The United States will blockade Iranian ports for “as long as it takes,” US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said, threatening renewed strikes if Tehran does not make a deal. “If Iran chooses poorly, then they will have a blockade and bombs dropping on infrastructure, power and energy,” Hegseth said. Houthi Leader Blames US in Iran Negotiations Abdul Malik al-Houthi, leader of the Iran-backed Houthi movement in Yemen, has accused the United States of making “impossible demands” during ongoing negotiations with Iran. In a televised address on Thursday, he claimed that the current two-week ceasefire reflects the failure of both the US and Israel to achieve their strategic objectives in the conflict. Al-Houthi stated that successful negotiations could lead either to prolonged stability or a complete end to hostilities. However, he criticised Washington’s approach as being driven by “arrogance and pride,” suggesting that the US has entered talks on its own rigid terms. Lufthansa to Shut Down CityLine Amid Rising Costs German airline Lufthansa has announced the early shutdown of its regional feeder airline, CityLine, citing escalating fuel costs and ongoing labour disputes. The closure, initially planned for next year, will now take effect immediately, with operations set to cease on Saturday. CityLine, which operated 27 older and less fuel-efficient aircraft, played a key role in transporting passengers to Lufthansa’s major hubs in Frankfurt and Munich. The airline attributed the sharp rise in fuel prices to the Iran conflict and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route. Sailors Stranded as Hormuz Blockade Disrupts Shipping The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz continues to impact global shipping, with German logistics giant Hapag-Lloyd reporting that around 150 sailors remain stranded aboard six vessels in the region. Company spokesperson Nils Haupt described the situation as challenging, noting that crews have been operating in a war zone for over five weeks. While some personnel rotations have taken place, prolonged isolation has taken a toll on morale. Hapag-Lloyd maintains daily communication with ship captains and crew members. Satellite technology has enabled sailors to stay in touch with their families, providing some relief amid the ongoing crisis. Pentagon Pressures Iran to Accept Deal US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has urged Iran to return to the negotiating table, warning that Washington is prepared to act decisively if diplomacy fails. Speaking at the Pentagon, Hegseth reiterated that the United States will not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons. He emphasised a preference for a diplomatic resolution led by the US negotiating team but warned that a military option remains on the table. “I pray you choose a deal… for the betterment of your people and the world,” he said, addressing Iran’s leadership directly. Israel Warns Iran of Severe Consequences Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Iran, framing its choices as a decision between progress and destruction. He cautioned that failure to de-escalate could result in more severe military strikes than those already carried out. Katz linked Israel’s ongoing operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon to a broader confrontation with Iran, signalling an escalation in regional tensions. Europe Faces Jet Fuel Shortage The head of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, has warned that Europe may have only six weeks of jet fuel remaining if current supply disruptions persist. In an interview, Birol described the situation as potentially the most severe energy crisis in history, driven by the blockage of oil and gas supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. He cautioned that prolonged disruption could trigger widespread flight cancellations and significantly impact global economic growth. Rising fuel, gas, and electricity prices are expected to add inflationary pressure worldwide, further compounding the crisis. US Expands Maritime Blockade Against Iran US Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine announced that American forces will actively pursue any vessel linked to Iran, regardless of location. The move is part of an expanded blockade targeting Iranian ports and maritime activities. Caine warned that ships attempting to bypass the blockade risk being boarded by force. The enforcement measures apply to all vessels, including those suspected of transporting Iranian oil through covert means. The blockade extends beyond Iranian territorial waters into international zones, with US forces globally instructed to intercept vessels providing material support to Iran. Global Tensions Mount As diplomatic efforts continue amid escalating military and economic pressures, the US–Israel–Iran conflict is increasingly affecting global trade, energy supplies, and geopolitical stability. The coming weeks are likely to prove critical in determining whether negotiations can prevent further escalation or if the crisis deepens into a broader international confrontation. (With inputs from ANI and AFP)
16 April,2026 09:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe commander of Iran’s joint military command has warned that Iran would completely block exports and imports across the Persian Gulf region, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea if the United States (US) does not lift its blockade on Iranian ports. “Iran will act with strength to defend its national sovereignty and its interests,” said Ali Abdollahi, according to the Iranian state media. He added that the US blockade is “a prelude to violating the ceasefire”. Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz when Israel and the US launched strikes against it more than a month ago. The US on Monday began blockading ships trying to enter or leave Iranian ports and said it would not impede the freedom of navigation of other vessels in the Persian Gulf. Iran rules out compromise on nuclear enrichment rights, slams US ‘warmongering’ in Hormuz Iran will not compromise on its nuclear enrichment rights, said the country’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, adding that its entitlement to nuclear energy is firmly grounded in international law and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), state media reported on Thursday. Addressing a press conference in Tehran, Baqaei dismissed what he described as baseless speculation in western media regarding Iran’s enrichment programme, stressing that the country’s legitimate rights, as recognised under international law, are non-negotiable, the country’s official news agency IRNA reported. He underlined that the right to peaceful enrichment is neither a favour nor a concession granted by any external power that can be withdrawn under pressure or during times of conflict. As long as Iran remains a signatory to the NPT, he said, it must be able to fully benefit from the treaty’s provisions. Responding to reports about alleged enrichment-related discussions during recent Iran-US negotiations held in Pakistan, Baqaei clarified that any potential agreement must first establish a comprehensive framework. He noted that until the broader terms are settled, discussions on specifics — particularly on sensitive matters involving war and peace between Iran and the US — would be premature. In another part of his remarks, Baqaei rejected claims that Iran had reduced or halted its support for the Lebanese resistance. He stated that Iran has consistently backed what he termed the country’s legitimate resistance and that ending the war in Lebanon was a key component of the ceasefire understanding discussed during the Islamabad talks. (With AP and IANS inputs)
16 April,2026 04:52 PM IST | Cairo | mid-day online correspondentUS President Donald Trump on Thursday announced that Israel and Lebanon will hold “historic” talks on Friday, marking the first high-level engagement between the two sides in over three decades. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the initiative aims to ease long-standing tensions between the two countries amid ongoing hostilities, particularly between the Israeli military and Hezbollah, despite a ceasefire intended to halt the conflict in West Asia. “Trying to get a little breathing room between Israel and Lebanon. It has been a long time since the two leaders have spoken, like 34 years. It will happen tomorrow. Nice!” his post said. The announcement signals a potential diplomatic breakthrough in a region marked by continued hostility and intermittent conflict between Israel and Lebanon. Earlier on Tuesday, the United States (US) hosted a trilateral meeting with Israel and Lebanon, marking their first high-level engagement since 1993. The talks focused on initiating direct negotiations, with all sides expressing willingness to move towards a ceasefire, security cooperation and a broader peace framework, the US Department of State said in a statement. US hails Israel-Lebanon talks as historic milestone, pushes for broader peace framework The meeting was attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Counsellor Michael Needham, US Ambassador to Lebanon Lisa A Johnson, Israel’s Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter and Lebanon’s Ambassador to the United States Nada Hamadeh Moawad. The United States welcomed the meeting as a historic milestone and expressed support for continued dialogue between the two countries. It also backed the Lebanese government’s plans to restore the monopoly of force and curb external influence. Washington expressed hope that the talks would go beyond the scope of the 2024 agreement and pave the way for a comprehensive peace deal, while reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself against continued attacks by Hezbollah. According to the statement, the US said any agreement to cease hostilities must be reached between the two governments, brokered by Washington, and not through any separate track. It added that the negotiations could unlock significant reconstruction assistance and economic recovery for Lebanon and expand investment opportunities for both countries. Israel reiterated its position on disarming all non-state armed groups and dismantling terror infrastructure in Lebanon, and said it was committed to working with the Lebanese government to ensure long-term security for both nations. Lebanon, meanwhile, reaffirmed the urgent need for full implementation of the November 2024 cessation of hostilities agreement, stressing territorial integrity and state sovereignty, while calling for a ceasefire and steps to address the humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing conflict. (With ANI inputs)
16 April,2026 03:11 PM IST | Washington | mid-day online correspondentPresident Donald Trump’s latest construction project, informally dubbed the “Arc de Trump”, has now received an official name — the United States (US) Triumphal Arch. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the formal title on Wednesday, saying the massive structure is being planned to commemorate the 250th anniversary of US independence. “In honor of this historic occasion, President Trump and the Department of Interior will submit plans for the United States Triumphal Arch,” Leavitt told reporters. Displaying an image that she initially held upside down, Leavitt said the “monumental” arch would rise 250 feet (76.2 metres) high “in honor of 250 years.” The United States Triumphal Arch – Celebrating 250 Years of America 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/zJWE8II1m3 — The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 15, 2026 Its towering height, along with a large golden Lady Liberty statue on top, would make it significantly taller than perhaps its best-known predecessor, the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, which stands at 164 feet. The proposed structure is also expected to become the largest of its kind in the world, surpassing Mexico City’s Monument to the Revolution and pushing Pyongyang’s Arch of Triumph to third place. Plans for the arch first came to light in October when AFP journalists noticed a model placed on Trump’s desk in the Oval Office. It was soon nicknamed the “Arc de Trump” by sections of the US media. Trump’s arch plan draws backlash over cost and symbolism The arch is one of several architectural ventures — including plans for a large White House ballroom and renovations to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts — that Trump has pursued in an effort to leave a lasting imprint on Washington during his second term. Critics have described the gold-accented arch, which would loom over the 99-foot-tall Lincoln Memorial, as a monument to the 79-year-old Trump’s vanity. The project will partly be funded by US taxpayers, receiving $2 million in special funds from the US National Endowment for the Humanities, along with up to $13 million in matching funds for donations, ABC News reported. However, Leavitt said the monument was intended to celebrate national pride. “Long after everyone in this room is gone, our children and grandchildren will remain inspired by this national monument,” she said. (With AFP inputs)
16 April,2026 02:38 PM IST | Washington | mid-day online correspondentThe US military has reported turning back 10 vessels attempting to sail out of Iranian ports during the initial 48 hours of its naval blockade against Iran. "Ten vessels have now been turned around and ZERO ships have broken through since the start of the US blockade on Monday," US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated in a post on X. CENTCOM earlier reported nine vessels turned back and later added a tenth, which it said was "redirected" back to Iran by a US guided missile destroyer. Yesterday, an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel tried to evade the U.S. blockade after leaving Bandar Abbas, exiting the Strait of Hormuz, and transiting along the Iranian coastline. The guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) successfully redirected the vessel, which is… pic.twitter.com/EUnwhwYiDv — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 15, 2026 The blockade came into effect at 2 pm (Greenwich Mean Time) on Monday after peace talks failed. While CENTCOM maintained that no vessels broke through, maritime tracking data from provider Kpler indicated that at least seven Iran-linked vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz after the blockade began, with tracking from Tuesday showing at least three ships crossing (some later turned back). Tehran's forces had earlier effectively closed the strait following the start of the US-Israeli air campaign against Iran on February 28. Netanyahu: US and Israel share 'identical goals' on Iran Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that Israel and the United States remain fully aligned in efforts to contain Iran. "Our American friends keep us constantly updated on their contacts with Iran. The objectives of the United States and our own are identical," Netanyahu stated in a televised speech. He outlined the shared goals: "We want to see enriched material removed from Iran; we want to see the elimination of enrichment capability within Iran; and, of course, we want to see the (Hormuz) strait reopened." Netanyahu also addressed negotiations with Lebanon, saying the top priority was the "dismantling" of Hezbollah: "In the negotiations with Lebanon, there are two central objectives: first, the dismantling of Hezbollah; second, a sustainable peace... achieved through strength." Pak PM pushes for US-Iran peace talks during Saudi meet Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Islamabad's commitment to promoting dialogue between the United States and Iran during a meeting with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. In a post on X, Sharif highlighted Pakistan's role in facilitating a US-Iran ceasefire and initiating "historic peace talks" in Islamabad. He expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and appreciated its "patience and restraint" under the Crown Prince's leadership. "I reiterated Pakistan's firm commitment to advancing its efforts to encourage both the U.S. and Iran towards an agreement aimed at lasting peace and stability in the region," Sharif stated. Iran's Supreme Leader representative in India calls conflict an 'individual war' Dr Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, representative of Iran's Supreme Leader in India, described the ongoing West Asia conflict as an "individual war" pursued by Israeli leadership for decades. "The Prime Minister of Israel... wanted to initiate this war for 40 years against Iran. He could not convince any President of the United States in the past (to launch a war against Iran), but this time he convinced US President Trump to support him... This is an individual war," Ilahi said while speaking to the media in Jaipur. He criticised the US-Israel alliance, claiming diplomatic efforts were not taken seriously and that military pressure failed to achieve objectives. Ilahi added that Iran announced from the beginning that the other side was "not serious about the negotiation." Emphasising civilisational ties, he noted: "Our relationship with India is rooted in 5,000 years of cultural, educational, and philosophical connections... The relationship between Iran and India is very strong, and after the war, it will be even stronger and deeper." Qatari Emir urges de-escalation in call with Trump Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump and called for urgent de-escalation amid rising tensions in West Asia. The Emir stressed the importance of intensifying international efforts to prevent further escalation and pursue diplomatic solutions to safeguard regional and global security. The leaders also discussed the impact of tensions on global energy markets and international supply chains. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates summoned the Iraqi charge d'affaires in Abu Dhabi and handed over a "protest note" over alleged "terrorist attacks" originating from Iraqi territory. The US and Saudi Arabia had taken similar steps recently. These developments reflect ongoing military posturing alongside diplomatic efforts, with Pakistan continuing to mediate and regional players calling for restraint following failed or stalled peace talks. (With AFP and ANI inputs)
16 April,2026 11:23 AM IST | Washington DC | mid-day online correspondentThe Republican-led Senate on Wednesday rejected the latest Democratic attempt to halt President Donald Trump's war in Iran, turning aside a resolution that would require the US to withdraw forces from the conflict until Congress authorizes further action. The 47-52 vote was the fourth time this year that the Senate has voted to cede its war powers to the president in a conflict that Democrats say is illegal and unjustified. Republicans say they will keep faith in Trump's wartime leadership, for now, citing Iran's nuclear capabilities and the high stakes of withdrawal. But GOP lawmakers are also anxious for the conflict to end - and they may not defer to the executive branch indefinitely. Some Republicans have already made clear that they are eyeing future votes that could become an important test for the president if the war drags on. Under the War Powers Act of 1973, Congress must declare war or authorise use of force within 60 days of its start - a deadline that will arrive at the end of this month. The law provides for a potential 30-day extension of that deadline, but lawmakers have made clear that they want the administration to soon lay out a plan for the end of the conflict. After the 60-day or 90-day deadline, "it's time to fish or cut bait," said Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina. "I think that the administration would be wise to put together what would look like a well-founded authorisation of military force and a funding strategy," Tillis said. Sen Lisa Murkowski has been talking to colleagues about putting together a resolution that would authorise the war beyond that time period. Republican Sens John Curtis of Utah and Susan Collins of Maine have also said they would like to see congressional action. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
16 April,2026 11:17 AM IST | Washington | APPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel and the US share "identical goals" in the ongoing conflict with Iran. The Israeli prime minister on Wednesday said the US has been keeping Israel updated on its contacts with Iran and reiterated that both nations seek the removal of enriched material, an end to Iran's enrichment capabilities, and the reopening of key maritime routes. "Our goals and those of the United States are identical: We want to see the enriched material removed from Iran, we want to see the cancellation of enrichment capabilities within Iran, and of course, we want to see the opening of the straits," Netanyahu said in a statement. "It is too early to say how this matter will end, or even how it will progress. In anticipation of the possibility that fighting may resume, we are prepared for any scenario," he said, referring to the fragile two-week ceasefire between Iran and US-Israel set to end on April 22. As Israeli forces and the Shi'ite Lebanese group Hezbollah exchanged heavy fire, Netanyahu said the military continues to strike militant targets while standing by residents in northern Israel. "I stand by the residents of the north who are continuing to stand firm. At the same time, our forces are continuing to strike Hezbollah," he said. Referring to ongoing operations in Bint Jbeil, a key Hezbollah stronghold in southern Lebanon, Netanyahu said Israeli forces were close to overcoming the area, which has long been considered a symbol of the group's resistance since the 2006 war. Bint Jbeil was the capital of Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Netanyahu said he has instructed the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to widen the security zone in southern Lebanon and extend it eastward toward the slopes of Mount Hermon to "better assist our Druze brothers in their time of distress". Netanyahu also confirmed that unprecedented negotiations were underway with Lebanon, facilitated by the United States, marking a significant development as the two countries do not have formal diplomatic relations. "In the negotiations with Lebanon, there are two central goals: first, the disarmament of Hezbollah, and second, (achieving) a sustainable peace," he said. Meanwhile, the IDF outlined key conditions for any agreement, including establishing a buffer zone up to the Litani River free of Hezbollah presence, retaining operational freedom, and initiating a long-term disarmament process under US supervision. Despite the ongoing negotiations, the Israeli army has continued with its operations and has not been instructed to prepare for a ceasefire. IDF Spokesperson Brig Gen Effie Defrin said forces are actively engaged across southern Lebanon, with five divisions supported by air power. "We continue to operate at all times, deepening achievements and striking Hezbollah terrorists," he said. IDF Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir stressed that the military remains on high alert and continues to approve operational plans in both Lebanon and Iran. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
16 April,2026 11:15 AM IST | Jerusalem | PTIPakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Jeddah on Wednesday (local time) on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, accompanied by a high-level delegation, according to Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Sharif's arrival comes amid escalating tensions in West Asia and ongoing diplomatic efforts to revive US-Iran peace talks. In a parallel development, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir arrived in Tehran as part of a high-level delegation aimed at reviving stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The visit is being seen as a crucial diplomatic push to carry fresh proposals and facilitate a second round of talks. Earlier, Pakistan's Foreign Office announced that Sharif would undertake visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye from April 15 to 18 as part of a broader diplomatic outreach, as per Dawn. Upon arrival, the prime minister was received by Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mushaal bin Abdulaziz, along with Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki and Pakistan's Ambassador to the Kingdom Ahmad Farooq, the PMO said in a post on X, Dawn reported. During his stay in Jeddah, Sharif is scheduled to meet the Saudi leadership, including Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. "The meeting will involve discussions on further strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and an exchange of views on the regional situation," the PMO said. The delegation accompanying the prime minister includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, along with other senior officials, as reported by Dawn. The Foreign Office stated that the visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar are being undertaken in a bilateral context, with discussions expected to focus on ongoing cooperation as well as regional peace and security, Dawn reported. In Turkiye, Sharif is set to attend the fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he will represent Pakistan at the Leaders' Panel alongside global counterparts. The Foreign Office said Pakistan's participation underscores its commitment to constructive diplomacy, multilateral engagement, and dialogue on key international issues, according to Dawn. On the sidelines of the forum, the prime minister is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other world leaders, as per Dawn. The visit comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region, where countries including Saudi Arabia have faced Iranian attacks targeting US and Israeli-linked sites, according to Tehran. In response, Pakistan has stepped up diplomatic efforts to mediate between Washington and Tehran, which recently led to a fragile ceasefire and initial talks hosted in Islamabad, as reported by Dawn. Last month, Sharif praised Saudi Arabia for its "remarkable restraint" during the crisis and called for immediate de-escalation, Dawn reported. According to Dawn, on March 9, he held a restricted meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where he expressed Pakistan's "full solidarity and support for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in these challenging times." Both sides agreed to work closely to promote regional peace and stability. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share longstanding ties spanning defence cooperation, economic collaboration, and shared cultural and religious bonds. Saudi Arabia remains a key economic partner, providing financial assistance and energy supplies to Pakistan, as reported by Dawn. In a recent development, Pakistan's finance ministry announced that Saudi Arabia has committed an additional USD 3 billion in deposits and extended its existing USD 5 billion facility for another three years. The extension will now be on a longer-term basis rather than the previous annual rollover arrangement, Dawn reported. Defence cooperation has also strengthened, with Saudi Arabia confirming on April 11 that Pakistan has deployed military personnel and fighter jets to the Kingdom under a joint defence agreement, as per Dawn. Previously, in September last year, Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement in Riyadh, pledging that any attack on either country would be considered an act of aggression against both, Dawn reported. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
16 April,2026 11:15 AM IST | Jeddah | ANIQatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (local time), discussing rising regional tensions and calling for urgent de-escalation, according to a statement from the Emir's office, CNN reported. The two leaders also exchanged views on the impact of escalating tensions in the Middle East on global energy markets and international supply chains, according to CNN. "His Highness also stressed the importance of intensifying international efforts to spare the region further escalation," the Qatari statement said, as per CNN. The Emir further emphasised the need to pursue diplomatic solutions to safeguard regional and global security and stability, as reported by CNN. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has summoned the Iraqi charge d'affaires in Abu Dhabi following a series of attacks originating from Iraqi territory in recent weeks, the Emirati foreign ministry said on Wednesday, CNN reported. According to CNN, the Iraqi diplomat was handed a "protest note" over what the UAE described as "terrorist attacks," according to the ministry. The move comes shortly after both the United States and Saudi Arabia also summoned Iraqi representatives over similar incidents, as reported by CNN. Iran is believed to have built a network of allied militia groups in Iraq over several years, some of which have been accused of launching attacks on US and international forces in the region amid ongoing regional conflict involving Iran and Israel, as per CNN. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has arrived in Iran as part of a high-level delegation aimed at facilitating discussions on the possible resumption of talks between Tehran and Washington. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
16 April,2026 11:13 AM IST | Doha | ANINigeria's security forces are on high alert over a planned attack by Islamist militants on public infrastructure in Abuja and Niger states, an internal memo dated April 13 obtained from the Nigeria Customs Service by The Associated Press on Wednesday showed. The planned targets include the international airport and a prison facility in the capital city of Abuja, as well as a military detention centre in neighbouring Niger state. "Their intention is to release detained terrorists and inflict significant damage on critical aviation infrastructure," the memo reads. The plan mirrors a similar attack in Niger Republic in January, in which Islamist terrorists attacked an air force base in Niamey, the memo read in a warning to customs service personnel. "An analysis of the report reveals a concerning correlation between the potential targeting of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport Abuja, and recent large-scale attacks on aviation facilities in Niger Republic, notably in Niamey and Tahoua. This suggests a possible intent by terrorists to replicate the attack patterns within Nigeria," according to the memo. In 2022, an attack on the aforementioned prison led to the escape of 879 inmates, including 64 members of the Islamic State West Africa Province, which claimed responsibility for the attack. "The military and paramilitary forces are all on high alert and ready to forestall the attack," a senior customs service personnel member who is not authorised to speak to journalists told AP. The customs service and the Nigerian military have not responded to AP's request for comments. Nigeria, which is Africa's most populous country, is battling a complex security crisis, especially in the north, where there is a decade-long insurgency and several armed groups that kidnap for ransom. Among the most prominent Islamic militant groups are Boko Haram and its breakaway faction, known as ISWAP. There is also the IS-linked Lakurawa group operating in communities in the northwestern part of the country that borders Niger Republic. The attacks would be carried out by sleeper cells of ISWAP and Boko Haram, the memo said. Last week, the US authorised asked its non-emergency government employees and their families to leave the Abuja embassy owing to a spike in terrorist attacks, kidnapping, and violent crimes in the country, especially in the north. The embassy has been shut. Nigeria's information minister, Mohammed Idris, described the US decision as a "routine precaution guided by internal protocols", insisting that it does not reflect the overall security situation of the country. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
16 April,2026 09:44 AM IST | Abuja | APA “peculiar” reptile from the age of dinosaurs is challenging assumptions about how ancient crocodile relatives moved. This small Triassic animal may have begun life on four legs before shifting to a two-legged stance, a rare developmental change among reptiles. The species, Sonselasuchus cedrus, belonged to a group known as shuvosaurids, an unusual branch of crocodile-line archosaurs. Despite their lineage, many of these animals bore a striking resemblance to fast-running, ostrich-like dinosaurs called ornithomimids. Both groups lived side by side during the Late Triassic period (225-201 million years ago), long before modern crocodiles took on their familiar body plan. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
16 April,2026 09:16 AM IST | Washington | AgenciesADVERTISEMENT
-1776317515711_d.png "Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. File pIc")
