Global Pulse

分类： world

  • ‘Massive’ numbers killed by gunmen in latest Nigeria attack, senator tells BBC

    ‘Massive’ numbers killed by gunmen in latest Nigeria attack, senator tells BBC

    A devastating militant attack has struck the remote village of Ngoshe in Nigeria’s conflict-ridden Borno state, resulting in significant civilian casualties and mass abductions during Ramadan evening prayers. Nigerian Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume described the assault as “massive” in scale, though precise death tolls remain unconfirmed due to the remote location and ongoing assessments.

    The attack occurred Wednesday evening as residents were breaking their daily fast, with suspected Islamist militants targeting both civilian populations and security installations. Local reports indicate over 100 women and children were abducted during the coordinated assault, which also targeted a military base and camp for displaced persons. Several soldiers and civilians were killed, including the village’s chief cleric and community elders.

    Senator Ndume revealed to BBC Hausa that militants maintained control of Ngoshe for approximately 48 hours before Nigerian military forces deployed aerial strikes and ground troops to reclaim the area. The lawmaker expressed concern that stolen military equipment from the overrun base could enhance the militants’ capabilities for future operations.

    This represents the most severe attack in the region since Boko Haram’s peak dominance over a decade ago, according to local accounts. Umaru Yakubu Kirawa, a Borno-based journalist, confirmed residents reported substantial casualties and hundreds of abductions during the Ramadan violation.

    The incident highlights the persistent security challenges in northeastern Nigeria, where Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (Iswap) maintain active insurgencies. Despite nearly doubled defense budgets from 2024-2025, civilian protection remains inadequate according to critics.

    Official response included Borno state police spokesperson Nahum Daso Kenneth acknowledging the Wednesday night incident while emphasizing successful repulsion of insurgents. Search and rescue operations continue as Governor Babagana Umara Zulum met with survivors, distributing supplies and promising comprehensive efforts to secure hostages’ release.

  • US investigators ‘say American strike most likely responsible’ for Iranian school massacre

    US investigators ‘say American strike most likely responsible’ for Iranian school massacre

    Multiple investigative reports are converging on the conclusion that U.S. military forces were responsible for a devastating attack on the Shajareh Tayyebeh school in the Iranian city of Minab, which resulted in 165 fatalities. The incident, which occurred last Saturday, is being characterized as a ‘double-tap’ strike—a tactic where an initial explosion is followed by a second strike targeting first responders and survivors.

    According to two U.S. officials speaking to Reuters, while the investigation remains ongoing and no final conclusion has been reached, initial findings point toward U.S. responsibility. This assessment aligns with separate investigations conducted by The New York Times and Middle East Eye (MEE), which utilized satellite imagery, open-source evidence, and verified video footage. Their analysis confirms the school was severely damaged by a precision strike that coincided with attacks on a nearby Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) naval base.

    The MEE investigation specifically revealed that the school was hit by two separate strikes, with the second missile killing civilians, including children, who had sought shelter or arrived to aid victims. The BBC later corroborated these findings, reporting based on satellite data that the area suffered ‘multiple simultaneous or near-simultaneous strikes.’

    Earlier misleading claims on social media, which attempted to attribute the bombing to the IRGC, have been thoroughly debunked. In response to the allegations, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that ‘the Iranian regime targets civilians and children, not the United States of America,’ noting that the Department of War is investigating the matter. Israel, another actor in the regional conflict, has also announced it is looking into the incident.

    The severity of the attack has prompted international concern. The UN human rights office has called for a transparent investigation into the strike. ‘The onus is on the forces that carried out the attack to investigate it,’ stated spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani during a press briefing in Geneva, without explicitly assigning blame.

  • Voices from Iran: protests, fear and scarcity

    Voices from Iran: protests, fear and scarcity

    Across the diverse landscapes of Iran, from the northwestern region of Kurdistan to the southern port city of Bandar Abbas and the capital of Tehran, citizens are grappling with the multifaceted challenges of life amidst ongoing military conflict. The persistent threat of aerial bombardment, coupled with severe economic strain and a palpable climate of fear, is defining daily existence for millions.

    In the city of Bukan, located in Iranian Kurdistan, the immediate aftermath of strikes is visible. Reza, a 36-year-old cafe owner, describes a scene of devastation near his establishment, with government and Revolutionary Guards buildings destroyed. Despite the proximity to danger, a sense of grim normalcy persists; patrons even seek outdoor seating to observe the bombardments. This resilience, however, is tempered by a severe liquidity crisis. Banks have ceased cash distributions and blocked numerous cards, prompting acts of community solidarity like Reza’s offer of free coffee to those unable to pay.

    The economic repercussions are acutely felt nationwide. From Bandar Abbas, reports indicate a halt to work and soaring inflation, with essential goods like cooking oil experiencing price increases exceeding 500%. This scarcity has forced many, including migrant workers, to flee.

    In Tehran, the psychological toll is profound. A 26-year-old teacher describes a life put on hold, dominated by stress and the constant consumption of news. The vulnerability of children is particularly noted, with widespread internet blackouts preventing normal distractions and exacerbating fear. The city’s atmosphere is described as tense and emptier, with many residents having fled. Enhanced security measures, including armed checkpoints and patrols, aim to prevent looting but contribute to public apprehension.

    The conflict has also sharpened long-standing social and political divisions. Accounts from Shiraz describe starkly different public reactions to recent events, with some citizens celebrating while government supporters stage mourning processions. This highlights the deep fissures within Iranian society. Furthermore, on the island of Kish, increased military surveillance, including searches of vehicles and mobile phones, has instilled a climate of suspicion, causing many to retreat indoors and limit movement to essential errands. The collective narrative emerging from Iran is one of a population enduring a complex crisis, balancing survival with economic hardship under the shadow of conflict and internal strife.

  • BBC looks at how Cubans are living with fuel shortages

    BBC looks at how Cubans are living with fuel shortages

    Cuba is confronting one of its most severe energy crises in recent history, with widespread fuel shortages creating profound challenges for daily life. The BBC’s on-the-ground reporting from Havana reveals a population adapting to extended power outages and transportation paralysis. Correspondent Will Grant documents how citizens spend hours in queues for rationed gasoline while businesses operate on limited schedules due to unreliable electricity supply.

    The current situation stems from a complex combination of factors including tightened US sanctions, structural deficiencies in domestic infrastructure, and broader economic vulnerabilities. These elements have converged to create an energy emergency that impacts nearly every aspect of Cuban society.

    Interviews with local residents reveal innovative adaptation strategies, from carpooling initiatives to revived bicycle transportation. Many describe reorganizing their lives around the predictable unpredictability of power availability, scheduling cooking, work, and family activities during windows of electricity access.

    The energy deficit has particularly affected medical services, education, and food preservation, raising concerns about public health implications. Despite these challenges, the reporting captures a resilient population demonstrating remarkable ingenuity in navigating the crisis while maintaining hope for improved conditions.

  • Russia was behind parcel fires in UK and Europe, investigators say

    Russia was behind parcel fires in UK and Europe, investigators say

    European judicial authorities have revealed a sophisticated cross-border sabotage operation allegedly orchestrated by Russia’s military intelligence service. The coordinated investigation, spearheaded by Eurojust, has identified 22 individuals suspected of deploying incendiary parcels across multiple European nations and the United Kingdom.

    The plot unfolded in July 2024 when several parcels containing concealed explosive devices were dispatched from Lithuania. These packages, cleverly disguised with electronic timers hidden within vibrating massage pillows, spontaneously ignited at various locations including a DHL distribution center near Birmingham, United Kingdom, and a sorting facility at Leipzig Airport in Germany.

    According to investigative findings, the operation extended beyond immediate European targets. Authorities discovered two test packages previously sent to destinations in the United States and Canada, with additional intercepted parcels in Amsterdam intended for similar transatlantic routes. Polish prosecutors characterized these incidents as tactical dry runs designed to potentially sabotage commercial flights to North American destinations.

    The suspected operatives, reportedly recruited from Russia, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, and Ukraine, were allegedly selected based on their vulnerable socioeconomic circumstances. European officials indicate that two cases have already progressed to judicial proceedings, though Russia has consistently denied involvement in sabotage operations against NATO member states.

  • Islamic militants abduct more than 300 people in northeastern Nigeria, officials say

    Islamic militants abduct more than 300 people in northeastern Nigeria, officials say

    ABUJA, Nigeria — Islamic extremist groups launched a series of coordinated attacks across northeastern Nigeria this week, culminating in the mass abduction of more than 300 civilians from the town of Ngoshe in Borno state on Friday. Local officials confirmed the large-scale kidnapping targeting women and children, marking one of the most significant security breaches in recent months.

    According to Bulama Sawa, an official from the Gwoza area, the Ngoshe assault appears to be retaliatory action following a Nigerian military operation that eliminated three high-ranking Boko Haram commanders. The attack demonstrates the militants’ continued operational capability despite sustained counterinsurgency efforts.

    Military spokesperson Uba Sani reported simultaneous assaults on multiple communities—Konduga, Marte, Jakana, and Mainok—between Wednesday and Friday. While Nigerian forces successfully repelled these attacks, Sani acknowledged significant military casualties, including the death of a senior officer and “a number of brave soldiers [who] paid the supreme price in the line of duty.”

    Security analysts point to evolving tactical capabilities among jihadist groups operating in the region. Ulf Laessing of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation noted increased cross-border coordination between militant factions and their adoption of drone technology for reconnaissance missions. “The army is fighting a ghost—fighters descending with motorbikes on villages and disappearing into the bush before the army can respond in time,” Laessing observed.

    The security landscape has grown increasingly complex with the convergence of multiple extremist organizations, including Boko Haram, its Islamic State-affiliated breakaway faction (Islamic State West Africa Province), and IS-linked Lakurawa. Additionally, the crisis has expanded to include Sahel-based militants from Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, which conducted its first Nigerian attack last year.

    United Nations data indicates several thousand fatalities resulting from Nigeria’s security crisis, with analysts criticizing the government’s inadequate protection of civilians. The United States has deployed military advisors to assist Nigerian forces, but the persistent violence underscores the challenges in containing the multifaceted insurgency.

  • Ugandan students who fled Iran air strikes recall ‘ground trembling’

    Ugandan students who fled Iran air strikes recall ‘ground trembling’

    Emotional reunions unfolded at Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport as 43 students evacuated from conflict-ridden Iran returned home safely. The evacuation followed coordinated U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets on Saturday, which triggered retaliatory attacks by Iran against Israeli and U.S. allies throughout the Gulf region, creating widespread disruption across the Middle East.

    Uganda’s diplomatic mission in Tehran orchestrated the complex evacuation operation, arranging for students to travel by bus to the Turkish border before continuing to Istanbul for their flight home. The returning students provided harrowing accounts of their experiences during the bombardment. Oscar Nyegyema described to AFP the terrifying moments of the attacks: “We could hear the ground trembling, we could hear the ground shake. We really did not know whether we could make it out.”

    Nyegyema revealed that his university had been directly hit by an airstrike, leaving students “scared and devastated.” Despite the trauma, he expressed determination to return and complete his academic program as soon as conditions permit. Not all Ugandan students chose evacuation, however. According to Ugandan State Minister Balaam Barugahara, eight students voluntarily remained behind despite government offers of repatriation.

    Aloisius Ssegawa, one of the evacuated students, explained the financial concerns motivating those who stayed: “The truth is for these students, they believe that if they return home, the two years spent in their four-year degree study may go to waste because they may not be able to afford the ticket back to the university.”

    The personal costs of the conflict varied significantly among students. Jonan Gumushabe told Reuters he was merely days away from completing his degree when forced to evacuate. Sharon Twiine, who had been studying international relations at Ahlul Bayt International University in Tehran, described the experience as “scary, traumatizing” and indicated she would require psychological therapy before considering a return to her studies.

  • US must probe Iran school strike ‘very quickly’, UN says

    US must probe Iran school strike ‘very quickly’, UN says

    The United Nations has issued an urgent call for immediate investigation and accountability following a devastating airstrike that struck an elementary school in southern Iran, killing at least 150 people including numerous children. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk condemned what he described as “this absolutely tragic incident” during a Geneva press conference on Friday.

    The strike occurred in the town of Minab on the first day of recent hostilities, hitting the Shajare Tayyebeh elementary school during its morning session when approximately 170 students were present. The Norway-based rights organization Hengaw confirmed the timing coincided with peak school hours, raising serious concerns about international humanitarian law violations.

    Multiple investigations by major media outlets, including The New York Times and Reuters, have concluded that US forces were most likely responsible for the deadly strike. The Times analysis revealed that US military statements about attacking naval targets near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz—where an Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) base is located—strongly suggests American involvement. Social media evidence and witness accounts indicate the school was struck simultaneously with nearby IRGC facilities.

    General Dan Caine, the top US military officer, acknowledged Wednesday that American forces had been conducting strikes in southern Iran during the initial 100 hours of military operations, presenting maps that included Minab within targeted areas. This contrasts with Israel’s operations, which have primarily been concentrated further north.

    Turk emphasized the particular tragedy of striking “a civilian institution that should never be attacked,” noting the morning timing ensured maximum child casualties. He called for transparent investigations into the weapons used, timing decisions, and adherence to principles of distinction and proportionality in military engagements.

    The US Department of Defense has confirmed it is investigating the incident, though neither American nor Israeli authorities have officially claimed responsibility. Turk stressed that the investigating parties must “conduct this type of investigation very quickly” and ensure “accountability to be served, because obviously mistakes were clearly made.” He further emphasized the need for victim redress and comprehensive review of military operating procedures to prevent future tragedies.

  • Pakistan and Afghanistan claim killing dozens of the other side’s troops in relentless fighting

    Pakistan and Afghanistan claim killing dozens of the other side’s troops in relentless fighting

    The volatile border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has descended into what Islamabad terms an ‘open war,’ with both nations engaging in intense cross-border military exchanges. The clashes, now entering their ninth consecutive day, represent the most severe escalation of hostilities between the neighboring countries in recent history.

    Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government asserted that its forces successfully targeted multiple Pakistani military installations across several provinces, including Nangarhar, Kandahar, and Khost. The Defense Ministry in Kabul reported inflicting significant casualties on Pakistani troops, though specific numbers remain unverified.

    Conversely, Pakistan’s state media detailed comprehensive counter-strikes involving both air force and ground units. These operations reportedly targeted not only Afghan military positions but also bases belonging to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant organization that Islamabad claims operates with sanctuary in Afghanistan.

    The conflict stems from Pakistan’s longstanding accusations that the Afghan Taliban government provides safe haven to TTP militants—charges that Kabul consistently denies. Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, TTP has dramatically increased its offensive operations within Pakistani territory.

    Civilian casualties are mounting amid the fighting. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) confirmed at least 56 civilian fatalities on the Afghan side, while Pakistani officials reported injuries from mortar shells landing in border villages.

    The international community faces challenges in mediating the conflict despite intervention attempts. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has offered mediation services following discussions with Pakistani leadership, while Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has engaged with Taliban officials. These diplomatic efforts seek to restore a ceasefire previously brokered by Qatar and Turkey in October, which has now completely collapsed.

    The remote and militarily restricted nature of the border region makes independent verification of casualty claims—which vary dramatically between the two sides—virtually impossible. Pakistan maintains its military operations will continue until Afghanistan demonstrates verifiable action against militant groups operating from its territory.

  • China urges global stability of energy and mineral supply chains amid Middle East tensions

    China urges global stability of energy and mineral supply chains amid Middle East tensions

    China’s top diplomat at the United Nations has issued a compelling appeal for international collaboration to safeguard global energy and critical mineral supply chains against escalating Middle Eastern tensions. Ambassador Fu Cong, China’s Permanent Representative to the UN, addressed the Security Council on Thursday, emphasizing the urgent need to maintain stability in vital maritime corridors and resource distribution systems.

    The diplomatic intervention comes as the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a crucial artery for global energy transportation, faces significant disruptions following recent military developments. According to reports, Iran’s armed forces have threatened to block oil shipments through this critical waterway, resulting in damaged commercial vessels and suspended transit operations by shipping companies. These developments have created ripple effects across international energy markets, raising concerns about broader economic implications.

    Ambassador Fu articulated China’s position that geopolitical conflicts in resource-rich regions like the Middle East and Africa directly impact the normal production and transportation of essential resources. He urged all parties to adhere to UN Charter principles, resolve disputes through diplomatic dialogue, and protect non-military infrastructure. The Chinese representative emphasized that approximately 40% of global oil shipments traditionally pass through the Hormuz Strait, making its security paramount to international economic stability.

    The ambassador presented a comprehensive framework for addressing these challenges, advocating for a fair and transparent global economic order that avoids politicization of resource issues. He specifically warned against Cold War mentalities and the formation of exclusive blocs with geopolitical motivations. Fu emphasized that supply chain dynamics should remain governed by market mechanisms rather than political manipulation, which he stated would ultimately prove counterproductive to instigators.

    China also highlighted its own role as the world’s largest mineral producer, consumer, and trader, introducing the Green Minerals International Economic and Trade Cooperation Initiative launched during the G20 Leaders’ Summit. This initiative aims to promote sustainable development within the global mineral sector while maintaining stable and mutually beneficial supply chains. The Chinese position maintains that developing nations should exercise full sovereign rights over their natural resources while avoiding confinement to lower-value segments of global industrial chains.