Skip to main content

Featured

U.S. Seizure of Russian-Flagged Tanker Heightens Global Tensions

The ship, currently between Iceland and the British Isles, has been accused of breaking US sanctions and shipping Iranian oil. It has historically transported Venezuelan crude oil. The United States has seized a Russian‑flagged oil tanker linked to Venezuela after a prolonged pursuit across the Atlantic, marking one of the most assertive enforcement actions under Washington’s sanctions program. The vessel, previously known as Bella‑1 and later renamed Marinera , was intercepted after evading an earlier boarding attempt near Venezuelan waters. U.S. military aircraft and naval units tracked the ship for weeks as it traveled across the Atlantic, at times shadowed by Russian naval vessels. Officials say the tanker was part of a network used to transport sanctioned Venezuelan and Russian oil. Its capture underscores Washington’s efforts to disrupt what it describes as illicit energy shipments that help sustain both governments. The operation comes at a delicate geopolitical moment, wit...

article

Gaza Aid at Risk Amid Rafah Assault

The United Nations has raised concerns that humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip may come to a halt within days due to the escalating ground conflict in Rafah. Israeli forces have intensified their operations, capturing key areas and disrupting vital aid corridors.

  • UN Warns of Aid Cessation: The UN cautions that the Gaza Strip’s aid could stop soon as Israeli troops advance into Rafah, a critical aid passage.
  • Rafah Under Siege: Israeli tanks have taken control of Rafah’s main road, isolating the city’s eastern part and prompting a large-scale civilian evacuation.
  • Humanitarian Crisis Looms: With supplies dwindling, UN agencies warn of a dire situation, with fuel and food stocks rapidly depleting.
  • International Tensions Rise: The conflict has led to a significant rift between Israel and the United States, with the latter blocking some military aid to Israel.

The situation in Rafah remains precarious, with residents facing constant bombardment and a lack of safe refuge. The international community watches closely as ceasefire talks have yet to yield a resolution to the hostilities.

Comments