 1999. Kenneally said both men behaved as “perfect gentlemen” and that nothing inappropriate occurred. Lawyers representing Mandelson declined to comment on the latest claims. SOURCE

Missile Hits US Embassy In Baghdad Green Zone As Iran War Escalates A missile struck the United States Embassy Baghdad late Friday night, breaching the heavily fortified Green Zone in Baghdad and hitting a helipad inside the sprawling diplomatic compound, according to security officials. The attack marks one of the most direct strikes on a major American diplomatic facility since the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran began two weeks ago. Officials believe the projectile was launched by Iranian-backed militias operating inside Iraq, groups that have repeatedly targeted US interests in the region. Video posted online by the pro-Iran militia outlet Sabereen News appeared to show smoke rising from the embassy compound shortly after the strike. Embassy warns Americans of growing threatsFollowing the attack, the embassy issued a security warning to US citizens across Iraq, saying American interests were increasingly under threat. “Attacks targeting US citizens, US interests, and critical infrastructure have been observed,” the embassy said in a statement. Officials warned that Iran-aligned militias had already targeted hotels popular with foreign visitors and facilities linked to US companies, including energy infrastructure. Americans in the country were urged to exercise extreme caution, keep a low profile, and avoid locations that could make them potential targets. The embassy also provided guidance for citizens seeking to leave Iraq. Escalation following US strikes on IranThe attack comes as tensions continue to escalate across the Middle East following the launch of Operation Epic Fury, the US-led campaign against Iranian military targets. Since the operation began, Tehran has launched waves of retaliatory missile and drone attacks targeting American bases, embassies, and allied countries across the region. Last week, the United States Embassy Riyadh in Riyadh was also damaged in what officials believe was an Iranian drone strike. The attack sparked a fire but did not cause major structural damage. Trump claims major strike on Iranian oil hubNews of the Baghdad attack emerged just hours after Donald Trump announced a major American airstrike on Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export terminal in the Persian Gulf. Posting on Truth Social, Trump said US forces had carried out one of the most powerful bombing raids in the region’s history. “Moments ago, at my direction, the United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the history of the Middle East and totally obliterated every military target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island,” the president wrote. The missile strike on the Baghdad embassy highlights how the conflict is increasingly spilling beyond Iran itself, raising fears of a broader regional confrontation involving militia forces across the Middle East. SOURCE

Donald Trump deploys 5,000 Marines to the Middle East amid fears of new war phase President Donald Trump has reportedly deployed 5,000 marines to the Middle East as both the U.S. and Israel continue to pummel Iran with coordinated strikes. The deployment of troops to the Strait of Hormuz comes as many fear there could be conflict over the waterway, through which most of the world's oil flows. Three officials told the Wall Street Journal that Secretary of War Pete Hegseth approved the request from U.S. Central Command on Friday. According to officials, the request was for an expeditionary unit comprising several warships and a 5,000-strong complement of troops. The Daily Mail reported that the Japan-based USS Tripoli, an amphibious assault ship, along with a troop complement, is now on its way to the Middle East. SOURCE EXPRESS US

IRGC Executions Expose Cracks Inside Iran’s Theocracy A mutilated body dumped in the street may signal something far more dangerous for the ruling clerics of Iran than another act of repression. According to intelligence sources, the dead man was not a protester but an officer from the regime’s elite security force — the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps — and his killing may point to a growing breakdown inside the very institution meant to protect the Islamic Republic. Since the US–Israeli strikes on Iran began on February 28, reports from inside the country suggest the regime’s military and security apparatus is experiencing severe internal strain. Western intelligence sources claim that more than 60 separate incidents have been documented across multiple branches of Iran’s security forces in recent days. These include executions of soldiers accused of desertion, summary killings of officers refusing orders, and suspected sabotage inside sensitive missile units. According to those monitoring the situation, the incidents span several branches of Iran’s armed forces, including intelligence units, naval personnel and the regular army. In some cases, personnel are reportedly being executed on the spot at military bases under highly classified orders. Bodies have later appeared in public spaces — a brutal warning intended to deter dissent within the ranks. Paranoia spreading through security forcesOfficials inside the regime are believed to suspect widespread infiltration by foreign intelligence services, further deepening mistrust between commanders and their subordinates. Missile units have also reportedly experienced unexplained technical failures. Investigators believe sabotage may be responsible in some cases, triggering internal probes that have ended with arrests and further executions. The result, according to intelligence sources, is a security apparatus increasingly consumed by suspicion and fear. Some killings are also believed to be the work of opposition groups targeting regime figures amid the chaos of war. Together, the incidents suggest that Iran’s normally rigid system of control may be facing pressure from both external attack and internal fractures. Heavy repression on the streetsDespite the turmoil within the security services, public resistance remains limited for now. Authorities have imposed sweeping security measures in major cities, especially in the capital Tehran, where checkpoints and patrols have multiplied. Iran’s national police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan issued a stark warning on state television, declaring that anyone seen cooperating with enemies during the war would be treated as a combatant. “If anyone comes forward in line with the wishes of the enemy, we will no longer see them as merely a protester,” he said. “We will see them as an enemy.” Regime change still uncertainThe war has revived speculation about the possibility of regime change following the death of longtime supreme leader Ali Khamenei, whose successor is widely reported to be his son Mojtaba Khamenei. US President Donald Trump urged Iranians to rise against the regime when the airstrikes began, telling citizens that “the hour of your freedom is at hand.” So far, however, the population has largely remained indoors as airstrikes continue and security forces tighten control. For now, Iran’s leadership still holds power. But reports of executions, desertions and internal sabotage suggest the regime’s most feared institution may be under strain — raising the possibility that its greatest threat could come from within. SOURCE

Australia Freezes Visas For Iranians As Footballers Get Asylum Australia’s government is facing accusations of hypocrisy after proposing to freeze visas for ordinary Iranians while granting humanitarian protection to members of the Iranian women’s national football team. The controversy erupted after Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that several Iranian players who refused to sing their country’s anthem at the Women’s Asian Cup would be allowed to remain in Australia on humanitarian grounds. At the same time, Canberra introduced the Migration Amendment Bill 2026, legislation that would allow ministers to temporarily block travellers from certain countries from entering Australia, even if they already hold valid visas. The move comes amid growing instability in the Middle East following the war involving Iran, raising fears that visa holders might remain in Australia rather than return to conflict zones. New powers to halt arrivalsUnder the proposed law, the home minister could issue an “arrival control determination”, freezing temporary visas for people from specific countries for up to six months before they enter the country. The measure would apply only to individuals outside Australia and would require the approval of both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the foreign minister. Temporary visas allow visitors to enter Australia for tourism, study, business or sporting events, typically for periods ranging from a month to five years. Officials argue the powers are necessary because global crises can suddenly change the circumstances under which visas were originally issued. Assistant citizenship minister Julian Hill told parliament that major international developments could affect whether visa holders would return home once their stay ended. “The current situation in the Middle East demonstrates how quickly circumstances can change,” Hill said, warning that conflicts could make it harder for temporary visitors to leave Australia when their visas expired. Government figures suggest nearly 7,000 Iranian citizens currently hold Australian visitor visas but have not yet travelled to the country, while roughly 61,000 people from Middle Eastern countries hold temporary travel visas overall. Critics accuse government of double standardsOpponents argue the legislation risks blocking people fleeing war while the government highlights high-profile humanitarian gestures. Senator Larissa Waters, leader of the Australian Greens in the Senate, condemned the proposal as cruel. “What an appalling act of cruelty,” she said, accusing the government of backing military action overseas while shutting the door on civilians seeking protection. Greens immigration spokesman David Shoebridge also criticised the timing, saying the government was celebrating protection for a handful of athletes while moving to block other Iranians from entering the country. Refugee advocates echoed the criticism. Kon Karapanagiotidis, chief executive of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, said the legislation could allow authorities to prevent people from travelling to Australia even if they already held valid visas. Footballers granted protectionThe dispute centres on members of Iran’s women’s national team who travelled to Australia for the Women’s Asian Cup before the war began. Several players drew international attention after declining to sing the Iranian national anthem, an act widely interpreted as a protest against the regime in Iran. Five players were granted humanitarian visas after the tournament amid fears they could face repercussions if they returned home. Prime Minister Albanese defended the decision, saying Australians had been “moved by the plight of these brave women”. “They’re safe here,” he said. “They should feel at home here.” SOURCE

Farage: Mass Migration Fueling Support For Iran’s ‘Barbarism’ Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has warned that Britain’s migration policies have allowed people into the country who openly support the “barbarism” of Iran’s ruling clerics, as tensions surrounding pro-Iran protests grow in London during the ongoing Middle East war. Speaking ahead of demonstrations linked to the annual Al-Quds Day, Farage said supporters of the regime in Iran were effectively backing a government that persecutes minorities and brutally suppresses dissent. He accused Tehran’s leadership of helping fuel Islamist activism and sectarian politics inside Britain. “The Ayatollah and his cronies are funding the growth of Islamism, sectarian voting and Jew hatred in this country,” Farage said. “We have people living here who support the barbarism of the mullahs in Tehran. We’re dealing with savagery at a level we cannot even believe.” The Reform UK leader also linked the phenomenon to what he described as failures in Britain’s immigration policy, arguing that recent migration waves had brought in individuals hostile to Western values. Referring to immigration policies during the premiership of Boris Johnson, Farage said: “The Boris Wave let the wrong people in. We’ve always been open-minded about who we let in, but we’re letting in people who hate us.” Police prepare for flashpoint protestsThe comments come as police prepare for potentially volatile demonstrations in central London connected to Al-Quds Day, an event established after the Iranian Revolution of 1979 and traditionally held on the last Friday of Ramadan to express support for Palestinians. This year, authorities fear clashes between pro-Iran demonstrators and counter-protesters amid the escalating conflict involving Israel and United States forces against Tehran. To prevent disorder, the Metropolitan Police Service has imposed strict conditions separating the rival gatherings using the River Thames as a physical barrier. Demonstrators marking Al-Quds Day will be restricted to the Albert Embankment on the south bank, while counter-protesters will gather across the river in the Millbank area. Around 12,000 people are expected to take part in the demonstrations, with approximately 1,000 police officers deployed across the capital. Fears of violenceMetropolitan Police Commissioner Mark Rowley said the decision to split the protests was based purely on operational safety concerns. “The main march and counter-marches were planned by groups with sharply opposing objectives in a global context that is unusually volatile and emotionally charged,” he said. “Our assessment is that this combination presented a real risk of serious violence and disorder that could not be safely mitigated through conditions alone.” Rowley added that London had recently seen “extraordinary levels of hate crime,” including both antisemitic and anti-Muslim incidents, alongside increased targeting of Iranian dissidents and Jewish communities. Authorities insist the restrictions are not intended to limit protest rights but to reduce the risk of confrontation between rival groups during an increasingly tense international crisis. SOURCE

Trump’s Cuba Endgame: Trade Deal Could Topple Regime Faster Than Force For more than six decades, communist Cuba has stood as both a revolutionary symbol for Latin America’s left and a strategic headache for the United States. Ever since Fidel Castro overthrew dictator Fulgencio Batista in 1959, Washington has tried everything from sanctions to covert pressure to isolate the island’s regime. Yet despite repeated predictions of collapse, the communist system has endured. Now a new dynamic may be shifting the balance. President Donald Trump has tightened economic pressure on Havana by targeting its main energy lifeline: oil shipments tied to the regime in Venezuela. By disrupting that supply, the administration has effectively placed Cuba under an energy squeeze that has deepened the island’s economic crisis. Although the White House recently eased some restrictions on private oil sales, the overall pressure campaign has pushed Cuba toward severe shortages, worsening living conditions and raising fears of a mass migration crisis. Migration Risks RisingHistorically, economic collapse on the island has triggered waves of migration. The most famous example came during the Mariel Boatlift in 1980, when around 125,000 Cubans fled to Miami after Castro temporarily lifted emigration restrictions. Today, a similar surge could create political turmoil. Florida might absorb large numbers of arrivals, but such an influx would clash with Trump’s tough immigration stance. Meanwhile, parts of Mexico, particularly the Yucatán Peninsula, lack the resources to cope with a major humanitarian influx. Preventing such a crisis may require a different strategy altogether. A Radical Alternative: Trade Instead Of PressureRather than threatening intervention or regime change, Washington could attempt something far more unconventional — economic integration. Former US president Barack Obama attempted to ease the longstanding US trade embargo, but the initiative collapsed amid partisan opposition in Washington. Now another opportunity may be approaching. Later this year, the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) — the North American trade pact linking the US, Canada and Mexico — will undergo a mandatory review. That process could open the door for a dramatic proposal: inviting Cuba to join the agreement. Tourism is the island’s largest economic sector, and more than half of its visitors already come from USMCA countries. Cuban officials have repeatedly signalled they are open to foreign investment, particularly in energy, infrastructure and mining. Supporters of the idea argue that linking Cuba to North America’s trade system could encourage gradual economic reform and push the country toward a market-based economy without military confrontation. Lessons From EuropeAdvocates point to the example of the European Union, which successfully integrated former communist states after the collapse of the Soviet bloc. Countries such as Poland underwent painful economic transitions but eventually became some of Europe’s fastest-growing economies. The promise of market access and investment acted as a powerful incentive for political and economic reform. A similar dynamic could theoretically unfold in Cuba. Political Cover For A DealIronically, Trump himself may be uniquely positioned to attempt such a diplomatic gamble. Just as Richard Nixon used his anti-communist credentials to open relations with China in the 1970s, Trump’s hardline reputation could give him political room to pursue reconciliation with Havana. His secretary of state, Marco Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants and a longtime critic of the regime, could also play a crucial role in shaping such a shift. The logic is simple: economic integration may succeed where decades of confrontation have failed. For ordinary Cubans — many of whom have endured generations of shortages, exile and family separation — the hope is that a peaceful economic opening could finally bring change to one of the Western Hemisphere’s last communist states. SOURCE

British Troops Burning Through Missiles Shooting Down Putin-Backed Drones British forces stationed in northern Iraq are firing so many missiles to intercept Iranian drones that emergency resupply flights have already been sent to keep defences operational. Senior commanders say the attacks have become relentless, with drones targeting coalition positions near Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan. Brigadier Guy Foden confirmed British personnel were actively helping defend the base when another wave of drones struck overnight. “We have personnel in Erbil who are currently helping with the defence of that base,” he said. “Last night they shot down two UAVs coming at the camp, but a number of UAVs did impact on the camp.” Missiles Fired At ‘Continuous’ RateUK Defence Secretary John Healey described the tempo of operations as almost constant since the conflict erupted. Lieutenant General Nick Perry, the UK’s Chief of Joint Operations, confirmed that missile stocks had already been replenished after heavy use. The base is defended by RAF Regiment personnel using Rapid Sentry launch systems armed with Martlet missile system missiles capable of intercepting targets up to eight kilometres away. Russia Accused Of Helping Iran Improve Drone AttacksBritish commanders say Iranian forces have adopted tactics pioneered by Russia during the war in Ukraine, making drones harder to detect and intercept. According to Perry, the unmanned aircraft are now flying lower and faster — techniques widely used by Russian forces to bypass air defences. “We have seen definitely that Iranian drone tactics have learnt from the Russians,” he said. Healey went further, suggesting the influence of Vladimir Putin was behind the increasingly effective strikes. He warned that soaring oil prices caused by the conflict were also delivering financial benefits to the Kremlin. Investigation After Drone Strike On Cyprus BaseBritish investigators are also analysing debris from a drone that struck RAF Akrotiri, the UK’s main military base in Cyprus. The drone hit a hangar connected to intelligence operations and aircraft including the Lockheed U-2 reconnaissance plane. Military specialists are dismantling the weapon piece by piece in an attempt to determine whether it contains Russian-made components. Wider Conflict EscalatingThe drone campaign forms part of a widening regional conflict that has already drawn in multiple countries. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed a French soldier was killed during a separate drone attack on a coalition base in Iraqi Kurdistan. Meanwhile British combat aircraft have been flying patrols over Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, as coalition forces attempt to contain the growing threat posed by Iran’s expanding drone campaign. SOURCE

US Refuelling Plane Crashes In Iraq As Drone War Spreads Across Region A major rescue operation is underway after a US military refuelling aircraft crashed in western Iraq following a suspected mid-air collision, as escalating drone attacks across the region killed a French soldier and targeted British special forces. Officials from United States Central Command confirmed that two aircraft were involved in the incident during operations linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran. One of the planes, believed to be a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft, was described as a “loss,” while the second aircraft reportedly landed safely in Israel. The tanker aircraft normally requires a three-person crew. There has been no indication the crash was caused by hostile fire. Drone Strike Kills French SoldierThe region’s security situation deteriorated further when a drone attack killed a French soldier stationed in Iraqi Kurdistan. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the soldier died during an attack on a joint base used by French troops and Kurdish Peshmerga forces. Two drones struck the headquarters in the Makhmour area, about 80 kilometres from Erbil, injuring five additional personnel. It marks the first confirmed French military death since the conflict erupted following joint strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran earlier this year. British Special Forces TargetedBritish special forces were also targeted in a separate drone strike on a military facility near Erbil. The attack was successfully intercepted using the UK’s Martlet missile system, preventing casualties among British troops. The base attack came after earlier threats against RAF Akrotiri, the major British air base located in Cyprus. Britain Warns Of Russian InvolvementUK Defence Secretary John Healey suggested Russia may be helping Iran coordinate elements of its military campaign. He warned of what he described as the “hidden hand” of Vladimir Putin, accusing Moscow of assisting Tehran with drone tactics similar to those used in the war in Ukraine. According to British officials, Iranian Shahed drones are flying on lower trajectories to make interception more difficult, a tactic widely used by Russian forces. War Threatens Global Oil SupplyThe growing conflict has also heightened fears for global energy supplies as tensions rise around the Strait of Hormuz, the key shipping route through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil passes. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington and its allies are considering forming an international naval coalition to escort tankers through the strategic waterway. Conflict Expands Across RegionThe war has now spread across multiple fronts in the Middle East, with attacks reported in Iraq, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Oman. Meanwhile, Donald Trump said the military campaign against Iran is progressing “very rapidly,” warning Tehran it is “paying a big price.” Israeli forces have also launched new waves of strikes against Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon, raising fears the conflict could escalate into a broader regional war. SOURCE

Only Iranians Can Topple Regime — But Will Need Outside Help Israel cannot overthrow Iran’s ruling regime on its own, but it can help create the conditions for change, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said in an interview on Wednesday. Speaking to The Times of Israel, Sa’ar said that ultimately only the Iranian people themselves could bring down the country’s leadership. “Ultimately, we cannot topple the regime — only the Iranian people can,” he said. “But without external assistance they have no chance to topple the regime.” War Aimed At Weakening Tehran’s PowerThe comments come as the conflict between Israel, the United States and Iran continues to escalate following a major bombing campaign launched on February 28. The military operation followed a large US build-up in the region ordered by Donald Trump, targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. According to Sa’ar, Israel’s goal is not officially regime change but weakening Tehran’s ability to suppress internal dissent. He said Israeli forces are focusing attacks on bases and command centres belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which he described as the backbone of the regime’s power. The aim, he said, is to significantly weaken those repression mechanisms so that change inside Iran may eventually become possible. Netanyahu Urges Iranians To Rise UpIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also addressed the Iranian public directly in recent messages, suggesting that the moment for change may be approaching. Writing on social media this week, Netanyahu said Israel would soon help create conditions allowing Iranians to “grasp your destiny.” However, Israeli officials acknowledge that even if the regime were to collapse, it would likely take time. Government briefings reported by Israeli media suggest that any fall of Iran’s leadership could take up to a year, long after the current military campaign has ended. Iran’s Military Capabilities Hit HardSa’ar claimed the joint US-Israeli campaign has already inflicted significant damage on Iran’s strategic capabilities. He said both the country’s nuclear program and its ballistic missile infrastructure have been “badly damaged” by the strikes. Facilities linked to uranium enrichment and weapons development were targeted along with missile stockpiles and production sites. Israeli officials argue that delaying the operation could have allowed Iran to move key facilities deep underground and out of reach of air strikes. Regime Still Threatening ProtestersDespite signs of pressure on the government, Iran’s leadership continues to warn citizens against anti-regime protests. Authorities carried out a brutal crackdown earlier this year following demonstrations sparked by economic hardship and international sanctions. Iranian officials say thousands died during the unrest, though independent monitoring groups believe the real death toll may be significantly higher. For now, Sa’ar said Israel’s priority remains removing what it sees as long-term threats from Iran while avoiding a cycle of repeated wars in the region. “We have no interest in entering a new war every year or two,” he said. SOURCE

BA Pilot Arrested for Filming hidden Sex Romp Vids With airline Stews and posting them on Line A British Airways pilot has been arrested after allegations he secretly filmed sexual encounters with multiple women and posted the footage online without their consent. The 31-year-old pilot was detained by officers from the Metropolitan Police following complaints from several women who claim they were unknowingly recorded during private encounters in hotel rooms around the world. Women Say Encounters Were Secretly FilmedOne woman told investigators she only realised she had been filmed after being contacted by another alleged victim. She claimed the pilot would place a laptop in front of them with music playing while the screen appeared switched off — something she now believes was used to secretly record the encounters. “I was being recorded during sexual encounters without my consent,” she said. According to reports, the footage later appeared on explicit websites without the women’s knowledge. Airline Staff Among Alleged VictimsSources said several of the alleged victims work in aviation, including cabin crew from different airlines. One woman reportedly discovered a number of videos on the suspect’s laptop showing encounters with different women in hotel rooms around the world. Some of the footage allegedly showed women wearing uniforms from other carriers, including Virgin Atlantic. The alleged victims — aged between 24 and 36 — later contacted police, prompting a formal investigation. Arrest And Ongoing InvestigationPolice arrested the pilot on March 5 on suspicion of voyeurism. The suspect has since been released on bail while investigators continue their enquiries. Airline Grounds PilotBritish Airways has grounded the pilot while the investigation is under way. Sources also told reporters the man is facing additional allegations relating to drug use, though these claims have not been confirmed by police. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing. SOURCE

Kemi Badenoch Tory Leader: Calls Starmer “Not Fit To Lead” Our Country Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch Fresh documents released to Parliament have reignited a political storm around Keir Starmer, after it emerged the Prime Minister approved a £75,000 pay-off for former ambassador Peter Mandelson despite warnings over his links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The files show officials warned Downing Street that Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein posed a “reputational risk” before he was appointed to the senior diplomatic role. Despite those warnings, Starmer pushed ahead with the appointment — a decision that has now triggered fierce criticism from the opposition. Tory Leader Calls Starmer “Not Fit To Lead”Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said the newly released documents raise serious questions about the Prime Minister’s judgment and urged Labour MPs to consider removing him from office. “There are not enough Conservative MPs to remove the Prime Minister,” she said. “Labour MPs now need to consider their conscience and ask if this man is fit to run our country.” Badenoch accused Starmer of failing to be honest with Parliament about what he knew regarding Mandelson’s ties to Epstein. Warnings Ignored Before AppointmentAccording to the documents, the Cabinet Office warned that Mandelson maintained contact with Epstein even after the financier’s 2008 conviction for soliciting a minor. Officials noted the Labour peer’s relationship with Epstein continued between 2009 and 2011 — including reports that Mandelson stayed at Epstein’s New York residence. The briefing warned appointing such a politically connected figure could expose the Prime Minister personally if problems emerged. Secret Briefings Before Security ChecksThe files also reveal Mandelson was reportedly briefed on sensitive government material before his full security vetting had been completed. The decision has been blamed by some insiders on senior civil servants within the Foreign Office, though the final severance payment was approved with the knowledge of the Treasury and senior ministers. The £75,000 settlement was described by officials as a “special severance package” designed to resolve Mandelson’s departure quickly and avoid a costly legal dispute. Labour Admits Appointment Was A MistakeGovernment minister Darren Jones told MPs that Starmer had accepted responsibility for the decision and acknowledged it had been an error. He said Mandelson had been removed from his position once leaked emails obtained by the US Department of Justice revealed the extent of his continued contact with Epstein. Jones said the payout was agreed to prevent a potentially expensive employment tribunal claim that Mandelson’s lawyers warned could run into hundreds of thousands of pounds. Investigation Still Under WaySome documents linked to the case remain withheld after police launched an investigation into allegations that Mandelson may have committed misconduct in public office. The files released so far represent only the first batch of material connected to the controversy, with thousands more documents expected to be examined as Parliament continues its scrutiny of the affair. For now, the disclosures have added to mounting pressure on Starmer as critics argue the episode reveals serious flaws in the government’s vetting process and leadership judgment. SOURCE

Thai-Flagged Cargo Ship Hit Near Hormuz As Crew Forced To Abandon Vessel is on fire A Thai-flagged cargo ship has been struck by a projectile near the vital shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz, forcing its entire crew to abandon the vessel after a fire broke out in the engine room. Early reports from Thai media including Khaosod said the ship had recently departed the United Arab Emirates and was heading into the Arabian Sea when it came under attack shortly after passing through the narrow but strategically critical waterway. Engine Room Hit As Fire Breaks OutAccording to initial reports, the projectile struck the rear section of the ship, heavily damaging the engine room and sparking a fire on board. The damage left the vessel unable to manoeuvre, forcing the crew to declare an emergency and abandon ship. A total of 23 crew members evacuated the vessel as a precaution while maritime authorities in the region were alerted and rescue assistance requested. At this stage, officials have not confirmed who fired the weapon or what type of projectile struck the vessel. Possible Identification Of The ShipInternational shipping sources cited by Reuters suggest the vessel may be the bulk carrier Mayuree Naree, operated by Bangkok-based shipping firm Precious Shipping. However, authorities have yet to officially confirm the identity of the vessel. Investigations are continuing as maritime security agencies work to determine the circumstances of the strike. Strategic Shipping Route Under PressureThe attack comes amid rising tensions across the Middle East and growing concern over the safety of commercial shipping operating near the Strait of Hormuz. The narrow passage between Iran and Oman is one of the most important maritime choke points in the world. Roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments pass through the strait each day, making it a critical artery for international trade and energy supplies. Any attack on commercial vessels in the area immediately raises fears of wider disruption to global shipping. Maritime Security AlertSecurity agencies have warned vessels operating in the region to remain on high alert as military tensions continue to escalate across the Gulf. For now, the fate of the damaged vessel remains unclear, while investigators attempt to determine who was responsible for the strike. The incident adds to mounting concerns that commercial shipping could increasingly become caught in the crossfire of the region’s deepening geopolitical crisis. SOURCE

London Bans Pro-Iran Al Quds March Amid Security Fears The UK government has banned this weekend’s controversial Al Quds Day march in London, after intense political pressure and warnings it could trigger serious unrest during the escalating Middle East conflict. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood approved a request from the Metropolitan Police to halt the rally, citing the risk of public disorder as tensions surrounding Iran’s war with Israel continue to grow. “I am satisfied doing so is necessary to prevent serious public disorder,” Mahmood said, adding that any smaller static protest would face strict policing conditions. Police Warn Of “Unique Risks”Met Police Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan described the march as “uniquely contentious”, noting its links to pro-Iranian groups and the likelihood of clashes with counter-demonstrators. The rally, traditionally organised in London by the Islamic Human Rights Commission, traces its origins to the Iranian regime and has been held annually during Ramadan. Police said the combination of large crowds, counter-protests and the volatile international situation created an unacceptable security risk. It marks the first time authorities have used such powers to halt a protest since 2012. Political Pressure MountsMore than 100 MPs and peers had demanded the march be banned, warning it could provide a platform for extremism and intimidation. Among those backing the move were Nigel Farage, Labour peer Margaret Hodge, and Labour MP Luke Akehurst. They argued allowing the rally would send a troubling signal while Iranian forces are attacking Western allies and military bases overseas. Shadow ministers also warned the event would be an insult to British troops deployed in the region. Links To Iranian Regime CriticisedCritics say organisers have openly praised Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed during recent US-Israeli strikes. Previous marches have also seen demonstrators carrying the flags of Hezbollah and chanting anti-Israel slogans. Courts minister Sarah Sackman said support for the Iranian regime and its military arm, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, had “no place in British society”. Static Protest Still PossibleWhile the march itself has been blocked, organisers may still be allowed to hold a stationary demonstration under tight conditions near the UK Home Office. Police say they will impose strict restrictions to prevent violence or incitement. Counter-demonstrations are already being planned by activist groups opposing the Iranian regime. With the Middle East conflict intensifying, authorities fear the situation on London’s streets could quickly mirror the tensions unfolding abroad. SOURCE