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US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States will not lift its blockade on Iranian ports until a deal is reached with Tehran. Trump stated on Truth Social that the blockade, which began a week ago, is "absolutely destroying Iran" and that the US is winning the conflict. These comments come as a temporary US-Iran ceasefire is set to expire, with uncertainty surrounding a second round of peace talks in Pakistan. While security is heightened in Pakistan's capital, US Vice President JD Vance, slated to lead the US delegation, has not yet departed Washington, and Iran has not confirmed its attendance. Since the blockade began, US forces have directed 27 vessels away from Iranian ports and seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship, which Tehran called an "act of piracy." This US action follows Iran's own nearly two-month blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has significantly impacted global energy prices.
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxd88r2wjzo
Iran has rejected the possibility of engaging in talks while under threat, a stance reiterated amidst escalating tensions. This comes as former US President Donald Trump has indicated that a blockade against Iran would remain in place. The situation highlights a continued standoff between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, with no immediate diplomatic resolution in sight as both sides maintain firm positions.
President Hakainde Hichilema has welcomed approximately 140 members from the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) who have defected to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). Among the defectors are three Members of Parliament, five council chairpersons, and 69 councillors, signaling a significant shift in political allegiances. This move bolsters the UPND's numbers while further weakening the PF's presence across various levels of governance.
Zambian police are actively pursuing United Party for National Development (UPND) cadres implicated in an assault on a journalist, with one suspect already apprehended. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding political violence and freedom of the press in the country. Authorities have vowed to ensure all perpetrators face the full force of the law, regardless of their political affiliation.
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