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A new long-distance footpath encircling the entire coastline of England is being officially opened, marking the completion of one of the country’s most ambitious access projects. Stretching 2,689 miles, the King Charles III England Coast Path is described by Natural England as the longest managed coastal walking route in the world. For the first time, it offers a continuous trail around England’s shoreline, allowing walkers to follow the coast uninterrupted for extended distances. Get today's headlines by email A continuous path around EnglandThe route links together beaches, cliffs, estuaries and coastal towns, creating a unified walking path where previously there were gaps. Although large sections of the trail already existed, more than 1,000 miles of new pathways have been created to connect them. Existing routes have also been upgraded, with improvements including resurfaced paths, new boardwalks, bridges and the removal of stiles to make access easier. About 80% of the path is currently open, with most of the remaining sections expected to be completed by the end of the year. Project leaders say the goal is not necessarily for people to walk the entire route, but to allow access at any point along the coast. Years in the makingThe project has taken 18 years to reach this stage and was first launched under former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s government. Its development required new legislation, including the Marine and Coastal Access Act passed in 2009, which enabled greater public access to coastal land. According to those involved, the path opens up areas that were previously inaccessible, including stretches of beaches, dunes and cliff tops. Neil Constable, who led the project for Natural England, described the initiative as a defining achievement, emphasising that people can now reach the coast from anywhere in England and continue walking along it in either direction. Landscapes and highlightsThe trail passes through a wide range of landscapes, from sandy beaches and salt marshes to dramatic cliffs and historic seaside towns. One of the notable sections includes the chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters in East Sussex, which also form part of a newly designated National Nature Reserve. In some areas, walkers will encounter practical challenges. For example, parts of the route require ferry crossings, such as over the River Mersey in north-west England. In south Devon, walkers must cross the River Erme on foot at low tide due to the absence of a bridge or ferry, adding a more adventurous element to the journey. Designed for a changing coastlineThe path has been built with environmental changes in mind, particularly the impact of coastal erosion and rising sea levels. For the first time in English law, provisions allow sections of the route to be moved inland if the coastline shifts. This “rollback” system ensures the path can remain continuous even as the landscape changes. Recent weather has already demonstrated the need for flexibility. A section of the trail near Charmouth in Dorset was temporarily lost due to a landslip following heavy rainfall. Local managers were able to quickly reroute the path inland, restoring access within weeks. Expanding access to the coastThe project represents a significant expansion of public access to England’s coastline, an issue long championed by walking groups. The Ramblers said the new route allows people not only to walk along the coast but also to access land between the path and the sea, including beaches where visitors can stop and explore. The trail also connects with the Wales Coast Path, which was completed in 2012 and runs for 870 miles around Wales. Together, these routes raise the possibility of a continuous coastal walk around much of Great Britain, although Scotland does not have a single official coastal path. A long-distance challengeIf combined with accessible sections of Scotland’s coastline, a full circuit of Britain could stretch to around 9,000 miles. At an average pace of 15 miles per day, such a journey would take close to two years to complete without rest days. For most walkers, however, the new English coast path is expected to be enjoyed in smaller sections, offering easier access to some of the country’s most varied and scenic coastal environments. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 19 March 2026 View full article

US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised the BBC, accusing it of producing misleading coverage as a legal dispute between the two sides continues. Speaking at the White House, Mr Trump described the broadcaster in strongly critical terms while responding to questions about a defamation lawsuit he has filed over a television documentary. Get today's headlines by email Legal dispute over documentaryThe case centres on an episode of the BBC’s Panorama programme broadcast in 2024, which drew controversy over its portrayal of comments made by Mr Trump following the 2020 US presidential election. The programme was criticised for suggesting that the then former president had encouraged supporters to storm the US Capitol in January 2021 after losing the election to Joe Biden. Mr Trump has denied that characterisation and launched a lawsuit seeking $10bn (£7.5bn) in damages. The BBC has since filed a motion to dismiss the case, arguing against the claims made in the lawsuit. BBC response and internal falloutThe controversy surrounding the programme led to significant internal repercussions at the broadcaster. Director-general Tim Davie resigned following criticism that the documentary may have selectively edited footage of Mr Trump’s remarks. BBC chairman Samir Shah also issued an apology, acknowledging what he described as an “error of judgment” in how the material had been presented. He said the editing created the impression that Mr Trump had made a direct call for violent action, a characterisation that has been strongly disputed by the former president and his supporters. Trump’s latest criticismMr Trump renewed his criticism of the BBC while hosting Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin in the Oval Office. He told reporters that footage used in the documentary had been manipulated and claimed that artificial intelligence may have been used to generate certain clips. He did not provide evidence to support that claim. The US president also criticised the BBC’s reporting on the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Iran, describing it as inaccurate. According to Mr Trump, coverage of the war did not reflect what he characterised as US military success. Broader tensions with mediaMr Trump has frequently criticised media organisations, both in the United States and internationally, accusing them of bias and misrepresentation. His use of the term “fake news” has been a recurring feature of his political rhetoric, often directed at outlets he considers critical of his administration. The latest comments come as tensions remain high between the White House and sections of the media over coverage of both domestic and international issues. Ongoing proceedingsIt remains unclear how the legal case between Mr Trump and the BBC will proceed. When asked about the lawsuit, Mr Trump said he would wait to see how the situation develops. The dispute highlights broader questions about media accountability, editorial standards and the use of footage in political reporting, particularly in cases involving high-profile public figures. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 18 March 2026 View full article

Critics warn Trump’s Iran war risks repeating past US military failures Growing criticism is emerging over US President Donald Trump’s handling of the conflict with Iran, with opponents arguing that the war risks becoming another costly and damaging episode for the United States similar to past military campaigns in the Middle East. As fighting continues, analysts and political critics say the war could undermine US global influence while increasing economic pressure at home and abroad. Don’t miss the latest headlines from Thailand and around the world. Get the Asean Now Briefing newsletter, delivered daily. Sign up here. Concerns over strategyCritics argue that Washington entered the conflict without a clear long-term strategy. While US and Israeli forces have carried out extensive air strikes across Iran, the Iranian government has continued to resist, launching retaliatory attacks on US facilities and regional targets. Some US bases in the Gulf region have reportedly come under fire, highlighting the risks facing American forces stationed there. The situation has also affected global energy markets. Disruption around the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes — has contributed to rising oil and gas prices, raising concerns about a wider energy shock. Higher energy costs are already feeding into inflation and increasing pressure on global supply chains, with poorer countries expected to feel the greatest impact. Israel’s expanded military operationsThe war has also coincided with intensified military operations by Israel under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Israeli air strikes have targeted sites across Iran as well as positions linked to Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israeli officials say the operations are intended to weaken hostile military capabilities and reduce threats to Israeli civilians. However, critics say the strikes have caused significant destruction and risk strengthening nationalist support for Iran’s leadership rather than weakening it. The fighting in Lebanon has also raised humanitarian concerns, with reports of civilian casualties and large numbers of people displaced from their homes. Risk of a prolonged conflictSome analysts warn that the war could develop into a prolonged confrontation rather than the short campaign initially expected by supporters of the military action. Iran’s conventional military capabilities have reportedly been weakened by the strikes, but Tehran retains missile and drone systems that continue to pose a threat to regional targets. Iran also maintains links with armed groups across the Middle East, which could extend the conflict beyond its current scope. The continuing exchange of attacks suggests that a quick resolution may be unlikely. Nuclear concerns remain unresolvedAnother major issue is Iran’s nuclear programme, which was already a point of tension before the conflict began. Although some Iranian nuclear facilities have reportedly been damaged during the strikes, experts note that the country retains technical knowledge and potentially hidden stockpiles of enriched uranium. The future direction of Iran’s nuclear ambitions remains uncertain. Some hardline voices inside the country have argued that nuclear weapons could guarantee the regime’s survival, although Iranian leaders have previously said such weapons are forbidden under religious rulings issued by former supreme leader Ali Khamenei. Political and legal criticismThe war has also triggered political debate within the United States about the legal basis for the military action. Critics say the decision to launch strikes without formal authorisation from Congress raises constitutional concerns. Others have questioned whether the conflict complies with international law and the rules governing warfare. The financial cost of the conflict has also become a point of contention. Some estimates suggest the war could be costing the United States billions of dollars each week, adding to concerns about long-term economic consequences. International reactionThe conflict has strained relations between the United States and some of its allies. Several governments have expressed concern about the lack of consultation before the strikes and the potential risks of escalation across the Middle East. At the same time, Washington has called on partners to help secure shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, where attacks on vessels and infrastructure have raised fears about global energy supplies. Meanwhile, geopolitical rivals such as Russia and China are closely monitoring developments, with some analysts suggesting the conflict could shift the balance of influence in the region. Political consequences aheadWith US elections approaching in the coming years, the outcome of the conflict may carry political consequences for the administration. Rising energy prices and the prospect of a prolonged military campaign could become significant issues for voters, particularly if the war continues to expand. For now, the conflict with Iran remains unresolved, leaving uncertainty about how long the fighting may continue and what impact it will have on US strategy in the Middle East. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

Europe’s response to the war involving the United States, Israel and Iran has sparked debate about the continent’s role in global affairs, with critics arguing that many governments have avoided taking a clear position on the conflict’s legality. While some European leaders have acknowledged concerns about the legal basis for the military action, most have stopped short of openly condemning the strikes. The cautious reaction contrasts with Europe’s response to earlier conflicts in the Middle East, particularly the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. A divided Europe in 2003The Iraq war created one of the deepest divisions in Europe in recent decades. France and Germany strongly opposed the invasion and attempted to block it through the United Nations Security Council, arguing that it violated international law. Other governments, including those of the United Kingdom, Italy and Spain, supported the United States and participated in the military campaign. The dispute also highlighted tensions between established Western European powers and countries in central and eastern Europe that had recently emerged from Soviet influence. Many of those states backed the United States, seeing Washington as an important security partner. The disagreement led to sharp political exchanges across the continent and between Europe and the United States. A catalyst for European diplomacyDespite the divisions, the Iraq crisis also triggered reflection about Europe’s role in international politics. Large protests took place across European cities against the war, and many political thinkers argued that Europe should define itself through support for multilateral institutions, international law and diplomatic solutions to global conflicts. The debate contributed to the development of new diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme. France, Germany and the United Kingdom formed the core of a negotiating group later expanded to include the European Union, the United States, Russia and China. The talks eventually resulted in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, known as the Iran nuclear deal. That agreement limited Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief and was widely viewed as one of Europe’s most significant diplomatic achievements. A more restrained response todayIn the current conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, European governments appear less divided but also less vocal. Some leaders have acknowledged that the strikes on Iran may raise questions under international law because there was no clear evidence of an imminent threat. However, few governments have issued direct criticism of Washington or Tel Aviv. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been among the most outspoken critics, condemning the war and refusing to allow certain military bases in Spain to be used in support of the operation. Slovenia and Norway have also expressed opposition. Most other European leaders have taken a more cautious approach, emphasising diplomacy and regional stability rather than focusing on the legal status of the military campaign. Leaders emphasise pragmatismSeveral senior European figures have suggested that legal arguments should not dominate the discussion about the conflict. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni told parliament that the war could be considered a violation of international law but said she neither condemned nor supported the action. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz also questioned whether international law provided a useful framework for judging the situation, arguing that allies should avoid publicly criticising each other during a crisis. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a speech to EU ambassadors that the debate over whether the conflict was legally justified might miss the broader geopolitical context. Her remarks prompted European Council President António Costa to reaffirm that the European Union remained committed to international law and multilateral cooperation. Questions about Europe’s roleThe differing responses have reignited debate over Europe’s identity and influence on the world stage. The European Union has often presented itself as a defender of international law, diplomacy and rules-based cooperation. Critics argue that failing to take a consistent stance in major conflicts could weaken that image. At the same time, the United States has urged allies to support efforts to secure shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, raising questions about whether European governments will become more directly involved in the conflict. Observers say the way Europe responds to the crisis could shape perceptions of its independence and its capacity to act collectively in international affairs. As tensions continue in the Middle East, the debate over how Europe balances alliances with its stated principles is likely to remain a central issue for policymakers across the continent. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

Iranian authorities have increased security measures across Tehran in an effort to prevent potential anti-government protests, according to residents who spoke to the BBC. People in the capital say new checkpoints have appeared on roads across the city, with security forces stopping vehicles and searching drivers and passengers. Some residents told BBC Persian that the checkpoints have been positioned under footbridges and inside road tunnels. They said the locations may have changed after several checkpoints placed in open streets were reportedly targeted by drone strikes. According to the hardline Fars News Agency, Israeli strikes earlier this month hit four checkpoints in Tehran, killing a number of security personnel. Unofficial estimates cited by the outlet suggested that around 10 members of the security forces died in the attacks. Residents describe tighter controlsPeople in Tehran described a tense atmosphere as patrols and checkpoints have become more common. One man in his twenties told the BBC he had been stopped at a checkpoint where officers searched his vehicle. He said he tried to avoid problems by speaking politely to the security forces. “I started saying things like ‘thanks for your hard work’ as if I appreciated what they were doing,” he said, adding that he was eventually allowed to continue his journey. Another resident, a woman also in her twenties, said she had changed the way she dresses because of increased patrols. “I always wear colourful clothes. But now I don’t,” she said, explaining she was worried about attracting attention from security forces. Internet shutdown limits communicationResidents also reported that internet access remains heavily restricted, making communication both inside and outside the country difficult. The shutdown has also limited the ability of protesters to organise demonstrations. Messaging platforms and encrypted apps are often used to coordinate rallies and share information about protest locations. Some people have tried to bypass the restrictions using satellite internet services such as Starlink. A man who said he sells secure internet connections described the risks involved. “What I do as a job is considered a crime in the Islamic Republic,” he said, recalling his anxiety when a taxi he was travelling in passed through a checkpoint while he was carrying his laptop and phone. Authorities target satellite internet useIranian authorities have warned that the use of satellite internet devices is illegal. According to the semi-official Mehr News Agency, police in Fars Province arrested a 37-year-old man accused of setting up a network that sold access to “unfiltered” internet using Starlink equipment. Officials said the devices were discovered during a search of the suspect’s property. Using Starlink in Iran can carry a prison sentence of up to two years. Despite the restrictions, some residents are still able to access the internet through unofficial connections. Listings seen by the BBC on the Telegram messaging app show that some providers are charging around $6 for one gigabyte of data, a high price in a country where monthly salaries are often estimated between $200 and $300. Warnings issued against protestsAuthorities have also issued warnings aimed at discouraging demonstrations. BBC Persian said it had seen a text message sent by the intelligence arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on 13 March cautioning residents against joining protests. The message warned that “the evil enemy” was seeking to create unrest in the streets. Police chief Brigadier General Ahmad Reza Radan also warned that anyone taking action in cities “at the behest of the enemy” would be treated as an adversary rather than a protester. Conflict raises fears of unrestLarge anti-government protests earlier in the year saw deadly clashes over two nights in January. So far, similar demonstrations have not reappeared during the current conflict. Instead, authorities have organised pro-government rallies and encouraged supporters of the Islamic Republic to take to the streets. Some residents told BBC Persian they had heard loudspeakers broadcasting pro-government chants and music in parts of Tehran at night, while groups carrying the national flag moved through neighbourhoods. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi defended the country’s restrictions in an interview with CBS, saying he was able to speak online because he was “the voice of all Iranians”. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently urged the Iranian public to challenge the country’s leadership, though he later said he could not say with certainty whether the government would be overthrown. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has released a video showing himself drinking coffee at a café, responding to rumours circulating in Iranian media that he had been killed or injured. The short clip was posted on Netanyahu’s Telegram account on Sunday after reports spread in Iran suggesting the Israeli leader was dead. In the video, Netanyahu is seen sitting at a café on the outskirts of Jerusalem speaking with an aide. During the exchange, the aide asks about the rumours. Netanyahu responds with a light-hearted remark involving a Hebrew slang expression. “I’m crazy about coffee,” he says while picking up a cup. “You know what? I’m crazy about my people.” Video filmed at Jerusalem caféThe video appears to have been recorded at a café outside Jerusalem. Reuters said it verified the location by comparing the café’s interior with previous images of the venue. The date was also confirmed using photos and videos posted by the café on Sunday that showed Netanyahu visiting the location. The footage was released after Iranian state media broadcast claims that the Israeli prime minister had been killed or wounded, rumours that later circulated widely online in Iran. Limited public appearances during conflictSince the start of the conflict between Israel and Iran on 28 February, Netanyahu has made several visits to areas affected by the fighting. These have included trips to towns struck by Iranian missiles as well as visits to a hospital, a port and military bases. However, most of these appearances have been filmed by Netanyahu’s office, with limited access for journalists. Restricted media accessNetanyahu has held few direct briefings with Israeli media since the conflict began. His first press conference of the war took place on Thursday and was conducted via video link. The format mirrored a similar remote press briefing he used during a previous conflict with Iran last year. Security restrictions imposed since the start of the war have also limited public activity across Israel. Authorities have banned large gatherings and advised residents to remain close to shelters. Schools across most of the country have been closed as a precaution. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

The UK will not rejoin the European Union or enter into a customs union with the bloc, the minister leading efforts to reset relations with Brussels has said. Nick Thomas-Symonds, the government’s European affairs minister, said there was “no appetite” in Britain to return to the debates that dominated politics after the Brexit referendum. Speaking ahead of a speech in Brussels, he said the government wanted to strengthen cooperation with the EU but ruled out arrangements that would bind the UK into a customs union. Customs union ruled outThomas-Symonds said even a bespoke arrangement similar to those the EU has with countries such as Turkey would not be pursued. “We won’t have a customs union,” he said. “We will never go back to the days of making undeliverable promises on the side of red buses.” His comments come despite some Labour figures backing closer economic ties with the bloc. In December, 13 Labour MPs supported a Liberal Democrat proposal calling for Britain to rejoin the customs union, which passed in the House of Commons. However, the government has made clear that such a step is not part of its plans. Push for closer cooperationThomas-Symonds said the focus instead was on improving cooperation in practical areas while respecting the outcome of the 2016 referendum. He argued that closer alignment with European rules in some sectors should not be treated as politically controversial. “We have to be clear that alignment is not a dirty word,” he said. The government hopes to reach new agreements with the EU covering areas such as food and drink standards and youth mobility. Officials say they aim to have parts of the new relationship framework in place by 23 June, the tenth anniversary of the referendum on EU membership. No return to EU membership debateAsked whether Britain might one day rejoin the EU, Thomas-Symonds said he did not believe that scenario was likely. “I don’t see that, and I don’t see us returning to the debates of the past,” he said. He added that his discussions with voters suggested there was support for improving relations with the EU without reopening arguments about membership. Political tensions over EU tiesThe minister acknowledged that debate over Britain’s future relationship with the bloc continues within UK politics. Some senior Labour figures have previously spoken in favour of closer economic integration with Europe. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has said customs unions can boost economic growth, while Health Secretary Wes Streeting has suggested deeper trade links should be considered. Thomas-Symonds said the government’s approach was guided by what it viewed as the national interest. He also warned that efforts to rebuild ties with the EU could be jeopardised if a future government sought to abandon the agreements being negotiated. “The UK and the EU are facing very similar challenges,” he said, adding that creating new trade barriers between the two sides would damage both economies. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

Senior executives from three major US oil companies have warned President Donald Trump that the global energy crisis triggered by the conflict with Iran could worsen, according to reports. The chief executives of Exxon, Chevron and ConocoPhillips told the White House during meetings on Wednesday that disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is likely to continue affecting global energy markets, the Wall Street Journal reported. The warning comes as governments and energy agencies attempt to stabilise oil supplies following sharp price increases since the start of the war. Don’t miss the latest headlines from Thailand and around the world. Get the Asean Now Briefing newsletter, delivered daily. Sign up here. Concerns over Hormuz disruptionThe Strait of Hormuz, a narrow shipping route between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors. A large share of global crude shipments normally passes through the waterway, making any disruption a major concern for international markets. According to reports, the oil company executives told US officials that continued instability in the region could prolong supply disruptions and keep energy prices elevated. Oil prices have already surged significantly since fighting began, raising fears of wider economic consequences. Emergency reserves releasedIn response to the rising prices, more than 400 million barrels of oil from emergency reserves held by the International Energy Agency are expected to be released. The move is intended to ease pressure on global markets and provide additional supply while the conflict continues. Energy analysts have warned that prolonged disruption to shipping routes could still keep markets volatile despite the release of strategic reserves. Iran rejects ceasefire claimsMeanwhile, Iran has denied that it has sought a ceasefire or negotiations with the United States. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran had not requested talks and intended to continue fighting. “We never asked for a ceasefire, and we have never asked even for negotiation,” he said in an interview with CBS News. His comments contradict earlier claims by Trump that Iran had asked for a ceasefire but that the United States was not prepared to agree because the proposed terms were unacceptable. Conflict enters third weekThe conflict has intensified in recent days as military operations continue. Israel launched what it described as “wide-scale” strikes against Iranian targets on Saturday night as the war entered its third week. The continuing fighting and the uncertainty around shipping routes in the Gulf have added to concerns about global oil supply and the potential for further increases in energy prices. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

The brother of the man accused of carrying out an attack on a synagogue in Michigan had been a Hezbollah commander who was killed in an Israeli air strike last week, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Police say Ayman Muhammad Ghazali died after driving a vehicle loaded with explosives into the Temple Israel synagogue on Thursday. Authorities say the 41-year-old later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound during a confrontation with police. Don’t miss the latest headlines from Thailand and around the world. Get the Asean Now Briefing newsletter, delivered daily. Sign up here. The IDF said one of Ghazali’s brothers, Ibrahim Muhammad Ghazali, had served as a commander within Hezbollah’s Badr Unit. The BBC has not independently verified the claim and has contacted US authorities for comment. Israeli military identifies brotherIn a statement posted on social media, the Israeli military described Ibrahim Muhammad Ghazali as a Hezbollah commander responsible for weapons operations. The IDF said he oversaw activities linked to the launch of rockets toward Israeli targets during the conflict and was killed in an Israeli Air Force strike on a Hezbollah military site in Lebanon last week. Sources in Lebanon also told CBS News, the BBC’s US partner, that two brothers killed in the same strike had been members of a Hezbollah rocket unit operating in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah is a political and military organisation based in Lebanon that is backed by Iran. It is designated as a terrorist group by Israel and several other countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Attack on Michigan synagogueAuthorities have not yet determined a clear motive for the attack on Temple Israel. Ayman Muhammad Ghazali, who immigrated to the United States from Lebanon in 2011 and lived in Dearborn Heights, reportedly lost several family members overseas in recent months. Dearborn Heights Mayor Mo Baydoun said the suspect had suffered “devastating and personal losses overseas” but emphasised that this did not justify the attack. Investigators say Ghazali drove a vehicle containing explosives into the synagogue grounds before a gun battle with police. Investigation continuesThe FBI said Ghazali died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound during the confrontation. Officials said the vehicle used in the attack contained large quantities of commercial-grade fireworks and containers of flammable liquid, which ignited during the incident. No worshippers or students at the synagogue and its associated school were injured. A security guard was wounded but is expected to recover, while around 30 police officers were treated for smoke inhalation. The FBI has described the incident as a targeted act of violence against the Jewish community. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said antisemitism was at a “historic high” and urged public figures to be careful with their rhetoric. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused some European allies of attempting to “blackmail” Kyiv into restoring the flow of Russian oil through a major pipeline supplying Hungary and Slovakia. Speaking to reporters in Kyiv, Zelensky said reopening the Soviet-era Druzhba pipeline would undermine sanctions imposed on Moscow over the war in Ukraine. The pipeline was damaged during Russian air strikes in January and has not yet been repaired. Dispute over Russian oil transitHungary, which relies heavily on Russian energy, has been pressing for the pipeline to be restored. Budapest has blocked both new European Union sanctions against Russia and a proposed €90bn loan package for Ukraine while the issue remains unresolved. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has made criticism of Ukraine a central theme ahead of national elections in April, with opinion polls suggesting his party is trailing. EU officials have urged Kyiv to repair the pipeline quickly and have requested access for inspectors to assess the damage. Some officials are concerned the dispute could strengthen Orban politically if it remains unresolved. However, Zelensky said allowing Russian oil to pass through Ukraine while Europe continues to sanction Moscow’s exports elsewhere would be inconsistent. “We either sell Russian oil or we don’t,” he said, arguing that restoring the pipeline would effectively weaken the sanctions regime. Ukraine rejects pressureZelensky said he opposed restarting the flow of oil through the pipeline but insisted he was not directly blocking the project. “I am saying openly: I am against it,” he said. The Ukrainian leader added that he had warned European partners that linking the issue to military support for Ukraine would amount to pressure. “If I am given conditions that Ukraine will not receive weapons, then excuse me, I am powerless on this issue,” he said. “I told our friends in Europe that this is called blackmail.” He also stressed that the €90bn EU loan package had been approved by all 27 member states and should be implemented. Drone technology offered to partnersZelensky also highlighted Ukraine’s growing expertise in drone warfare, describing interceptor drones developed during the conflict with Russia as “Ukrainian oil”. He said Kyiv had proposed a $50bn joint drone production agreement with the United States and remained open to cooperation. According to Zelensky, Washington had contacted Ukraine several times since the start of the conflict in the Middle East to discuss possible assistance or support for other countries. Ukraine has become a major producer of interceptor drones designed to defend against Iranian-designed attack drones frequently used by Russian forces. Concerns over Middle East conflictZelensky also warned that the conflict in the Middle East could affect Ukraine by shifting US attention and resources away from the war with Russia. “The United States is currently more focused on the Middle East,” he said, adding that this could lead to delays or reductions in weapons deliveries. He also criticised a recent US decision to temporarily ease sanctions on Russian oil shipments in order to stabilise global energy supplies. “Lifting sanctions on Russia will not help the world; it will only help Russia,” Zelensky said. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

Britain is considering sending naval vessels and mine-hunting drones to the Middle East to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has said. The government is discussing possible contributions with allies after US President Donald Trump called on several countries, including the UK, to deploy ships to secure the strategic shipping route. Don’t miss the latest headlines from Thailand and around the world. Get the Asean Now Briefing newsletter, delivered daily. Sign up here. About a fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes through the narrow waterway. Its effective closure earlier in the conflict has pushed oil prices up sharply, raising concerns about the impact on global energy markets. UK discussing options with alliesSpeaking to the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg programme on Sunday, Miliband said ministers were examining different ways Britain could help restore safe passage through the strait. “It is very important that we get the Strait of Hormuz reopened,” he said, adding that the UK had already been in discussions with partners including the United States. “There are different ways that we could contribute, including with mine-hunting drones,” he said. “All of these things are being looked at in concert with our allies.” Miliband said the government was considering “any options” that could assist in reopening the vital shipping lane. Trump calls for international naval supportThe comments came a day after Trump urged multiple countries to send warships to the region. Writing on his Truth Social platform, the US president said nations that rely on oil transported through the strait should help ensure its security. He named the UK, China, France, Japan and South Korea among those that could deploy naval forces to keep the waterway open. Trump said the United States would continue military operations in the area while working with other countries to restore safe passage for shipping. Pressure over UK military responseThe British government has faced criticism over the speed of its response to the crisis. HMS Dragon left the UK earlier in the week and is heading to Cyprus, where it will support operations at the RAF base at Akrotiri. However, the Royal Navy currently has no mine-hunting ships stationed in the Gulf after the last vessel in the region was withdrawn shortly before the conflict began. Reports suggest the UK may instead deploy mine-hunting drones, which are designed to trigger naval mines safely by mimicking the movement of passing ships. Concerns over energy pricesThe disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has had an immediate impact on energy markets. Oil prices have risen from around $65 a barrel before the conflict to roughly $100, raising fears of higher fuel costs and inflation in many countries. Asked whether the government might reconsider a planned rise in UK fuel duty later this year, Miliband said ministers would support the public during the crisis. “We will stand by the British people in this crisis,” he said, though officials indicated no final decision had yet been taken on the planned increase. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 15.March 2026 View full article

President Donald Trump has said the United States could launch further strikes on Iran’s main oil export hub at Kharg Island, suggesting additional attacks might occur “just for fun” after earlier bombardments. Speaking to NBC News in a phone interview on Saturday, Trump said recent US strikes had caused extensive damage to the facility but indicated the site could still be targeted again. “We may hit it a few more times just for fun,” he said, referring to the strategic oil terminal in the Persian Gulf. Kharg Island is Iran’s primary oil export centre and a key part of the country’s energy infrastructure. Don’t miss the latest headlines from Thailand and around the world. Get the Asean Now Briefing newsletter, delivered daily. Sign up here. Doubts over Iran’s leadershipDuring the same interview, Trump also questioned the status of Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, saying it was unclear whether he was still alive. He did not provide evidence for the claim. His remarks came as US and Israeli forces continued military operations against Iranian targets during the ongoing conflict. Strait of Hormuz operationsTrump also addressed the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for global oil supplies. Asked whether Iran had deployed naval mines in the waterway, Trump said it was not yet clear. He said the United States planned to carry out operations to secure the strait and ensure safe passage for ships. “We’re going to be sweeping the strait very strongly,” he said, adding that other countries affected by the disruption to oil shipments could join the effort. Call for international supportIn a post on Truth Social, Trump urged nations that rely on oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz to help safeguard the route. “The United States of America has beaten and completely decimated Iran, both militarily and economically,” he wrote, adding that countries receiving oil through the strait “must take care of that passage”. He said the US would coordinate with partners to keep the route open during the conflict. Deal with Iran not closeTrump also said he was not ready to agree to a deal with Tehran to end the fighting. “Iran wants to make a deal,” he said, but added that the proposed terms “aren’t good enough yet”. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 14.March 2026 View full article