International
International: Iran Signals Readiness for Prolonged Conflict as Tensions Mount Around Strait of Hormuz
By Divine Perezide
Tensions in the Middle East escalated further on Wednesday as Iran warned it was prepared for a prolonged war of attrition, raising concerns about the potential impact of the conflict on global economic stability and international shipping routes.
The warning came after Iranian forces reportedly attacked two commercial vessels navigating near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors for energy supplies.
The vessels identified as the Liberian-flagged container ship Express Rome and the Thai bulk carrier Mayuree Naree were reportedly targeted after allegedly ignoring warnings issued by naval units of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Authorities in neighbouring Oman confirmed that its naval forces rescued 20 crew members following the incident, while search operations continued for three other sailors believed to be missing.
The latest development has heightened fears of further instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that serves as a vital global shipping route. Industry estimates indicate that nearly 20 percent of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass through the channel, making it one of the most strategically important maritime passages in international trade.
The maritime confrontation comes amid a broader military conflict that began on February 28, when joint forces from the United States and Israel reportedly launched air strikes on Iranian targets, an operation that Iran claims resulted in the death of its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. The attack has since pushed the region into a wider military standoff.
Global energy markets have already begun reacting to the escalation. Oil prices surged sharply following the outbreak of hostilities, prompting the International Energy Agency (IEA) to announce plans to release about 400 million barrels of crude oil from strategic reserves in a bid to stabilize global markets and prevent supply shocks.
As the war entered its twelfth day, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard issued a further warning, indicating that economic centres and financial institutions linked to the United States and Israel could become targets if hostilities persist.
Despite the escalating rhetoric, United States President Donald Trump suggested that the conflict might be nearing its final phase. According to the US leader, only a limited number of strategic targets remained in Iran, raising the possibility of a swift conclusion to the military campaign.
However, international observers remain cautious. Analysts warn that any disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could severely impact global oil supply chains and international trade, potentially triggering wider economic consequences.
World leaders have begun calling for restraint. French President Emmanuel Macron and other international figures have urged immediate diplomatic efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation and prevent further escalation in the volatile region.
With tensions still rising and military threats continuing from both sides, the situation in the Middle East remains one of the most closely watched geopolitical crises in recent years, with significant implications for global security and energy markets.
International
SECURITY TENSION IN ABUJA: U.S. EMBASSY ISSUES ALERT OVER PLANNED PROTEST LINKED TO IRAN CRISIS
Visa Appointments Cancelled as Americans Advised to Avoid Public Gatherings
By Favour Bibaikefie
ABUJA — The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a security alert to its citizens residing in Abuja over intelligence reports indicating a possible protest in the Federal Capital Territory linked to the escalating tensions involving Iran.
In a security advisory released on Wednesday, the embassy warned that demonstrations could occur in parts of the capital city and potentially pose security risks around diplomatic facilities and other sensitive locations.
As a precautionary measure, the U.S. diplomatic mission announced the cancellation of all immigrant and non-immigrant visa appointments earlier scheduled for the day at its Abuja embassy.
The embassy urged American citizens to remain vigilant, avoid areas where protests may take place, and limit movement until the situation becomes clearer.
According to the advisory, U.S. nationals in Abuja were encouraged to stay indoors where possible, steer clear of large gatherings, and monitor local news outlets for updates regarding the evolving security situation.
The embassy also advised its citizens to keep mobile phones charged, maintain a low profile in public places, and review their personal security arrangements in case of sudden disruptions.
“Avoid crowds and demonstrations. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests,” the embassy cautioned in the notice.
The alert is believed to be connected to the growing geopolitical tension in the Middle East involving Iran, which has sparked demonstrations in several parts of the world.
Security analysts note that protests linked to international conflicts sometimes extend to foreign diplomatic missions, prompting embassies to issue precautionary advisories to their citizens.
While the embassy did not specify the exact location or organisers of the planned protest, observers say areas around diplomatic zones and government institutions in Abuja often attract demonstrations.
As of the time of filing this report, Nigerian security authorities had not released an official statement on the development. However, security agencies in the Federal Capital Territory are expected to monitor key locations to ensure that public order is maintained.
Despite the security alert, the U.S. Embassy indicated that other consular services remain operational, although adjustments may be made depending on how the situation unfolds.
Meanwhile, Americans living in Nigeria have been encouraged to enrol in the U.S. government’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides real-time updates and security notifications during emergencies.
The development comes amid heightened global concern over the Middle East crisis, which continues to generate political reactions and public demonstrations in several countries.
Security experts say Nigerian authorities are likely to take precautionary steps to prevent any protest from escalating into violence, particularly around diplomatic premises in the capital city.
By Favour Bibaikefie
The City of Boston has officially proclaimed March 2, 2024, as “Burna Boy Day,” in recognition of the global impact and cultural influence of Nigerian music icon, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy.
The resolution, “OFFERED BY COUNCILOR RUTHZEE LOUIJEUNE,” was adopted by the Boston City Council under the title:
“CITY OF BOSTON”
“IN CITY COUNCIL”
“RESOLUTION DECLARING MARCH 2, 2024 AS BURNA BOY DAY IN THE CITY OF BOSTON.”
In the proclamation, the Council paid tribute to the Port Harcourt-born Grammy Award-winning artiste, stating:
> “WHEREAS, Singer and songwriter Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, known professionally as ‘Burna Boy’, was born and raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria and is now a global cultural icon who has helped introduce and popularize afrobeats to the entire world; and”
The resolution acknowledged the broader cultural significance of Burna Boy’s rise on the global stage, particularly in reshaping perceptions about African creativity and identity. It noted:
> “WHEREAS, For too long, mainstream narratives have marginalized African voices and overlooked the richness of the continent’s cultural heritage, with Burna Boy’s rise to prominence highlighting a shift in this paradigm; and”
Highlighting his artistic philosophy and authenticity, the Council further stated:
> “WHEREAS, Burna Boy proudly embraces his Nigerian and African identity, infusing it with contemporary sounds to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide, thereby challenging stereotypes about African artistry and opening doors for aspiring artists from similar backgrounds; and”
Beyond music, Boston’s lawmakers recognised the singer’s advocacy and social consciousness:
> “WHEREAS, Through his performances and advocacy work, Burna Boy amplifies the voices of marginalized communities and advocates for their recognition and rights, using his platform not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire, starting conversations about social justice, equity, and representation; and”
The proclamation also reflected on the strong Nigerian presence in the United States, particularly in Massachusetts:
> “WHEREAS, Nigeria is the largest source of African immigration in the United States and Massachusetts is one of the top 10 states with the highest Nigerian-born population, according to the American Community Survey; and”
Boston’s commitment to diversity and multicultural celebration was equally emphasised:
> “WHEREAS, Boston’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating culture and diversity is evident in the range of cultural events, festivals, and community initiatives that showcase the city’s multicultural landscape; and”
In concluding remarks within the resolution, the Council underscored the symbolic importance of Burna Boy’s journey:
> “WHEREAS, Burna Boy’s legacy serves as a reminder of possibility, reminding us to continue amplifying voices that have long been silenced or overlooked; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT”
The declaration was formally sealed with the pronouncement:
> “RESOLVED: That March 2, 2024 is designated Burna Boy Day in the City of Boston.”
Reacting to the development via his facebook page, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu (Burna Boy) wrote:
“Imagine Burna Boy dey collect honor for Boston
“Yankee people dey celebrate am like national treasure…
“But my own people no fit even block one small road for Port Harcourt talk say “Odogwu Day” 😂
“No wahala sha.
“Lion no dey beg jungle for recognition.
“When grace loud, even abroad go hear am before your street.
“Make them relax…
When my time land, dem go declare public holiday without notice.
“Odogwu no small 🚨”
See video: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1a5u9QtMfE/
The honour marks another milestone in the remarkable ascent of the Nigerian superstar, whose fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall and socially conscious lyrics has earned him international acclaim and positioned him as one of Africa’s most influential contemporary voices.
For many Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, Boston’s declaration is more than ceremonial; it is a powerful affirmation of Afrobeats as a global cultural force and of Burna Boy’s role in carrying African music to the world’s biggest stages.
By Favour Bibaikefie
A citizen-science team has located the long-missing schooner F.J. King off Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, ending over a century of fruitless hunts for one of Lake Michigan’s most storied wrecks. The Wisconsin Underwater Archeology Association confirmed the discovery, first made on June 28, 2025, using side-scan sonar. The 144-foot, three-masted cargo vessel, built in 1867, sank while hauling iron ore from Escanaba to Chicago. All crew survived.
Researchers led by maritime historian Brendon Bailod zeroed in after revisiting 19th-century accounts. Instead of relying on the captains estimate that the ship went down miles offshore, they searched near a lighthouse keeper’s report that masts were seen protruding closer to land. Within two hours, the team imaged an intact hull less than a mile from shore.
The wreck’s preservation surprised investigators: hatches and framing appears largely in place, though invasive quagga mussels coat the timbers-an ongoing threat to Great Lakes maritime heritage. The find resolves a mystery that spawned reward offers and repeated expeditions over the past 50 years.
The F.J. King’s story is emblematic of Great Lake commerce and peril in the late 1800s: a sturdy ore carrier lost in a midnight storm, with fishermen later snagging fragments in their nets and early lookouts glimpsing broken masts-clues that misled searchers for generations.
Officials say the discovery adds to a recent run of finds by Wisconsin volunteers and state archaeologists, who have documen multiple wrecks across the region. Further documentation of the site is expected, but its exact coordinates are being withheld to protect the wreck.
The above was as reported by the Associated Press, the Washington Post, Archaeology Magazine, CNN, and other outlets.
(c) IduwiniVoice