Strong Earthquake Strikes Panama, Damages Buildings and Disrupts Flights

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck southern Panama on Friday, October 9, 2026, damaging buildings, disrupting electricity supplies and forcing the suspension of flights at the country's main international airport.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at a depth of 12.6 kilometres near La Pitaloza, a rural community in Herrera province, close to the Pacific coastline.

The earthquake triggered more than a dozen aftershocks, sending frightened residents into the streets as buildings shook and cracks appeared in homes. Authorities warned that casualties were possible, although the full extent of the damage was not immediately clear.

Electricity Outages and Flight Disruptions

Electricity provider Naturgy reported power outages across six provinces following the earthquake.

Tocumen International Airport, a major regional aviation hub, suspended flights as authorities assessed the situation. Public transportation was also disrupted, with Panama City's Metro service temporarily halted.

Schools across the country suspended classes, while several offices released employees early amid concerns about structural damage to buildings.

In the capital, Panama City, residents reported prolonged shaking, with some experiencing vibrations lasting approximately 40 seconds.

Ricardo Brown, a 74-year-old resident of Herrera province, said his home had developed cracks during the earthquake, leaving him and his elderly companion afraid that the building might collapse.

Buildings Damaged as Tremors Spread

The earthquake's epicentre was located in a sparsely populated area of Herrera province, but its effects were felt across much of Panama and as far as San José, the capital of neighbouring Costa Rica.

Videos verified by Reuters showed a damaged church and collapsed buildings in Penonomé, a city located between the epicentre and Panama City.

Panama's civil protection agency also reported impacts in Chitré, the capital of Herrera province, and along the coast in Los Santos province.

The country's geosciences institute director, Nestor Luque, attributed the earthquake to the Azuero-Soná Fault System, explaining that accumulated pressure along the active faults had been released.

He said seismic waves travelled throughout the country, explaining why the earthquake was widely felt.

Tsunami Threat Ends

Following the earthquake, authorities issued a tsunami threat for areas off Panama's coast. However, the US Tsunami Warning System later confirmed that the threat had passed and no further tsunami danger remained.

Despite the widespread disruption, the Panama Canal continued operating normally.

The canal, a critical international shipping route, is located approximately 203 kilometres from the earthquake's epicentre. Monitoring data showed that about 90 vessels, including oil tankers, bulk carriers and container ships, were waiting at both ends of the waterway to transit or dock.

Economic Impact Feared

The US Geological Survey estimated that economic losses could range from 1 per cent to 10 per cent of Panama's gross domestic product, although a comprehensive assessment was still pending.

Major earthquakes are relatively rare in Panama, raising concerns about the potential consequences for buildings, infrastructure and economic activities.

The country was scheduled to conduct a nationwide evacuation drill the following Monday to test its emergency response capabilities, including preparedness for earthquakes.

Authorities continued monitoring the situation as residents dealt with damaged homes, aftershocks and disruptions to daily life.

Appeal Court Rejects El-Rufai’s Plea for Release from ICPC Custody

The Court of Appeal in Kaduna has dismissed an appeal filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, challenging the refusal of his fresh bail application by the Kaduna State High Court.

The three-member appellate panel unanimously ruled that El-Rufai failed to present fresh facts or special circumstances sufficient to justify overturning the lower court’s decision to deny him bail.

The lead judgment, delivered by Justice Onyekachi Aja Otisi, affirmed the Kaduna State High Court’s ruling of June 10, 2026, which rejected the former governor’s second bail application.

El-Rufai, who governed Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over alleged financial offences linked to his administration. He has denied any wrongdoing.

The appellate court held that the trial court acted within its judicial discretion in refusing bail, based on the affidavit evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defence.

The prosecution had argued that some of El-Rufai’s public statements, including comments made during a televised interview, raised concerns about possible interference with the course of justice.

It also alleged that the former governor admitted during an Arise Television interview on April 26, 2026, to wiretapping the telephone line of the National Security Adviser. According to the judgment, El-Rufai acknowledged participating in the interview and facing a separate case related to the matter.

However, the court emphasised that the decision to deny bail did not amount to a finding of guilt, stressing that El-Rufai remained presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The former governor had also argued that his return to custody after attending his late mother's burial demonstrated that he was not a flight risk and should be granted bail.

However, the prosecution maintained that security agents accompanied and closely monitored him during the burial.

The appellate court further noted that photographs allegedly showing El-Rufai attending funeral prayers at the National Mosque in Abuja were referenced in his affidavit but were not attached to the bail application before the trial court.

Justice Otisi stated that courts could not rely on speculation or conjecture when making judicial decisions.

Consequently, the appellate court upheld the lower court’s conclusion that El-Rufai had not established sufficient grounds to warrant a different bail decision.

The court also affirmed the order for an accelerated hearing of his criminal trial, directing that proceedings should be conducted daily, as far as practicable, while he remained in ICPC custody.

The panel noted that there was no evidence that the prosecution had failed to pursue the case diligently. It added that El-Rufai could return to the trial court to seek another consideration of his bail application if the prosecution failed to prosecute the case diligently.

In a concurring judgment, Justice Abimbola Obaseki-Adejumo agreed that the former governor had not presented fresh and compelling evidence to justify a different outcome.

Justice Lateef Ganiyu also concurred, noting that the failure to attach documents relied upon in the bail application weakened El-Rufai’s case.

Despite the dismissal of the appeal, the court reiterated that the former governor remained entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence pending the determination of the charges against him.

Katie Zacharia Offered Position as White House Press Secretary

Conservative commentator Katie Zacharia has reportedly been offered the position of White House press secretary under United States President Donald Trump.

A White House source confirmed to Al Jazeera on Friday, October 9, 2026, that the position had been offered to Zacharia.

The role has remained vacant since August, when former press secretary Karoline Leavitt stepped down to spend more time with her family.

According to her LinkedIn profile, Zacharia currently serves as a senior communications adviser to Trump Media and Technology Group, the company that operates the president's social media platform, Truth Social.

Before joining the Trump administration in February 2026, she worked as a conservative media commentator for outlets including Newsmax and Fox News. She subsequently held an official position at the United States Department of Homeland Security.

Zacharia began her career in Washington, DC, in 2006, serving as an intern at the Republican National Committee and the White House during the administration of former President George W. Bush.

If confirmed, her appointment would fill the position left vacant by Leavitt's departure in August.

Flydubai Co-Pilot Planned to Hijack Aircraft, Crash Into Israeli Airport — UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has accused an Omani co-pilot working for Flydubai of attempting to hijack a passenger aircraft and crash it into a terminal at Israel’s Ben Gurion International Airport in a planned suicide attack.

According to a statement by UAE Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi on Friday, the incident occurred on September 30, 2026, aboard a flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv.

Investigators believe the suspect was inspired by the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States and had deliberately prepared for the operation.

The UAE prosecutor said the suspect had previously travelled on two flights to Tel Aviv to familiarise himself with the route and the airport.

Co-Pilot Attacked Captain With Crash Axe

The incident occurred while the aircraft was flying through Saudi Arabian airspace, when the suspect allegedly attacked the captain with a crash axe kept in the cockpit for emergencies.

The attack caused the aircraft to plunge approximately 16,000 feet (4,900 metres) in just 30 seconds, creating a dangerous situation for passengers and crew members.

However, the suspect was eventually overpowered, while two other pilots aboard the aircraft managed to land it safely in Saudi Arabia.

The suspect was subsequently transferred to the UAE, where Flydubai is based.

Investigation Finds No Warning Signs During Recruitment

Al Shamsi said investigators reviewed Flydubai’s recruitment and security procedures and found that the suspect had met all professional and security requirements.

The co-pilot reportedly possessed the necessary pilot's licence and had submitted a certificate of good conduct.

However, the attorney general said the recruitment process had revealed no indications of the suspect's alleged extremist views or plans to carry out a terrorist attack.

The 29-year-old suspect had previously worked for airlines in several countries, including Oman Air, before joining Flydubai in January 2026.

Investigators reportedly traced signs of his alleged movement towards extremism and terrorism to 2017, when he was studying in Australia.

Suspect Allegedly Prepared for Attack

According to the UAE attorney general, the suspect told investigators that he had prepared physically and psychologically for the attack by watching materials promoting terrorism and taking boxing lessons.

Royal Air Maroc previously confirmed that the suspect underwent three months of training with the airline in 2025, but his subsequent application for employment was rejected.

Although UAE authorities have not officially disclosed the suspect’s identity, a person familiar with the investigation told Reuters that he had been identified as Hammam al-Hammami, an Omani national.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has launched a separate aviation safety investigation into the September 30 incident involving Flydubai flight FZ1073.

The UAE investigation remains focused on establishing the circumstances surrounding the alleged plot and the suspect's actions aboard the aircraft.

US Says 1.25 Billion Barrels of Oil Have Passed Through Hormuz Under Its Protection

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) says American forces have supported the passage of more than 1.25 billion barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz in recent months, while Iran's crude oil exports have reportedly ground to a halt following a US naval blockade.

In a statement released on Thursday, October 8, CENTCOM said oil shipments from other Persian Gulf countries continued to move through the strategic waterway under American military protection, despite restrictions preventing Iran from exporting crude oil through its ports.

The development comes as Washington intensifies efforts to restrict Tehran's oil revenues amid the ongoing conflict.

According to Reuters, Persian Gulf countries, excluding Iran, exported an average of 19.2 million barrels of crude oil, gas condensate and refined petroleum products per day in September. This represented more than 81 per cent of the volume recorded before the war began on February 28.

Saudi Arabia reportedly played a significant role in increasing regional oil exports to help maintain supplies and stabilise energy flows.

Earlier reports by the Financial Times indicated that oil tanker loading operations at Kharg Island, Iran's main crude oil export terminal, came to a complete halt following the reinstatement of the US naval blockade in mid-July.

Satellite imagery and vessel-tracking data reportedly showed a sharp decline in tanker movements around the facility.

However, available shipping data suggests that the blockade has not completely stopped all Iranian petroleum shipments.

In August, United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI) reported that although no tankers carrying Iranian crude oil had breached the blockade, three vessels transporting Iranian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) had successfully departed through the Sea of Oman.

This indicates that the reported suspension of crude oil exports does not necessarily mean that every category of Iranian petroleum product has stopped reaching international markets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most important maritime routes for energy supplies, connecting the Persian Gulf with international shipping lanes. Any disruption to traffic through the waterway can affect global oil supplies, energy prices and shipping costs.

The contrasting situations facing Iran and its neighbouring oil-producing countries highlight how the ongoing conflict and US maritime restrictions are reshaping regional energy exports.

While other Gulf producers have increased shipments under American protection, Iran continues to face significant obstacles to exporting its crude oil.

Trump Announces Russian Diesel Deal to Lower US Fuel Prices Ahead of Midterm Elections

US President Donald Trump has announced an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply diesel fuel to the United States, marking a significant shift in Washington's policy towards Moscow amid efforts to reduce rising fuel prices ahead of the November midterm elections.

Trump announced the deal on Friday, October 9, following a telephone conversation with Putin. The call was reportedly expected to focus on a suspected plague case in Russia, but Trump instead revealed plans for Russia to supply large quantities of diesel to the United States.

According to Trump, Russia will immediately deliver more than 300,000 tonnes of diesel, followed by another 500,000 tonnes in November and one million tonnes shortly afterwards. He added that a further three million tonnes would be supplied within a short period.

Trump said lowering fuel prices for Americans, particularly farmers, ranchers and truck drivers, remained his top priority.

The announcement comes despite Trump's signing of a sweeping Russia sanctions law last month aimed at restricting Moscow's energy revenues, which help finance its ongoing war against Ukraine.

The agreement has also raised questions about whether the US administration will impose additional sanctions on Russia this month. A bipartisan law passed by Congress directs the administration to target major importers of Russian oil and gas.

However, the White House has not clarified who will pay for the diesel shipments or when the fuel will become available in the United States. It also remains unclear whether the supplies scheduled for November will arrive before the November 3 midterm elections.

Meanwhile, Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev welcomed the development, saying cooperation between Russia and the United States in diesel and energy would benefit the world.

The agreement represents a notable development in US-Russia energy relations as the Trump administration seeks to address domestic fuel costs while maintaining pressure on Moscow over its war against Ukraine.

ICC Urges Member States to Ensure Its Continued Operation Despite US Sanctions

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has strongly condemned sanctions imposed on it by the United States government, urging its member states to provide the necessary support to ensure it continues to operate.

In a statement released on Friday, the court described the sanctions as an attempt to obstruct justice and prevent it from carrying out its responsibilities.

The ICC said the US action was an attack on the rule of law and the foundations of the international legal system.

"It is an attempt to obstruct the course of justice and to prevent the Court from doing what it was created to do," the court said.

The court reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling its mandate of prosecuting individuals accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and the crime of aggression when national authorities are unwilling or unable to take appropriate action.

However, the ICC warned that it could not continue its work without assistance from its member states.

The court called on countries that support its establishment to ensure it has the financial and operational resources needed to carry out its duties.

"The Court cannot stand alone. Its fate now rests also in the hands of the states that created it," the statement added.

The ICC also stressed that defending the institution was not merely about protecting a single organisation but about preserving an international system based on the rule of law.

The United States is not a member of the ICC.

The latest development comes amid growing tensions between Washington and the international court over its activities and authority.

The court maintained that it would continue to carry out its responsibilities despite the sanctions, while calling on its member states to help protect its independence and ensure the continuation of its operations.

Source: Reuters

J.P. Morgan to Establish Merchant Bank in Nigeria Before End of 2026

J.P. Morgan, one of the world's leading financial institutions, has announced plans to establish a merchant bank in Nigeria, with operations expected to commence before the end of 2026, subject to regulatory approval.

Dapo Olagunji, Managing Director of J.P. Morgan West Africa, disclosed the plan during the Nigeria–Asia Financial Connectivity Dialogue held in Singapore on October 8, 2026.

According to a statement released on Thursday, the dialogue was organised by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in collaboration with J.P. Morgan, Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX), and FMDQ Group.

The proposed merchant bank would represent a significant expansion of J.P. Morgan's presence in Nigeria as the country seeks to strengthen its financial markets and attract more foreign investment.

The announcement comes amid engagements by CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso with financial institutions and market stakeholders in Singapore ahead of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank annual meetings scheduled to take place in Bangkok.

On September 15, J.P. Morgan announced Nigeria's inclusion in its new emerging markets index, assigning the country a weighting of 7.4 per cent.

The index, known as the Government Bond Index–Emerging Markets Edge (GBI-EM Edge), tracks local-currency government bonds across emerging and frontier markets and was launched at the end of September.

Nigeria's inclusion comes nearly 11 years after the country was removed from J.P. Morgan's Government Bond Index–Emerging Markets in 2015.

With a weighting of 7.4 per cent, Nigeria is expected to rank among the largest markets represented in the new benchmark, potentially increasing the visibility of its domestic government securities among international fixed-income investors.

The development could also strengthen investor interest in Nigeria's bond market and support the country's efforts to attract foreign capital.

However, the establishment of the proposed merchant bank remains subject to the necessary regulatory approvals.

71 Killed in Fresh Inter-Communal Clashes in South Sudan

At least 71 people, including four soldiers, have been killed in inter-communal violence in Rumbek, a central town in South Sudan.

The violence erupted around 4 a.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, according to the country's interim Ministry of Information.

Witnesses told Agence France-Presse (AFP) that the clashes were linked to ethnic and community tensions in the world's youngest nation, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011.

According to witnesses, a group of young people from outside Rumbek attempted to take control of the town and briefly succeeded before police and military reinforcements arrived, forcing the attackers to withdraw.

Two witnesses said the fighting later spread to areas outside the town.

In a statement, the interim Ministry of Information confirmed that armed civilians were involved in the clashes, resulting in significant loss of life.

The government said additional security forces had been deployed to Rumbek and that the situation was under control. Four armed civilians were also arrested in connection with the violence.

The caretaker administration condemned the killings and urged communities across the country to remain calm, exercise restraint and avoid further violence. It also assured residents that security forces would work to protect civilians.

The latest incident comes amid a wave of ethnic and communal violence in South Sudan.

In early March, at least 169 people were killed in inter-communal violence in the country's northern region after young men from the Nuer ethnic group reportedly sought revenge for the killing of some of their members at a market.

Similarly, at least 26 people were killed and 82 others injured in mid-September during inter-ethnic clashes in Abyei, a disputed region claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan.

South Sudan continues to face significant challenges, including persistent communal conflicts and widespread corruption.

The latest violence comes as the country prepares for elections scheduled for December, following the dissolution of the government by President Salva Kiir and the establishment of an interim administration.

Yemen Condemns Saudi Airstrikes, Warns Riyadh Against Continued Aggression

Yemen’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned Saudi Arabia’s alleged continued airstrikes, artillery attacks and blockade, warning that the country will respond to what it describes as ongoing aggression.

In a statement released on Friday, October 9, 2026, the ministry accused Saudi Arabia of carrying out attacks against several areas in Yemen and criticised the international community for failing to stop the violence.

The ministry said the situation had exposed the international community’s inability to protect Yemen, accusing world powers of failing to take meaningful action despite repeated calls for intervention.

It also stated that the continued attacks demonstrated that the Saudi leadership responded only to force.

Meanwhile, Yemeni military spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree said government forces had repelled an advance by Saudi-backed fighters in Lahij province, southwestern Yemen, near the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait.

According to Saree, the fighters were forced to withdraw for the second time within a few hours.

The Yemeni foreign ministry also referred to an announcement by the country’s armed forces identifying potential targets under a principle of reciprocity. It urged all parties to avoid the designated locations.

The ministry further warned that forces backed by Saudi Arabia operating inside Yemen would face serious consequences for their actions.

The latest developments come amid escalating tensions between Riyadh and Sana’a following Yemen’s declaration of a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia on July 20. Yemeni authorities said the move was a response to what they described as a prolonged and unjust blockade imposed on their country.

Yemeni military authorities have since claimed responsibility for several operations against ships allegedly linked to Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea.

Saudi Arabia and its allies launched a military intervention in Yemen in March 2015 to restore the internationally recognised government following the Houthi takeover of the capital, Sana’a.

The conflict has caused widespread destruction, displacement and a severe humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands of people reported killed over the years.

The latest exchange of accusations and military confrontations highlights the continuing instability in Yemen and the risk of further escalation between the two sides.

China, EU Reach Agreement to Cut Chinese Hybrid Car Exports by More Than Half

China and the European Union (EU) have reached an agreement aimed at reducing Chinese hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicle exports to Europe by more than half over the next four years.

European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič announced the development on Friday following two days of discussions with Chinese officials in Beijing.

According to Šefčovič, the agreement is expected to reduce the number of Chinese hybrid vehicles entering the European market by several million over the four-year period. However, both sides have yet to provide detailed information on how the arrangement will be implemented.

The agreement is part of broader efforts to address the growing trade imbalance between China and the EU, which has raised concerns among European governments about the competitiveness of their domestic industries.

Šefčovič described the outcome as a significant achievement but stressed that more work was needed to restore balance to trade relations between the two economic powers.

European car manufacturers welcomed the announcement, with shares of several major automakers rising following the news.

China, EU Agree on Wider Trade Measures

Beyond the automotive sector, China and the EU reached an understanding on improving market access for European products worth approximately €4 billion.

The products include car parts, olive oil and footwear. China also agreed to facilitate the approval of export licences for rare earth elements and permanent magnets through a special mechanism designed to speed up the process.

These materials are essential to several industries, including electric vehicle manufacturing, electronics and renewable energy.

The two sides also agreed to continue discussions on alternative arrangements to tariffs, including minimum-price commitments for imported vehicles.

European officials are expected to review the agreement at an upcoming EU summit in Brussels to determine whether it represents meaningful progress towards reducing the bloc's trade deficit with China.

Rising Chinese Car Imports Raise Concerns

European governments have become increasingly concerned about the rapid growth of Chinese vehicle imports as domestic manufacturers face declining competitiveness and job losses.

Imports of plug-in hybrid vehicles into the EU rose by 86 per cent in the year to September 2026, while prices fell by 20 per cent, according to figures cited in the report.

More than half of the bloc's plug-in hybrid imports now come from China, highlighting the growing influence of Chinese manufacturers in the European automotive market.

The dispute follows the EU's introduction of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in 2024. Since then, trade tensions have expanded to include Chinese measures affecting European brandy, pork and dairy products, as well as restrictions on exports of rare earth elements and other critical minerals.

Germany and France are among the European countries significantly affected by the broader trade dispute.

The German automotive industry cautiously welcomed the new understanding, although industry representatives said it was too early to determine whether the agreement would address concerns about unfair competition.

Trade Imbalance Remains a Major Challenge

The growing trade imbalance remains at the centre of tensions between Beijing and Brussels.

China's exports to the EU reached approximately $560 billion in 2025, up from $517 billion in 2024. Meanwhile, Chinese imports of European goods fell slightly to $268.3 billion from $269.4 billion over the same period.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has previously warned that the widening trade gap had reached a critical point, pledging to use available measures to rebalance economic relations.

China, however, has argued that it should be viewed as a partner in addressing Europe's economic challenges rather than the source of the bloc's problems.

Both sides have agreed to continue discussions on tariffs, market access and trade in medical devices.

Šefčovič and Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao are expected to meet again in March 2027, following a planned video conference in January.

The latest agreement marks an important step in efforts to ease trade tensions between China and the European Union, although its effectiveness will depend on how the commitments are implemented.Source: Reuters, October 9, 2026. 

Apple Cuts iPhone 18 Pro Orders Amid Weak Demand

Apple reportedly reduces component orders by at least 15% as rising chip costs and higher prices affect consumer demand.

Apple has reportedly instructed some of its suppliers to reduce production of components for its newly launched iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max due to weaker consumer demand and rising memory chip costs.

According to a report by Nikkei Asia on Friday, October 9, 2026, the technology company has become more cautious about shipments since early September.

The report, citing multiple sources familiar with the matter, stated that Apple reduced its component orders for October by at least 15% compared with its original requests.

However, Reuters said it could not immediately independently verify the report, while Apple had not responded to its request for comment outside regular business hours.

The development comes amid a global shortage of advanced memory chips, driven partly by technology companies purchasing large quantities of chips to power artificial intelligence (AI) data centres.

The shortage has pushed up memory and storage costs, putting pressure on manufacturers of smartphones and personal computers.

In June, Apple increased the prices of some iPads and MacBooks, explaining that it could no longer absorb the rising costs of memory and storage chips caused by the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure.

Nikkei Asia also reported that demand for electronic devices had weakened from late August into October. However, the slowdown could partly be linked to changes in Apple's iPhone launch schedule.

Last month, Apple unveiled its latest flagship smartphones, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, alongside its foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo.

The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299. Both models are priced $100 higher than their respective iPhone 17 Pro predecessors at launch.

As Apple continues to introduce more AI features across its products, its demand for high-performance memory chips has increased, making suppliers increasingly important amid the global supply shortage.

The reported production adjustment raises questions about consumer demand for Apple's latest premium smartphones as higher manufacturing costs contribute to rising retail prices.

Mauritanian Prime Minister Resigns After Days-Long Power Outages

Mauritania’s Prime Minister, Mokhtar Ould Djay, has submitted his resignation and that of his government following a damning report on power outages caused by fires at two electricity facilities in August.

State media reported on Friday that Djay resigned after President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani received a report highlighting serious shortcomings that contributed to the incidents.

The fires broke out less than 24 hours apart on August 21 and 22, affecting transformer substations operated by the Mauritanian Electricity Company (Somelec) in the capital, Nouakchott, and its surrounding areas.

The incidents plunged large parts of Nouakchott and the towns of Ouad Naga, Idini and Aouleigat into darkness. Depending on the location, residents experienced power outages lasting between three and five days.

An independent commission investigating the incidents identified serious deficiencies in preventive measures, electrical protection, supervision of work and emergency management.

The report also linked the incidents to three newly installed power lines, identifying overheating as the most likely cause of the fires.

However, investigators found no evidence of sabotage or operational errors.

Somelec subsequently announced that electricity supply had been fully restored at the affected substations after approximately five days of repair work.

Djay submitted his resignation to President Ghazouani during a meeting at the presidential palace in Nouakchott on Friday, according to the state-run Mauritanian News Agency (AMI).

He had served as prime minister for more than two years, having been appointed in August 2024 at the beginning of Ghazouani’s second presidential term.

Djay was the third prime minister appointed by Ghazouani since he became president.

Source: Agency Report

Polish Parliamentary Committee Recommends Tribunal Trial for Central Bank Governor

A Polish parliamentary committee has recommended that the country's central bank governor, Adam Glapiński, face trial before the State Tribunal over alleged constitutional and legal violations during his tenure.

The committee's chairman, Zdzisław Gawlik, announced the recommendation on Friday, saying there were sufficient grounds to bring the governor before the tribunal.

The allegations against Glapiński include indirectly financing Poland's budget deficit through asset purchases in 2020 and 2021, conducting the operations without proper authorisation from the Monetary Policy Council, and allegedly politicising the central bank.

However, Glapiński has denied the accusations, describing the committee's proceedings as unjustified and harmful to Poland's national interests. He has also insisted that the central bank will not succumb to political pressure.

According to Reuters, 11 of the committee's 21 members supported the recommendation. The committee's deliberations and hearings were conducted behind closed doors, and Glapiński was not invited to testify.

The committee's report, alongside two minority motions submitted by opposition lawmakers who opposed the recommendation, will now be forwarded to Poland's lower parliamentary chamber, the Sejm, for a vote.

The date of the vote has not been fixed, but it cannot take place until at least 21 days after lawmakers have been given the opportunity to review the report.

The controversy has intensified political tensions between Prime Minister Donald Tusk's governing coalition and the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party, which lost power in 2023.

Glapiński has longstanding ties to Jarosław Kaczyński, the leader of the PiS party. Meanwhile, Tusk's coalition has pledged to hold individuals it accuses of wrongdoing under the previous administration accountable.

The proposed tribunal proceedings have also raised questions about the legal requirements for approving the move.

In 2024, Poland's Constitutional Tribunal ruled that a three-fifths parliamentary majority would be required to approve the resolution and that referring the central bank governor to the tribunal would not automatically suspend him from office. However, the government disputes the legality of those rulings.

Zbigniew Konwiński, head of the governing Civic Coalition's parliamentary faction, expressed confidence that the government would secure enough votes to approve the resolution.

In contrast, PiS lawmaker Iwona Arent said she suspected the government intended to suspend Glapiński and warned that her party could seek assistance from international institutions responsible for safeguarding central bank independence.

The European Central Bank declined to comment on the committee's recommendation.

Glapiński, who is serving his second and final term as governor of the National Bank of Poland, is expected to leave office in June 2028.

The parliamentary vote will determine whether the recommendation proceeds to the next stage.

South Africa’s Former President Jacob Zuma Receives Medical Treatment – Ramaphosa

Former South African President Jacob Zuma is receiving medical treatment in hospital, President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed.

Ramaphosa disclosed this on Friday, October 9, 2026, following reports that the 84-year-old former leader had been admitted to a medical facility since Wednesday.

“President Jacob Zuma has not been well, and he has now been put under treatment by doctors,” Ramaphosa told reporters in remarks broadcast by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC).

He added that the military surgeon general had been briefed on Zuma’s condition.

Ramaphosa wished the former president a speedy recovery, expressing hope that he would regain his health and continue contributing to the development of South Africa.

Local media reports indicated that Zuma was taken by ambulance to a medical clinic in Pietermaritzburg, a city in the eastern part of the country, on Wednesday.

However, Zuma’s political party, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), said he was undergoing a routine medical check-up.

In a statement, the party assured the public that Zuma was in good spirits and described his condition as healthy, although it did not provide further details about his medical situation.

Zuma served as South Africa’s president from 2009 to 2018, when he was forced to resign following a series of corruption scandals and pressure from his former party, the African National Congress (ANC).

Before becoming president, he was a prominent figure in the struggle against apartheid.

Despite the controversies surrounding his presidency, Zuma made a significant political comeback in 2024 when the MKP, established only months before the national elections, emerged as the third-largest party and attracted substantial support from the ANC.

His hospital admission has drawn public attention, with political leaders and supporters hoping for his quick recovery.

Saudi Arabia Resumes Riyadh Airport Operations After Deadly Houthi Strikes Kill Three

Saudi Arabia has reopened King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh following a series of Houthi attacks that disrupted aviation operations, damaged airport facilities and left several people injured.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) confirmed on Friday that normal operations had resumed after the attacks on Thursday.

According to the authority, the strikes affected airport infrastructure and an aircraft operated by Saudia Airlines, the country's national carrier. Several people sustained injuries of varying severity, while the attacks also caused material damage.

Saudia Airlines confirmed the death of one of its pilots, Captain Hamoud Ali Alkalthami, following an incident at the airport. The airline expressed sadness over his death and disclosed that one of its aircraft had been damaged.

The latest incident comes amid a series of attacks targeting Saudi airports in recent days, raising fresh concerns about aviation security across the kingdom.

Earlier this week, attacks on Abha and King Khalid airports reportedly killed three civilians and injured 36 others. Separate incidents involving Jazan and Najran airports, both located near the Yemeni border, also left at least three people wounded.

A Houthi military spokesperson claimed that the group launched a ballistic missile towards King Khalid International Airport on Thursday, asserting that the missile struck its intended target and disrupted air traffic.

The attacks represent a renewed campaign against Saudi aviation infrastructure. Last month, Saudi-led coalition forces reported intercepting a suspected Houthi ballistic missile directed at Riyadh's airport. An explosion was also reported near the airport a day later, with black smoke rising from a fuel storage facility.

The Houthis have subsequently warned international aviation companies against using Saudi airspace, threatening aircraft operating in the country's airspace, except over the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

Fighting Intensifies in Yemen

The renewed attacks on Saudi Arabia coincide with an escalating military campaign by Yemen's internationally recognised government against the Houthis.

The offensive followed the group's seizure of significant territory along the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait in September. The narrow waterway connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and serves as a crucial route for global maritime trade.

Yemeni government forces have claimed recent advances along the coastline, although fierce fighting continues in several areas.

The conflict has intensified amid wider regional tensions linked to the United States' war against Iran, raising fears that additional countries could become involved.

Pakistan and Türkiye have reportedly agreed to deploy troops under a mutual defence agreement reached with Saudi Arabia earlier this year.

Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Friday that a substantial number of Pakistani military personnel and resources were already in Riyadh.

However, a ministry spokesperson clarified that Pakistani forces would focus on defending Saudi territory rather than crossing into enemy territory to launch attacks against the Houthis.

Coalition Targets Houthi Missile Infrastructure

Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen's internationally recognised government announced that it had destroyed three rocket launch platforms allegedly used by the Houthis to threaten regional security.

Coalition spokesperson Colonel Turki al-Maliki warned that attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure would attract a firm response.

The coalition also reported intercepting and destroying two ballistic missiles heading towards Riyadh and another missile directed at Khamis Mushait, a city near the Yemeni border.

Additionally, coalition forces said they had conducted 97 precision military operations against Houthi reinforcements along the Tor al-Baha front and the Taiz axis earlier in the week.

The operations reportedly involved fighter aircraft, drones, artillery, missiles and snipers.

With attacks on Saudi airports continuing and fighting intensifying in Yemen, the latest developments have heightened concerns about the potential expansion of the conflict and its implications for regional security and international aviation.

Trump Sanctions ICC, Vows to Cripple Court Over Prosecution of Americans

United States President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC), threatening to cut off its resources and cripple its operations over the court's efforts to prosecute American citizens.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the sanctions on Friday, accusing the court of targeting Americans and describing it as a “rogue court.”

“President Trump will never allow the International Criminal Court to prosecute Americans,” Rubio said in a statement.

He added that the United States would prohibit transactions with the court in a move aimed at restricting its resources and undermining its ability to operate.

The sanctions come amid longstanding tensions between Washington and the ICC, particularly over the court's arrest warrants against Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and its previous investigation into alleged crimes committed by US soldiers in Afghanistan.

However, the ICC's Deputy Prosecutor, Nazhat Shameem Khan, condemned the decision, insisting that the sanctions would not prevent the court from carrying out its responsibilities.

“The sanctions are intended to undermine the rule of law internationally and the work that an independent judicial institution is doing,” Khan told Reuters.

She added that the court would continue its investigations, prosecutions and other activities despite the American measures.

Established in 2002, the ICC prosecutes individuals accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. The court has 125 member states, including all European Union countries.

The United States is not a member of the court, which is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands.

The latest sanctions could have broader consequences than previous US measures targeting individual ICC officials, as they may affect companies that provide services to the institution.

US sanctions generally restrict American companies from conducting business with designated entities, potentially disrupting access to banking, insurance and software services.

However, shortly after announcing the measures, the US Treasury Department issued four general licences permitting certain transactions involving the court's telecommunications, software, pension payments and detainees.

In anticipation of possible sanctions, the ICC had reportedly begun moving some office computers away from Microsoft software to open-source alternatives. It had also been making alternative arrangements for banking and health insurance.

Rubio said Washington had delayed imposing the sanctions in the hope that the ICC and countries that are parties to its founding Rome Statute would address American concerns.

“Either the ICC will end its threats, or we will end the ICC,” he said.

The US secretary of state also urged American allies, many of which are members of the court, to intervene and address Washington's objections.

He said the sanctions were designed to give ICC member states an opportunity to negotiate a resolution to the dispute.

Meanwhile, the announcement coincided with the awarding of the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize to South African jurist Navi Pillay, a former judge of the ICC Appeals Chamber who served from 2003 to 2008.

The Nobel Committee said the award was intended to highlight the importance of international law at a time when judges and legal institutions face increasing political pressure.

The development is expected to intensify diplomatic tensions between Washington and its European allies, many of which support the ICC and are parties to its founding treaty.

UK Labour Party Defeats Green Party in London By-Election

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s Labour Party has retained the parliamentary seat of Holborn and St Pancras in central London, defeating a strong challenge from the Green Party in a significant political victory for the prime minister.

Labour candidate Sagal Abdi-Wali won the by-election with 12,292 votes, defeating Green Party leader Zack Polanski, who secured 8,928 votes.

The election was triggered by the resignation of former British Prime Minister Keir Starmer as the constituency’s Member of Parliament.

The victory provides a boost for Burnham, who became prime minister in July following Starmer’s removal from office amid growing concerns over Labour’s declining popularity.

Labour Regains Support from Left-Wing Voters

The result represents an important test for Burnham’s leadership, particularly after Labour suffered significant losses to the Green Party during local elections in May.

The Greens had attracted growing support among younger and left-leaning voters in London and other urban areas, taking advantage of dissatisfaction with Labour under Starmer.

However, the party’s popularity has declined in recent opinion polls following Burnham’s adoption of policies aimed at winning back progressive voters.

These policies include a tougher position on Israel and a more ambitious approach to Britain’s relationship with the European Union.

Labour officials welcomed the result, describing it as evidence that the party’s message was gaining acceptance among voters.

Bridget Phillipson, Labour’s chair, said the outcome demonstrated that the party’s message of hope was resonating with the public.

She also criticised a motion passed at the Green Party’s annual conference that described Zionism as racism, saying it placed British Jews under a standard not applied to other groups.

Green Party Leader Faces Questions over Leadership

The defeat has increased pressure on Polanski, who had previously attracted voters dissatisfied with Labour and promised to transform the Green Party into an “eco-populist” movement.

The party has faced criticism following its conference decision on Zionism, which called for the establishment of a single democratic Palestinian state across historic Palestine.

The motion drew criticism from Jewish organisations, other political parties and several Green Party lawmakers. Polanski, who is Jewish, did not vote on the proposal.

Following the election defeat, Polanski rejected calls for his resignation and pledged to remain as party leader.

He described the result as part of what he called Burnham’s political honeymoon, suggesting that the new prime minister was benefiting from an early period of public goodwill.

However, former Green Party leader Caroline Lucas stopped short of giving Polanski her full support, criticising what she considered his failure to demonstrate sufficient leadership over the controversial conference motion.

Lucas said the party needed to see how events unfolded in the coming days and weeks.

Labour Candidate Calls for Unity

Abdi-Wali, who arrived in Britain as a child refugee from Somalia and later became a local council leader, described her victory as a rejection of political division.

She said the result highlighted the responsibility of political leaders to protect the achievements of British society and preserve them for future generations.

Her victory is expected to strengthen Burnham’s position as Labour seeks to consolidate support ahead of future national elections.

Attention Turns to Labour’s First Budget

Despite the defeat, Polanski argued that voters wanted to give Burnham an opportunity to demonstrate his leadership.

He said the public would judge the prime minister based on his policies and performance, particularly Labour’s first budget under his leadership, scheduled for October 28.

The budget is expected to provide an early indication of the government’s economic priorities and its plans to address voters’ concerns.

The by-election outcome therefore represents both a victory for Labour and a challenge for the Green Party, which must now reassess its political strategy following the loss of a seat it had hoped to win.

For Burnham, the result offers an opportunity to rebuild Labour’s support among left-leaning voters. For Polanski, it raises fresh questions about the Green Party’s leadership, strategy and ability to maintain its recent electoral momentum.Alternative headline: Burnham’s Labour Party Beats Greens in London By-Election as Polanski Faces Leadership Pressure

Israeli Rabbi Dov Lando Sparks Controversy Over Anti-Zionist Remarks Ahead of Elections

An influential Israeli ultra-Orthodox rabbi, Dov Lando, has sparked widespread controversy after criticising Zionism, describing the ideology as a source of disasters for the Jewish people.

The 96-year-old rabbi's comments have triggered strong reactions from Israeli politicians ahead of the country's October 27 legislative elections, with debates over military service and the political influence of the ultra-Orthodox community dominating the campaign.

According to Al Jazeera, Lando's remarks emerged in a recently released video recording containing comments he made about a year ago.

Who Is Dov Lando?

Lando is a prominent religious leader within Israel's Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox Jewish community. Born in Poland, he heads a traditional Jewish religious academy, known as a yeshiva, in Bnei Brak, Israel.

He also serves as a member of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, a council of senior ultra-Orthodox rabbis, and is the spiritual leader of the Degel HaTorah party.

The party belongs to the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) alliance, which is part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's governing coalition.

Rabbi Condemns Zionism

In the video, Lando argues that Zionism has contributed to hostility between Arabs and Jews and brought physical and spiritual suffering to the Jewish people.

He suggests that Jews could have lived peacefully alongside Arabs without establishing a Jewish state, adding that international or Palestinian rule might have been a better arrangement for Jews.

The veteran rabbi also criticises Religious Zionism, a movement within Orthodox Judaism that supports Zionism, arguing that its religious teachings encourage military service and contribute to soldiers' deaths.

He further attacks secular Israelis, claiming they have little connection to Judaism and describing the state they have established as one of religious apostasy and heresy.

Israeli Politicians React

Lando's statements have drawn sharp criticism from opposition politicians, many of whom view his remarks as an attack on the ideological foundations of Israel.

Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party and a potential opposition candidate for prime minister, described the comments as outrageous and representative of anti-Zionism.

Yair Lapid, head of the opposition in the Knesset, condemned the remarks as a disgrace to the Jewish people.

Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett also criticised Lando, describing his comments as anti-Semitic and anti-Zionist and arguing that they undermined the Israeli military.

Netanyahu has yet to comment on the latest controversy, although he previously condemned similar remarks by Lando in July.

Controversy Could Affect Netanyahu's Election Prospects

The dispute could complicate Netanyahu's efforts to retain power in the October 27 elections.

Opposition politicians have called for the United Torah Judaism alliance to be excluded from any future governing coalition because of the controversy surrounding its spiritual leadership.

Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats party, accused Netanyahu of remaining silent because he depends on Lando and his political allies to maintain his government.

Golan argued that Netanyahu's political survival had become more important to him than Zionism, equality in military service and the lives of Israeli soldiers.

However, severing ties with United Torah Judaism could also weaken Netanyahu's chances of forming a government.

An October 5 poll by Israel's Channel 12 projected that the alliance would win eight parliamentary seats. Netanyahu's coalition is already facing a difficult election campaign and is polling below the 61 seats required for a parliamentary majority.

Israeli affairs researcher Ehab Jabareen said Netanyahu faces a political dilemma: forcefully criticising Lando could alienate ultra-Orthodox voters, while remaining silent could allow his opponents to question his commitment to Zionism and national security.

The controversy therefore highlights the growing political tensions surrounding Zionism, religious authority and compulsory military service in Israel as the country approaches a decisive election.

Iraq to Ban Waze Navigation App Over Israeli Origins

Iraq has announced plans to ban Waze, a popular navigation application developed in Israel and owned by Google, citing its Israeli origins. The ban is expected to take effect in early 2027.

Iraq's Communications Minister, Mustafa Sanad, announced the decision on Tuesday during the Hitex 2026 technology exhibition in Erbil, the capital of Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdish region.

According to the Iraqi newspaper Al-Mada, the Ministry of Communications plans to block access to the application by the end of December 2026, although Sanad indicated that the ban would take effect at the beginning of 2027.

The minister reportedly said the application would be prohibited because it originated in Israel.

Why Iraq Is Banning Waze

Waze is a widely used navigation application that helps motorists find routes and avoid traffic congestion. It allows users to report road accidents, traffic jams and police checkpoints in real time.

The application was developed in Israel before Google acquired it in 2013 for nearly $1 billion.

Iraq's decision comes amid longstanding tensions with Israel. The two countries have no diplomatic relations, and Iraq passed a law in 2022 criminalising diplomatic, political, military, economic and cultural relations with Israel.

The legislation applies to Iraqi citizens, government institutions, media organisations, private companies and foreign entities operating in the country.

However, Sanad has not explicitly stated that the planned ban is being implemented under the 2022 law.

Security concerns have also surrounded the use of navigation applications in Iraq, particularly their ability to provide information about checkpoints and movements on the roads. Nevertheless, the minister did not directly link these concerns to the decision to prohibit Waze.

The move follows heightened regional tensions during the United States-Israel war against Iran, which has also affected Iraq and increased distrust of Israel among some sections of the population.

Government Recommends Alternatives

Sanad advised users to switch to Google Maps or locally developed Iraqi navigation applications following the proposed ban.

Meanwhile, Communications Ministry spokesperson Omar al-Amiri said the government intended to introduce an Iraqi-developed application to replace Waze.

He expressed confidence that the proposed application would operate without technical difficulties.

However, technology researcher Mustafa Kamel al-Sharif warned that developing a reliable national navigation service would require more than simply creating an application featuring an Iraqi map and logo.

He explained that such a platform would need accurate geographical databases, regularly updated road networks, reliable route-planning systems and real-time information about traffic congestion, accidents and road closures.

Al-Sharif also raised concerns about data protection, arguing that restricting one application would not necessarily address the broader question of how personal information is collected and managed by digital services operating in Iraq.

Questions Remain Over Implementation

Several details surrounding the proposed ban remain unclear.

The Iraqi government has yet to explain how access to Waze will be blocked, whether the restriction will extend to the semi-autonomous Kurdish region, or what specific legal provisions will support the decision.

Authorities have also not announced a launch date for the proposed Iraqi navigation application.

Another unresolved issue is why Google Maps will remain available as an alternative, given that it is also owned by Google’s parent company, Alphabet.

The government has not explained why it has chosen to ban Waze now, despite the application's Israeli origins having been known for years.

The effectiveness of the proposed restriction will therefore depend partly on how the government implements the ban and whether its planned domestic alternative can provide motorists with accurate, reliable navigation services.