The Nation Newspaper

Category: Foreign

  • Iranian official says U.S. must forgo more strikes for new talks

    Iranian official says U.S. must forgo more strikes for new talks

    Iran has made the resumption of talks with the United States over Tehran’s nuclear programme conditional on Washington refraining from further attacks, according to a BBC interview with Iran’s deputy foreign minister broadcast on Monday.

    Majid Takht-Ravanchi said the U.S. administration told Iran, via mediators, that it would like to return to talks, but the U.S. had “not made their position clear” on the “very important question” of whether it would launch more attacks.

    At the NATO summit last week, Trump announced new talks with Iran for this week but did not provide details.

    Recently, he ordered strikes on Iran’s heavily secured nuclear facilities.

    When asked on Friday whether he would order further bombings of Iran’s nuclear sites if concerns about Tehran’s uranium enrichment arose again, Trump said “without question, absolutely.”

    He reiterated that Iran must not have nuclear weapons and claimed the recent attacks had set the nuclear programme back by years.

    International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi, in an interview broadcast on Sunday, said Iran could resume enriching uranium within months.

    Read Also: Iran holds state funeral for military leaders killed in Israel conflict

    Iran will insist on its right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes, Takht-Ravanchi told the BBC, rejecting accusations that the country is secretly working on developing a nuclear bomb.

    He said since Iran had been “denied access to nuclear material” for its nuclear research programme, we had to “rely on ourselves.”

    He said the level and capacity of nuclear enrichment can be discussed “but to say that you should not have enrichment, you should have zero enrichment, and if you do not agree, we will bomb you – that is the law of the jungle.”

    (DPS/NAN)

  • Iran holds state funeral for military leaders killed in Israel conflict

    Iran holds state funeral for military leaders killed in Israel conflict

    A state funeral is taking place in Iran for about 60 people, including military commanders and nuclear scientists, killed during the 12-day conflict with Israel.

    Coffins draped in the Iranian flag, bearing portraits of deceased commanders, were flanked by crowds near Tehran’s Enghelab Square.

    The conflict ended with a ceasefire earlier this week, after the US became directly involved by bombing key nuclear sites in Iran.

    Huge crowds of mourners dressed in black chanted slogans, waved Iranian flags and held portraits of those killed.

    Ahead of the event, a media campaign urged people to participate, with authorities providing free bus and metro rides. Government offices were shut for the day.

    Among those being laid to rest is Mohammad Bagheri, the highest-ranking military officer in Iran who was chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces.

    Bagheri will be buried with his wife and daughter, who were killed in an Israeli strike. In total, Iranian authorities said 627 people were killed in Iran. Israeli officials said 28 people were killed in Israel following missile attacks by Iran.

    Saturday’s funeral also includes Hossein Salami, commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards, as well as a number of nuclear scientists such as Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, who was head of Azad University in Tehran.

    It comes after US President Donald Trump said he would “absolutely” consider bombing Iran again.

    Responding to a question from the BBC’s Nomia Iqbal at a White House press briefing on Friday, he said he would “without question” attack the country if intelligence concluded Iran could enrich uranium to concerning levels.

    Trump has also repeated his assertions that Iran was “decimated”, writing: “Why would the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, of the war-torn country of Iran, say so blatantly and foolishly that he won the war with Israel, when he knows his statement is a lie.”

    Trump also claimed to have known “exactly where he [Khamenei] was sheltered”, saying he “would not let Israel, or the US Armed Forces… terminate his life”.

    “I saved him from a very ugly and ignominious death, and he does not have to say, ‘thank-you, president Trump!’”, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.

    Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, warned Trump against making “disrespectful” comments about Khamenei, who claimed US and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites had achieved “nothing significant”.

    “If President Trump is genuine about wanting a deal, he should put aside the disrespectful and unacceptable tone towards Iran’s Supreme Leader, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei,” Araghchi posted on X.

    “The Great and Powerful Iranian People, who showed the world that the Israeli regime had no choice but to run to ‘Daddy’ to avoid being flattened by our Missiles, do not take kindly to Threats and Insults.”

    Araghchi has admitted that “excessive and serious” damage was done to Iran’s nuclear sites by the recent bombings.

    Read Also: Iran vows to respond if U.S. strikes again

    The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has said it is still not known how much of Iran’s nuclear capabilities – including highly-enriched uranium and the centrifuges needed to purify the metal – have been destroyed or moved.

    The agency’s director general Rafael Grossi also said that stopping Iran from being able to build nuclear weapons would not be achieved through military attacks.

    “You are not going to solve this in a definitive way militarily, you are going to have an agreement,” he told the BBC’s US partner CBS News.

    On social media, Trump claimed that in recent days he had been “working on the possible removal of sanctions, and other things, which would have given a much better chance to Iran at a full, fast, and complete recovery”.

    But he said Khamenei’s comments had deterred him, declaring: “Instead I get hit with a statement of anger, hatred, and disgust, and immediately dropped all work on sanction relief, and more.”

    BBC

  • Ghana stands still as AUBA holds second AGM at Labadi Beach Hotel

    Ghana stands still as AUBA holds second AGM at Labadi Beach Hotel

    The Republic of Ghana recently witnessed an uncommon visit: the unprecedented arrival of members of a powerful socio-cultural organization in Nigeria, the Akuluno United Brothers Association (AUBA).

    Led by High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu (Onowu Anárá Ancient Kingdom), their private jets touched down at Kotoka International Airport for the second Annual General Meeting and Dinner Party of the prestigious club.

    The visibly elated pan-Igbo socio-cultural group was warmly received in a grand display of culture and hospitality by the Igbo Diaspora King in Ghana, His Royal Majesty, Eze (Dr.) Amb. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu (Ezeigbo Ghana), alongside members of his elders-in-council and palace chiefs—a true testament to brotherhood, homecoming, and deep regard for their Igbo heritage in a foreign land.

    The following day, Saturday, June 7, 2025, members of the Billionaires’ Club—Akuluno United Brothers Association—held their second Annual General Meeting at the prestigious Labadi Beach Hotel and golf resort. Nestled on about 200 hectares of lush palm forest, the venue offers a serene atmosphere, pristine environment, and breathtaking coastline—an ideal setting for business meetings, international conferences, tourism, and leisure.

    The choice of Labadi Beach Hotel, Accra, once again reflected what AUBA stands for: class, luxury, excellence, lifestyle, camaraderie, and celebration.

    In his opening remarks, National President High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu appreciated and recognized all members present for sharing the values of unity and progress. He praised their immeasurable contributions and cooperation, which have been instrumental in the growth of the association, now a leading socio-cultural force in Southeastern Nigeria.

    The event venue shone brightly as both old and newly inducted members appeared in elegant white senator attire with red caps—a traditional Igbo outfit symbolizing cultural heritage and identity. Its significance extends beyond Nigeria, with the potential to make a statement on the global fashion scene.

    A highlight of the epoch-making event was the induction of seven additional billionaires into AUBA. They took an oath of allegiance to uphold the association’s constitution, demonstrate honesty and integrity, and show unwavering solidarity with fellow members.

    The “Seven Wise Igbo Billionaires” inducted were: High Chief (Dr.) Amb. Ikenna Anthony Obele (Okwunze Aguata), Chairman, Mekens Group Nig. Ltd; Hon. Maduba Okechi Christian, renowned philanthropist and road construction giant; Chief Dr. Anderson Okoro (Nmiri Oma Na Awauzor I of Abam), CEO, Ceemore Group of Companies; High Chief Ojimba Felix (Ekweme I of Akokwa Kingdom), Chairman, HRTech Global Associates Ltd and CEO, Seed Beverages Nig. Ltd; HRM Dr. Chris Maduabuchi Umeh (Ezeigbo Gburugburu I of Japan | Igwe Ara Nazu Nwa), CEO, Transtell Group and BON Hotel Transtell Asaba; High Chief Chikodili Fidelis Ojimba (Nnanyereugo I of Izzi Kingdom), CEO, JP Chris Motors Nig. Ltd; High Chief Egbunike Dominic Puma (Ikenga Uduakomili of Umunnachi), CEO, Madon Thick Aluminum Ltd.

    Remarkably, in a country where social clubs are often viewed merely as gatherings for showmanship and entertainment, Akuluno United Brothers Association has distinguished itself. It seamlessly blends business networking, solidarity, capacity building, philanthropy, community development, and brotherhood.

    For any organization aiming to transcend generations, the future is not a destination but a creation. With unwavering determination and a bold vision, AUBA has a clear picture of the future it envisions for Southeastern Nigeria and all Igbo-speaking states.

    Read Also: EzeIgbo Ghana Ihenetu celebrates King Ateke Tom on birthday  

    Through a well-tailored developmental agenda, AUBA has not only redefined the dynamics of social clubs in Nigeria but is also filling developmental gaps by creating jobs and driving infrastructural development across their home states.

    The three-day event concluded on Sunday, June 8, 2025, with a dinner party where Anyidons and Aro Nwateje thrilled guests with sensational Igbo highlife music. The occasion also celebrated the national patron of AUBA, Engr. Arthur Eze (Arthur Eze N’Ukpor).

    National President High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu (Onowu Anara), National Leader and Founder Chief Evans Chukwukadibia Emesim (Okwumereze I of Ukpor), First Vice President Chief Dr. Gideon Chidiebere Osi (Ikenga Ishiagu), and BOT Chairman Chief Ebere Goodwill Uzozie (Onwa Umuobom Kingdom), alongside their colorful entourage, paid a heartwarming courtesy call to the Igbo Diaspora King in Ghana, HRM Eze (Dr.) Amb. Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu. They were hosted to a sumptuous lunch at the Obiigbo Royal Palace, East Legon, Accra—a deep show of respect for traditional institutions and a demonstration of unalloyed support for the Igbo diaspora throne in Ghana.

    During the visit, High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu, Chief Evans Chukwukadibia Emesim, Chief Dr. Gideon Chidiebere Osi, Chief Dr. Ebere Goodwill Uzozie, and Chief Sir Kelvin Chukwumaobi (Chairman, APAMS) were conferred with the prestigious Ndigbo Diaspora Awards in recognition of their contributions to community development and the promotion of Igbo culture and tradition.

    For the Akuluno United Brothers Association, this journey to Ghana was more than an annual general meeting or an award ceremony—it was a powerful reminder that no matter how far an Igbo man travels, home is never just a place. It is the people who keep your traditions alive, always waiting to welcome you like family.

  • EU deplores Gaza humanitarian crisis

    EU deplores Gaza humanitarian crisis

    The leaders of European Union member states yesterday deplored the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the growing number of civilian casualties, calling on Israel to fully lift its blockade.

    Meeting in Brussels for a summit, the European Council urged Israel to allow “immediate, unimpeded access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale” throughout Gaza.

    In the conclusions adopted at the summit, EU leaders called for an immediate cease-fire and the unconditional release of all hostages, stressing the need for a permanent end to hostilities.

    They said: “The European Union is ready to contribute to all efforts towards this solution and calls on all parties to refrain from actions that undermine its viability.”

    They also urged Israel to comply with international law and ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers, as well as civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and UN facilities.

    The European Council took note of the report on Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement on respect for human rights and urged to continue discussions on possible follow-up in July, depending on developments on the ground.

    Read Also: Nigerian illusion of outrage and criticism

    Separately, the leaders reiterated strong condemnation of settler violence and illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and called for further sanctions on extremist settlers and their supporters.

     On Iran, the EU leaders reiterated that the country must never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon and must comply with its obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. The EU said it will continue to support diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and achieving a lasting resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue through negotiations.

    The council also reaffirmed the EU’s strong commitment to peace, security, and stability in the Middle East. “The European Council welcomes the cessation of hostilities and urges all parties to abide by international law, show restraint, and refrain from taking action which could lead to a new escalation.”

  • Iran vows to respond if U.S. strikes again

    Iran vows to respond if U.S. strikes again

    Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said yesterday that Iran will retaliate with strikes on U.S. bases if Washington launches further attacks.

    In his first televised remarks since Israel and Iran signed a ceasefire on Monday, Khamenei said the attack on the U.S. military base in Qatar is an example of what Washington can expect if it continues to attack Iran.

    “The Islamic Republic slapped America in the face. It attacked one of the important American bases in the region,” he said.

    “The fact that the Islamic Republic has access to important American centres in the region and can take action against them whenever it deems necessary is not a small incident, it is a major incident, and this incident can be repeated in the future if an attack is made.”

    The Iranian attack, launched at the tail end of the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran, came in retaliation for U.S. strikes on three of Iran’s fortified enrichment facilities. The attack was heavily telegraphed, and U.S. defences were able to neutralise most of the rockets launched at the Qatari base.

    President Trump even thanked Iran earlier this week for informing U.S. leadership about the strike before it was launched.

    Still, the attack and subsequent ceasefire have allowed all sides of the conflict to declare victory, with Israel and the U.S. confident that Iran’s enrichment facilities are sufficiently damaged and Iran pointing to its survival as evidence of a successful resistance.

    Read Also: Hijrah: MUSWEN, ADSN, MCLS urge Nigerians to unite

    The true strength of the ceasefire between Iran and Israel remains to be seen. If Iran’s enrichment facilities are recoverable, and Tehran decides to revamp its nuclear program, Israel and the U.S. could launch further strikes.

    When asked if he would consider further strikes on Iranian enrichment sites on Wednesday, Trump said, “Sure.”

    But, Iran possesses enough enriched uranium to produce approximately 12 nuclear warheads but has not assembled any, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said.

    Rafael Grossi, Director General of the UN nuclear watchdog, told France Inter radio that Iran’s atomic facilities suffered “serious damage” from recent airstrikes but remain functional. “It’s inaccurate to claim the program has been eliminated,” he noted, referring to US-Israeli strikes on sites including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.

    He confirmed that centrifuges at the Fordow enrichment facility were knocked out, while declining to provide updates on other locations.

    Grossi also flagged growing friction with Tehran, citing Iranian accusations that the agency had lost its impartiality. “There is clear tension with Iran,” he remarked.

  • Nigeria partner Germany to tackle plastic waste in oceans

    Nigeria partner Germany to tackle plastic waste in oceans

    The Federal Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the German government, has launched a joint initiative aimed at reducing plastic waste leakage into the oceans of Nigeria and Ghana through improved circular economy strategies, enhanced waste management, and strengthened institutional capacity.

    The initiative, part of the broader PROTEGO Project—Prevention of Marine Litter in the Gulf of Guinea, reflects a unified commitment by both countries to promote a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment.

    Speaking at a Capacity Building Workshop on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Abuja, Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, represented by the Director-General of the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), Saleh Abubakar, described the program as a symbol of international collaboration.

    He noted that the initiative, funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment and implemented by adelphi Research, Germany, demonstrates a strong resolve to tackle marine pollution and advance environmental protection across West Africa.

    Read Also: Plastic waste constitutes danger in our homes, says Olawepo-Hashim

    Lawal noted, “This is a PROTEGO project which was launched in July 2024 and will span to June 2027, it will be a driving force in reducing plastic waste and leakages in Nigeria and Ghana oceans fostering circular economic strategies, enhancing waste management, and building critical capacities.

    “The urgency of our mission cannot be overstated, given Nigeria’s vulnerability as a country with over 850 kilometers of Atlantic coastline. Annually, approximately 14 million tons of plastic choke the world’s oceans, threatening our biodiversity, impacting our vital marine ecosystems, and diminishing the beauty of our coastlines. 

    This is a global challenge, but its solutions must be rooted locally, driven by innovation, and powered by unwavering commitment and collaboration by all stakeholders.”

    The minister added that a particularly noteworthy aspect of Nigeria’s EPR framework is the explicit commitment to the inclusion of the informal sector. “We recognize the invaluable role played by our waste pickers, aggregators, and small-scale collectors. They are the unsung heroes who have for long been the backbone of waste recovery in our communities”, he said.

    The Director General, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, NESREA Prof. Innocent Barikor noted that marine pollution and plastic waste remain pressing challenges, posing significant threats to our ecosystems, public health, and economic sustainability, with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) emerging globally as a proven and proactive policy instrument to addressing these challenges. It places the responsibility of post-consumer waste squarely where it belongs—on the producers.

  • EU to offer tech business opportunities to African, Latin American, Asia countries

    EU to offer tech business opportunities to African, Latin American, Asia countries

    • By Justina Asishana, Oslo

    The Vice President of the European Commission for Technological Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen, has disclosed that the European Commission will deploy EU technology business offers to partner countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia.

    She said that this is being done because no country or region can lead the technology revolution alone, as partners are needed if digital innovations are to work.

    Virkkunen disclosed this during a high-level session, “Digital Public Goods and Global Digital Cooperation” at the ongoing 2025 Internet Governance Forum (IGF) held in Lillestrøm, Norway.

    She said that the EU technology business offer would be done by combining European Union public and private industries through its global gateway, adding that moves are being made to establish new partnerships and foster collaboration so the countries can connect through new digital partnership networks.

    Read Also: UNN students get tech coaching

    “The aim is to support the digital transition of partner countries, incorporate components such as AI factories, investment in secured and trusted communication, digital public infrastructure and cybersecurity.

    “This offer will include modular reusable building blocks, concrete digital public goods tailored to local needs and anchored in open standards and interoperability. The EU is ready to work with partners to make the future internet a better place for everyone, including our children”, she said.

    Speaking of artificial intelligence, she advocated the need for AI not to be left in the hands of a few individuals or be reduced to a test of supremacy among advanced artificial intelligence powers.

    “Everyone should have access to artificial intelligence, which is a critical technology. The EU is committed to building a rules-based global digital order in rules with our fundamental values.

    The Vice President further urged nations, organisations and individuals to take advantage of artificial intelligence governance as it is a movement that will shape and open inclusive and trusted digital governance.

    Speaking in the same vein, Norway’s Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance, Karianne Tung, noted the need for governments and stakeholders to better use technological resources more efficiently and effectively.

    She stressed the need for countries to cooperate and help each other and share technology both at the national and international levels.

  • Trump clashes with intelligence community over Iran strike impact

    Trump clashes with intelligence community over Iran strike impact

    President Donald Trump’s longstanding tensions with the U.S. intelligence community are resurfacing, this time over conflicting assessments of the impact of recent American airstrikes on Iran.

    An early intelligence assessment concluded that Iran’s nuclear programme was only set back by a few months following last weekend’s strikes on three sites.

    Trump, however, publicly rejected the findings, insisting that the programme was “completely and fully obliterated.”

    The disagreement has set the stage for another high-profile standoff.

    Top administration officials are expected to press Trump’s narrative at a Pentagon news conference on Thursday.

    Read Also: Trump announces Iran-Israel ceasefire, Iran cautious

    Meanwhile, briefings for lawmakers on Capitol Hill had been scheduled, though the White House reportedly planned to limit the disclosure of classified information following a leak of the initial assessment.

    “Intelligence people strive to live in a world as it is, describe the world as it is,” said Larry Pfeiffer, a 32-year intelligence veteran and former CIA chief of staff.

    “Politicians are all about describing the world as they want it to be,” he added.

    With the dispute now spilling into public view, it mirrors the broader pattern of Trump’s first term, where his foreign policy assertions often clashed with intelligence analysis, particularly during the Russia investigation.

    (AP/NAN)

  • Student arrested in Israel on suspicion of spying for Iran

    Student arrested in Israel on suspicion of spying for Iran

    A student has been arrested in Israel on suspicion of spying for Iran.

    The 22-year-old is alleged to have committed security offences and carried out tasks on behalf of Iranian agents, according to a joint statement issued Thursday by the Shin Bet domestic security service and the police.

    The young man, who studies information systems at Ben Gurion University in Beersheba, is from the Arab village of Deir al-Asad in northern Israel.

    He was arrested in June and will be formally charged, the statement said.

    It remains unclear whether the arrest occurred before or during the recent 12-day conflict with Iran.

    Authorities say the student had been in contact with an Iranian agent for several months. In exchange for payment, he allegedly carried out “security-related acts” under the agent’s instructions.

    These included an attempt to injure a person, scattering nails on a main road in Beersheba, and inciting divisive social discourse.

    He reportedly claimed his actions were motivated by solidarity with Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

    In recent years, Israel has seen a number of arrests involving suspected espionage for Iran.

    (dpa/NAN)

  • Sierra Leone’s chief minister Sengeh hints at future presidential bid

    Sierra Leone’s chief minister Sengeh hints at future presidential bid

    Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has stirred national interest following comments that suggest he may consider running for president in the future, if his current service to the country measures up to the standards set by past national heroes.

    In a reflective post, the 37-year-old tech-innovator-turned-politician said any move to seek higher office would depend on whether he can look back on his tenure and confidently say he served Sierra Leone well.

    “If I can be even half as good as Sir Milton Margai,” Dr. Sengeh wrote, referencing the country’s first Chief Minister and post-independence Prime Minister, “then I may consider taking the next step.”

    The statement has sparked political debate across the country, with supporters touting him as a “new generation leader”, who combines innovation, youth and national pride.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves hosting of Africa chiefs of Defence Staff summit in Abuja

    Dr. Sengeh, appointed Chief Minister in 2023 by President Julius Maada Bio, is best known for his sweeping reforms in the education sector while serving as Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education.

    He has also gained recognition for championing digital transformation and inclusive leadership.

    Though he stopped short of making any formal declaration, his comments have been interpreted as a strong hint at future presidential ambition.

    Political observers said his rising popularity, especially among the youth, and his track record of performance make him a potential frontrunner in years to come.

    For now, however, Dr. Sengeh said he remains committed to his current role, emphasizing that national service and legacy, not ambition, will guide his next political move.

    “I believe leadership is not about position but impact,” he said.

    As Sierra Leone continues its search for leaders who can bridge its past with its future, Dr. Sengeh’s remarks have placed him firmly in the national conversation, not just as a government official, but as a possible future statesman.