Three ships hit by projectiles in Strait of Hormuz
Three cargo vessels have been struck by “unknown projectiles” in the Strait of Hormuz, heightening tensions along one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Authorities said the incidents occurred amid escalating hostilities following the United States and Israel’s attacks on Iran earlier this year. A Thai-flagged vessel caught fire after being hit near Oman, prompting a rescue operation for its 23 crew members. A Japanese container ship and another cargo vessel were also damaged near the United Arab Emirates coast. Iranian officials later acknowledged responsibility for one of the attacks, claiming the crew had ignored warnings.
Starmer warned of ‘Reputational Risk’ over Mandelson’s Epstein links
Documents released by the British government show that Keir Starmer was warned about potential reputational risks linked to Peter Mandelson due to his past association with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The files indicate that Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein continued after the latter’s 2008 conviction for procuring an underage girl. Mandelson was dismissed as Britain’s ambassador to the United States last year following renewed scrutiny of the relationship.
Three brothers arrested over bomb attack on US Embassy in Oslo
Police in Oslo have arrested three brothers suspected of carrying out a bombing outside the United States Embassy Oslo.
The suspects, Norwegian citizens in their 20s with Iraqi heritage, are believed to have targeted the embassy with an improvised explosive device. Authorities say one brother allegedly planted the bomb while the others assisted in the operation.
Trump says Iran war could end ‘soon’
Donald Trump has suggested the war with Iran may end soon, claiming there is “practically nothing left” for US forces to strike.
In contrast, Israel Katz said Israel’s military campaign would continue without a fixed timeline until all strategic objectives are achieved. The conflict, launched earlier this year, has already triggered widespread instability across the region.
Qatar urges UN action over Iranian attacks in Gulf
Qatar has urged the United Nations Security Council to take urgent action to stop Iranian strikes across the Gulf region.
Qatar’s ambassador to the UN warned that failure to respond would send a “dangerous signal” that attacks against neighbouring states could go unpunished. Her comments came ahead of a Security Council vote condemning the wave of missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf countries.
AFRICA
South African soldiers deployed in Johannesburg to tackle crime
Troops have been deployed to parts of Johannesburg to support police in combating organised crime and gang violence.
The move follows a pledge by Cyril Ramaphosa to intensify efforts against criminal networks, which he described as a major threat to the country’s economy and democracy. Soldiers have been conducting patrols and door-to-door searches in several high-crime neighbourhoods.
UN aid worker killed in drone strike in DR Congo
A French humanitarian worker with UNICEF has been killed in a drone strike in Goma, an area currently controlled by Rwanda-backed M23 fighters.
The attack struck a residential building, killing three people including the aid worker. Emmanuel Macron condemned the strike and called for respect for humanitarian law.
Floods, landslides kill 30 in Southern Ethiopia
At least 30 people have died after floods and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall in southern Ethiopia. Authorities said the disaster struck the Gamo Zone after days of torrential rain saturated hillsides, causing landslides that destroyed homes and farmland. Officials warned that further flooding remains possible across the region.
Mugabe’s son drops bail request in South Africa court
Bellarmine Mugabe, the youngest son of former Robert Mugabe, has withdrawn his request for bail in a South African court as he faces attempted murder and related charges.
The case stems from a shooting incident in an upscale suburb of Johannesburg, where a 23-year-old man was wounded at a private property. Mugabe, who is charged alongside his bodyguard, has not publicly commented on the allegations but agreed to enter plea negotiations with prosecutors.
His lawyer, Sinenhlanhla Mnguni, said it was too early to determine whether the defendants would plead guilty. The case is expected to return to court next week.
The arrest has revived attention on the Mugabe family years after the fall of the longtime Zimbabwean leader, who ruled for nearly four decades before being forced from power in 2017. Mugabe died two years later, leaving behind a controversial political legacy and a family that has remained periodically in the public spotlight.
Ghanaians injured in drone attack near Dubai Airport
Two citizens of Ghana have been injured following a drone attack near Dubai International Airport, according to Ghana’s foreign affairs ministry.
Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the incident occurred as United Arab Emirates air defence systems intercepted a wave of missiles and drones launched from Iran.
The UAE defence ministry reported that 241 out of 262 incoming missiles were intercepted, with most falling into the sea.
However, two projectiles landed within the country’s territory, causing injuries to civilians. Authorities said at least one Nigerian was among more than 120 people hurt during the interceptions.