WORLD IN BRIEF: Trump weighs NATO exit, Cameroonians killed in Ukraine war and other stories
Donald Trump, US president is reportedly considering withdrawing the United States from NATO, deepening uncertainty over the future of the transatlantic alliance.
Donald Trump, US president is reportedly considering withdrawing the United States from NATO, deepening uncertainty over the future of the transatlantic alliance.
The White House framed the US-Israel war on Iran as a test NATO had failed, citing allies’ reluctance to join offensive operations. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the alliance had “turned its back” on the US, despite longstanding American support for European defence.
The remarks came ahead of a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, as tensions grow between Washington and its traditional allies over burden-sharing and strategic priorities.
Trump has warned that any country supplying weapons to Iran could face immediate 50% tariffs on exports to the United States.
The proposal, announced on social media, did not specify targeted countries and faces legal uncertainty following a court ruling limiting the president’s tariff powers under emergency legislation. Analysts say implementing such sweeping measures would likely require congressional approval.
The threat underscores Washington’s effort to isolate Tehran economically while maintaining pressure during fragile ceasefire negotiations.
Israel has launched its most intense wave of strikes yet on Lebanon, killing more than 250 people in a single day, according to local authorities.
The bombardment targeted Hezbollah positions across Beirut, the Bekaa Valley and southern regions, with more than 100 sites hit within minutes. Civilian casualties mounted rapidly, with widespread destruction reported in residential areas.
The escalation marks the deadliest day since the conflict expanded, raising fears of a broader regional war.
Trump has stated that Lebanon is not covered by the US-Iran ceasefire, describing Israel’s conflict with Hezbollah as a separate issue.
The assertion contradicts earlier indications from mediators that the truce could extend beyond Iran. The continued Israeli offensive suggests the ceasefire may have limited scope, complicating diplomatic efforts to stabilise the region.
A pastor in Birmingham has been charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the drowning of a man during a baptism ceremony.
The incident occurred during a live-streamed church event in 2023, which was abruptly cut as the situation unfolded. Prosecutors allege failures in duty of care, with the case raising broader questions about safety standards in religious practices.
Romuald Wadagni is poised to become president of Benin, as elections approach under a political landscape shaped by outgoing leader Patrice Talon.
Wadagni’s campaign highlights economic reforms and strong growth, but critics point to the marginalisation of opposition voices. The vote comes amid rising security concerns in the country’s north linked to jihadist activity.
Libya has reported new oil and gas discoveries in partnership with international energy firms, signalling potential growth in its hydrocarbons sector.
Findings across multiple basins, including offshore sites, could boost production and government revenues if developed successfully. The announcement comes as Libya seeks to stabilise its energy industry after years of conflict and disruption.
Zimbabwe plans to introduce export quotas on lithium and require increased local processing before shipments resume.
The move aims to curb revenue losses and ensure greater domestic benefit from one of the country’s most valuable mineral resources. Zimbabwe is Africa’s top lithium producer, a key component in global battery supply chains.
Cameroon has confirmed that 16 of its citizens have died while fighting for Russia in the war in Ukraine.
The deaths, involving individuals described as military contractors, highlight the growing involvement of foreign nationals in the conflict, often driven by financial incentives.
The Gambia has appointed a special prosecutor to pursue cases linked to alleged abuses under former president Yahya Jammeh.
The move follows recommendations from a truth commission that documented widespread human rights violations, including killings and enforced disappearances.
Authorities say the prosecutions are a crucial step towards accountability, though victims continue to demand justice after years of impunity.
