Donald Trump has suggested the United States could impose tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after a potential war with Iran, claiming the US should profit from securing the strategic waterway. The strait, through which about 20 percent of global oil and gas shipments travel, lies within Iranian and Omani territorial waters. Trump stated that while Iran should not collect fees, the US, as the "winner", could charge for passage, a move that would likely require direct American military control. The proposal raises significant geopolitical and legal challenges given the location of the strait.
Israel has expanded its military strikes into southern Lebanon, hitting towns and areas near Beirut previously untouched by recent attacks. Lebanese authorities confirmed multiple casualties, including deaths from drone strikes and vehicle attacks. Infrastructure such as bridges has been targeted, a tactic analysts say aims to isolate southern regions amid a ground offensive launched in March. The campaign intensifies an already volatile conflict.
Ukraine launched an attack on Russian energy infrastructure in Novorossiysk, a major Black Sea oil export hub. Ukrainian officials said a warship and a drilling platform were targeted, while Russian authorities reported injuries and damage. The assault is part of Kyiv's broader strategy to undermine Russia's war funding by disrupting energy revenues. Russia claimed its air defences intercepted numerous drones.
Iran-backed groups, including Hezbollah and Yemen's Houthis, conducted coordinated missile and drone strikes on Israel, signaling a broader regional escalation. The attacks targeted military and strategic sites and were coordinated with Tehran. Israeli officials confirmed casualties, including fatalities in Haifa from earlier Iranian strikes.
The UK government is reviewing whether to allow Kanye West, also known as Ye, to enter the country for a planned London festival appearance. The decision follows backlash over his antisemitic remarks and controversial merchandise. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the situation "deeply concerning", as ministers weigh if his presence is in the public interest.
Zambia has declared a fuel supply emergency due to disruptions linked to the Iran war, which have worsened shortages and driven up prices. Long queues and reduced business activity are being reported nationwide. The government has suspended some fuel taxes to ease the burden. Energy experts warn up to 75 percent of African countries could face similar challenges.
Somalia is preparing for its first offshore oil drilling campaign, with a Turkish-operated vessel expected soon after promising seismic survey results. Officials called the development a "historic milestone" that could support economic recovery and elevate Somalia's regional energy profile. Governance and security risks remain significant.
Burkina Faso has rejected a Human Rights Watch report alleging that more than 200 civilians were killed in military operations in 2023.
Zambia's fuel emergency, triggered by a distant conflict, exposes how vulnerable African economies remain to global disruptions. When a war near the Strait of Hormuz can empty fuel stations in Lusaka, it underscores the continent's dependence on volatile international supply chains. This is not an isolated crisis but a pattern that affects how Nigerians and other Africans experience global instability.
