Trump Extends Deadline for Iran to Open Strait of Hormuz Donald Trump, the U.S. president, has decided to grant Iran an additional 10 days to resume operations in the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he stated that negotiations remain active, countering claims from the media that the talks were faltering. “Despite misleading statements from the Fake News Media and others, the discussions are moving forward smoothly,” he wrote. Earlier in the week, Trump had set a 48-hour ultimatum for Iran to reopen the vital waterway, warning that failure to comply would result in the destruction of the country’s energy infrastructure. However, during a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, he dismissed reports of his desperation, insisting that Tehran was eager to reach a deal. “I’m not in a rush,” he said, adding that the Islamic Republic’s reluctance was a strategic move. Signs of Negotiation Readiness Trump’s chief negotiator, Steve Witkoff, revealed that Washington had already shared a 15-point “action list” with Tehran via Pakistani officials. “There are clear indications that Iran is prepared to discuss an end to hostilities,” Witkoff noted, marking the first public confirmation of the initiative. He also hinted that the U.S. aimed to persuade Iran that this moment represented a turning point with no viable alternatives but continued conflict. Meanwhile, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid raised concerns about the war’s impact, stating that the government was overextending the military. “The IDF is stretched to its limits and beyond,” he warned, echoing the sentiments of military chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, who had cautioned earlier that the nation was entering a multi-front conflict without a defined strategy. Iranian Response and Demands In a televised statement, an Iranian news agency reported that Tehran had formally submitted its response to the U.S. proposal the previous night. “Our reply calls for an end to attacks by the U.S. and Israel on Iran, as well as on groups supported by Tehran in the region,” the report said. It also emphasized that Iran sought war reparations and the preservation of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, conditions that surpassed the initial American proposal. Trump also hinted at potential U.S. control of Iran’s oil reserves, drawing a parallel to the arrangement with Venezuela following the ousting of Nicolás Maduro. “Taking charge of their oil is an option we’re considering,” he said, while dismissing claims of his eagerness to secure a deal. “I don’t care if they want to make one—I’m not desperate.”
Princess Beatrice puts on united front with husband Edo during lunch out amid fears her ‘marriage is in trouble’ in wake of Epstein scandal
Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Maintain Public Unity Amid Epstein Scandal Concerns Princess Beatrice and her spouse, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, displayed a harmonious image during a casual meal at Eel Sushi Bar in Notting Hill. The couple spent two hours at the trendy Japanese eatery, which features pine-panelled interiors, for a significant birthday celebration before departing in an electric Porsche. Despite recent speculation about marital tensions, the royal couple appeared together and cheerful. Their public outing followed reports that Beatrice’s relationship with Edoardo had faced strain since revelations about her parents’ association with Jeffrey Epstein intensified. The Mail on Sunday noted that friends suggested the couple’s dynamics had been uneasy for some time. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s Latest Public Appearance Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Beatrice’s father, recently made a solitary appearance near Wood Farm in Norfolk. The 66-year-old former prince was photographed walking his dog for nearly an hour, marking his first visible moment since being arrested last month. This came after he was seen four weeks ago slumped in the back of a Range Rover as he was driven from a Norfolk police station. Earlier this week, hundreds of marked removal boxes arrived at Andrew’s new residence, indicating his continued attachment to royal symbols. The boxes, labeled ‘HRH office’ and ‘HRH meeting room,’ were transported by Gander & White, a company approved by the royal family. This move followed King Charles III’s decision to strip Andrew of his title in November 2023, citing misconduct in public office during the Epstein scandal. Sarah Ferguson’s Cloning Proposal for Queen’s Puppies Meanwhile, Beatrice’s mother, Sarah Ferguson, was linked to discussions about cloning the late Queen’s corgis for a reality TV series. Hollywood producers view the concept as a daring yet controversial business plan, envisioning a show where the former Duchess of York would profit by selling genetically replicated corgis to global fans. “She was eager to return to television and generate income,” said a source. “The idea of featuring the Queen’s corgis in a show, including cloning them, was considered.” Pet cloning, though legal in the US for commercial purposes, remains a contentious practice in the UK. Cloned dogs can fetch up to £75,000 in the US, with experts cautioning about potential health complications. Sarah Ferguson’s involvement in the project follows her recent role as caretaker of the Queen’s corgis after the monarch’s passing eight months ago. As of Saturday night, no further details on Sarah Ferguson’s current location were disclosed. She retreated into privacy after her close ties to Jeffrey Epstein were exposed, now facing scrutiny as potential testimony is required in the US. The Mail on Sunday revealed that Halcyon Studios in Los Angeles had orchestrated the cloning discussions, though Sarah’s direct participation remains unclear.
Meningitis outbreak spreads to second university in Kent after vaccine supplies dwindle
Meningitis Outbreak Spreads to Second University in Kent as Vaccine Supplies Decline A second Kent university has reported a meningitis case, following the designation of the outbreak as a ‘super-spreader’ event. The University of Kent, in Canterbury, has been administering preventative antibiotics to thousands of students to slow the spread of the infection, which has claimed two lives so far. CCCU Confirms New Illness in Student Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) has confirmed a student has fallen sick with the disease. Rama Thirunamachandran, CCCU’s vice-chancellor and principal professor, stated: “The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed one case of meningococcal disease involving a CCCU student. We have contacted the individual for direct support. This case is connected to the original cluster traced to Club Chemistry.” Pharmacies Face Crisis Amid High Demand Private stocks of meningitis B vaccines are nearly depleted, according to the National Pharmacy Association. Boots has implemented a waiting queue for its vaccination service, while Superdrug reports a backlog due to a national shortage. The pharmacy’s booking page is currently offline, with a notice explaining: “We’ll be back shortly. Demand for the Meningitis B Vaccination Service is high, and we’re experiencing technical issues. We’re working to restore service as quickly as possible.” Students at the University of Kent’s Canterbury campus will receive the menB vaccine starting today. The outbreak has been elevated to a national incident, with more cases anticipated as symptoms may take two to 14 days to manifest. Experts Call the Situation Unprecedented Health officials describe the outbreak as extraordinary, noting the rapid rise in cases within a brief timeframe. UKHSA chief executive Susan Hopkins remarked: “This appears to be a super-spreader event, with continued transmission in university dormitories. There were likely gatherings around this period, leading to significant social interaction. While I can’t confirm the origin of the infection or its spread within the group, this level of cases in such a short time is the most I’ve seen in my 35-year career.” GPs across the UK have been advised to prescribe antibiotics to anyone who attended Club Chemistry in Canterbury between March 5-7. The nightclub hosted a freshers’ event attended by sixth-form students, which is believed to be the source of the infections. The NHS initially classified the situation as a major regional incident but has now expanded its response to a national scale. Vaccine Shortages and Public Health Warnings Health officials emphasize that people should not delay taking prescribed antibiotics. A single dose of Ciprofloxacin can reduce the risk of meningitis in a household by up to 90%. Six confirmed cases have been identified as group B meningococcal disease. One individual in Kent was linked to a hospital in London, where they had no community contacts. A baby girl, infected with the same strain, is undergoing surgery but is not yet connected to the Kent outbreak. Olivier Picard, chairman of the National Pharmacy Association, noted on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “Unfortunately, our private supply of meningitis B vaccines has dwindled. Most distributors and wholesalers have no stock left, and any remaining vaccines are taking time to reach our stores. There’s no set date for restocking.” With around 5,000 students in Kent university residences set to receive the menB vaccine over the next few days, the crisis underscores the urgency of addressing the shortage. Schools in the region have also joined the effort after confirming four related cases. For the video, ensure JavaScript is enabled and your browser supports HTML5.
Iranian and Romanian charged after allegedly trying to enter UK nuclear naval base
Iranian and Romanian charged after allegedly trying to enter UK nuclear naval base Two individuals, an Iranian man and a Romanian woman, have been formally charged following an incident where they were reported attempting to access a UK nuclear submarine facility. The arrests occurred shortly after police received information about the unauthorized entry attempt at a location on Scotland’s west coast. Authorities in Scotland confirmed the arrests took place the day after the alleged breach, which was reported around 5 p.m. on Thursday. The suspects, aged 34 and 31 respectively, are set to appear at Dumbarton Sheriff Court on Monday, as investigations continue. “Faslane is Britain’s most critical military site,” stated Sky’s defense and security analyst Michael Clarkes. “With over 6,000 personnel stationed there, it serves as the operational hub for the country’s seven attack submarines and houses the Trident nuclear deterrent.” Faslane, located on the Gare Loch, is recognized as a central stronghold for the UK’s submarine fleet and nuclear capabilities. A Royal Navy spokesperson noted that the two individuals had “unsuccessfully attempted to enter HM Naval Base Clyde [Faslane] on Thursday 19 March,” though no further details were provided. Additional coverage from Sky News highlighted ongoing tensions in the Iran War, referencing a UK air base under threat from Tehran. Meanwhile, reports of a murder case involving a British soldier in Kenya also drew attention, though the connection to the Faslane incident remains unclear.
US to send three more warships and thousands more troops to Middle East, reports say
United States to Deploy Additional Warships and Troops to Middle East, Reports Indicate As Donald Trump criticized NATO allies for hesitating to ‘help open’ the Strait of Hormuz, reports suggest the United States is set to increase its military presence in the Middle East by sending three more warships and thousands of troops. Concerns over the economic fallout from the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran have intensified. Washington is reportedly evaluating strategies to either occupy or impose a blockade on Iran’s critical Kharg Island, aiming to compel Tehran to reopen the strategic strait of Hormuz. The island serves as a key hub for Iranian oil exports, handling approximately 90% of the country’s crude shipments. Situated just 16 miles from the city of Bushehr, the terminal is connected to nearby offshore oil fields via pipelines. “We are watching your cowardly officials and commanders, pilots and wicked soldiers,” said Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesperson for Iran’s armed forces, as quoted by state television. “From now on, based on the information we have on you, the promenades, resorts and tourist and entertainment centres in the world will not be safe.” Trump dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire with Iran, asserting that Washington holds the strategic advantage in the three-week-old war. “A ceasefire is not an option when you’re systematically dismantling the enemy’s capabilities,” he stated during a press briefing at the White House. In a separate post on his Truth Social platform, Trump mentioned that the US might begin reducing its military operations in Iran. “We’re nearing our goals, and as we contemplate scaling back our significant military efforts against Iran, the Terrorist Regime, the path is clear,” he tweeted. The Pentagon has already stationed the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, comprising around 2,200 marines, in the Middle East. However, details regarding their specific roles remain undisclosed. Additionally, the USS Boxer, equipped with the unit, is departing the US approximately three weeks earlier than planned, though its mission remains unspecified. The conflict escalated further on Friday, with an Iranian drone strike targeting a Kuwait refinery and the US and Israel conducting air strikes that destroyed 16 Iranian cargo ships in Gulf port cities. A local representative from Hormozgan province stated via Tasnim news agency, “The American-Zionist aerial assault resulted in the total destruction of 16 vessels owned by residents of Bandar Lengeh and Bandar Kong.” Meanwhile, Dubai experienced intense explosions as air defenses engaged incoming rockets, coinciding with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, marking the conclusion of the holy Muslim month of Ramadan.
Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities?
Could thousands of students win COVID compensation from universities? Over 190,000 students who studied during the pandemic are now pursuing financial claims against their universities, according to a legal campaign led by Harcus Parker and Asserson solicitors. The initiative began in 2023 when 100,000 students joined the no-win, no-fee initiative, which has since expanded to 170,000 participants with 36 universities receiving formal legal correspondence. What the claim covers The Student Group Claim argues that students during the early stages of the pandemic received a reduced quality of service compared to the in-person experience they paid for. Under English consumer law, the law firms assert that universities should compensate for the difference in value between the services they offered and the ones students expected. Initially, the claim included compensation for loss of campus access and canceled classes due to strikes. However, by March 2023, the scope was narrowed to focus solely on the transition to online teaching during the academic years 2020-21 and 2021-22 at English and Welsh universities. Eligible students must have accepted an offer before April 1, 2020. Why the claim was launched now The campaign gained traction in February 2023 after University College London (UCL) agreed to a £21m payout. Although UCL admitted no fault, the settlement acknowledged the “incredibly difficult” circumstances students faced during the pandemic. Asal Reyhanian, an associate at Asserson Law Offices, called the agreement a “good test case,” noting it spurred 50,000 additional sign-ups. “We aren’t criticising universities for following government guidelines, but for charging the same fees for a less valuable service,” Reyhanian said. “It’s like paying for a five-star holiday and getting a one-star holiday—students are entitled to compensation.” The deadline for submitting claims related to the pandemic is September 2026. The law firms estimate UK residents could claim an average of £5,000, based on the drop in value from in-person to online learning. Institutions targeted Following the UCL settlement, 36 universities have been sent pre-action letters. These formal documents outline the claim and require institutions to respond. Universities UK, representing over 140 schools, described the pandemic as an “unprecedented challenge” and noted the sector adapted to changing conditions during lockdowns. Key exclusions The claim does not cover: • Teaching moved online in 2019-20 • Restrictions on campus access in any year • Classes canceled due to industrial action in any academic year. Google users can access more information through their preferred sources—click here to view content from Sky News directly.
Natascha Kampusch documentary is scrapped at the last minute after family of Austrian sex slave kidnap victim revealed trauma of eight-year ordeal has left her ‘completely gone’
Austria Cancels Natascha Kampusch Documentary Over Family Concerns Just hours before its scheduled debut, Austria’s national broadcaster, ORF, canceled a documentary about Natascha Kampusch, a former captive who endured eight years of captivity as a sex slave. The decision followed revelations from her family that the trauma of her ordeal has left her ‘completely gone,’ unable to engage with the outside world. Her Ordeal and Escape At age 10, Natascha was abducted in 1998 by Wolfgang Přiklopil while walking to school. Held in a hidden basement cell beneath his house, she endured relentless beatings, starvation, and forced servitude. After escaping in 2006, she became a symbol of resilience, sharing her story in a book, a film, and even hosting her own TV show. The documentary, titled ‘Natascha Kampusch – Trapped in Freedom,’ aimed to chronicle her life post-captivity. It was set to air on the 20th anniversary of her freedom. Last week, snippets of the film were released, featuring her sister Claudia Nestelberger, who described Natascha’s current state as ‘in a kind of prison again.’ ‘Everyone knows how Natascha used to speak in front of the camera. That’s completely gone now. She’s mostly in her own world,’ Claudia said. ‘It’s heartbreaking and we feel helpless.’ Legal and Emotional Backlash Austrian media lawyer Maria Windhager criticized the project as a ‘massive violation of the most personal sphere of life,’ while Natascha’s doctors argued it infringed on her private rights. A victim advocacy group also filed legal action to block the release, citing concerns over her mental health. Despite her earlier optimism about the future, Natascha recently admitted feeling ‘positive and hopeful’ in 2023. She was then designing jewelry and contributing to a hospital project in Sri Lanka, often finding solace in nature and time with her horse. Details of Her Captivity Natascha described her initial kidnapping as a moment of fear and confusion. On March 2, 1998, she noticed Wolfgang Přiklopil waiting by his white minivan, prompting her to consider changing direction. ‘I thought “that’s strange, why is this person waiting there?” It didn’t make sense,’ she recalled. As she walked past him, Přiklopil seized her and drove her to his home. There, she was imprisoned in a five-by-five-meter dungeon under the garage. By her teenage years, she was sometimes kept upstairs, chained to a bed and denied escape. ‘He seemed to think it was his right to control me and use violence,’ she said, suggesting Přiklopil viewed their relationship as marital. Her captor warned her there was no escape, threatening to kill her if she tried. Her mother, Brigitta Sirny, was initially accused of her disappearance, later admitting she ‘wanted to end it all’ after the allegations. ‘A private investigator said I killed her and threw her in the lake. That made me even more upset,’ Brigitta reflected.
One mogul who has NOT been put off Dubai: Estate agent sells Emirate’s record-breaking penthouse for £95MILLION even though it hasn’t been built yet
Dubai’s Unshaken Tycoon: Record-Breaking Penthouse Sold for £95 Million Despite Unbuilt Status A high-profile businessman has defied recent unrest in Dubai, committing to a £95 million investment in a luxury penthouse still in the planning phase. The deal, finalized by a European buyer, underscores the city’s enduring appeal amid ongoing Iranian attacks. Timeline and Agreement Details The purchase was inked in late December, with official registration at the Dubai Land Department occurring just over a month later. The transaction, facilitated by Jimmy Widen, a 41-year-old Swedish founder of 3SA Estate, includes a commission paid on March 10. A Property of Grand Proportions The three-story residence, spanning 31,108 square feet, is set to feature eight parking spaces, six bedrooms, and a terrace pool with panoramic views of the city and Jumeirah beach. Described as a “pile of sand” at present, it surpasses previous sales in the Emirate’s real estate market. “At €110 million, it ranks among Dubai’s top penthouse deals by price, yet stands as the largest in square footage ever recorded,” stated Mr. Widen in an interview with the Times. Before this landmark purchase, the agency’s highest sale was €8.2 million. The new property’s unique selling point lies in its scale and the buyer’s confidence in the development’s future. Project Structure and Payment Stages The penthouse is part of a trio of skyscrapers, each reaching approximately 30 storeys. Two will operate as hotels, while the third will host 58 private residences. The buyer’s payment plan includes four phases: 30% upfront, 10% after one year, another 10% the following year, and the final 50% upon project completion in 2030. “This wasn’t an impulsive choice,” said Mr. Widen. “It’s a calculated move to secure a stable, tax-free investment. At this level, hesitation is rare. They opted to proceed without relying on the force majeure clause.” Despite attacks on Dubai’s airports and financial district, the buyer’s resolve has not wavered. The city, once a magnet for social media celebrities and British expats, now faces scrutiny over its safety and appeal. Impact of the Conflict Since the US-Israel war with Iran began, thousands have left Dubai, some vowing never to return. The Islamic Republic’s missile strikes, including an attack on the Fairmont hotel in Palm Jumeirah, have disrupted the city’s reputation as a secure haven. Over 63,000 Britons have returned to the UK, citing concerns over rising taxes. Meanwhile, Dubai’s influencers are reportedly being incentivized to promote the city’s image, with some videos featuring Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the slogan “I know who protects us” amid the ongoing strikes. Wealthy residents now prioritize destinations like Ireland and France to avoid hefty UK tax liabilities. As the financial year nears its end, some expats are seeking exemptions from tax obligations, hoping to capitalize on the “exceptional circumstances” clause before the deadline. The penthouse sale remains a symbol of optimism in an otherwise uncertain climate.
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.
China exports surge despite Trump tariffs
China Exports Surge Despite Trump Tariffs China’s export numbers have risen sharply in the first two months of this year, defying ongoing trade disputes with the United States. According to official data, shipments increased by over 20% in January and February, exceeding economists’ forecasts by nearly threefold. This trend suggests the nation could surpass its previously historic annual trade surplus from 2025. The report coincides with plans for U.S. President Donald Trump to visit China in early April for a meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Reliance on Exports Amid Domestic Challenges The world’s second-largest economy depends heavily on export activity, especially as it grapples with domestic issues such as subdued consumer spending, a declining population, and a struggling property market. To mitigate the effects of the Lunar New Year holiday—whose dates vary annually—Beijing combines January and February data, smoothing out seasonal disruptions. The surge was driven by robust electronics demand, alongside higher shipments of agricultural and manufactured goods. Regional Trade Growth and U.S. Setbacks Exports to European nations expanded by 27.8%, while trade with ASEAN countries—comprising Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines—climbed nearly 30%. However, shipments to the U.S. declined over 10%, attributed to Trump’s tariffs and other policies aimed at reducing trade imbalances. The economic growth target for 2025 has been revised down to 4.5%-5%, reflecting the challenges of maintaining momentum without strong export performance. Global Energy Shifts and Strategic Implications China’s export success occurs amid broader economic shifts, including the fallout from the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. This war has unsettled global energy markets, prompting Asian economies to navigate new uncertainties. The upcoming Trump-Xi summit underscores the significance of trade relations, as Beijing seeks to balance its export-driven growth with international pressures.
