Kuwait’s Interior Ministry said it had arrested members of a Hezbollah-affiliated terrorist cell accused of planning operations that threatened national security. Authorities described the operation as a major success in preventing destabilising activities inside the country. The group was reportedly linked to external networks and had been under surveillance before being apprehended. The case highlights Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to counter extremist threats and maintain internal stability amid a volatile regional environment.

Seven hostile drones shot down

In a separate development, the Kuwait National Guard announced it had intercepted and downed seven hostile drones within 24 hours, signalling a sharp escalation in aerial threats. Officials did not disclose the origin of the drones but indicated they were considered hostile and posed a direct security risk. The incident reflects a broader pattern of increasing drone activity across the Gulf, where such technology is being used in asymmetric warfare.

Kuwait condemns Iranian attacks

Kuwait strongly condemned continued Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf states, aligning with broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) positions. In a statement, Kuwaiti authorities criticised Tehran’s actions as destabilising and called for respect for regional sovereignty.

Dispute over UN reporting

Kuwait also rejected aspects of recent United Nations reporting , arguing that the assessments failed to clearly and explicitly condemn Iran’s role in the attacks. Officials said the omission undermines international accountability and called for stronger global responses to escalating security threats in the region.

GCC issues unified response

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) echoed Kuwait’s stance , issuing a collective condemnation of what it described as “heinous” Iranian attacks against member states. The unified response underscores growing alignment among Gulf nations as they face shared security challenges, particularly in relation to missile and drone threats.

For years, Larijani was seen as a steady and pragmatic figure within Iran’s political system. He helped shape major decisions at home and abroad, including backing the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. With a background in mathematics and philosophy, and experience across government, parliament and security roles, he built a reputation for balancing ideology with practical decision-making.

That image shifted as the conflict escalated. After the strikes on Iran’s leadership, Larijani quickly stepped forward as one of the most senior remaining officials, helping steer the country through a moment of crisis. His tone became more forceful, mirroring Iran’s broader shift.

He ruled out talks with Washington, saying Iran would “not negotiate” with the United States, and warned of retaliation. In some of his strongest remarks, he said the attacks had “set the heart of the Iranian nation ablaze” and vowed that Iran would make its enemies “regret their actions”. He also warned that any bases used by US forces could become targets.

Larijani came from a powerful political family and held senior roles for decades, including as speaker of parliament. While he was not a candidate to become supreme leader, he was widely seen as a trusted figure capable of helping hold the system together during uncertainty.

In one of his remarks after the war broke out, Larijani said: “Americans should know that we will not leave them. You have left a pain in our hearts. We won't leave you. You must accept that you no longer have the right to violate Iran. Accept that you have been insolent.”

Larijani was last seen in public on March 13 during Quds Day rallies attended by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

While Iran has yet to confirm his death, Israel has said it will “continue hunting down” Iran’s leadership, signalling no let-up in the conflict as the war enters its third week.

Three massive explosions were heard in central Tehran, according to Iran’s Fars news agency. The extent of the damage and possible casualties were not immediately clear.

The Israeli government declared the emergency as a precaution against potential counterstrikes.

Was the U.S. aware of it?

The strike came a day after the United States authorized some diplomatic staff and their families to leave Israel, citing unspecified “safety risks.”

In a February 27 advisory, the U.S. State Department allowed the departure of non-emergency government personnel and family members from its mission in Israel, saying the security situation could change rapidly.

“Persons may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available,” the advisory said, noting that travel restrictions on U.S. personnel could be imposed without notice.

The U.S. government did not directly link the move to a possible Israeli strike on Iran, but the guidance warned of “increased regional tensions” and potential security incidents.

The evacuation authorization also came as Washington and Tehran were engaged in indirect talks over Iran’s nuclear program. 

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened military action if negotiations fail to produce a deal limiting Iran’s enrichment activities.

Speaking at the annual gathering, Trump suggested that Tehran was motivated by concern over possible strikes. “Ask Iran. They’re negotiating. Now, they don’t want to. They don’t want us to hit them. You know, we have a big fleet going over to Iran,” he said.

His comments came as tensions between the two countries remained high, with talks scheduled to take place in Oman on Friday, according to officials familiar with the diplomatic process.

“They took out, they killed an Israeli soldier, so the Israelis hit back and they should hit back. When that happens, they should,” he told reporters aboard Air Force One. 

Trump added that “nothing” will jeopardise the ceasefire in Gaza .

Israeli forces said they struck dozens of terror targets and terrorists in retaliation for what they described as violations of the ceasefire.

Israel’s defence minister accused Hamas of an attack that killed an Israeli soldier and of breaching terms on the return of deceased hostages. Hamas denied involvement, saying it had no connection to the attack and accusing Israel of trying to undermine the truce.

The Gaza health ministry reported at least 104 Palestinians killed in the strikes on Tuesday night, a toll that underlined how fragile the ceasefire remains.  

Trump characterised Hamas as a narrow but deadly force.

“Hamas is a very small part of peace in the Middle East and they have to behave,” he said, adding that “if they're not good, they're going to be terminated. Their lives will be terminated.”

Trump also suggested broader international backing for enforcement of the accord, noting that “we have many countries that are willing to do that.” 

“You know, we have many countries, even Japan today, said we'd love to be involved in the Middle East.” 

Among the deceased are Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of the General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces; IRGC Commander Hossein Salami; and Brigadier General Ali Shadmani, who had recently assumed command of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.

The funerals, held in Tehran, drew large crowds of mourners paying their respects to these prominent figures.

The Iranian Ministry of Health reported 610 deaths and 4,746 injuries resulting from Israeli airstrikes.

However, the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) estimates higher figures, citing 974 deaths and 3,458 injuries, including both military personnel and civilians.

Israel reported 29 fatalities and over 3,200 injuries due to Iranian missile and drone attacks. The Israeli military targeted over 900 sites in Iran, aiming to dismantle its nuclear capabilities and missile production infrastructure.

The conflict concluded with a ceasefire mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump, following discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iranian officials.

The agreement stipulated that both nations would cease hostilities, with the understanding that any further aggression would nullify the truce.

While the ceasefire has brought temporary relief, tensions remain high . Iranian citizens have expressed both hope for lasting peace and concern over potential future conflicts. The Iranian government faces internal criticism for its handling of the situation, and the international community continues to monitor the region closely.

Powerful explosions rocked Tehran on Monday as Israel launched strikes on what it described as “regime targets” in the Iranian capital, heightening tensions just one day after U.S. air raids on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure .

In a swift and fierce response, Iran fired multiple missile salvos at Israel and pledged to retaliate against the United States, escalating the confrontation as the conflict entered its 11th day.

According to Iranian state media, Israeli forces targeted the Fordo nuclear enrichment facility, a heavily fortified site located deep in the mountains south of Tehran. The attack came on the heels of a U.S. strike over the weekend using "bunker buster" munitions to hit the same facility in a show of support for its ally, Israel.

Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz, said the Israeli military was "carrying out strikes of unprecedented force against regime targets and agencies of government oppression in the heart of Tehran."

Spearheaded by civil society groups like “Brothers and Sisters in Arms,” the initiative aims to ensure "that everybody will be safe".

According to a social activist, Shula Keshet, the abandoned bus station is "the only place in Israel that has a shelter against atomic bombs. It's in a very terrible place, by the way."

The shelter, originally opened during the Gulf War in 1991, can accommodate up to 16,000 people.

"Surrounding this place, [are] citizens and people, families, Israelis or non-Israelis, immigrant workers, asylum seekers, etc., [who] did not have any place to go," Shula Keshet added.

Protests erupted in Tehran and several other cities following Friday prayers, with demonstrators voicing support for their leaders, as broadcast by state television. One protester's banner read, “I will sacrifice my life for my leader,” about Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

According to Israeli authorities, 25 people have been killed in Israel due to Iranian missile strikes since June 13. In response, Iran reported on Sunday, June 15, that Israeli airstrikes have resulted in at least 224 deaths, including military commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians.

Tensions between Iran and Israel soured as the two rivals engaged in a rare and the most intense confrontation in decades.

The conflict ignited on Friday, June 13, when Israel launched a large-scale air assault, just days ahead of a planned sixth round of nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States .

Iran, in a fierce response, launched successive waves of drone and missile attacks, with nighttime strikes illuminating the skies above Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

After an overnight missile attack launched by Iran on Israel from Saturday night (June 14) through to Sunday morning (June 15), 10 people were reported dead.

Iran's government, however, has confirmed the death of 78 people and 320 others battered with injured during the initial stage of Israel's attack.

In northern Israel, four women were killed late Saturday, June 14, when a missile brought down a three-storey home in Tamra, raising the total Israeli death toll to 13 since the conflict reignited on Friday , June 13.

Meanwhile, Israel responded with a massive aerial offensive, targeting what it described as key military and nuclear sites inside Iran. Among the sites hit were fuel depots near Tehran, the defence ministry headquarters, and facilities linked to the Organisation of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND).

A large fire was seen at a depot in Shahran, while explosions echoed across Iran’s capital in the early hours of Sunday.

The Iranian government confirmed that 78 people had died and over 320 were wounded during the initial wave of Israeli strikes. While no updated figures were provided on Sunday, Tehran claimed the attacks had killed high-ranking officials, including top military commanders and nuclear scientists. Among them were General Mohammad Bagheri and Revolutionary Guard leader Hossein Salami.

Tensions soared further as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Israel of breaching international law by attacking nuclear facilities and claimed Tehran had “conclusive evidence” of U.S. involvement. Washington, however, distanced itself from the hostilities.

President Donald Trump stated the U.S. had “nothing to do” with Israel’s bombing campaign but warned Iran of severe consequences if U.S. interests were harmed.

As fuel shortages loomed, Iranians queued at gas stations across the country, fearing broader economic fallout. The Iranian oil ministry confirmed Israeli strikes on two fuel storage sites.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed continued retaliation, pledging to strike “every pillar of the ayatollah regime.” In turn, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned of an even more forceful counterattack should Israeli aggression persist.

Amid international appeals for restraint, Israeli forces urged Iranian civilians to evacuate areas near suspected weapons facilities. The conflict, rooted in decades of hostility and proxy warfare, has now entered a volatile new phase, raising fears of a regional war that could engulf the broader Middle East.

"The Iranian dictator is turning the citizens of Iran into hostages," Katz said, "And bringing about a reality in which they –especially the residents of Tehran– will pay a heavy price because of the criminal harm to Israeli civilians. If (Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali) Khamenei continues to fire missiles toward the Israeli home front–– Tehran will burn."

Despite this warning, Tehran residents have vowed not to leave their city.

Speaking to AFP on Saturday, 31-year-old Tehran resident, Shokouh Razzazi, said, "It is natural that war has its stress, but I will not leave my city, my place of residence and store food. These events have also happened previously [Iran-Iraq war 1980-1989]. I trust my country, and I don't think that bad things will happen."

72-year-old Saied Tehrani also added that "I feel safe because I live in my own country and city, and just as we have been safe until now, we will be safe in the future. I have no special plans to leave Tehran."

Tensions between Israel and Iran escalated dramatically as the two nations exchanged direct fire for the first time in decades, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

The confrontation erupted after Israel launched a massive aerial offensive early Friday, June 13, just days before a scheduled sixth round of nuclear talks between Iran and the United States .

Dubbed "Rising Lion,” the Israeli assault reportedly targeted Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment facility and resulted in the assassination of top military leaders, including Major General Mohammad Bagheri and Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami. Iran claimed that dozens of civilians were killed and several key nuclear sites were damaged.

In retaliation, Iran unleashed waves of drone and missile attacks, with a night-time bombardment which lit up the skies over Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The strikes killed three people and left dozens injured, marking the deadliest and most direct exchange between the two rivals in recent history.

The strike was observed not only in the West Bank and East Jerusalem but also in refugee camps and other areas supportive of the Palestinian cause.

In East Jerusalem, Salaheddin Street — normally a centre of commercial activity — remained quiet and deserted.

Morocco's government is under scrutiny for restricting what imams are allowed to preach about the Israel-Hamas conflict, particularly about calls for jihad. Politicians such as socialist lawmaker Nabila Mounib have expressed concerns that preachers are being silenced regarding the Palestinian issue. While the Ministry of Islamic Affairs denies that imams are forbidden from discussing the conflict, it reinforces a ban on jihad calls, citing varied interpretations of the term. Pro-Palestinian activists condemn these restrictions, which they view as indicative of broader tensions between state authority and public sentiment. According to AP , despite Morocco normalising relations with Israel in 2020, significant protests against Israeli actions have surfaced, drawing support from multiple political factions. Historically, the government has controlled religious narratives to maintain a moderate Islamic representation, yet such regulations may drive individuals to seek spiritual guidance beyond officiated channels.

Morocco blamed for Post Ajax and Israeli Maccabi clash

Following confrontations in Amsterdam involving pro-Palestinian Ajax fans and Israeli Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters, Moroccan communities have experienced a surge of racism and hostility in Dutch media. This situation arose despite confirmation by officials that Israeli supporters were the victims, yet far-right figures like Sander Sassen and Geert Wilders have wrongly attributed blame to Moroccans, fuelling Islamophobic discourse. The mayor of Amsterdam condemned the violence without naming specific groups, eliciting backlash from right-wing supporters who posit that authorities are neglecting the issue of Muslim involvement. Such dynamics exacerbate existing prejudices against Moroccans in the Netherlands, spotlighting ongoing issues of racism and discrimination faced by minority groups throughout the nation, MWN reports.

Medical students end strike

In a significant development, Moroccan medical students have ended an 11-month strike after achieving a groundbreaking agreement with the government, marking an end to the longest student strike in Moroccan history. The National Commission of Moroccan Medical Students (CNEM) announced that the strike was suspended following a digital vote, in which 57.8% of participating students advocated for a return to their studies. As reported by MWN , the strike commenced in December 2023, propelled by concerns regarding training quality and access, and persisted despite challenges, including suspensions and police detentions. The agreement includes pledges to enhance clinical training, improve internship distribution, and address students' grievances with the intention of better equipping them for the nation's healthcare demands. Both students and officials express optimism about a more conducive academic environment and prospective advancements in medical education across Morocco.

Morocco’s population reaches 36.82 million

As of September 2024, Morocco's population has reached 36.82 million, indicating an 8.8% surge since the 2014 census. The total number of households has escalated by 26.8% to approximately 9.27 million, with the foreign resident population witnessing an impressive 71.8% increase to 148,152. These demographic transformations are projected to have substantial implications for housing, social services, and economic policy frameworks within Morocco, Arise News reports.

All Shares up 1.33%

In financial developments, Morocco's stock market has concluded positively, as the Moroccan All Shares index rose by 1.33%, accomplishing a five-year peak, propelled by advancements in the Chemicals, Holding Companies, and Transport sectors. Key gainers included Realis Mecaniques (+10.00%), Maghreb Oxygene (+9.81%), and Attijariwafa Bank (+3.33%). Conversely, notable declines were registered by SMI (-4.31%), S2M (-3.69%), and IB Maroc Com SA (-2.44%). A total of 37 stocks advanced against 17 declines. In the commodities sector, crude oil and Brent oil prices encountered a downturn, whilst gold futures experienced a rise of 1.00%. The EUR/MAD currency pair increased by 0.55%, whereas the USD/MAD remained stable, reports, Investing.com .

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency reported on Thursday, October 10, that an incident occurred 70 nautical miles southwest of Yemen's Hodeidah. Authorities are currently investigating the situation. According to the vessel's master, the ship was struck by an unidentified projectile, resulting in damage. However, no fires or casualties were reported. The crew is safe, and the vessel is continuing to its next port of call, The Economic Times reports.

Rebel attacks

Suspected attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted a ship in the Red Sea on Thursday, marking a continuation of threats to shipping in the region amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict. A projectile struck the vessel, causing damage but no injuries, while additional projectiles fell nearby. According to AP , the rebels have targeted over 80 merchant vessels since the outbreak of the conflict in Gaza, claiming to focus on ships linked to Israel, the U.S., or the U.K. Despite this, many attacked vessels have no ties to the conflict. The Houthis have previously seized one vessel and sunk two, leading to the deaths of four sailors.

New Russian embassy

Russia will reopen its embassy in Aden, Yemen’s interim capital, in early 2025, nearly a decade after its closure. This move, discussed in a recent meeting in Riyadh, indicates a revival of foreign diplomatic missions in Aden amid increased security following the formation of the Presidential Leadership Council. Russia’s Charge d’Affaires, Evgeny Kudrov, affirmed support for Yemen's internationally recognized government, and officials suggested that other nations, including India and Gulf states, may also establish embassies in Aden. Arab News reports that this announcement comes amid concerns about potential Russian arms negotiations with the Houthi militia and U.S. sanctions on Yemeni MP Hamed Abdullah Hussein Al-Ahmer for his support of Hamas.

Israeli airstrikes kill Yemenis

A Yemeni academic, Dr. Shawqi Alawdi, and his family were among seven people killed in an Israeli airstrike in Damascus on Tuesday night. The strike targeted a building in the Al-Mazzeh neighbourhood and injured 11 others. Alawdi, a pharmacology professor, had lived in Syria for four years and was known for his unique teaching style, Arab News reports. His death elicited condolences from friends and students in Yemen and Syria. Concurrently, the International Federation of Journalists called on the Houthi militia to release Yemeni journalists recently abducted for criticizing the group, part of a broader crackdown on dissent as Yemenis commemorate the 1962 revolution.

Rights protection

At the 57th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Anjila Al Maamari, representing the Justice for Yemen Pact Coalition, highlighted the urgent need for an independent international investigative mechanism to address human rights abuses in Yemen. She emphasised that mere technical capacity is insufficient and called for effective investigations into violations of international law. As highlighted by ISHR , the coalition insists on the importance of impartial inquiries and advocates for the inclusion of victims, particularly women and youth, in peace processes to ensure justice and reparations.

Moss Ndiema, the secretary-general of KAWU, confirmed that the strike was in protest against the planned takeover of JKIA by Adani Airport Holdings, an Indian company.

"We have an ongoing strike action in protest against the intended takeover of JKIA by Adani Airport Holdings," Ndiema told AFP. "We expressed reservations about this issue and issued a strike notice on the 12th of August. Despite attempts to engage in dialogue with the Kenya Airports Authority and the government, the discussions did not bear fruit, leading us to declare this strike."

The industrial action has led to long lines of passengers and vehicles trying to access the airport, with protestors shouting "Adani must go." Some travellers, visibly frustrated, were seen sitting on their luggage as they waited for updates.

Elvis Mushengu, a stranded passenger, expressed his frustration, saying, "Yesterday they closed the doors at around 12, so we've not slept, and apparently, they're not working. I don't know who's screening people. So as much as they are letting guys proceed or the guys who are leaving, we don't know who's doing the screening or what the procedure is."

The strike has brought JKIA, one of East Africa's busiest airports, to a standstill, raising concerns about security procedures and the overall management of the airport during the strike. While some passengers were still being processed for flights, there were widespread complaints about the lack of communication and clarity from airport authorities.

University students led the crowds in breaking through security barricades, demanding the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over her handling of the case.

A 33-year-old police volunteer, part of a government-employed civic force assisting police at the hospital, has been arrested and charged with the crime.

Reports show sexual crimes against women in India increased from 25,000 cases in 2012 to 31,000 over the past decade.

Gender-based violence remains a significant issue in India. According to a national health survey by the Indian Ministry of Health, nearly one in three women has reported experiencing some form of violence, based on a sample of almost 725,000 women nationwide.

Protesters chanted "We want justice" and held signs reading "No safety, no service." Doctors joined the protests, halting elective services across several states.

The Indian Medical Association has called for a 24-hour nationwide strike starting August 17, urging the implementation of the Central Protection Act to protect healthcare workers.

The victim was found in the hospital's seminar hall, suggesting she was resting during a long shift. An autopsy confirmed sexual assault, and her parents suspect gang rape.

Police have detained a hospital staff member, though there are accusations of mishandling the investigation.

Sexual violence is a major issue in India, with nearly 90 rapes reported daily. This case has drawn comparisons to the 2012 Delhi gang rape, which led to reforms and harsher penalties for rapists.

World leaders flock to Rwanda as Kagame begins new term

World leaders gathered at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Sunday, August 11, to witness President Paul Kagame's inauguration for a new five-year term after his landslide victory in Rwanda's presidential election. Read more here .

Tunisian president sacks prime minister

Tunisian President Kais Saied dismissed Prime Minister Ahmed Hachani and appointed Social Affairs Minister Kamel Maddouri as his replacement, according to a statement from the presidency late Wednesday, August 7. Read more here .

Miss South Africa controversy: Chidimma Adetshina's withdrawal and its ripple effects

The 2024 Miss South Africa pageant faced unexpected turbulence when contestant Chidimma Adetshina withdrew amid an investigation into her nationality and eligibility. The controversy began with questions about her parentage and citizenship, prompting the Department of Home Affairs to intervene. Read more here .

Asia

Nobel laureate Yunus takes charge of Bangladesh, hopes to heal strife-torn country

Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership of Bangladesh's caretaker government on Thursday, aiming to heal a nation shaken by weeks of violence that led Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee to India. Read more here .

China discloses first heat-stroke fatalities amid record temperatures

At least two people have died from heatstroke in a Chinese city, with many more falling ill, as temperatures hovered around 40°C (104°F) for the eighth consecutive day on the eastern seaboard. Read more here .

Philippines, Vietnam hold first-ever joint coast guard exercise

On Friday, August 9, Philippine and Vietnamese vessels conducted their first joint exercises, using water cannons and simulating a search and rescue operation. This collaboration comes amid tensions with Beijing in the South China Sea. Find out more here .

Latin America

Venezuela's Maduro blocks X access in country for 10 days

On Thursday, August 8, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro escalated tensions with social media platform X and its owner Elon Musk by banning the platform for 10 days amid controversy over a disputed presidential election. Read more here .

Brazil authorities recover bodies of all 62 plane crash victims

On Saturday, August 10, Brazilian emergency crews recovered the remains of all 62 victims from an airliner crash in Vinhedo, near Sao Paulo. The bodies, including 34 males and 28 females, were moved to Sao Paulo's police morgue for identification. The pilot and co-pilot were identified earlier in the day, according to Vinhedo's mayor, Dario Pacheco. Read more here .

Argentina grains workers strike set to drag on into weekend

An oilseed workers' strike in Argentina continued into Saturday, August 10, as wage negotiations remain stalled. This has affected shipments from one of the world's major grain exporters, with at least 36 ships delayed near the key agricultural port of Rosario, according to an industry spokesperson and unions. Read more here .

The 'Students Against Discrimination' group, which led the protests was calling for the Prime Minister’s resignation.

The protests to reform the quota system paused after the Supreme Court scrapped most quotas on July 21. Protesters, however, returned a week after, demanding a public apology from Hasina for the violence, restoration of internet connections, reopening of college and university campuses, and release of those arrested.

After protestors clashed with police, they went on strike.

Volunteer students have since taken over various traffic stops to direct vehicles.

Nigeria's inflation rose to 34.19% in June 2024, driven by higher food, transportation, and energy prices. The government suspended taxes and import duties on food items to ease the pressure, but talks of a possible interest rate increase are growing. The issue will be discussed at the next Monetary Policy Meeting, Zaywa reports.

Street protests

Citizens for Development and Education director Ibrahim Waiya believes street protests are not the best way to address Nigeria's economic challenges due to the country's low level of civilization and potential for chaos. According to Vanguard Nigeria, he criticised the government's insensitivity to the plight of the citizens and called for more effective measures to address poverty and the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

School building collapse

A two-storey school building collapsed in central Nigeria, killing 22 people and trapping 154. Everyone except those who died has been rescued and is being treated for injuries. The collapse occurred during school hours, and building collapses are frequent in Nigeria due to lax safety regulations and substandard construction materials, Straitstimes reports.

Low wages

The poor economy in Nigeria has led to an increase in people leaving their low-paying jobs in favour of starting their own businesses. Punching reports that many are citing low wages, increased prices, and lack of respect in the workplace as reasons for their decisions. The National Bureau of Statistics reports that 87.3% of employed Nigerians are now primarily self-employed.

Petroleum products export

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced that the country is set to become a net exporter of petroleum products by the end of the year. This was revealed by NNPCL Group CEO, Mr Mele Kyari, during an Emergency Interactive Session with managers of the nation’s economy organised by the Senate Committee on Finance at the National Assembly in Abuja on July 15, Leadership Nigeria can report.

150 Ghana police officers have been trained to protect mining company assets, with a focus on professionalism and ethical conduct. The training, organised by the Ghana Chamber of Mines, aimed to improve service delivery and cooperation between police and mining companies. Facilitators covered topics such as the Minerals and Mining Act, ethical considerations, and security threats, while urging cooperation between internal and external security personnel. Ghana Business News reports that the Inspector General of Police expressed gratitude for the training and emphasised the importance of using the knowledge and skills acquired to maintain order in the areas of operation.

Ghana-Zimbabwe ties

Zimbabwe and Ghana have strengthened bilateral ties through a study visit on diaspora engagement. The visit, supported by the International Organization for Migration, aimed to enhance collaboration and capacity in working on diaspora engagement. Key officials from Zimbabwe visited Ghana for high-level meetings with Ghanaian counterparts and to learn about Ghana's successful diaspora engagement initiatives. The visit highlighted the potential for Zimbabwe to enhance its National Diaspora Policy based on Ghana's successful models. Chronicle reports that this initiative demonstrates the power of collaborative efforts in achieving national development goals.

Ghana-France cooperation

Ghana's President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo reaffirmed commitment to expand cooperation with France in renewable energies and technological innovation at the France National Day celebration. He highlighted the enduring relevance of France's values of freedom, equality, and fraternity and commended the French people for their resilience and unity. Ghana also anticipates promotion to full-time member status within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). France's Ambassador emphasized the significant collaborations across various sectors and expressed strong support for Ghana's application for full membership in the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, Ghanaian Times reports.

Football

Nico Williams, a Spanish player with Ghanaian roots, won the Euros, equaling Marcel Desailly's record. According to GhanaWeb , he was named Man of the Match after scoring in the final. Spain won the championship, their fourth title.

Nationwide strike

10 labour unions in Ghana declared a nationwide strike in protest of the sale of 60% of SSNIT shares in four hotels. The decision follows Organised Labour’s directive, and the TUC Secretary-General urged workers to stay away until the sale is cancelled. SSNIT had received approval for the sale, but one potential buyer has withdrawn their bid. The SSNIT Board has since announced the termination of the sale process, Ghanaian Times reports.