August 2025 | Page 7 of 31

Israel Escalates Attacks in Gaza City, Displacing Families Amid Growing Humanitarian Crisis

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago07 mins

Gaza City, Gaza – August 26, 2025 As Israel pushes deeper into Gaza City, the violence intensifies, with entire neighborhoods destroyed, and Palestinian families left with increasingly limited options. As Israel seeks to capture Gaza’s largest urban center, the humanitarian toll continues to rise, with displacement, destruction, and starvation sweeping through the besieged enclave. On Tuesday, a bombing on a popular market in eastern Gaza City killed at least five Palestinians and injured dozens more. Among the dead were two women, confirmed by sources at al-Ahli Arab Hospital. The ongoing attacks have rendered Gaza’s population vulnerable, caught between Israeli bombardment and a dire humanitarian crisis. Mass Displacement Amid Fierce BombardmentVideos verified by Al Jazeera showed Palestinians fleeing from as-Saftawi, a neighborhood to the north of Gaza City, as Israeli forces continued their push into the urban center. Footage captured long lines of families — men, women, and children — walking along dusty, ravaged streets, many carrying their belongings on carts or in bags, while others held children by the hand, heading westward towards areas of relative safety. Israel’s military has destroyed over 1,000 buildings in the Zeitoun and Sabra neighborhoods of Gaza City since the assault began on August 6, 2025, according to estimates from the Palestinian Civil Defence. Amid the escalating violence, Sara Awad, a Gaza City resident and writer, expressed the pain and confusion Palestinian families feel. “All the time, I’m wondering why I must flee and live in a tent, while my [home] is here,” Awad said. “It doesn’t make sense to leave my home while they are treating us not as human beings.” Humanitarian Crisis DeepensThe situation is compounded by widespread starvation. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, at least 303 Palestinians have died from hunger since the conflict began in October 2023, including 117 children. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has issued increasingly urgent warnings about the worsening conditions, highlighting the collapse of basic services, escalating civilian casualties, and the complete lack of food security. Palestinian Death Toll SoarsSince dawn on August 26, Israeli attacks have killed 64 Palestinians, including 13 people who were attempting to access aid. Since the United States-backed GHF took over humanitarian operations in Gaza in May 2025, over 2,100 Palestinians have been killed while trying to seek aid, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health. Accusations of Genocide and Ethnic CleansingMustafa Barghouti, the Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Initiative, condemned Israel’s actions, accusing it of attempting to eliminate and annihilate the Palestinian people through a combination of genocide and ethnic cleansing. He further claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was pursuing a broader agenda to reshape the Middle East, establishing political, economic, and intelligence dominance over the region. Attack on Nasser Hospital Sparks International OutrageInternational condemnation continues following the Israeli bombing of Nasser Hospital on August 25, which resulted in at least 21 deaths, including five journalists. Israel has been accused of conducting “double-tap” attacks, a tactic where it bombs a target, then waits for emergency responders and journalists to arrive before striking again. This method, human rights groups say, is a deliberate targeting of civilians and first responders. In a rare admission, Israeli officials called the attack on Nasser Hospital a “tragic mishap”, but did not explain how they hit the same facility twice. Geoffrey Nice, a human rights lawyer, called for a full investigation into the incident, stating, “If they can’t justify a mistake in terms of [hitting a] proper target with an assessed level of collateral damage, then they’ve committed a war crime.” Assault on Gaza’s JournalistsThe toll on Palestinian media workers has been devastating. More than 270 journalists have been killed in Gaza since the beginning of the conflict in October 2023. Among those killed in the Nasser Hospital bombing was Mohammad Salama, a cameraman for Al Jazeera, underscoring the growing dangers faced by journalists in the region. Israeli Military’s Justification and Hamas ResponseIn response to the attack on Nasser Hospital, the Israeli military claimed that it had targeted a Hamas surveillance camera positioned near the hospital. However, Hamas rejected this claim as “baseless”, accusing Israel of using the argument to avoid responsibility for the deaths of civilians. Israel frequently justifies its deadly attacks by saying it is targeting Hamas, but critics argue that it has provided no credible evidence to support its claims. Israel’s actions against hospitals have continued despite mounting international scrutiny. Hospitals, including Nasser, are frequently bombed, with Israel asserting that Hamas operates within or near these medical facilities, though this remains largely unproven.

Key Takeaways from Trump’s Cabinet Meeting

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago05 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: Washington, D.C. – August 26, 2025 President Donald Trump held a lengthy Cabinet meeting at the White House today, which lasted just over three hours. The meeting covered a broad array of topics, from domestic crime issues to foreign policy and economic strategies. Here are the key highlights:

Abians Celebrate Wrestling Icon Osita ‘Ultimate Commander’ Offor on His Birthday

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago02 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: Abia State, Nigeria – August 26, 2025 Celebrations are underway in Abia State and among fans around the world as Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor, better known by his wrestling moniker “Ultimate Commander,” marks his birthday. A former undefeated world wrestling champion, Offor brought global attention to Nigeria through his accomplishments in the ring, earning a reputation as one of the nation’s most successful sporting exports. His career saw him carry Nigeria’s flag proudly on international stages, making a name for himself with strength, skill, and resilience. Outside the world of wrestling, Offor has continued to make a lasting impact as a philanthropist, peace advocate, and youth mentor. In 2023, he was honored as RAPID Personality of the Year in recognition of his discipline, humility, and service to humanity. His accolades also include numerous national and international awards for contributions to sports development, youth empowerment, and community service. Widely admired across Abia State, Offor remains a source of inspiration to many. His journey from humble beginnings to global stardom and social impact has made him a beloved figure among youth and sports enthusiasts alike. On his birthday, friends, family, and well-wishers flooded social media and local gatherings with tributes, describing him as a “champion in and out of the ring” and a true trailblazer whose legacy continues to grow.

Gov. Uzodinma Increases Minimum Wage to N104,000, Doctors’ Salaries Raised to N582,000

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago02 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: Owerri, Nigeria – August 27, 2025 Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has announced a major wage increase for state civil servants, raising the minimum wage to N104,000 per month. The announcement was made during a meeting with labour union representatives at the Government House in Owerri. In a related development, the governor also revealed that the monthly salary for medical doctors in the state civil service has been reviewed upward to N582,000. Governor Uzodimma attributed the pay raise to improved state finances, citing a boost in internally generated revenue and increased federal allocations. According to him, the revised wage structure is designed to stimulate the local economy, improve the standard of living for workers, and enhance productivity across the public sector. “This is a new era for Imo workers,” Uzodimma said. “We are committed to ensuring that our workforce is well-compensated and motivated.” The announcement comes amid national discussions on wage reforms, with various labour unions pushing back against proposed salary adjustments for political office holders.

Real Betis in Talks Over Permanent Move for Manchester United’s Antony

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago02 mins

Real Betis have opened negotiations with Manchester United over a permanent deal for winger Antony, following his successful loan stint with the La Liga side last season. Sky Sports News understands that United are not interested in sanctioning another straight loan and have made it clear in discussions that they are seeking a permanent transfer. Antony, 25, is reported to favour a return to Betis and has turned down other offers in order to prioritise the move. The Brazilian impressed during his six-month loan spell in Seville, scoring nine goals in 24 starts and becoming a fan favourite. He initially joined Manchester United from Ajax in the summer of 2022 for a fee of £86 million, reuniting with then-manager Erik ten Hag. While his start at Old Trafford showed promise, Antony has struggled for consistency and a regular place in the starting XI under new head coach Ruben Amorim. Talks between the two clubs are ongoing, with a resolution expected before the close of the transfer window.

Multiple Premier League and European Clubs Show Interest in Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago02 mins

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is attracting interest from several clubs across the Premier League and Europe, according to Sky Sports News sources. Despite the external attention, United are understood to have no intention of offloading the 20-year-old, who remains a key part of their long-term plans. Club officials are said to be happy with Mainoo’s development and performances. So far, Mainoo has not expressed a desire to leave Old Trafford. However, other sources have suggested the England international may be open to a potential move, depending on his role in the squad this season. Mainoo has been an unused substitute in both of United’s opening Premier League matches. Manager Ruben Amorim recently commented that the young midfielder is currently competing with club captain Bruno Fernandes for a place in the starting XI. The situation is expected to develop further in the coming days, with the transfer window entering its final stretch.

NNPCL CEO Bayo Ojulari Advocates Regional Defence Collaboration at African Security Summit

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago02 mins

Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has called for strengthened regional defence cooperation to protect Africa’s natural resources and ensure shared economic growth across the continent. Ojulari made the remarks on Tuesday while delivering a goodwill message at the 2025 African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit, held in Abuja. The summit, themed “Combating Contemporary Threats to Regional Peace and Security in Africa: The Role of Strategic Defence Collaboration,” brought together defence leaders from across Africa, as well as top government officials. Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, delivered the keynote address as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. In his remarks, Ojulari highlighted the success of NNPC Ltd.’s efforts to combat crude oil theft through strategic partnerships with security and intelligence agencies. He noted that such cooperation has significantly improved pipeline availability, reaching near 100% in some regions. “NNPC Ltd. remains committed to working with military and intelligence agencies in Nigeria and looks forward to broader frameworks from this summit to support Africa’s energy security and prosperity,” Ojulari said. He emphasized that cross-border defence collaboration is crucial for safeguarding Africa’s energy infrastructure and maintaining economic stability in the face of evolving security threats. The summit comes at a time when many African nations are grappling with transnational security challenges, including oil theft, insurgency, piracy, and illegal resource exploitation.

The Whole Scheme Stinks: Ugandans Question Secretive Deal to Accept U.S. Deportees

Fola Badmus3 weeks ago3 weeks ago07 mins

A controversial agreement between Uganda and the Trump administration to receive deportees from the United States—potentially including high-profile detainee Kilmar Abrego Garcia—has sparked a wave of criticism in Uganda, with opposition lawmakers and civil society figures denouncing the deal as opaque and politically motivated. Ugandan lawmakers have voiced outrage over the lack of parliamentary oversight and transparency, raising concerns that the East African nation is being used as a political bargaining chip amid President Donald Trump’s aggressive anti-immigration campaign. Controversy Over Deportee Deal Few details about the agreement have been officially released. Ugandan authorities have stated they prefer to receive deportees of African origin and not individuals with serious criminal records. However, leaked information suggests that the U.S. is pushing to deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia—a Salvadoran national and Maryland resident—to Uganda. Abrego Garcia, who has an American wife and children, was granted protected legal status in 2019 after a U.S. judge ruled he could face harm if returned to El Salvador. Despite that, he was mistakenly deported earlier this year as part of Trump’s immigration crackdown. His lawyers say he was severely beaten and psychologically tortured while held in El Salvador’s notorious CECOT mega-prison. U.S. officials later admitted his removal was due to an “administrative error.” This week, Abrego Garcia was again detained by immigration authorities in Baltimore. The Department of Homeland Security stated he is now being “processed for removal to Uganda.” Political Motives Suspected “This whole scheme stinks,” said Mathias Mpuuga, former leader of the opposition in Uganda’s Parliament. “Uganda is already struggling to support refugees from neighboring conflicts. How are we now becoming a dumping ground for U.S. deportees?” Critics allege that President Yoweri Museveni’s administration entered the deal without public consultation or parliamentary approval. Some see it as a move to curry favor with the Trump administration amid rising international pressure over Uganda’s deteriorating human rights record. “This makes sense only as economic expediency,” said Ibrahim Ssemujju, a prominent opposition MP. “Museveni will be happy to oblige, especially with the U.S. sanctions hanging over his government.” Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs initially dismissed reports of a deal as “complete rubbish.” But just a day later, the ministry’s permanent secretary confirmed that an agreement was in place to accept deportees who are “reluctant to or may have concerns about returning to their countries of origin.” Uganda’s Deteriorating Rights Record Human rights organizations have long accused Museveni’s government of authoritarianism, corruption, and abuse of power. The 79-year-old leader, who has ruled Uganda for nearly 40 years, faces mounting criticism for unlawful killings, arrests of opposition leaders, and media suppression. Relations with Washington have grown tense in recent years. Under former President Joe Biden, the U.S. imposed sanctions on several high-ranking Ugandan officials over corruption, election interference, and LGBTQ rights violations—sanctions that remain in place under Trump’s administration. Uganda drew international condemnation in 2023 after passing one of the world’s harshest anti-LGBTQ laws, prompting widespread human rights concerns. A May 2025 Human Rights Watch report accused the government of fueling “discrimination, violence, and misinformation” against LGBTQ communities. Among those sanctioned by the U.S. are Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, a close ally of Museveni, as well as the country’s prisons chief and several former security and military officials. What Uganda Stands to Gain Despite domestic backlash, some analysts believe Museveni sees strategic advantages in the deportation deal. “Museveni is looking for a way back into Washington’s good graces,” said Marlon Agaba, Executive Director of the Anti-Corruption Coalition Uganda. “He sees this as a political opportunity—and potentially an economic one, if it leads to better trade terms.” “The Trump administration is all about transactional diplomacy,” Agaba added. “And any strongman understands that kind of deal-making.” Similar deportation arrangements are reportedly underway with other African countries. In July, the U.S. deported five individuals to Eswatini and eight to South Sudan. Rwanda has also agreed to receive up to 250 deportees under similar terms. Still, many Ugandans remain skeptical. “We deserve answers,” Mpuuga said. “We cannot sell our sovereignty behind closed doors.”