Iran seeks negotiations after Trump rejects Hormuz proposal
Iran says diplomacy remains the only route to ending its ongoing confrontation with the United States after President Donald Trump rejected Tehran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran was awaiting a clear response from Washington through mediators before deciding its next steps.
Trump dismissed Iran’s proposal and said Tehran was seeking an agreement within seven days because it was “losing so badly.”
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said negotiations could resume if the United States could demonstrate that it was not seeking to remove Iran’s government from power.
The Strait of Hormuz has remained effectively closed since the conflict began in February, disrupting one of the world’s most important routes for energy shipments. Pezeshkian said rebuilding confidence between both sides would be necessary before any new agreement could be reached.
Four people killed in helicopter crash near Montreal
Four people have died after a helicopter crashed in Sainte-Brigide-d’Iberville, around 50 kilometres from Montreal in Quebec, Canadian authorities said.
Emergency responders were alerted shortly after 2:30 p.m. on Saturday following reports of a helicopter in distress.
The aircraft was later discovered engulfed in flames, with all four people aboard confirmed dead at the scene.
Ten climbers missing after Himalayan avalanche
Ten climbers have reportedly gone missing after an avalanche struck a Himalayan base camp, triggering a search and rescue operation.
The incident adds to the dangers facing climbers in the region as authorities and rescue teams work to establish the whereabouts of those affected.
Swiss voters reject proposed neutrality changes
Voters in Switzerland have rejected proposals seeking tighter rules around the country’s neutrality and restrictions concerning its relationship with NATO.
The result maintains the country’s existing approach to neutrality and its current framework for dealing with the military alliance.
Venezuela releases 39 political prisoners
Venezuela has released 39 people described as political prisoners following talks backed by the United States.
The releases form part of wider diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing political tensions in the South American country.
Moody’s cuts Botswana’s credit rating again
Moody’s has downgraded Botswana’s credit rating for a second time as the country continues to face economic pressure linked to the downturn in the diamond industry.
Botswana relies heavily on diamond exports, making weaker demand and lower activity in the sector a significant challenge for government revenues and the wider economy.
Sudanese refugees arrive in Chad as aid funding declines
The number of Sudanese refugees arriving in neighbouring Chad has increased as humanitarian organisations struggle with declining financial support.
The development is putting additional pressure on aid agencies and communities already dealing with the consequences of the conflict in Sudan.
Fighting disrupts communications in Ethiopia’s Tigray
Renewed fighting in Ethiopia’s Tigray region has disrupted internet and telephone services in parts of the area.
The communications cuts are making it more difficult for residents and organisations to share information as the security situation develops.
Two shootings in South Africa leave 27 dead
Two separate shooting incidents in South Africa have left 27 people dead, according to reports.
The incidents have added to concerns about violent crime and firearm-related attacks in the country.
Congo military plane crash kills 13
A military aircraft crash in Congo has killed 13 people, including a senior army officer.
The incident adds to a series of deadly aviation accidents involving military and civilian aircraft across the region.
