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Israel Bombs Iran’s Evin Prison as U.S. Joins Conflict: Tensions Soar in Middle East
Israel Bombs Iran’s Evin Prison as U.S. Joins Conflict: Tensions Soar in Middle East
In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Israeli warplanes struck Iran’s notorious Evin prison in northern Tehran on Monday, delivering what Israeli officials described as the most intense bombing campaign yet on the Iranian capital. The attack, which comes just a day after the United States formally entered the conflict, is seen as a symbolic blow against one of the pillars of Iran’s domestic security apparatus.
Evin prison has long been associated with Iran’s political repression, housing political dissidents, journalists, dual nationals, and activists. Bombing such a facility marks a significant shift in the nature of Israeli military targets, suggesting an attempt to not only degrade Iran’s military infrastructure but also undermine its internal control mechanisms.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the airstrike, noting it was part of a broader campaign to dismantle Iran’s ability to support proxy militias and continue its regional aggression. “Evin was not just a prison. It was a fortress of fear used by the regime to suppress its people and silence dissent,” an Israeli spokesperson stated. “Its destruction sends a clear message — the regime’s tools of tyranny are not immune.”
The strike on Evin followed the U.S. military’s own intervention in the conflict. On Sunday, U.S. strategic bombers launched a powerful assault on Iran’s underground nuclear facilities, deploying massive 30,000-pound “bunker-buster” bombs in what was seen as a direct attempt to cripple Iran’s nuclear program. The Pentagon said the strikes were carefully calculated to target key enrichment and command centers without provoking mass civilian casualties.
U.S. President Donald Trump, addressing reporters at the White House, doubled down on his administration’s aggressive stance toward Tehran. “The Iranian regime has crossed every red line. It sponsors terror, threatens our allies, and now it must face the consequences. The days of appeasement are over,” Trump said. He went further, musing openly about the possibility of regime change, saying, “The people of Iran deserve better. Maybe it’s time they had a new government.”
In response, Iran’s leadership repeated familiar threats to retaliate, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warning of “severe consequences” for what he called an act of war. However, more than 24 hours after the joint Israeli-U.S. assaults, no significant Iranian military retaliation had materialized. Observers say this uncharacteristic delay may indicate internal deliberations about how best to respond without triggering a wider regional conflict.
Iranian state media confirmed damage to Evin prison but offered few details. There are concerns that some prisoners may have been injured or killed in the attack, but official casualty figures have not been released. Families of detainees reportedly gathered outside the ruins of the prison, demanding information and accountability.
International reactions have been swift. Russia and China have condemned the attacks, urging de-escalation and warning of the risk of full-scale war in the Middle East. The United Nations has called for an emergency session of the Security Council to address the spiraling crisis.
Diaspora Watch Newspaper is pleased to announce the release of its 98th edition, presenting readers with another rich blend of impactful stories, insightful analyses and inspiring human-interest features from across the world.
Leading this edition is the heartwarming cover story, “Godchildren Honour Emmanuel and Joy Ojiribe at 40th Anniversary Celebration in US,” which chronicles the remarkable legacy of love, faith, mentorship and family built over four decades by the celebrated couple, culminating in a memorable celebration attended by loved ones and admirers.
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The edition also brings readers up to speed on major international developments, including US President Donald Trump’s announcement of an Intel-Apple chip deal, Ghana’s move towards a local takeover of Gold Fields’ Tarkwa mine, CARICOM’s renewed commitment to improving citizens’ lives under incoming Chair Pierre, the possibility of cocoa prices rising above $10,000 per tonne once again, a comprehensive 14-Point Roadmap to De-escalation and Reconstruction, Singapore’s impressive 38.4 per cent growth in non-oil exports driven by artificial intelligence, and warnings from Kew scientists that AI and digitalization could play a crucial role in preventing global plant extinction.
On the back page, readers will find the inspiring story of Adenugba, who has been honored with the African Diaspora Fashion Platform Award, recognizing excellence, creativity and outstanding contributions to fashion within the global African diaspora community.
As always, Diaspora Watch Newspaper remains committed to delivering credible journalism, promoting African excellence, strengthening diaspora engagement and providing readers with balanced perspectives on global affairs, business, innovation and development.
The 98th edition is now available to readers across print and digital platforms. We invite everyone to pick up a copy and stay informed on the stories shaping Africa, the diaspora and the wider world.
SpaceX to join Nasdaq-100 index July 7
SpaceX will be added to the Nasdaq-100 Index on July 7, following confirmation by exchange operator Nasdaq, a move expected to trigger a surge in passive investment into the aerospace and artificial intelligence company.
The inclusion means exchange-traded funds and other investment vehicles that track the tech-heavy Nasdaq-100 Index will be required to purchase SpaceX shares, a development that typically boosts demand and supports a company’s stock price.
SpaceX, founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, made its Nasdaq debut on June 12 and has experienced volatile financial performance in recent years, alternating between periods of losses and modest profits.
The company reported a net loss of $4.9bn in its most recent financial year, underscoring the challenges it continues to face despite strong investor interest in its space technology and artificial intelligence businesses.
The company’s addition to the index comes after Nasdaq, alongside other major index providers including FTSE Russell and MSCI, eased some of its listing eligibility requirements in an effort to attract more companies seeking to list on U.S. exchanges.
The revised criteria include changes to profitability requirements, the waiting period after a company’s initial public offering and the number of publicly traded shares required for inclusion in certain indices.
Meanwhile, S&P Global has maintained a more cautious approach.
The index provider said earlier this month that it would not alter its eligibility requirements for SpaceX to join its flagship indices, including the benchmark S&P 500.
According to S&P Global, the company will not be considered for inclusion in the S&P 500 until it has been publicly listed for at least 12 months.
The development comes as other leading artificial intelligence firms, including OpenAI and Anthropic, are widely expected to pursue initial public offerings either later this year or in 2027, with analysts projecting valuations exceeding $1tn.
Uzodimma Backs FLAC, Urges Nigerians to Unite Against Cancer
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the First Ladies Against Cancer, FLAC Nigeria, while calling on Nigerians to join efforts to combat cancer through increased awareness, early detection and sustained advocacy.
The governor made the pledge during a courtesy visit by members of FLAC and later at a gala night organised in their honour at the Government House in Owerri.
Speaking at the event, Uzodimma commended the organisation for its humanitarian interventions and contributions to improving cancer prevention, treatment and care across the country.
“I am excited to host you in Imo State and I commend your humanitarian services in Nigeria,” the governor said, assuring the delegation of his administration’s continued support for the organisation’s programmes.
He described Imo as the hospitality capital of the South-East and welcomed the delegates on behalf of the state government and people, assuring them of their safety during their stay.
The event also featured emotional testimonies from cancer survivors, including men, women and children, who recounted their experiences with the disease while encouraging Nigerians to embrace early screening and treatment.
Addressing guests at the gala night, Uzodimma stressed that the fight against cancer requires collective action, public education and efforts to eliminate the stigma associated with the disease.
He also lauded the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government for its investments in cancer prevention, treatment and palliative care, urging Nigerians to support ongoing reforms in the health sector.
“We need a new Nigeria where everyone participates in nation-building,” the governor said, adding that early detection remains critical to improving survival rates among cancer patients.
Earlier, the Chairperson of FLAC Nigeria and wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs Chioma Uzodimma, said the delegation visited to appreciate the governor for his consistent support for the organisation’s advocacy and activities.
She explained that FLAC, whose membership comprises serving and former first ladies across the country, marks Cancer Survivors Month every June to celebrate survivors, inspire hope and raise awareness about the disease.
She described the governor as “a special friend of FLAC” and presented him with an award on behalf of the organisation in recognition of his support for its mission.
The gala night featured musical performances, a fashion parade by cancer survivors, comedy, cake cutting, presentation of gifts to survivors and a fundraising session to support the organisation’s advocacy programmes.
Mrs Uzodimma disclosed that more than N100m was raised during the fundraising to support FLAC’s ongoing cancer awareness and advocacy initiatives.
The delegation included the wives of the governors of Adamawa, Zamfara and Ogun states, Hajia Lami Fintiri, Hajia Huriyya Lawal and Mrs Bamidele Abiodun; immediate past FLAC Chairperson, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu; former First Lady of Niger State, Dr Amina Abubakar; and former First Lady of Oyo State and ambassador-designate, Dr Florence Ajumobi, among other dignitaries.
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 98
CARICOM celebrates women in diplomacy, hosts young female honorary diplomats
The Politics of Akara and Kuli-Kuli Empowerment, by Boniface Ihiasota
Pastor Jerry Eze Defends Miracles At UK Conference Amidst Criticism And Controversy
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
