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Trump Removes Post Depicting Him as Jesus-Like Figure Following Criticism

USA

Trump Removes Post Depicting Him as Jesus-Like Figure Following Criticism

US President Donald Trump appears to have removed a controversial social media post portraying himself in a Jesus-like role after it triggered criticism from across the political and religious spectrum.

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The image, shared on Trump’s platform Truth Social, was generated using artificial intelligence and showed the president wearing a white robe while placing a glowing hand on the forehead of a sick man lying in a hospital bed. Observers said the scene resembled traditional Christian artwork depicting Jesus Christ performing healing miracles.
The post quickly drew backlash, including from several figures who are generally supportive of the president.
Criticism from religious conservatives
Some Christian activists and commentators criticised the image as inappropriate.
Sean Feucht, a prominent evangelical activist involved in organising faith-based events tied to the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence, called for the image to be removed.
“This should be deleted immediately,” Feucht wrote on social media, adding that there was “no context where this is acceptable.”
Riley Gaines also criticised the post, writing that “God shall not be mocked.”
Journalists from faith-focused outlets voiced similar concerns. David Brody wrote that while supporters might back Trump politically, the image “crosses the line”.


Trump says image showed him as a doctor
Speaking to reporters at the White House later in the day, Trump acknowledged posting the image but said he did not view it as religious imagery.
“It’s supposed to be as a doctor making people better,” he said. “And I do make people better. I make people a lot better.”
Trump added that he believed the image showed him as a doctor standing beside a Red Cross worker rather than portraying him as a religious figure.
The now-deleted image featured several patriotic elements in the background, including the Statue of Liberty, a large US flag, fighter jets and a bald eagle. It also showed figures including a nurse, a soldier and a woman praying.
Dispute with the pope
The image appeared shortly after Trump posted a separate message criticising Pope Leo XIV, who has spoken out against the ongoing US and Israeli military campaign in Iran.
The pope, the first American to lead the Catholic Church, has repeatedly condemned the conflict, describing it as “absurd and inhuman violence”.
Speaking earlier this week, he said he had “no fear” of the Trump administration and would continue speaking out about the message of the Gospel.
Trump responded to reporters by criticising the pope’s comments, saying the pontiff was “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy”. He added that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remained a priority.
Previous social media controversies
The episode is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding Trump’s posts on Truth Social.
Earlier this year, a racist video depicting former US president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama as apes was briefly shared on the platform before being removed.
At the time, the White House initially defended the clip as an “internet meme video”. After criticism from lawmakers, including several Republican senators, the post was taken down and officials said it had been shared by a staff member in error.
The latest image was removed several hours after it appeared online, following the growing backlash.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 14 April 2026

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April 13Apr 13

US Considers Second Round of Iran Talks as Naval Blockade Raises Pressure

Iranian Conflict

US Considers Second Round of Iran Talks as Naval Blockade Raises Pressure

The United States is weighing the possibility of holding another round of in-person negotiations with Iran as tensions persist despite a fragile ceasefire and the start of a US naval blockade targeting Iranian ports.

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Officials involved in the diplomatic efforts say discussions about a potential follow-up meeting are underway, although it remains uncertain whether the talks will take place before the current ceasefire is due to expire on 21 April.
The latest developments follow a lengthy round of negotiations in Islamabad over the weekend that lasted more than 20 hours but failed to produce a breakthrough agreement between the two sides.
Preparations for possible new talks
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the administration of President Donald Trump is exploring possible dates and venues for a second meeting with Iranian representatives should indirect diplomacy through regional mediators show progress in the coming days.
These preparations are described as preliminary, with officials saying they want to be ready to convene talks quickly if conditions improve.
While the White House remains open to further negotiations, significant disagreements remain. Iranian officials have resisted several key US demands, raising doubts about whether Tehran would accept the terms proposed by Washington.
Despite the stalled negotiations, US officials say communication between the two sides has continued through intermediaries in the region.
Regional governments, including Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt and Oman, have been involved in facilitating contacts between Washington and Tehran. Another round of talks could again be hosted in cities such as Geneva, Vienna or Islamabad, officials said.
Blockade adds pressure amid ceasefire
The diplomatic effort is unfolding alongside a US naval blockade aimed at restricting Iranian maritime trade.
Washington views the blockade as a way to increase pressure on Tehran following weeks of conflict that have left both countries seeking a path toward de-escalation.
President Trump said on Monday that Iran had contacted his administration earlier in the day expressing interest in reaching an agreement. He did not provide details about who initiated the contact.
Officials close to the president say the administration believes Iran’s position has weakened after weeks of fighting and economic strain. From Washington’s perspective, the blockade is intended to encourage Iran to return to negotiations with greater willingness to compromise.
However, the move also introduces new uncertainty. Analysts say it remains unclear how aggressively the United States would enforce the blockade and how Iran might respond militarily in the coming weeks.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments, remains a central point of contention in the conflict.
Nuclear dispute remains unresolved
The most difficult issue in negotiations continues to be Iran’s nuclear programme.
US officials say Washington’s non-negotiable demands include Iran ending all uranium enrichment activities, dismantling its major enrichment facilities and accounting for more than 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium believed to be stored underground.
These conditions have long been rejected by Tehran and were a central factor in the collapse of earlier negotiations before the conflict escalated.
During the Islamabad talks, both sides presented proposals intended to address the nuclear dispute. One proposal from US negotiators would involve Iran pausing uranium enrichment for 20 years, according to people familiar with the discussions.
Another earlier idea under consideration involved the United States supplying Iran with nuclear fuel for civilian energy needs if Tehran agreed to halt enrichment.
Iran’s foreign minister said the weekend talks had progressed constructively for much of the meeting but ultimately broke down near the final stages. In a message posted online, he accused the United States of shifting its negotiating position and introducing new demands.
Economic and energy implications
The blockade is also closely tied to the broader strategic goal of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which has become a key objective for US policymakers during the conflict.
Iran has demonstrated its ability to disrupt shipping in the waterway using mines, drones and small attack boats, creating risks for naval forces operating in the area.
Energy analysts say the blockade could place increasing financial pressure on Iran but may take several weeks before the economic effects become severe.
Iran has been able to export additional oil in recent weeks after the United States temporarily eased some sanctions earlier in the conflict, providing Tehran with a financial buffer.
At the same time, the disruption to Iranian exports could tighten global oil supplies and push fuel prices higher, creating new economic pressures for the United States and other countries.
Officials involved in the negotiations say they still hope a diplomatic solution can be reached before the ceasefire deadline, though significant gaps between the two sides remain.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 14 April 2026

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April 13Apr 13

China Announces Incentives for Taiwan After Visit by Opposition Leader

China

China Announces Incentives for Taiwan After Visit by Opposition Leader

China has introduced a series of new incentives aimed at Taiwan, shortly after a senior figure from the island’s main opposition party completed a visit to the mainland.

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The measures, announced on Sunday through the state news agency Xinhua, include steps to ease restrictions on tourism, facilitate food and fishery trade, and allow certain Taiwanese television programs to be broadcast in China.
The announcement followed a trip by Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of Taiwan’s opposition Kuomintang (KMT), who met Chinese President Xi Jinping and discussed prospects for improving cross-strait relations.
New Measures Target Tourism, Media and Trade
According to Xinhua, the package contains 10 measures designed to encourage exchanges between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Among them is a proposal to establish a regular communication mechanism between China’s Communist Party and the KMT. The plan also includes the full restoration of direct flights across the strait and the possibility of permitting residents from Shanghai and Fujian province to travel to Taiwan.
The measures also address trade and cultural exchanges. Beijing said it would create a mechanism aimed at simplifying inspection procedures for Taiwanese food and fishery products entering the mainland market.
However, the state media report indicated that such arrangements would depend on a political commitment to oppose Taiwan’s independence.
China also said it would permit Taiwanese television dramas, documentaries and animation to be broadcast domestically, provided they demonstrate what officials described as “correct orientation,” contain “healthy content,” and meet high production standards.
Taiwan Government Rejects Beijing’s Proposal
Taiwan’s government criticised the initiative, arguing that the measures were politically motivated.
In a statement, Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council said Beijing’s offer amounted to “unilateral concessions” that it described as “poisoned pills packaged as generous gift packages.”
The council said Taipei supports cross-strait exchanges when they are conducted in a healthy and orderly manner, but added that such interactions should not be tied to political conditions or objectives.
Relations between the two sides remain tense. China claims sovereignty over Taiwan and has repeatedly warned against moves toward formal independence.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who took office earlier this year, rejects Beijing’s claims and has maintained that the island is already a sovereign entity.
Opposition Party Welcomes Announcement
The KMT responded more positively to the measures, describing them as beneficial for Taiwanese citizens.
In a statement, the party said the initiatives represented a “gift” to the people of Taiwan and could help improve economic and cultural exchanges.
The announcement also comes amid continuing disagreements over tourism and trade. Large-scale Chinese tourism to Taiwan has not resumed since the COVID-19 pandemic, with both sides blaming each other for the delay.
Taiwan has also previously accused China of imposing restrictions on imports of certain agricultural and aquatic products from the island, saying the bans were sometimes justified by claims about pests or diseases that Taipei disputes.
Continuing Cross-Strait Tensions
The diplomatic divide between Beijing and Taiwan’s current administration has limited direct dialogue between the two governments.
China has refused to engage with President Lai, whom it has labelled a separatist. Taipei, however, says Beijing’s pressure campaigns and political conditions undermine the prospects for constructive engagement.
The newly announced measures highlight Beijing’s continued effort to pursue exchanges with groups in Taiwan willing to maintain closer ties, particularly the KMT, even as official relations with the island’s government remain strained.



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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 April 2026

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April 13Apr 13

Russia and Ukraine Trade Accusations Over Violations of Orthodox Easter ‘Magic’ Ceasefire

Ukraine Conflict

Russia and Ukraine Trade Accusations Over Violations of Orthodox Easter ‘Magic’ Ceasefire

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of breaching a temporary ceasefire declared by Vladimir Putin for the Orthodox Easter weekend, less than a day after the truce was due to begin.

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The Russian president announced a 32-hour halt in fighting, instructing Russian forces to stop hostilities from 4 p.m. on Saturday until the end of Sunday. The move was presented by Moscow as a humanitarian pause during one of the most significant holidays in the Orthodox Christian calendar.
Ukraine’s leadership said it would observe the ceasefire but warned that any violations would prompt an immediate response.
Ukraine Reports Thousands of Violations
Ukrainian officials said the truce was repeatedly broken after it came into effect.
In a statement on Sunday, the General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces said it had documented 2,299 violations by Russian forces as of 7 a.m. local time. The incidents included ground assaults, artillery shelling and the launch of small drones.
However, the military said it had not recorded the use of longer-range weapons such as missiles, long-distance drones or guided aerial bombs during that period.
A Ukrainian military officer also told The Associated Press that Russian troops had continued to attack Ukrainian positions despite the ceasefire announcement.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had earlier said Kyiv would respect the pause but would retaliate swiftly if Russian forces carried out strikes.
Moscow Blames Ukrainian Attacks
Russia’s Defence Ministry said Ukrainian forces were responsible for numerous violations of the ceasefire.
According to the ministry, it had recorded 1,971 incidents attributed to Ukrainian forces. Officials also reported drone strikes on the Russian regions of Kursk Oblast and Belgorod Oblast, saying the attacks had injured civilians.
Both sides have frequently traded accusations of breaches during earlier attempts to pause the fighting.
Previous Truce Attempts Failed
Efforts to secure temporary ceasefires during the conflict have often collapsed quickly, with Moscow and Kyiv blaming each other for continuing hostilities.
Last year, Putin also announced a unilateral ceasefire over the Orthodox Easter holiday lasting around 30 hours. That truce similarly failed to hold, with both governments accusing the other of breaking the agreement.
The latest exchange of accusations highlights the continuing difficulty of implementing even short humanitarian pauses in the conflict, now in its third year, as front-line fighting and drone attacks persist across multiple regions.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 April 2026

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April 13Apr 13

Trump proposes ‘magic paint’ makeover for historic White House office building

USA

Trump proposes ‘magic paint’ makeover for historic White House office building

President Donald Trump has proposed painting a historic federal office building next to the White House with what he has described as a “magic paint,” but preservation specialists are warning that the material may not be suitable for the structure’s granite exterior.

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The proposal centres on the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, an ornate 19th-century structure adjacent to the White House. According to documents reviewed by CNN, Trump has privately promoted the use of a mineral silicate coating that he believes could protect the stone while giving the building a bright white appearance.
However, heritage experts say the product is unlikely to work as intended and could potentially damage the building.
Proposed makeover for historic complex
The proposal will be reviewed by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, the federal body responsible for overseeing design changes to government buildings in Washington. The commission is expected to consider the plan during an upcoming meeting.
Renderings submitted for review present two possible approaches: painting the entire structure white, or applying white paint while leaving the exposed granite of the basement and sub-basement untouched.
In briefing materials prepared ahead of the meeting, the White House said the building’s exterior has suffered from decades of neglect since its completion in the late 1800s. Officials cited staining, cracks and abrasions in the granite that they attributed to years of inadequate maintenance.
Trump has reportedly argued that the coating — which he has described as “magic paint with silicate” — would reinforce the stone, prevent water damage and staining, and reduce the need for frequent repainting.
Preservationists question the science
Two preservation groups — the DC Preservation League and Cultural Heritage Partners — dispute those claims. They have commissioned an analysis from 25 specialists experienced in restoration projects involving mineral silicate paints.
The experts concluded that such paints are generally unsuitable for granite surfaces because the stone does not chemically bond with the material. According to their findings, applying a primer in an attempt to improve adhesion could permanently damage the stone.
They also said the paint would not strengthen granite or significantly improve its durability, and could even make discoloration more noticeable compared with the natural stone surface.
The groups have suggested alternative measures to improve the building’s appearance and condition, including conservation-grade cleaning, restoration of ironwork, improved lighting, window film to brighten the façade and new landscaping.
Legal challenge underway
The preservation organisations have also filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia seeking to halt any exterior alterations until a full environmental and historic-preservation review is completed.
They argue that bypassing the standard review process could lead to irreversible changes to one of Washington’s most prominent historic structures.
Completed in 1888, the Eisenhower Executive Office Building originally housed the State, War and Navy departments. Today it provides office space for senior presidential staff, including personnel from the vice president’s office, the National Security Council and the Office of Management and Budget.
The building contains more than 500 rooms with elaborate architectural features such as gilded interiors, stained-glass rotundas and ornate cast-iron details.
A controversial building since its debut
Despite its grandeur, the structure has been a subject of debate since it was completed. Designed by architect Alfred B. Mullett in the French Second Empire style, the building took around 17 years to construct.
By the time it was finished, the style had fallen out of favour with many critics. The American writer Mark Twain is widely quoted as describing it as “the ugliest building in America”.
White House officials have not yet responded publicly to the preservation groups’ findings.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 April 2026

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April 13Apr 13

US Destroyer Warned by Iranian Forces During Strait of Hormuz Mine-Clearing Mission

Iranian Conflict

US Destroyer Warned by Iranian Forces During Strait of Hormuz Mine-Clearing Mission

U.S. naval vessels received a warning from Iranian forces while operating in the Strait of Hormuz during efforts to clear sea mines from the critical shipping route, according to a report.

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The incident occurred as American military ships began operations to secure the waterway, a key corridor for global oil transport, following heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Radio exchange during naval operation
According to a report by the The Wall Street Journal, the navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) transmitted a warning message to a U.S. destroyer navigating the strait.
“This is the last warning. This is the last warning,” Iranian forces reportedly radioed to one of two American destroyers operating in the area.
The U.S. vessel replied that it was navigating in line with international maritime law and had no intention of challenging Iranian forces. The response also referenced the temporary ceasefire between the two sides.
“Passage in accordance with international law. No challenge is intended to you, and I intend to abide by rules of our government’s cease-fire,” the American ship reportedly said in its response.
US mission to clear mines
The operation took place as the U.S. military began preparations to remove naval mines from the strategic waterway. The effort is being coordinated by U.S. Central Command (Centcom), which oversees American military operations in the region.
Centcom said its forces had started setting conditions for mine-clearing activities in the strait. The command added that two guided-missile destroyers — the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. and the USS Michael Murphy — had transited the passage and were operating in the Arabian Gulf.
The ships are part of a wider mission intended to ensure the strait is safe for shipping after mines were previously laid in the area by Iranian forces.
Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, said the military had begun establishing a safe maritime route.
“Today, we began the process of establishing a new passage and we will share this safe pathway with the maritime industry soon to encourage the free flow of commerce,” he said.
Iran denies US passage
Iran disputed the claim that American warships had moved through the strait.
In a statement posted in Persian on X, the IRGC navy said it maintained strict control over the passageway and denied reports that U.S. ships had entered it.
“The IRGC Navy fully and authoritatively manages the intelligent control of the Strait of Hormuz,” the force said.
It added that only non-military vessels were permitted to pass through the waterway under its regulations and warned that any attempt by military ships to cross would face a firm response.
Strategic shipping route
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, carrying a large share of global oil shipments.
Iran previously threatened to block or disrupt traffic through the waterway after the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iranian targets. In response, the IRGC laid naval mines and warned commercial vessels against using the route.
Those threats led to a sharp drop in shipping traffic through the strait and triggered a spike in global oil prices.
Efforts by U.S. forces to remove the mines are intended to restore safe passage and stabilise maritime trade through the region.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 April 2026

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April 13Apr 13

London-born Dual National Stranded Abroad After New UK Entry Rules Take Effect

UK-Politics

London-born Dual National Stranded Abroad After New UK Entry Rules Take Effect

A London-born dual national says she has been left stranded in Europe and fears for her job after being caught out by new UK border requirements that came into force earlier this year.

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Natasha Cochrane De La Rosa, 26, who holds both British and Spanish nationality, was refused boarding on a flight back to the UK on 2 April after attempting to travel using only her Spanish passport.
The rule change, introduced on 25 February, means dual British citizens must now present either a British or Irish passport when entering the UK, or hold a digital certificate of entitlement confirming their right of abode.
The UK Home Office says the policy aligns the country with practices already used by several other nations.
Denied boarding in Amsterdam
Cochrane De La Rosa, who was born and raised in Islington and says she has lived in the UK her entire life, had travelled to Amsterdam with friends when the issue arose.
When she attempted to return on a flight from Amsterdam to Luton Airport, airline staff refused to allow her to board because she was travelling on her Spanish passport alone.
She had previously entered and left the UK multiple times using the same passport without any difficulty.
After being denied boarding, she spent a night in Amsterdam before travelling to Spain, where she is now staying with relatives.
“My whole life is in the UK,” she told BBC London, adding that her career, family and friends are all based there.
Complex citizenship history
Her case is complicated by the circumstances of her birth.
She explained that her parents were not married when she was born in 1999, meaning her British father could not automatically pass his citizenship to her under nationality laws in force at the time.
Although she has lived, worked and paid taxes in the UK and has taken part in elections, she says immigration lawyers have warned that the situation places her in what they describe as a legal “grey area”.
Because of this, she faces uncertainty over whether a British passport application would succeed.
Difficult choices
Cochrane De La Rosa says she must now choose between applying for a British passport — a process that could take about six weeks and may be rejected — or paying £589 for a digital certificate of entitlement confirming her right to enter the UK.
She says the delay could put her employment at risk if she remains unable to return.
“It’s terrifying and I’m petrified,” she said.
She also criticised how the government communicated the changes, saying she was unaware of the new requirements when she booked her trip.
“If I had known about the rule change, I would not have travelled,” she said, adding that she would have organised the necessary paperwork before leaving the UK.
She said the situation had caused significant stress for her family, who have been closely following developments since she was unable to board her flight.
Government response
The Home Office says the updated requirement is designed to bring the UK into line with countries such as the United States and Australia, where citizens must use national documentation to enter.
In a statement, a spokesperson said that since 25 February 2026, dual British nationals must present a valid British passport or a certificate of entitlement when travelling to the UK.
Officials also defended how the changes were publicised, saying a government information campaign had been running since 2023, with specific guidance for dual nationals published in October 2024.
The department added that passport applications from overseas can sometimes be processed within four weeks, and that the digital certificate of entitlement — which confirms a person’s right to live in the UK — now only needs to be obtained once.
Concerns about wider impact
Cochrane De La Rosa said she feared other dual nationals might face similar problems.
She warned that not everyone would have the financial means, legal advice or support networks needed to deal with sudden changes to travel requirements.
“This isn’t just about my story,” she said. “There will be others who may struggle even more to cope with these changes.”

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 April 2026

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April 13Apr 13

Starmer calls for diplomacy after US–Iran peace talks end without deal

Iranian Conflict

Starmer calls for diplomacy after US–Iran peace talks end without deal

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged the United States and Iran to continue diplomatic efforts to resolve their conflict, after initial negotiations between the two sides ended without an agreement.

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The talks, held in Pakistan and involving senior officials from Washington and Tehran, concluded early on Sunday without producing a breakthrough. The outcome has raised uncertainty over the future of a fragile two-week ceasefire between the two countries.
Speaking after the talks, the UK prime minister warned against further escalation in the Middle East and called on both sides to seek a path forward through dialogue.
UK urges continuation of ceasefire
Downing Street said Starmer discussed the stalled negotiations during a phone call on Sunday with Haitham bin Tarik. Oman has often played a mediating role in regional diplomacy.
According to a statement from the prime minister’s office, both leaders stressed the importance of maintaining the ceasefire and avoiding any actions that could worsen the conflict.
“The leaders discussed the peace talks held in Pakistan over the weekend and urged both sides to find a way through,” a Downing Street spokeswoman said. “It was vital there was a continuation of the ceasefire, and that all parties avoided any further escalation.”
The UK was not directly involved in the negotiations but has repeatedly called for a diplomatic solution to the war.
Disagreement over nuclear commitments
The talks were attended by US Vice-President JD Vance, who travelled to Pakistan for the discussions.
Vance said the absence of a deal stemmed largely from Iran’s refusal to commit to abandoning efforts to develop a nuclear weapon.
Iran’s delegation was led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. He said Tehran had proposed “forward-looking initiatives” but argued the United States had not yet earned Iran’s trust.
Despite the lack of agreement, British ministers stressed that the meeting itself represented an important step.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting said it was “disappointing” that the talks had not yet produced a deal but emphasised the significance of the two sides engaging directly.
“The mere fact that the Americans and the Iranians were able to get around the table together is highly unusual and necessary,” he said on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme. “It’s the only way we’re going to end this war.”
Streeting added that the UK hoped for a negotiated settlement that would definitively address Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Tensions with Washington
Streeting also defended Starmer’s decision not to commit the UK to participating in potential US-Israeli military strikes against Iran.
He criticised recent remarks by US President Donald Trump, who last week warned that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” unless Iran agreed to a deal, describing the language as “outrageous” and “extraordinary”.
However, Streeting suggested the US president’s actions should be judged separately from his rhetoric, noting that Trump’s statements — particularly on social media — do not always reflect his eventual policy decisions.
Differences over Iran and other international issues have strained the traditionally close relationship between London and Washington. Starmer recently said British households were frustrated by rising energy costs driven by global tensions, including actions linked to Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Shipping and economic concerns
The conflict has also disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies that Iran has effectively blocked during the fighting.
Starmer has discussed with Trump the need to restore safe passage for commercial vessels through the strait. The UK is due to host talks this week with a coalition of countries aimed at reopening the route.
Asked whether Britain might deploy Royal Navy ships to escort vessels through the waterway, Streeting said it would be too early to confirm any plans.
Meanwhile, political leaders in the UK warned that the conflict’s economic impact could soon be felt by households. Rising energy costs linked to disruption in Middle Eastern oil and gas supplies have contributed to higher food prices.
Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, said food inflation could intensify later this year and called for greater support for domestic farming to strengthen food security.
Wider political debate
Opposition politicians also used the debate to press for changes in defence spending. Conservative shadow defence secretary James Cartlidge argued that the UK should increase funding for its armed forces, proposing that welfare spending be reduced to finance higher defence budgets.
The Green Party of England and Wales said diplomatic efforts must continue and called for the ceasefire between the US and Iran to be preserved while urging an end to Israeli bombing in Lebanon.
Despite the stalled negotiations, British officials say diplomacy remains the only viable path to ending the conflict.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 April 2026

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April 13Apr 13

US plans naval blockade of Iranian ports as talks collapse and oil prices surge

Iranian Conflict

US plans naval blockade of Iranian ports as talks collapse and oil prices surge

The United States military says a blockade targeting Iranian ports will begin on Monday, escalating tensions after negotiations between Washington and Tehran ended without an agreement.

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In a statement, the United States Central Command said it would not obstruct vessels travelling through the strategic Strait of Hormuz if they were heading to or from non-Iranian ports. The passage is one of the world’s most critical routes for global oil shipments.
The move follows a message posted on Truth Social by US President Donald Trump, who said the US Navy would “blockade any and all ships” attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports via the strait.
Talks collapse after dispute over nuclear programme
Trump said negotiations held in Islamabad had failed because Iran refused to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
Iranian officials gave a different account of the talks, saying the two sides had been close to an agreement before Washington adopted what they described as maximalist demands and shifting conditions.
The negotiations were led on the Iranian side by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who said Tehran would not yield to pressure.
“Iran will not submit to any threat,” Ghalibaf said in remarks carried by local media following the talks.
Iran warns military vessels over Strait of Hormuz
Tensions increased further after Iran’s naval forces issued a warning over the presence of foreign military ships in the region.
The naval arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said any military vessels approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be treated as violating a ceasefire and could face a severe response.
The warning underscored the strategic importance of the waterway, through which a significant share of the world’s oil exports passes.
Oil prices rise amid fears of deeper energy crisis
Energy markets reacted sharply to the diplomatic breakdown and the prospect of military confrontation.
Global benchmark Brent crude climbed more than 7% to $102.37 per barrel, while US benchmark West Texas Intermediate rose about 8% to $104.56 as trading resumed on Sunday.
Analysts said the failure of the negotiations has intensified fears that the conflict could worsen disruptions to energy supplies, potentially prolonging the global energy crisis.
Ghalibaf also criticised Trump on social media, posting a message on X suggesting Americans could soon face significantly higher fuel costs if the blockade goes ahead.
“Enjoy the current pump figures,” he wrote, adding that US motorists might soon look back nostalgically on gasoline prices between $4 and $5 a gallon.


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April 12Apr 12

Hungary's Viktor Orbán ousted after 16 years in power

EU

Hungary's Viktor Orbán ousted after 16 years in power

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has conceded defeat in a landmark election that appears to end his 16-year hold on power, after early results and exit polls indicated a decisive victory for opposition leader Péter Magyar and his Tisza movement.

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Orbán acknowledged the result less than three hours after polls closed, congratulating Magyar as vote counting continued across the country. Preliminary projections suggested that Magyar’s movement could secure a two-thirds majority in parliament — a level of support that would allow sweeping political and constitutional changes.
The vote drew an exceptionally high turnout, reported to be the largest since the fall of communism in Hungary in the early 1990s.
Record turnout reshapes Hungarian politics
Hungarian voters turned out in large numbers to back Magyar’s Tisza movement, which built its campaign around pledges to tackle corruption and restore Hungary’s closer integration with the European mainstream.
The movement united a broad range of opposition forces that had previously struggled to challenge Orbán’s Fidesz party.
If confirmed, a two-thirds parliamentary majority would give Magyar the power to reverse several constitutional changes introduced during Orbán’s time in office. Critics say those reforms weakened the independence of the judiciary and strengthened Fidesz’s influence over political institutions.
Ballots were still being counted late into the evening, but early trends suggested the opposition’s lead was substantial.
European and international implications
The election had drawn considerable attention across Europe and beyond.
Orbán’s government frequently clashed with partners in the European Union, particularly over financial support for Ukraine and broader policy toward Russia. He opposed additional EU sanctions against Moscow and resisted further assistance to Kyiv, positions that often placed Budapest at odds with other EU member states.
Orbán has also faced allegations of corruption and misuse of EU funds, accusations he has consistently denied.



International figures became involved in the campaign as the vote approached. US Vice President JD Vance appeared alongside Orbán during the final stages of the race, while former US President Donald Trump addressed one of the prime minister’s rallies remotely.
Setback for Putin’s Influence in Europe
Orbán’s departure is widely expected to alter Hungary’s role inside the EU and NATO.
For years, analysts viewed the Hungarian leader as one of Russia’s most sympathetic partners within Western institutions. His government maintained comparatively close relations with Moscow and often resisted policies designed to isolate the Kremlin after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
With Orbán now leaving office, that dynamic could shift.
There has been no official reaction from Moscow to the election result. However, observers say the loss of a Kremlin-friendly leader inside the EU could weaken Russia’s influence in European decision-making.
At the same time, Hungary’s economic ties with Russia — particularly its reliance on Russian energy — are unlikely to change immediately. Analysts say these connections could continue to shape relations between Budapest and Moscow even under a new government.
Russian commentators have recently suggested that worsening economic or energy pressures in Europe could create instability within the EU. Despite the political shift in Hungary, those broader dynamics are expected to remain part of the region’s geopolitical landscape.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Compiled from various sources 13 April 2026

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April 12Apr 12

US–Iran Talks End Without Deal as Strait of Hormuz Crisis Continues

Iranian Conflict

US–Iran Talks End Without Deal as Strait of Hormuz Crisis Continues

Ceasefire Holds, But No Breakthrough
High-level talks between the United States and Iran ended without agreement after more than 20 hours of negotiations in Islamabad. Both sides failed to resolve key disputes despite what officials described as intensive discussions.
The talks were part of efforts to stabilise a two-week ceasefire agreed earlier in April following six weeks of conflict.
Pakistan hosted the negotiations, which marked one of the most direct engagements between the two countries in decades.

Strait of Hormuz Remains the Central Issue
The main sticking point remains control and access to the Strait of Hormuz — a critical shipping route.
The strait handles a significant share of global oil transport
Traffic has been heavily disrupted since the conflict escalated
Naval mines and military threats continue to limit safe passage
Iran previously restricted access to the waterway, contributing to sharp disruptions in global energy supply.

Military Activity Continues Despite Talks
Despite the ceasefire, military operations linked to reopening the strait are ongoing:
US warships have entered the waterway for the first time since the conflict began
The US military has started preparations to clear naval mines
Iran has warned it may respond to further naval movements
Officials say mine-clearing is necessary to restore commercial shipping, but the process is complex and could take time.

Limited Signs of Progress
There are early indications of partial recovery:
An Indian gas tanker successfully crossed the strait after the ceasefire
However, full reopening remains uncertain, and many commercial vessels are still avoiding the route due to safety concerns.

What Happens Next
Negotiations are expected to continue, but both sides remain far apart:
The US is pushing for guaranteed shipping access and security
Iran is seeking sanctions relief and broader regional concessions
With no agreement in place, the risk of renewed escalation remains, particularly if the ceasefire collapses.

Video: Live coverage of US–Iran talks


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Adapted by ASEAN Now from numerous mainstream media sources 12 April 2026

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April 12Apr 12

Nearly 400 Convicted in Nigeria Mass Trials Over Islamist Militant Links

Report

Nearly 400 Convicted in Nigeria Mass Trials Over Islamist Militant Links

Nigeria has sentenced nearly 400 people to prison after large-scale trials over alleged connections to militant Islamist groups, as authorities face mounting pressure to address the country’s worsening security situation.

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Officials said 386 suspects were convicted in proceedings held at the federal high court in Abuja. The defendants were accused of involvement with either Boko Haram or its splinter faction Islamic State West Africa Province.
Sentences handed down ranged from five years in prison to life imprisonment.
The trials were part of a broader effort by the Nigerian government to tackle militant violence and other armed threats affecting the country.
Mass trials in Abuja
More than 500 suspects appeared before the federal high court in Abuja, facing accusations that included participating in attacks or assisting militant groups.
Prosecutors alleged that some defendants provided financial support, weapons, information or logistical help to the armed groups.
According to officials, judges convicted 386 people at the end of the hearings. Two defendants were acquitted, eight were discharged, and 112 cases were postponed for further proceedings.
Several suspects admitted to some of the charges. Five of the accused pleaded guilty at the start of the trials to offences that included selling livestock, supplying food, and passing information to militant organisations.
Insurgency in north-east Nigeria
Nigeria has been confronting an Islamist insurgency in its north-east since 2009, when Boko Haram launched an armed campaign against the state.
The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and forced more than two million from their homes, according to aid agencies.
Over the years, factions have emerged from the original group, including Islamic State West Africa Province, which pledged allegiance to the Islamic State and operates across parts of the Lake Chad region.
Nigerian security forces are currently dealing with multiple threats across the country. In addition to Islamist militants, authorities are confronting separatist groups and criminal gangs responsible for widespread kidnappings for ransom.
Security concerns and international response
The convictions come as concerns about security in Nigeria continue to grow.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of State advised American citizens to reconsider travel to the country, citing deteriorating security conditions.
In a separate development, the United States carried out airstrikes in northern Sokoto state on Christmas Day targeting a militant Islamist group known as Lakurawa.
The strikes followed claims by Donald Trump, who alleged that Christians were being persecuted in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s government rejected the accusation, saying the violence affects people of different faiths and that both Muslims and Christians have been victims of attacks.
Authorities say the mass trials form part of continuing efforts to hold suspects accountable while addressing the broader security crisis facing Africa’s most populous nation.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 April 2026

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April 12Apr 12

US and Iran Begin High-Stakes Peace Talks in Pakistan

Iranian Conflict

US and Iran Begin High-Stakes Peace Talks in Pakistan

US and Iranian officials have begun high-level negotiations in Pakistan aimed at ending the conflict between the two countries and stabilising shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

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The talks, held in Islamabad, follow earlier indirect discussions and a two-week truce between Washington and Tehran. Officials say the meetings represent the first formal attempt to turn that temporary pause into a broader agreement that could reopen global shipping routes and prevent further escalation in the region.
Delegations meet in Islamabad
The US delegation is led by Vice President JD Vance, who arrived in the Pakistani capital on Saturday. He is joined by President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Iran’s delegation is headed by parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, who had already arrived in Islamabad ahead of the talks.
Both delegations met separately with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif before negotiations began, though neither Iran’s team nor the Pakistani government released details of those discussions.
Before departing for Pakistan, Vance warned Tehran against attempting to mislead US negotiators, saying Washington would not tolerate what he described as attempts to “play” the United States during the talks.
The three-party meeting was reportedly made possible after several preconditions were met, including a reduction in Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon.
Competing proposals and key disputes
While negotiations are under way, the specific terms under discussion remain unclear.
Reports suggest Iran has drafted a 10-point proposal for a settlement, while the United States has circulated a separate 15-point plan. Neither proposal has been publicly released, though President Donald Trump described the Iranian plan as “a workable basis on which to negotiate”.
Several major issues are expected to dominate the talks, including economic sanctions on Iran, the status of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear enrichment programme, and Israeli military operations in Lebanon.
The United States has demanded that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping lanes. Tehran has effectively restricted passage since US and Israeli attacks on Iran on 28 February that triggered the current war.
Iran has proposed allowing ships to pass in exchange for transit fees and wants recognition of its authority over the narrow waterway. Washington has rejected the idea, arguing that the strait must remain open to international navigation.
Trump has floated the possibility of a joint US-Iran mechanism to impose tolls on shipping in the strait, a suggestion that has prompted concern in Europe.
A spokesperson for the European Commission said earlier this week that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to all vessels, describing freedom of navigation as essential.
Distrust and ongoing violence
Iranian officials have said progress in the talks will depend on two conditions: a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of Iranian financial assets that have been frozen abroad.
However, reports early on Saturday indicated that Israeli strikes were continuing in southern Lebanon, where at least three people were reported killed.
Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said Tehran entered the talks with “deep distrust” following two attacks on Iran during earlier negotiations over its nuclear programme.
In a statement on social media, his office also warned that Iran would respond if further attacks were carried out.
Trump, meanwhile, used social media on Saturday to dismiss claims that Iran had gained the upper hand in the conflict. He said Iranian military capabilities had been heavily damaged during the war.
Heavy toll of the conflict
The war has disrupted trade throughout the Persian Gulf and driven up global oil prices as shipping routes have been restricted.
Regional infrastructure has also suffered damage across several Gulf states.
According to available figures, the conflict has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran. Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed 1,953 people, while 23 deaths have been reported in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states following Iranian strikes.
Negotiators in Islamabad now face the challenge of turning the fragile truce into a longer-term agreement capable of ending the fighting and restoring shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 April 2026

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April 12Apr 12

John Kerry Says Trump’s Iran Posts Sound Like ‘Prelude to War Crimes’

USA

John Kerry Says Trump’s Iran Posts Sound Like ‘Prelude to War Crimes’

Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has sharply criticised threatening comments by President Donald Trump about Iran, saying the language used could amount to the “prelude to becoming one of the greatest war criminals in history”.

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Kerry made the remarks during an interview with Jen Psaki on the programme “The Briefing”, where he said the president’s recent social media statements about Iran were among the most alarming he had seen from the administration.
Criticism of rhetoric
Kerry pointed to posts by Trump on the platform Truth Social, including one containing profanity earlier in the week and another warning that Iran’s “whole civilization will die”.
The former secretary of state said the wording left him “shocked”, adding that such statements were inconsistent with the international role the United States had historically played.
He said the country had long been associated with efforts to defend democratic values abroad, referencing the U.S. role in liberating Europe from fascism during the Second World War. Using language that suggested the destruction of an entire civilisation, he argued, risked undermining those principles.
“When you kill a civilization,” Kerry said, “you are doing something precisely against all of the international norms, standards, values and hopes and aspirations.”
References to past conflicts
Kerry also invoked his own experience during the Vietnam War. After serving as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy during the war, he became an anti-war activist, a background he said shaped his views about the responsibilities of leaders during times of conflict.
Speaking in the interview, Kerry argued that political leaders must be transparent when discussing the prospect of war, particularly when decisions involve matters of life and death.
He also rejected claims from the Trump administration that Iran posed an imminent nuclear threat.
“There just wasn’t an imminent threat,” Kerry said, noting that officials had previously argued that recent strikes had already destroyed Iran’s nuclear programme.
Rising tensions before negotiations
Trump’s comments came as diplomatic efforts were under way to reduce tensions between Washington and Tehran. Talks between Iranian representatives and a U.S. delegation led by Vice President JD Vance were scheduled to take place in Pakistan.
In an interview with the New York Post, Trump said the United States was prepared to resume military action if negotiations failed.
“We’re going to find out in about 24 hours,” he said, adding that the U.S. military was preparing weapons and equipment in case a new round of strikes became necessary.
He said that if a deal was not reached, the United States would use those weapons “very effectively”.
Strait of Hormuz dispute
Earlier in the week, Trump had issued an ultimatum to Iran demanding a peace agreement and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, setting a deadline late Tuesday evening.
A deal was reportedly reached shortly before the deadline, leading to a two-week ceasefire and the reopening of the shipping route, a critical corridor for global oil supplies.
However, Iran closed the strait again the following day, citing Israeli military operations in Lebanon. Iranian officials and Pakistan’s prime minister Shehbaz Sharif have said the ceasefire should also apply to Lebanon.
That interpretation has been rejected by both the Trump administration and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, highlighting the continuing disagreements surrounding the fragile diplomatic effort.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 April 2026

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April 12Apr 12

Hundreds Arrested at London Protest Over Ban on Palestine Action

UK

Hundreds Arrested at London Protest Over Ban on Palestine Action

More than 500 people were arrested in central London after a demonstration opposing the government’s ban on the activist group Palestine Action, according to the Metropolitan Police.

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The arrests took place during a protest in Trafalgar Square on Saturday, where hundreds gathered to express support for the organisation despite it being listed as a proscribed group under UK law.
Police said those detained ranged in age from 18 to 87.
Protest against proscription
The protest, titled “Everyone Day”, was organised by the campaign group Defend Our Juries. Organisers said the event aimed to highlight continued opposition to the government’s decision to outlaw Palestine Action.
Many demonstrators held placards reading: “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action,” a slogan that has appeared at earlier rallies connected to the group. Other signs expressed support for the right to protest and criticism of the United States and Israel.
Backing Palestine Action became illegal in July 2025 after the UK government banned the group under the Terrorism Act 2000. Authorities argued that the designation made it a criminal offence to express support for the organisation.
The ban was later ruled unlawful by the High Court in February, but the restrictions remain in force while the government pursues an appeal.
Police warning before demonstration
Ahead of the protest, the Metropolitan Police warned that anyone expressing support for the group could face arrest.
Commander Claire Smart, who oversaw police operations in London over the weekend, said officers would enforce the law if offences were committed.
“Those attending should be aware that showing support for a proscribed organisation is an offence under the Terrorism Act, and we will not hesitate to act where the law is broken,” she said.
Earlier in the year, the police had suggested arrests would be unlikely following the High Court ruling on the ban. However, in March they said enforcement would resume while legal proceedings continued.
Demonstrators accept risk of arrest
Several protesters said they were prepared to face arrest in order to challenge the ban.
Among those detained was Robert Del Naja, a founding member of the British band Massive Attack. Speaking before the protest, he criticised the decision to resume arrests.
He said he believed that if detained he would be able to contest the legality of the arrest in court.
Del Naja also defended the actions of Palestine Action, describing the group’s activities as intended to prevent the UK from being involved in alleged war crimes.
Other demonstrators echoed similar sentiments. One participant said she had attended because she believed the government was targeting people attempting to oppose what they described as genocide in Gaza.
Israel has repeatedly rejected accusations that its military operations in Gaza amount to genocide, stating that its actions are carried out in self-defence.
Arrests continue through evening
Police initially reported 212 arrests by late afternoon on Saturday as officers detained individuals displaying signs supporting the banned organisation.
By 23:07 BST, the Metropolitan Police said the total number of arrests had reached 523.
Authorities said they were grateful to officers involved in managing the demonstration.
More than 2,200 people have been arrested since Palestine Action was banned last year by then Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.
Trials involving hundreds of those accused of expressing support for the group have been paused while the legal challenge to the ban continues.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 April 2026

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April 12Apr 12

U.S. Navy Tests Passage Through Strait of Hormuz as Tensions with Iran Persist

Iranian Conflict

U.S. Navy Tests Passage Through Strait of Hormuz as Tensions with Iran Persist

The United States Navy has carried out a passage through the Strait of Hormuz as tensions with Iran remain high despite the start of ceasefire talks between the two countries.

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Two U.S. destroyers transited the narrow waterway on Saturday in a maneuver that was not coordinated with Tehran, according to reports. The ships crossed from the Arabian Sea into the Persian Gulf before returning, marking the first such movement by U.S. naval vessels since fighting began six weeks ago.
U.S. Central Command confirmed the operation, saying the destroyers were beginning preparations for efforts aimed at clearing mines from the strait. The command said underwater drones would soon be deployed as part of the effort.
“Today, we began the process of establishing a new passage and we will share this safe pathway with the maritime industry soon to encourage the free flow of commerce,” said Admiral Brad Cooper, the commander of U.S. Central Command.
Iran disputes naval transit
Iran described the transit as a violation of the ceasefire. A source cited by Bloomberg said Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched a drone toward the U.S. vessels, prompting them to turn back.
The incident came as diplomatic discussions between Washington and Tehran opened in Pakistan in an attempt to stabilise the conflict.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial global shipping route, previously carrying about one-fifth of the world’s oil exports before the current hostilities began. Iran moved to close the waterway during the conflict, sharply disrupting energy shipments.
Despite the restrictions, three oil supertankers passed through the strait on Saturday, representing the largest single day of oil departures since the closure.
Military build-up continues
Although President Donald Trump has paused military operations against Iran for two weeks to allow negotiations to proceed, hostilities have not fully subsided and Iran continues to exert tight control over shipping through the passage.
Meanwhile, the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the region. A third aircraft carrier group, along with thousands of Marines and paratroopers, is expected to arrive later this month. Additional long-range cruise missiles are also being deployed.
Energy analyst Bob McNally, founder of Rapidan Energy and a former White House energy adviser to President George W. Bush, said the U.S. military appears to be preparing for further confrontation if talks fail.
“I think we’re kind of getting ready for round two,” McNally told CNBC.
Efforts to weaken Iran’s leverage
McNally said the U.S. military has been working to reduce Iran’s ability to disrupt shipping in the strait. He described the process as similar to a “whack-a-mole” effort against multiple threats including anti-ship missile launchers, fast-attack boats, drones, submarines and long-range artillery.
He also said the United States has targeted Iran’s stockpile of underwater mines, which could be used to block the channel.
According to McNally, these operations are aimed at lowering Iran’s ability to interfere with shipping to what he called a “manageable level,” allowing insurance companies and naval escorts to help restore traffic through the route.
Dispute over shipping tolls
For now, however, the presence of Iranian missiles and drones has discouraged many ships from entering the strait. Only a limited number of vessels have been allowed through, and a transit fee of roughly $2 million has reportedly been required.
Iran is seeking to formalise this arrangement in ceasefire negotiations. Trump has suggested the possibility of a joint arrangement with Iran to collect transit fees, though details remain unclear.
Oil-exporting Gulf states that rely on the route have signalled they would oppose any attempt by Iran to control the strait.
Analysts warn that such a scenario could have wider implications for global trade and financial stability.
“It would be a breakdown in global order and trade and stability,” McNally said in an interview with India’s Times Now. “It’s hard to imagine the United States ending this conflict in a way that leaves Iran strengthened and able to impose tolls or extract concessions.”

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 April 2026

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April 12Apr 12

French boy, 9, rescued after months locked in father’s van, authorities say

French boy, 9, rescued after months locked in father’s van, authorities say

A nine-year-old boy has been rescued in eastern France after spending months confined inside his father’s utility van, where he was found severely malnourished and unable to walk, prosecutors said.

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Police discovered the child on Monday in the village of Hagenbach after a neighbour reported hearing what sounded like a child inside a parked vehicle.
Officers forced open the van and found the boy lying naked in a fetal position beneath a blanket, surrounded by rubbish and near human waste, according to prosecutor Nicolas Heitz.
He was taken to hospital for treatment while his father was arrested.
Discovery after neighbour’s alert
Investigators believe the boy had been kept inside the vehicle since November 2024. Authorities say he was found extremely weak after spending prolonged periods seated inside the van.
According to the prosecutor’s office, the child had become so malnourished that he could no longer walk by the time police located him.
The case came to light after a neighbour reported hearing a child’s voice coming from the vehicle. The van had been parked in the village near France’s borders with Switzerland and Germany.
When officers opened it, they discovered the child in poor physical condition among piles of rubbish and excrement.
Father’s explanation questioned
During questioning, the boy’s father told investigators he had placed the child in the van “to protect him.” He said his partner had wanted the boy — who was seven at the time — to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital.
However, the prosecutor said there were no medical records indicating the child had any psychiatric condition before he disappeared. Officials also said he had previously performed well at school.
The boy told investigators he had struggled to get along with his father’s partner but believed his father had “no choice” but to lock him up. He also reported that he had not showered since 2024.
Charges and wider investigation
The father has been placed in custody and faces preliminary charges including kidnapping.
His partner has denied knowing the boy was being held in the van. She has been placed under judicial supervision and faces preliminary charges including failing to assist a minor in danger.
Authorities have also placed the boy’s 12-year-old sister and the 10-year-old daughter of the father’s partner in the care of social services.
Prosecutors said they are investigating whether other people may have known about the child’s confinement.
Family members and friends told investigators they believed the boy had been placed in a psychiatric institution. His teachers were informed that he had transferred to another school.
Officials have not released the identities of the child or his relatives.
Residents of Hagenbach contacted by reporters said they were shocked by the discovery and had been unaware of the boy’s situation. Prosecutors declined to comment further while the investigation continues.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 April 2026

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April 12Apr 12

Hungary Election Tightens as Challenger Peter Magyar Pushes to End Orbán Era

EU

Hungary Election Tightens as Challenger Peter Magyar Pushes to End Orbán Era

Hungary’s election campaign has entered its final hours with opposition challenger Péter Magyar claiming momentum as he attempts to unseat Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and end 16 years of rule by the governing Fidesz party.

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Speaking to supporters at one of his final campaign stops, Magyar said he believed victory was within reach. “We’re at the gates of a two-thirds majority victory,” he told cheering crowds, urging voters to mobilise in the last stretch of campaigning.
Magyar planned to end his tour in the country’s second-largest city, Debrecen, while Orbán prepared to address supporters in the capital, Budapest.
Large rallies highlight growing political divide
The final days of campaigning have been marked by major gatherings across the country. On Friday evening, tens of thousands gathered in Budapest’s Heroes' Square for a concert opposing the government.
Among them was a first-time voter who travelled from a village several hours away with her mother. She said she believed change might be possible, even though she would not normally support Magyar under different circumstances.
Orbán’s challenge in the election stems from a wide range of voter dissatisfaction that has coalesced around Magyar’s opposition movement. The challenger is a former Fidesz insider who broke with the governing party and later formed the political movement Tisza Party.
International support and geopolitical stakes
Orbán has received backing from allies abroad during the campaign. JD Vance, the US vice-president, visited Hungary for two days, while US President Donald Trump pledged to use the “full economic might” of the United States to support Hungary’s economy if Orbán wins.
Although Hungary has a population of around 9.6 million, Orbán has played an influential role internationally. He maintains close ties with both Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and his positions have frequently put him at odds with European Union partners and Ukraine’s leadership.
Orbán has warned voters that a change of government could threaten what his administration has built, calling for national unity during what he describes as a challenging period.
However, attempts by his campaign to frame the European Union and Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as threats to Hungary have not significantly reduced Magyar’s lead in opinion polls.
Youth vote and shifting political landscape
Magyar has campaigned intensively across the country, delivering multiple speeches daily in towns, villages and cities. During one rally in Mosonmagyaróvár, he told supporters it was time for “regime change”.
Though ideologically a centre-right conservative, Magyar’s movement has drawn support from a wide range of voters, particularly younger Hungarians who have known no government other than Fidesz.
According to political analyst Zsuzsanna Végh of the German Marshall Fund, opinion polls indicate a clear shift among voters aged 18 to 29, with less than 10% backing Fidesz.
She also pointed to growing opposition support in smaller towns and rural areas that had previously been strongholds of the governing party.
Corruption concerns and competing narratives
Even if Magyar wins a parliamentary majority, analysts say dismantling Fidesz’s entrenched influence could prove difficult without a two-thirds majority. Orbán’s government has spent years reshaping institutions, including the judiciary.
Campaign battles have been particularly intense in traditional Fidesz strongholds such as Székesfehérvár, historically known as Hungary’s “city of kings”.
Voters there expressed sharply divided views. Some supported Orbán’s message warning against closer alignment with the EU and Ukraine, fearing Hungary could be drawn into conflict.
Others cited corruption and cronyism as reasons for seeking change. Critics have accused the government of awarding large public contracts to allies and consolidating control over sections of the media.
After more than a decade and a half in power, the election will determine whether Orbán’s long dominance of Hungarian politics continues or whether a new political movement succeeds in reshaping the country’s direction.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 April 2026

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April 11Apr 11

US Intelligence Says China May Send Air Defence Weapons to Iran

Iranian Conflict

US Intelligence Says China May Send Air Defence Weapons to Iran

US intelligence assessments suggest China is preparing to send new air defence weapons to Iran within weeks, according to three people familiar with the findings, raising concerns about renewed tensions following a fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.

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Officials believe the systems being prepared are shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles, known as MANPADS, which could pose a threat to low-flying aircraft if hostilities resume.
The potential transfer would come shortly after China said it helped facilitate the ceasefire that halted a five-week conflict between the United States and Iran earlier this week.
Intelligence points to covert routing
Two of the sources said there are indications that Beijing may attempt to route the weapons through third countries to conceal their origin.
US officials believe Tehran could be using the pause in fighting to replenish military equipment with support from foreign partners.
During the recent conflict, such portable air defence systems were seen as a particular risk to US aircraft operating at lower altitudes.
Trump warns of consequences
Asked about the intelligence on Saturday, US President Donald Trump warned that China would face repercussions if weapons were delivered to Iran.
“If China does that, China will have big problems,” he said while departing the White House for Florida.
Trump did not say whether he had raised the issue directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The White House has confirmed that Trump is expected to travel to Beijing next month for talks with Xi, and officials said senior representatives from both countries were already in contact as ceasefire negotiations unfolded earlier in the week.
China denies the claim
A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington rejected the allegation, stating that Beijing had not provided weapons to any party involved in the conflict.
“China has never provided weapons to any party to the conflict; the information in question is untrue,” the spokesperson said.
The embassy added that China had sought to help bring about an end to the fighting and urged the United States to avoid what it called “baseless allegations”.
Questions over Iran’s air defences
During a press conference on Monday, Trump said a US F-15 fighter jet shot down over Iran last week had been struck by a “handheld shoulder missile” that was heat-seeking.
Iran has said it used a “new” air defence system to destroy the aircraft but has not disclosed further details. It remains unclear whether that system was manufactured in China.
Direct delivery of weapons by Beijing would mark a significant shift in its involvement. According to sources, Chinese companies have continued selling Iran sanctioned dual-use technology that helps maintain its weapons development and navigation capabilities.
Strategic balancing by Beijing
One source familiar with the intelligence assessments said China does not see strategic benefit in openly entering the conflict against the United States and Israel.
Instead, analysts believe Beijing is attempting to maintain ties with Iran — a major supplier of oil to China — while publicly presenting itself as neutral in the conflict.
Chinese officials could also argue that air defence systems are defensive rather than offensive weapons.
Russia, meanwhile, has provided Iran with intelligence support during the conflict, which US officials say has helped Tehran target American forces and facilities in the Middle East.
Iran maintains long-standing economic and military ties with both Beijing and Moscow. It has also supplied Russia with Shahed drones used in the war in Ukraine and continues to export large volumes of sanctioned oil to China.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 April 2026

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April 11Apr 11

Trump administration unveils design for gold-accented arch near Arlington

USA

Trump administration unveils design for gold-accented arch near Arlington

The administration of Donald Trump has released new architectural renderings for a proposed 250-foot triumphal arch planned near Arlington National Cemetery, offering a clearer look at a monument tied to celebrations marking the United States’ 250th anniversary.

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Images shared with the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts show the structure positioned on a traffic circle between the cemetery entrance and the Lincoln Memorial. The arch would be topped by a statue of a winged Lady Liberty holding a torch and shield, with two golden eagles placed beneath the statue’s wings.
The designs were prepared by Harrison Design, a Washington-based architectural firm.
Monument design
According to the renderings, the proposed monument would stand about 250 feet tall — more than 80 feet taller than the Arc de Triomphe. It would also be more than twice the height of the nearby Lincoln Memorial.
Gold features appear prominently throughout the design. Decorative trim lines the upper section of the arch, while additional accents appear inside the structure itself.
Two inscriptions are planned for the exterior. The side facing the Lincoln Memorial would read “One Nation Under God,” while the side facing Arlington National Cemetery would display the phrase “Liberty and Justice for All.”
The plans also show several lion statues placed on pedestals surrounding the monument.
Concerns over location
The administration has presented the arch as a way to commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday. However, the proposal has drawn criticism over its location and potential impact on nearby landmarks.
A veterans group has filed a lawsuit seeking to block construction, arguing that the monument would obstruct views toward Arlington National Cemetery and diminish the experience of visitors traveling through Memorial Circle and along Memorial Avenue.
Concerns have also been raised about the arch’s proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, where critics say the height of the structure could pose aviation safety issues due to nearby flight paths.
Political criticism
Don Beyer, a Democratic congressman representing a district near the proposed site, criticized the plan and said the project was unnecessary.
Writing on the social media platform X, Beyer said the monument would “choke traffic, block our skyline, and tower over sacred ground where those who served our nation are buried.”
The proposal still requires approval from the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts before construction could move forward.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 11 April 2026

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April 11Apr 11

Deep Purple Welcomed by Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at Tokyo Office

Japan

Deep Purple Welcomed by Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at Tokyo Office

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi briefly stepped away from government duties on Friday to host members of the legendary British rock band Deep Purple at her official residence in Tokyo, greeting the musicians as a longtime admirer of their music.

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The meeting, described as a courtesy visit ahead of the band’s upcoming tour dates in Japan, offered a rare glimpse of the prime minister’s enthusiasm for classic rock and heavy metal.
A Longtime Fan
Entering the guest room with visible excitement, Takaichi welcomed the musicians warmly, expressing disbelief that the group she had admired for decades was visiting her office.
“I have always admired Deep Purple,” she said as she greeted the band members.
During the meeting, she presented drummer Ian Paice with a set of Japanese-made TAMA drumsticks that she had personally signed. Paice responded warmly, telling her that as fellow drummers they shared a connection.
Takaichi has long spoken about her interest in hard rock music and previously revealed she was an enthusiastic drummer during her student years.
She told the band that her admiration dates back more than half a century. As a child in elementary school, she recalled listening to Machine Head, the group’s 1972 album that includes well-known tracks such as Highway Star and Smoke on the Water.
Musical Memories
The prime minister also recounted her own experience performing the band’s music while growing up.
In junior high school, she said she played keyboards in a Deep Purple cover band. Later, during her university years, she switched to playing drums.
Takaichi shared a lighthearted anecdote about her continued connection to the band’s music. When she argues with her husband, she joked, she sometimes plays the song Burn on the drums.
The track, she said, is one of her favourites because it helps clear her mind.
Cultural Diplomacy
The visit provided a brief pause from the pressures facing Japan’s government. Takaichi, the country’s first female prime minister, has been dealing with a demanding policy agenda that includes strained relations with China, economic challenges at home, and the wider diplomatic impact of the conflict in the Middle East.
Despite the informal tone of the meeting, she used the occasion to highlight the importance of cultural exchange between Japan and the United Kingdom.
Takaichi praised the band for their influence on rock music and for continuing to produce new work decades after their rise to international fame.
“I express my deepest respect for you for making rock history and continuing to take on new challenges and producing even more compelling music today,” she said.
She also wished the band success for their tour, which begins in Tokyo on Saturday.
The prime minister added that promoting cultural content forms part of her government’s broader economic growth strategy. She expressed hope that Deep Purple’s performances in Japan would excite audiences and help strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 11 April 2026

• Entertainment

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April 11Apr 11

Prince Harry Faces Defamation Lawsuit from Charity He Founded in Diana’s Memory

Report

Prince Harry Faces Defamation Lawsuit from Charity He Founded in Diana’s Memory

Prince Harry is facing legal action from Sentebale, an African charity he helped establish nearly two decades ago in tribute to his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales.

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The organisation, which works with young people affected by HIV in southern Africa, has filed a defamation claim against the Duke of Sussex at London’s High Court, according to court records made public this week.
Sentebale said the case follows what it described as a “coordinated adverse media campaign” that it claims caused reputational damage and disrupted the charity’s operations.
High Court action
Online filings show that Prince Harry and his associate Mark Dyer are named as defendants in the lawsuit. The claim relates to alleged libel or slander, although detailed court documents have not yet been released.
In a statement published on its website, Sentebale said it was seeking the court’s intervention and protection after media coverage beginning on 25 March 2025 harmed the charity’s reputation, leadership and relationships with partners.
The case places the duke in an unusual legal position. In recent years, he has frequently appeared in court as a claimant, pursuing legal claims against British newspaper publishers over allegations of phone hacking and unlawful information gathering.
Charity founded in Diana’s honour
Sentebale was founded in 2006 by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso. The organisation’s name means “forget me not” in Sesotho, the language of Lesotho.
The charity supports children and young people living with HIV in Botswana and Lesotho, continuing work closely associated with Diana’s public advocacy on HIV and AIDS awareness during the 1980s and 1990s.
Prince Harry remained closely involved with Sentebale for many years as a patron before stepping down from the role in March 2025.
Leadership dispute and resignations
Tensions within the charity had been building for some time before the legal action. Disagreements emerged in 2023 over changes to fundraising strategy and the organisation’s direction.
The dispute intensified in early 2025 when Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso resigned as patrons in solidarity with trustees who had left their positions.
At the time, the founders said the relationship between the board and its chair, Sophie Chandauka, had become irreparably strained.
Chandauka later accused Prince Harry of leading a campaign of bullying and harassment intended to force her to step down.
She also told Sky News that production activity linked to a programme for Netflix involving Prince Harry had disrupted a scheduled fundraising event for the charity. An incident involving his wife, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, was also cited as a point of tension.
Regulator criticised both sides
The dispute drew the attention of the Charity Commission for England and Wales, which conducted an investigation into the organisation’s governance.
In August 2025, the regulator concluded that both sides had allowed the conflict to spill into public view, harming Sentebale’s reputation and potentially affecting its work.
The commission said it found no evidence of widespread bullying or misogyny within the charity.
Its chief executive, David Holdsworth, said the public nature of the dispute risked overshadowing the organisation’s achievements and undermining its ability to support the communities it serves.
Prince Harry’s spokesperson criticised the commission’s findings at the time, while Chandauka said she welcomed the report.
Requests for comment sent to the Duke of Sussex’s office on Friday were not immediately returned.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 11 April 2026

• Royalty

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April 11Apr 11

Calls Grow for King Charles to Meet Epstein Survivors During US State Visit

Epstein Files

Calls Grow for King Charles to Meet Epstein Survivors During US State Visit

Pressure is mounting on King Charles III and Queen Camilla to meet survivors of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during their upcoming state visit to the United States, as campaigners and politicians urge the British monarch to address lingering questions surrounding the scandal.

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Lisa Phillips, an American survivor of Epstein’s abuse, said victims had already contacted Buckingham Palace seeking a meeting. Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, she said letters had been sent requesting an audience with the King during the visit later this month.
Her call echoes appeals from Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna and relatives of Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most prominent accusers. They want the royal couple to meet survivors who continue to raise questions about the involvement of the King’s brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, in the wider Epstein controversy.
Mountbatten-Windsor has denied any wrongdoing related to his association with Epstein. However, he has faced renewed pressure to testify in a congressional inquiry examining the case.
A visit already facing political tensions
The four-day trip to Washington, scheduled from 27 to 30 April, had already been expected to attract controversy.
King Charles is due to meet US President Donald Trump and deliver a major speech to Congress, seen as one of the most significant addresses of his reign. British officials hope the visit will help strengthen relations between the United Kingdom and the United States at a time when ties have become strained.
The visit comes amid broader geopolitical tensions, including uncertainty surrounding a ceasefire linked to the ongoing Iran conflict. Continued fighting could cast a shadow over ceremonial events planned in Washington.
There is also concern that remarks from President Trump about the UK government, the armed forces, or NATO allies could complicate the diplomatic tone of the visit.
Survivors seek recognition
Campaigners say survivors of Epstein’s abuse should not be overlooked during the trip.
Phillips suggested that Queen Camilla may be more likely than the King to meet victims. She pointed to the Queen’s longstanding advocacy on issues including domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.
“She has taken a stand for survivors,” Phillips said, expressing hope that the Queen might engage with them during the visit.
Queen Camilla has previously spoken publicly about supporting survivors of violence. During a reception at St James’s Palace, she told guests that victims who have struggled to tell their stories or to be believed should know they are not alone.
Buckingham Palace has previously said that the King and Queen’s “thoughts and sympathies” remain with victims of abuse.
Palace concerns about legal sensitivities
Despite the growing calls, a meeting between the royal couple and Epstein survivors is considered unlikely.
Officials are concerned that any public remarks or discussions could affect ongoing legal proceedings related to Mountbatten-Windsor following his arrest. Palace aides are reportedly wary that such engagement might complicate judicial processes.
Congressman Khanna has rejected those concerns, suggesting a meeting could occur without discussing specific details related to the King’s brother. He has written to the monarch urging engagement with victims, arguing the Epstein case has international implications.
The state visit also comes shortly after the anniversary of Virginia Giuffre’s death by suicide. Her relatives have urged the King to meet survivors and listen to their experiences.
A sensitive backdrop for both sides
The Epstein scandal could prove uncomfortable not only for the British royal family but also for the Trump administration hosting the visit.
First Lady Melania Trump has previously denied any connection to Epstein while expressing support for victims being able to testify before Congress.
President Trump, however, has publicly welcomed the royal visit, writing on social media that he looks forward to spending time with the King, whom he said he “greatly respect[s]”.
In the United Kingdom, public opinion appears divided. A recent YouGov poll found 49% of respondents opposed the visit, while 33% supported it.
State visits are typically carefully planned diplomatic events, with limited flexibility once arrangements are set. While the royals do not determine the political agenda, the renewed focus on Epstein and calls from survivors mean the issue is likely to remain part of the wider discussion during the trip.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 11 April 2026

• Royalty

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April 11Apr 11

EU Launches Biometric Border System Requiring Fingerprints and Photos

EU

EU Launches Biometric Border System Requiring Fingerprints and Photos

The European Union’s new digital border control system requiring travellers to provide fingerprints and photographs alongside passport scans is scheduled to be fully operational from Friday.

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Known as the Entry/Exit System (EES), the scheme is designed to register the arrival and departure of non-EU citizens entering the Schengen Area. The deadline set by the EU aimed for the system to be active at all Schengen border crossing points across 29 participating countries.
However, while the rollout began in October, officials acknowledge that not every airport or border post will be fully using the system immediately because of technical and operational challenges.
Authorities have already reported long queues at several European airports, with warnings that delays could intensify during busy holiday travel periods.
What the new system does
EES is intended to digitally record when travellers from outside the EU — including those from the United Kingdom — enter and leave the Schengen Area. The zone includes 29 European countries where people can travel without internal border checks.
Popular destinations for British travellers such as France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece are included in the system.
Under EES, travellers must register biometric information, including fingerprints and a facial photograph, while their passport is scanned. The system will eventually replace the traditional method of border officers stamping passports.
Once registered, the traveller’s details will remain valid for three years. On subsequent trips during that period, the system will verify the stored data.
Queues and technical issues
The gradual introduction of EES began on 12 October and was intended to be phased in over six months. During early trials, some locations experienced significant delays.
In one instance at Pisa Airport, two travellers arriving from Glasgow said they waited several hours to clear border checks. One of them, who holds an Irish passport, reported passing through within about an hour, while his partner queued much longer with other British passport holders.
According to travel specialists, IT issues and unfamiliar procedures have contributed to delays at some airports.
The European Commission has indicated that border authorities will be allowed to suspend EES checks temporarily during particularly busy periods until September in order to ease congestion.
Several airports, including those in Milan and Lisbon, will not activate the system immediately.
How travellers will register
The process will vary depending on how people enter Europe.
Air passengers will typically complete the registration after landing at their destination airport.
For those travelling from the UK by ferry, through the Channel Tunnel, or by Eurostar train, registration will be carried out before departure.
At border locations such as the Port of Dover or London’s St. Pancras station, travellers will use dedicated kiosks where passports are scanned and biometric data—fingerprints and photos— are recorded. Children under 12 will not be required to provide fingerprints.
Travellers may also be asked a short series of questions about their trip, such as their accommodation arrangements and whether they have sufficient funds.
Major infrastructure changes have been made at some border crossings to accommodate the system. At Dover, additional land has been reclaimed to create a separate processing area where passengers complete checks before boarding ferries.
Transport operators including Eurostar and Eurotunnel say the system will be introduced gradually to minimise disruption.
Next step: ETIAS travel authorisation
The EU is also planning a separate electronic travel authorisation programme called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
This scheme will require travellers from visa-exempt countries, including the UK, to apply online for permission before visiting the EU.
ETIAS is expected to launch toward the end of 2026, though an exact start date has not been confirmed.
Applications will cost €20 and remain valid for three years. Travellers under 18 or over 70 will still need authorisation but will not have to pay the fee.


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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 11 April 2026

• Travel

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April 11Apr 11

Swedish Man on Trial Accused of Forcing Wife Into Sex With More Than 120 Men

EU

Swedish Man on Trial Accused of Forcing Wife Into Sex With More Than 120 Men

A 61-year-old man has gone on trial in Sweden accused of coercing his wife into having sex with more than 120 men over several years at their remote rural home.

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Prosecutors allege the man arranged sexual encounters with men he contacted online and forced his wife to participate using threats, surveillance and drugs. The defendant denies the accusations, maintaining the encounters were consensual and that he merely helped organise them.
The trial opened on Friday in the coastal town of Härnösand in northern Sweden. Both the defendant and the alleged victim remain unnamed under Swedish reporting rules.
Allegations of coercion
According to prosecutors, the alleged abuse took place between 2022 and October 2025 at the couple’s isolated farm near Kramfors.
Authorities say the man arranged for men from across Sweden to travel to the property to have sex with his wife, sometimes in exchange for payment.
Prosecutors claim he exploited the farm’s remote location and the woman’s limited social contacts to control her. They also allege he used drugs to push her beyond her limits and ensure compliance during the encounters.
The indictment further states that surveillance cameras were installed inside the home, some of which recorded the sexual encounters. Investigators plan to present video footage as evidence during the proceedings.
Prosecutors say the activity continued until the woman reported the situation to police in October 2025. The couple have since divorced.
Threats and additional charges
The man faces multiple charges, including several counts of rape, attempted rape and assault.
According to the prosecution, he also threatened the woman with violence. Swedish broadcaster SVT reported that the indictment alleges he threatened to kill her, burn her with petrol and cut off her fingers.
Before the trial began, prosecutor Ida Annerstedt told the Swedish newspaper Expressen that the accused had taken advantage of his wife’s “particularly vulnerable situation.”
She said prosecutors would argue that fear and coercion were used to normalise the behaviour over time.
Other men investigated
Authorities say they have identified around 120 men who allegedly travelled to the property.
So far, 28 have been charged in connection with the case. Many have denied wrongdoing, saying they either did not have sex with the woman or did not pay for it.
Investigators are expected to rely on online chat records, payment information and calendar entries as part of their evidence.
Defence response
The defendant’s lawyer, Martina Michaelsdotter Olsson, told Swedish media that her client disputes the prosecution’s account.
She said the accused does not recognise “the same picture as the one the prosecutor presents”.
The trial is expected to last about 14 days. Parts of the proceedings will be held behind closed doors in order to protect the identity of the alleged victim.
The case has drawn attention internationally, with some observers comparing it to the trial of Dominique Pelicot in France, who was convicted of drugging his wife and allowing other men to rape her over several years.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 11 April 2026

• Sex Crime

• 1 comment
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April 11Apr 11