UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has committed to raising defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, citing a “new era of insecurity” in Europe. The increase, totaling £13.4 billion annually, comes as concerns grow over NATO’s future and U.S. security commitments under Donald Trump. Starmer also proposed sending British troops to Ukraine to support a ceasefire but emphasized the need for a U.S. security “backstop.” His announcement signals the UK’s push for stronger European defense amid shifting global alliances and ongoing conflicts.
MOROCCO FOILS IS TERROR PLOT
Moroccan authorities have arrested 12 individuals linked to the Islamic State in the Sahel, thwarting a major terror plot. The group called “Lions of the Caliphate in the Maghreb,” was reportedly planning remote bombings under the orders of IS commanders. Weapons, IS flags, and cash were seized during raids across nine cities, including Casablanca and Tangier. Officials warn that IS in the Sahel aims to expand into Morocco, capitalising on regional instability. The 18 to 40 suspects have yet to be formally charged under anti-terror laws.
IRAN REJECTS US NUCLEAR TALKS
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi ruled out direct negotiations with the US on Iran’s nuclear program, citing Washington’s “maximum pressure” sanctions. His remarks came after the US imposed new sanctions on Iranian entities involved in the oil trade. Araghchi reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to working with Russia and China instead. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Tehran to discuss regional stability, Syria, and nuclear agreements. The visit comes amid growing US-Russia tensions over Ukraine. As diplomatic efforts continue, Iran remains firm on its stance, refusing to negotiate under pressure while strengthening ties with key allies.
HUGE CROWDS MOURN HEZBOLLAH LEADER
Hundreds of thousands gathered in Beirut for the funeral of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah killed in an Israeli airstrike. The event, attended by Hezbollah officials and foreign dignitaries, aimed to showcase the group’s resilience despite significant losses. Israeli warplanes flew over the procession as a show of strength. Hezbollah’s new leader, Naim Kassem, vowed continued resistance, demanding Israel’s withdrawal from key border areas. While Hezbollah remains defiant, its position has weakened due to the Syrian conflict and internal opposition urging disarmament. Analysts believe the fragile ceasefire with Israel remains at risk.
US SHIFTS STANCE ON UKRAINE
The Kremlin has praised Washington’s “balanced position” after the US voted alongside Russia at the UN, avoiding condemnation of Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. The shift signals a dramatic change in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump. The US and Russia opposed a European-backed resolution reaffirming Ukraine’s territorial integrity, with Washington instead proposing its own text, which failed to gain consensus. The Kremlin hopes Europe’s stance will also become more “balanced.” This development comes on the third anniversary of Russia’s offensive in Ukraine, intensifying global tensions over the ongoing conflict.
