‘I just want to find some rest’: Attacks in Iran disrupt cities and plunge power grids into darkness Residents of Iran have shared with BBC Persian that they are drained and finding it increasingly difficult to sleep following 10 days of bombardments by Israeli and US forces. Continuous explosions in Tehran and the nearby city of Karaj during the night have left many without electricity, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear. “The electricity failed, leaving me in complete darkness without knowing what was happening,” said a man in his 30s from Tehran. “They struck heavily last night. All I saw in my house were cracks in the walls. Sleeping has become the most challenging task for me.” The Israeli military disclosed that it had launched a “series of strikes” targeting terror sites in Tehran on Monday evening. By Tuesday morning, it confirmed that the attacks had focused on an underground facility linked to the Revolutionary Guards’ weapons research, infrastructure at the Quds Force’s main headquarters, and additional defense production sites. A second strike wave hit Tehran in the afternoon of Tuesday, according to military statements. A coordinated assault by Israel and the US on February 28 sparked Iranian retaliation with missile and drone strikes against Israel and locations in the Middle East where US military bases and embassies are situated. HRANA, a US-based human rights group, noted that 1,761 people have been killed in Iran since the conflict began, including 1,245 civilians and 194 children. Journalists’ access to Iran remains limited, and BBC Persian has not been able to independently verify events or figures from within the country. Internet connectivity has also been nearly severed, though residents have reached out to the BBC, with their identities kept confidential for safety reasons. “The bombardment was intense, leaving visible damage to the walls,” said another man in his 30s. “Every few hours, there are explosions, and the nearest place to us was struck. I just want a night of rest.” A woman in her 20s described the nights as marked by frequent blasts and an unusual white light in the sky, differing from previous nights. “Even if it takes weeks, it’s still better than living with this system for a lifetime,” she remarked, echoing sentiments among those who aspire to see the Islamic Republic replaced. In Karaj, a city 30 km west of Tehran, some residents voiced similar frustrations. A man in his 30s shared that the city experienced fluctuations and a blue glow in the sky during Monday night. A BBC Persian video from Karaj captured the distant booms and the sky’s vibrant blue and red hues. “I am tired of this situation. The whole war feels overwhelming,” said a 20-year-old from Karaj. “Some future scenarios for the people of Iran are truly terrifying.” A mother and restaurateur in her 50s, living in Karaj’s Mehrshahr neighborhood, recounted a strike near her home. “The closest place to us was hit, and we felt the shadow of death over our heads,” she said. “But we will stand firm until the end to survive and gain freedom. Even if we are killed, it doesn’t matter compared to the lives lost in the fight for change.” Others, however, expressed less certainty. A 20-year-old from Tehran who described daily missile proximity mentioned being wounded in the eye during December and January protests. “The regime’s persistence has made this war unbearable,” he said, highlighting the growing weariness among citizens.
I left Gaza with guilt, sorrow and tears for the son Israel took from me
I left Gaza with guilt, sorrow and tears for the son Israel took from me Surviving 690 days of relentless violence, terror, and starvation in Gaza felt like a miracle. Yet, for a Palestinian mother, it came at an unbearable cost. Since October 7, 2023, countless families in Gaza have been stripped of their possessions, their dignity, and their hope. Among them is the author, whose life was irrevocably altered when an Israeli airstrike obliterated their home in Rafah. Weeks into the war, their eldest son Abdullah, just thirteen years old, perished in a strike that leveled their family home in Rafah. The attack left the author injured, their younger children displaced, and several relatives lost. The devastation was swift and merciless, wiping out a world in an instant. As the conflict raged on, the author’s surviving children were sent abroad. Months later, the Israeli military razed the residential complex housing their apartment, along with the homes of relatives and the entire city. Shelter, safety, and the remnants of normalcy vanished, leaving only despair. Two years into the ordeal, a chance encounter in the Netherlands opened a path to escape. A friend secured a writing position at De Correspondent, and the process unfolded with bureaucratic precision: permits were arranged, authorities were petitioned, and within weeks, the author received permission to leave. But the journey to freedom was fraught with uncertainty. The Dutch embassy set the departure date for August 27, 2025. Restrictions were imposed on belongings—clothes beyond what was worn, books, electronics, even a phone charger were barred. The author, having lost nearly everything, chose to leave their few possessions behind, distributing them to siblings and relatives. It felt wrong to carry memories when others had nothing left. What lingered was the grief of Abdullah, whose personal effects were reduced to ashes. The author had preserved his clothes and toys in a room, a sanctuary of remembrance, until the Israeli forces demolished the building. Only two items survived: his Quran and a comb, both saved by being stored outside the flat. On the eve of departure, the author met only their father. A normal farewell was exchanged, but the silence afterward carried the weight of an unspoken farewell. The night before, the sky buzzed with drones, and the trio—along with Hazem and his wife Amal—traveled in darkness, guided by hope. Gaza’s two-year blackout only heightened the challenge of navigating the perilous route to Deir al-Balah. At 2:30 a.m., the group arrived at the gathering point. After an hour of waiting, their names were verified, and they boarded a bus. Among the 130 passengers were students, reunited families, and individuals with work visas—all granted passage by European embassies. The author’s departure marked not an end, but a fragile beginning in a new land, carrying only the remnants of a life shattered by war.
Alexander brothers are convicted of sex trafficking in case that shocked real estate world
Three Alexander Brothers Convicted in High-Profile Sex Trafficking Case In a landmark ruling, three siblings—Oren and Alon Alexander, both prominent luxury real estate brokers, and Tal Alexander, who worked in the family’s private security operations—were found guilty of sex trafficking charges. The verdict, reached after a five-week trial, stemmed from accusations that they used drugs and force to sexually assault numerous women, lured by their wealth and lavish lifestyle. Victims Detail Assaults in Testimony Over a dozen female witnesses detailed encounters in upscale settings, including the Hamptons, a Caribbean cruise, and Aspen, Colorado. Eleven of these women specifically testified about being raped by one or more of the brothers. Prosecutors claim more than 60 women allege they were sexually assaulted, with some describing being drugged and losing control after minimal alcohol consumption. The defense argued that some accusers may have experienced memory lapses or sought financial compensation from the brothers’ fortunes. They conceded the Alexanders were known for attracting women but insisted all interactions were consensual. Jurors began deliberating on Thursday, ultimately convicting the trio on Monday. Professional Backgrounds and Legal Battles Before establishing their own firm, Official, Oren and Tal Alexander were top brokers at Douglas Elliman. Alon Alexander worked in the family’s private security firm. In addition to the criminal charges, the brothers faced approximately two dozen lawsuits. One notable case was filed by Tracy Tutor, a TV personality from “Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles,” who alleged Oren Alexander drugged and assaulted her in a New York City restaurant bathroom during a real estate event. When legal actions began, multiple women came forward, accusing the Alexanders of sexual harassment and assault. They described the brothers’ misconduct as a well-known secret in the real estate industry for years. Some victims testified that they were handed alcohol by the brothers, leading to a loss of control and subsequent attacks. Testimonies Highlight Tactics and Impact One accuser recounted meeting the Alexanders at a 2012 gathering hosted by actor Zac Efron. Though she had minimal interaction with the actor, she was taken to a nightclub and later woke up naked, with a nude Alon Alexander above her. Another woman, now 40, described being assaulted by Tal Alexander and another man in the Hamptons in 2011. She claimed she became so disoriented from drinking less than a glass of wine that she felt paralyzed. “I don’t want their money. I just don’t want them to have it,” she said. Lindsey Acree, a Brooklyn-based artist and gallery owner, testified that she sued Tal Alexander despite not needing his wealth. She expressed frustration over the Alexanders’ labeling of victims as “gold diggers.” “If there’s a kid with a stick who keeps hitting people, you take their stick away,” she told the jury. “Money is their stick, so you take it away so they can’t hurt people anymore.” Prosecutors Use Digital Evidence to Strengthen Case Prosecutors presented evidence including text and email exchanges where the brothers boasted about their sexual exploits and discussed the effects of drugs on a woman’s inhibitions. A blog post titled “It’s not rape if …” was also used to illustrate their mindset. The team also cited emails about sneaking drugs onto a cruise ship, videos of at least one assault, and photos of victims. The Associated Press typically does not reveal identities of sexual assault victims unless they publicly disclose their accounts, as Acree and Tutor did. The case has left a lasting impact on the real estate community, exposing a culture of exploitation linked to the Alexanders’ success.
How the EU protects citizens and the economy in times of war and crisis
How the EU protects citizens and the economy in times of war and crisis Amid intensifying tensions between Israel, the US, and Iran, the European Union has activated emergency protocols to safeguard its people and economic stability. The conflict’s global reach has prompted swift action, including the deployment of evacuation efforts and oversight of oil stockpiles. By March 6, EU foreign ministers issued a warning that the escalating situation endangered Europeans in the region and could destabilize worldwide markets. “The conflict poses a direct risk to our citizens and may trigger international economic turmoil,” stated EU officials during a critical meeting. As part of its preparedness, the EU has initiated crisis contingency measures. Embassies have issued travel advisories, monitored nationals overseas, and launched emergency evacuation operations. In extreme cases, member states can collaborate for disaster response, pooling resources such as aircraft, medical teams, and power generators, all coordinated through Brussels. Meanwhile, the EU is addressing energy concerns stemming from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil passage. These interruptions have led to surges in global fuel costs, prompting the union to enhance maritime monitoring to ensure the route remains functional. While individual nations maintain their own emergency oil reserves, the EU also allows for price controls and direct aid to households affected by rising costs. Despite these steps, several hurdles persist. A lack of centralized control over oil pricing remains a challenge, as member states operate reserves independently. Real-time data sharing on fuel supplies is limited, complicating unified strategies. Yet, the EU’s ability to mitigate fallout from regional conflicts continues to be a key focus, even as it cannot prevent wars from breaking out.
Inside Jeffrey Epstein’s inner circle — the aides, lawyers and confidants who ran his world
Inside Jeffrey Epstein’s inner circle — the aides, lawyers and confidants who ran his world The recent release of Epstein’s private correspondence and records has illuminated a network of influential figures who played pivotal roles in his operations. While he cultivated ties with high-profile individuals like Elon Musk, Bill Gates, and Donald Trump, his most trusted team remained discreet, operating under the radar to manage his global ventures and financial empire. This tight-knit group included his legal counsel, financial manager, and other key figures who oversaw everything from daily routines to complex business dealings. Among those close to Epstein were his accountant, personal attorney, assistant, pilot, and modeling scout, all of whom worked in tandem to support his lifestyle and ambitions. Their roles extended beyond administrative tasks, encompassing tasks such as cash withdrawals, establishing shell companies, and organizing travel for guests. In at least one instance, a member of the circle installed covert surveillance equipment at one of Epstein’s properties, according to evidence from the Justice Department. Testimonies and Legal Actions As co-executors of Epstein’s estate, Richard Kahn and Darren Indyke have been central to recent developments. They established a victims’ compensation fund that distributed $125 million before its closure in 2021. However, they are now set to face scrutiny in the House Oversight Committee, with scheduled testimonies on March 11 and March 19. Additionally, Lesley Groff, Epstein’s executive assistant, is expected to appear on June 9. “There is no way that I could lose Lesley to motherhood,” Epstein told The New York Times in 2005. Despite their long-standing collaboration, members of the circle have maintained that they were unaware of Epstein’s alleged crimes. Yet, the newly disclosed records reveal their deep involvement in his activities. Some of the documents indicate that Groff, who began working for Epstein in 2001, managed his schedule and arranged meetings with prominent individuals. When she became pregnant in 2004, Epstein provided a Mercedes-Benz E320 and covered the cost of a full-time nanny, as noted in a 2010 payroll document. Federal prosecutors have charged only one member of the circle — Ghislaine Maxwell — as a co-conspirator in sex trafficking cases. Maxwell, Epstein’s ex-girlfriend, is currently serving a 20-year sentence. Meanwhile, others who worked with Epstein until his 2019 arrest may soon face renewed attention as the House Oversight Committee prepares to investigate their roles. The government’s diagram of Epstein’s circle highlights the interconnectedness of his operations, with some individuals appearing repeatedly in the files. Epstein’s will, which earmarked millions for several members of his circle, has not yet been activated. The ongoing class-action lawsuit against Kahn and Indyke, which they deny being facilitators of Epstein’s trafficking network, could see a settlement of up to $35 million pending judicial approval. As the investigation continues, the inner circle’s actions and relationships will be scrutinized further, shedding light on how they sustained Epstein’s influence within elite circles.
Alabama governor commutes death sentence of man who didn’t kill anyone
Alabama Governor Commutes Death Sentence for Man Not Directly Responsible for Killing On Tuesday, Alabama’s Governor Kay Ivey decided to reduce the sentence of Charles “Sonny” Burton from capital punishment to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The execution, originally scheduled for Thursday, was deemed “unjust” by the governor, who argued that the circumstances surrounding the crime did not justify the death penalty for Burton. Case Background and Legal Arguments In 1991, Burton participated in a robbery at an AutoZone store in Talladega. The incident resulted in the death of customer Doug Battle, though Burton was not the one who fired the shot. According to the governor’s statement, Derrick DeBruce, one of Burton’s accomplices, was the actual shooter. Despite this, DeBruce received a life sentence, while Burton was set for execution. “Doug Battle was brutally murdered by Derrick DeBruce while shopping in an auto parts store. But DeBruce was ultimately sentenced to life without parole. Charles Burton did not shoot the victim, did not direct the triggerman to shoot, and had already left the store by the time the shooting occurred. Yet Mr. Burton was set to be executed while DeBruce was allowed to live out his life in prison,” said Ivey. The state acknowledged that Burton’s role in the crime was secondary, as he entered the store armed, stole cash, and then exited to await a getaway vehicle. The legal doctrine of felony murder, which holds individuals accountable for deaths occurring during certain crimes like robbery, was cited as the basis for Burton’s original death sentence. Victim’s Daughter Pleads for Mercy Burton’s case gained attention after the victim’s daughter published an op-ed in the Montgomery Advertiser, urging the governor to grant clemency. The article emphasized the disparity between the punishment for Burton and the killer, Derrick DeBruce. Burton expressed appreciation for the daughter’s support, calling her forgiveness a significant relief. Attorney General’s Response Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall voiced his disappointment, stating that “there has never been any doubt that Sonny Burton has Douglas Battle’s blood on his hands.” He argued that Burton’s age should not influence his punishment, noting that the defendant had prolonged his legal proceedings through multiple appeals. “Burton does not deserve special treatment because he is old—he could have been executed a long time ago. Like many death-row inmates, he chose to drag out his case through endless frivolous appeals. I firmly believe he should have faced the punishment imposed by a jury of his peers and upheld by numerous judges,” Marshall added. Family and Legal Team’s Gratitude Burton’s family and legal team praised the governor’s decision, with federal defender Matt Schulz representing the defendant for nearly two decades. Schulz called the move “measured, responsible, and respectable leadership,” though he acknowledged the gratitude was deeper than words could convey. “Just saying thank you doesn’t seem like much. But it’s what I can give her. And I do thank her. Thank you, Governor,” Burton said in a phone interview from the William C. Holman Correctional Facility, where the state’s execution chamber is located. This decision marks the second time Ivey has commuted a death sentence. If executed, Burton would have been the ninth person in Alabama to face nitrogen gas, a method introduced in 2024 for carrying out capital punishment. Abigail Brooks is a producer for NBC News. Dan Slepian is an award-winning investigative producer and a veteran of “Dateline: NBC.” Jackie Montalvo is a producer-editor for NBC News.
Watch thief who targeted a wealthy tourist for his £37,000 timepiece as he left a high-end restaurant will be deported
Algerian thief sentenced to deportation after stealing £37,000 watch from Chinese professor Mohamed Sellaoui, a 19-year-old Algerian, has been sentenced to deportation following his conviction for robbing a Chinese chemistry professor of a £37,000 timepiece during an incident at a Mayfair restaurant. The young offender, who was aided by an Arabic interpreter, denied the charges but was found guilty after a three-day trial at Southwark Crown Court. The Heist in Mayfair Jiangfeng Ni, a professor at Soochow University in China, recounted the attack to jurors during the trial. He described how two men approached him from behind as he exited Langan’s Brasserie on Stratton Street. According to his testimony, one of the thieves attempted to remove his Patek Philippe watch from his left wrist, while the other pushed him into a corner. “The person with my watch fell over… the watch was still in his hand,” Ni said, emphasizing the clarity of the event through a Chinese interpreter. He added that the second suspect swung a punch at him as he tried to chase the thieves, shouting “woo woo” sounds before fleeing toward Green Park station. Legal Challenges and Testimony During the proceedings, defense lawyer Joshua Clements questioned the professor’s account. He argued that Ni had confused the suspects during the identity parade, adding unnecessary details not present in his initial police statement. Clements noted that the victim had spent nearly an hour examining different images, making certainty about the perpetrator questionable. “You asked to see different images 15 times. After that, you could not have been sure who the suspect was,” Clements claimed, challenging the reliability of Ni’s testimony. However, the professor countered that his strong eyesight allowed him to distinguish the individuals clearly, despite the nervousness he felt during the identification process. Deportation and Sentencing Judge Gregory Perrins confirmed Sellaoui’s deportation after sentencing him to jail time. The judge stated that while the teenager’s age would be considered, the illegal status of the defendant made deportation a certainty. The ruling follows a pre-sentence report, with the judge stressing that the outcome was not a surprise. Despite the defense’s plea for a suspended sentence, the judge ruled that Sellaoui’s unlawful presence in the UK meant a deferred penalty was not feasible. The teenager is now set for sentencing on April 9. Detective Constable Kira Halson, leading the Met Police investigation, praised the swift identification of Sellaoui via CCTV footage and a local officer’s recognition during a patrol. She highlighted the success of the New Met for London initiative in tackling violent crimes like this one.
The B-52: Why the US still uses a plane from the 1960s to bomb its enemies
The B-52: Why the US still uses a plane from the 1960s to bomb its enemies When Washington DC seeks to strike adversaries, the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress bomber remains a favored choice for American leaders. This Cold War-era aircraft, now in service for over six decades, continues to play a pivotal role in modern military operations. The B-52H variant, currently active, was first introduced to the United States Air Force in 1961. Despite its age, it has retained significance in the US military arsenal, with 76 units still operational today. These bombers constitute half of the USAF’s strategic bomber fleet, underscoring their enduring utility. Sky News reports that B-52 bombers are currently en route to the UK. The deployment follows Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to permit US forces to use British bases for defensive actions targeting Iran. United States commanders have relied on the B-52 for various missions, including the 1972 Operation Linebacker II, during which over 20,000 tonnes of explosives were dropped on North Vietnam in just 11 days. The plane’s adaptability has seen it deployed in conflicts ranging from Vietnam to the Gulf War and the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Rolls-Royce is modernizing the B-52H with advanced engines, extending its operational lifespan into the 2050s. The aircraft’s versatility allows it to carry a mix of payloads, including up to 20 air-launched cruise missiles, as well as nuclear and conventional weapons. Its range of 8,800 miles and ability to refuel mid-air enable long-distance missions, while its operational cost remains lower than newer alternatives. The crew, typically five members, includes roles like navigator, electronic warfare officer, and radar operator. Originally designed for nuclear deterrence, the B-52 has evolved to support both strategic and tactical missions. In 2014, President Barack Obama utilized the plane to target ISIS in Syria and Iraq, with B-52s conducting approximately 1,800 combat missions against the group. Recently, the bomber has been used alongside the B-1 in operations against Iran. Its presence in regions like Venezuela also serves as a geopolitical statement, reinforcing US military posture under President Donald Trump.
British Airways stopping flights to war torn Middle East country until later this year
British Airways Halts Flights to Middle East Amid Ongoing Conflict British Airways has suspended flights to multiple Middle East destinations amid the Iran conflict. The decision follows the cancellation of all routes to and from key cities such as Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, and Tel Aviv this month. Update for Customers – 10 March Customers are urged to stay vigilant against potential scams and verify updates through official British Airways channels, avoiding suspicious links and sharing personal or payment details. “We’re keeping the situation under constant review and in communication with customers to present various travel options. Customers in the UAE are being supported with alternatives for returning to the UK.” Reasons Behind the Disruptions The airline attributed the reduced flight schedule to ongoing uncertainty in the region and unstable airspace conditions. Additionally, daily rescue flights from Muscat have been put on hold following Thursday, citing decreased demand. Broader Impact of the Conflict Major airlines have canceled thousands of flights or scrambled to divert them away from affected areas. Countries in the Middle East have responded to the US and Israel-led attack on Iran by closing a key corridor of airspace, causing widespread disruptions. With Middle Eastern airports serving as crucial international transit hubs, the emergency closures have impacted tens of thousands of travelers. One customer shared screenshots of interactions with fake Qatar Airways representatives, including an instance where a non-existent rescue flight was arranged. Scam Alerts and Customer Guidance British Airways issued a warning about fraudulent accounts mimicking their customer service, often requesting sensitive information from passengers. Users responding to the update on X reported being targeted by deceptive BA impersonators. Got a story? Reach out to our news team by emailing webnews@metro.co.uk. You can also submit videos and pictures via the provided link. Follow Metro.co.uk on Twitter and Facebook for the latest updates. Sign up for daily push alerts here. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy.
