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US, Iran Reach Framework Peace Deal, Set to Sign Accord Friday

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US, Iran Reach Framework Peace Deal, Set to Sign Accord Friday

 

The United States and Iran have agreed on a framework deal aimed at ending months of hostilities, with mediating country Pakistan announcing that the agreement will be formally signed on Friday in Switzerland.

 

The breakthrough has raised hopes of a lasting ceasefire in a conflict that has rattled the Middle East, disrupted global oil supplies, and heightened fears of a wider regional war.

 

US President Donald Trump confirmed the development in a post on Truth Social, saying the agreement includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategic oil transit routes.

 

“Let the oil flow!” Trump declared, as global crude oil prices fell in response to the announcement amid expectations of improved energy supply and reduced geopolitical tensions.

 

Iran also confirmed the development, with the country’s Deputy Foreign Minister telling state television that a deal had been reached.

 

Iran’s top military command described the agreement as a victory for Tehran, suggesting the country had secured key concessions during negotiations.

 

Although the full text of the framework agreement has yet to be released, diplomatic sources indicate that its immediate priority is to extend the ceasefire that took effect on April 8.

 

Under the proposed arrangement, both sides would commit to an additional 60-day period without hostilities while pursuing broader negotiations aimed at securing a permanent settlement.

 

Pakistan, which played a central role in facilitating talks between Washington and Tehran, announced late Sunday that military operations would cease across all fronts, including in Lebanon, where tensions linked to the wider conflict have remained high.

 

The war began on February 28 following coordinated US and Israeli strikes on targets across Iran.

 

Tehran responded with attacks against Israel and several Gulf states allied with Washington, triggering fears of a prolonged regional confrontation.

 

Despite the optimism surrounding the agreement, Israel has yet to issue an official government response.

 

However, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir strongly criticised the deal, distancing Israel from the framework and questioning its ability to guarantee the country’s security.

 

“We are not partners to this agreement that does not ensure our security, and it does not bind us in any way,” Ben-Gvir said.

 

The far-right minister argued that Israel should continue military pressure against Hezbollah and insisted that any lasting settlement must include the dismantling of the Lebanese armed group.

 

He further warned that any future drone or missile attacks launched from Lebanon against Israel would trigger retaliatory strikes by Israeli forces.

 

Ben-Gvir’s remarks highlight potential challenges facing the implementation of the agreement, particularly given Israel’s security concerns and ongoing tensions along its northern border with Lebanon.

 

Meanwhile, the European Union welcomed the breakthrough and urged all parties to fully implement the accord.

 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the agreement as a significant opportunity to restore stability to the region.

 

“The priority now is its swift and full implementation by all parties,” she said.

 

Von der Leyen also called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that freedom of navigation remains essential for regional security and the global economy.

 

She expressed hope that the framework agreement would pave the way for broader discussions on peace and security across the Middle East.

 

The EU chief, however, cautioned that sustainable peace would remain elusive if violence continued elsewhere in the region.

 

“There can be no peace in the Middle East while Lebanon is in flames,” she said, urging all parties to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while pursuing a genuine ceasefire.

 

According to von der Leyen, the agreement is expected to feature prominently during discussions among world leaders attending the G7 summit in France this week.

 

The framework accord marks one of the most significant diplomatic breakthroughs in the Middle East in recent years although for now, the announcement has been greeted with cautious optimism by international markets and world leaders, who view the deal as a potential turning point in a conflict that threatened to destabilise the wider region and disrupt the global economy.

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Diaspora Watch – Vol. 98

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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.

Diaspora Watch FREE Digital View: https://diasporawatch.com/3d-flip-book/diaspora-watch-vol-98/

On Demand Print: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3359332?__r=1069759

SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE LINK BELOW!!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/

 

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.

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SpaceX to join Nasdaq-100 index July 7

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Chamber Of Progress Urges Elon Musk To Take X Leadership Seriously Or Resign Amid Social Media-Fueled Violence

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.

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Uzodimma Backs FLAC, Urges Nigerians to Unite Against Cancer 

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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.

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